tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20577713722628428652024-03-13T17:58:20.891+00:00The Daggers ScaleMusings on Dagenham & Redbridge, League Two and English football in general. NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.comBlogger147125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-12189214147166382952015-08-04T15:22:00.001+01:002015-08-09T18:12:38.872+01:00League Two Preview 2015/2016. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">www.footballleagueworld.co.uk<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With just four days to go until the new League Two season begins, it's only right that <i>The Daggers Scale </i>brushes itself down and dusts itself off in preparation for a look at the twenty-four teams competing in the fourth division this season. Departing us this year are Burton Albion, Shrewsbury Town, Bury and Southend United following their promotions to League One, whilst Tranmere Rovers and Cheltenham Town went the other way, dropping into the Conference. It </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">means that Notts County, Yeovil Town, Leyton Orient and Crawley Town have joined us from League One, with Barnet and Bristol Rovers making the jump up from non-league. After summer soiree's in hotspots such as Spain (Wimbledon and Stevenage), Eindhoven (Dagenham), Portugal (Luton), Austria (Oxford), and, er, Scotland (Exeter), everyone's back and raring to go for the season ahead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Accrington Stanley</u></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b><b> </b>Max Halezdine
(MF, Academy), Keenan Quansah (DF, Academy), Kealan Steenson (MF, Academy), Tom
Davies (DF), Adam Morgan (ST), Matt Pearson (CM, DF), Sean McConville (MF),
Billy Kee (ST), Ross Etheridge (GK), Jason Mooney (GK), Anthony Barry (MF), Joe
Wright (DF, Loan).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Michael
Liddle (DF), James Jenkins (ST), George
Bowerman (ST), Nicky Hunt (RB), Rob Atkinson (DF), Luke Joyce (MF), Kal Naismith
(ST), James Gray (ST), Danny Whitehead (CM), Tony Warner (GK).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Automatically relegated by the bookmakers before the season
has begun, Accrington look well placed to maintain their Football League status
once again, 10 years after they first regained it. John Coleman has recruited
impressively, bringing Billy Kee back to the club after a failed crack at
League One, while another former player in Sean McConville adds vital
experience to the midfield four years after he departed from the Crown Ground.
Nicky Hunt, Rob Atkinson and Luke Joyce are three big losses for Stanley, but
with four members of the youth side that reached the FA Youth Cup 4<sup>th</sup>
Round two years ago handed professional deals, there’s hope that an emphasis on
youth could be the answer for the John Coleman’s side. Regardless of that, the
contract extension of key midfield Pierro Mingoia who scored eight goals for
Stanley last season is welcome news with Accrington looking to punch above
their weight once again next season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Baldy984:</i> </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>With John Coleman having pulled off the signings of former Stanley
players Billy Kee and Sean McConville who helped us get to the play-off semi-final
in 2011, as well as Matty Pearson and Adam Morgan, I'm quietly confident of
having a good season. Moreover players akin to Matt Crooks have come back a
totally different player from last season. Crooks in particular is a lot more
confident and has started scoring in pre-season, a trait unseen from him in the
last campaign. Our player to look out for is choice between fans favourite Pierro
Mingoia, and Josh Windass who had a great end to last season. The bookmakers
have us down for being bottom of the pile come the end of the season but as
John Coleman once said "One day they'll learn, won't they.”</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Accrington to finish higher than York (13/8, SkyBet) or Accrington to finish top half (3/1, SkyBet).</span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>AFC Wimbledon</u></b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Jon Meades
(LB/MF), Andy Barcham (W/ST), Karleigh Osborne (CB), Tom Elliott (ST), Lyle
Taylor (ST), Paul Robinson (CB). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Sammy Moore
(MF), Ross Worner (GK), Mark Phillips (DF), Jack Smith (DF), Alfie Potter (CM), </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dan Agyei (ST).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDZUvlMZUkMiFnxKlQ-v610aBT7JXTdVbGxvhMtCDiDCa56rkjZHkk47IsTNxHLrLK_CmFnuKiQJlgArgdZPuGgy836jx2qSAluMh8q5Pw2cCF5VkDOj2wRIKWniHJxOyUWFX5TOnrW3w/s1600/akin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDZUvlMZUkMiFnxKlQ-v610aBT7JXTdVbGxvhMtCDiDCa56rkjZHkk47IsTNxHLrLK_CmFnuKiQJlgArgdZPuGgy836jx2qSAluMh8q5Pw2cCF5VkDOj2wRIKWniHJxOyUWFX5TOnrW3w/s320/akin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best metaphor.<br />
www.static.pulse.ng<br />
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whilst
news on the pitch has been positive for Wimbledon over summer, its progress off
the field that remains imperative for the Wombles. A move to a new site on
Plough Lane is the target for Dons fans, and with planning applications lodged
and altered, things appear to be moving with steady progress. On the pitch
however, it’s hard to see the Kingsmeadow based outfit making any major leaps
against a level of opposition that has significantly improved over the summer.
Karleigh Osborne and Paul Robinson have been brought in to improve
the backline, while managing to keep Adebayo Akinfenwa from the allure of the
MLS could prove to be Neal Ardley’s smartest piece of business. New signing
Lyle Taylor has impressed in pre-season, and if Tom Elliot can shake off injury
problems that curtailed his time at Cambridge United, the Dons could have a
lethal front three.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Ollie Tucker:</i> </span><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><i>Dons fans have cause to be optimistic. After two disappointing campaigns, there are strong feelings among Wimbledon fans that this is Neal Ardley's last chance to prove he has what it takes to get us out of this league. For the first time in our league history, we haven't had a large turnaround of players. The revolving door seems to have stopped halfway, with only 5 players leaving the club, as opposed to around 10 or 11 in past seasons. Performances in pre-season friendlies have also been very promising. We also seem to be producing youth players for the first team squad now, most notably Will Nightingale who has slotted into the CB role and looks set to be a starter. Having said ‘he dreams of leading the Dons out at New Plough Lane’, he is fast becoming a fan favourite, truly one of our own. In our 'Meet the Manager' event, Ardley stated that we will be playing primarily a 3-4-3 formation which will certainly be interesting. And with the strong pair of Tom Elliott and Adebayo Akinfenwa up top alongside the pacey Lyle Taylor, we seem to have a fairly varied attack. Pre-season friendlies have also been promising with solid draws against Watford, Millwall and Granada of Spain. Most fans are expecting a top ten finish this time around, although an aging midfield may be our downfall. I’ll predict a 6th place finish.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">M</span><span style="font-weight: bold;">urphy's Best Bet:</span><i style="font-weight: bold;"> </i>AFC Wimbledon to finish top half (11/10, SkyBet), Wimbledon to finish top London club (3/1, BetVictor), Wimbledon to finish top of Group 'B' with Plymouth and Stevenage (13/2, Coral) or Lyle Taylor top goalscorer (25/1, SkyBet).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b><u>Barnet</u></b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Joe Goater
(DF, Academy), Charlie Kennedy (DF, Academy), Wes Fonguck (DF, Academy),
Fumnaya Shomotun (MF, Academy), Ryan Gondoh (MF, Academy), Shane Cojocarel (MF,
Academy), Tom Champion (MF), Ben Tomlinson (ST), Kevin Lisbie (ST), Gavin Hoyte
(RB), Bira Dembele (CB), Shaun Batt (ST), Justin Nwogu (RW), Michael Nelson
(CB). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Lee Cook
(W), Jack Saville (DF), Charlie MacDonald (ST), Sam Cowler (GK), Jon Nurse
(MF), Luisma Villa (MF), David Stephens (DF), Keanu Marsh-Brown (W), George
Sykes (ST), Iffy Allen (RW). </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yVMinDWImc-AB911_Qt1XDlKl-QezyQlNWtszAsvdO8GRsZLHcIbHxtzbTJgf8GtNipErM-6eXnn5Mq48Vp198YsjLdS-GK0K3xcnfjchVOJ6vm62kqdFJkc5u6p68ptKcBYOnVTJXcB/s1600/allen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yVMinDWImc-AB911_Qt1XDlKl-QezyQlNWtszAsvdO8GRsZLHcIbHxtzbTJgf8GtNipErM-6eXnn5Mq48Vp198YsjLdS-GK0K3xcnfjchVOJ6vm62kqdFJkc5u6p68ptKcBYOnVTJXcB/s320/allen.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Yes, another pay rise after all I've done to these chumps!"<br />
www.i3.getwestlondon.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back
in the league after two years away, mad dog Martin Allen lead the Bees of <s>Barnet
</s>Edgeware to the Conference title by a single point last season, and to
complete a truly remarkable campaign actually signed a new deal with the North
London outfit. Back in the big (sic) time, don’t expect the Bees to be the
relegation fodder they once were under a string of former managers including
Edgar Davids and Ian Hendon amongst others. Although Luisma Villa, 13 goals
last season and David Stephens, 136 appearances in three years, have departed,
mad dog has strengthened well. Gavin Hoyte and Bira Dembele are two
accomplished League Two defenders adding depth to the Bees backline, while the
recruitment of Shaun Batt and Kevin Lisbie in particular will aid the
impressive John Akinde who netted 31 times last season. Whether Akinde can
finally make his goalscoring mark on League Two however, is a different
question. Andy Yiadom, Graham Stack and Sam Togwell all remain to give the Bees
a genuine shot at the play-offs, while 17 year old Matt Stevens, subject of a
£250,000 bid from Swansea City after scoring 50 goals for the Bees youth team
last season will also be looking to make a breakthrough. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Luuuce_x: </i></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After spending the majority of last season at the
top of the Conference, I’m confident we’ll fare a lot better in the Football
League this time round. We’ve managed to keep hold of Martin and the majority
of the squad – although we lost two excellent players in David Stephens and
Luisma Villa (who returned to Spain). John Akinde netted 33 goals in all
competitions last campaign and we’re hoping for more of the same! We’ve also
signed experienced strikers in Kevin Lisbie and Shaun Batt, so plenty of
attacking options to be pleased about. </span></i></span><i style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eight of the academy squad signed their first
professional deals in the close season, but in terms of young talent, look no
further than Elliott Johnson and Mauro Vilhete. Left back Elliott has
progressed from the youth team to become ever-present in our back four. He
recently signed a two-year contract extension and has over 100 appearances to
his name. Similarly, Mauro has been with us since the age of 16 and has grown
so much in the last two seasons alone, becoming a regular starter. He scored
both goals in our 2-0 win against Gateshead to secure promotion and thoroughly
deserved the Player of the Month award he won in April. </span></i><i style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Compared to how it was when we first moved, the
atmosphere at The Hive is a lot better too – so it can only be up from here. In
terms of position, come May, I’d like to think we could push for mid-table, but
in reality, I think we’ll finish 17<sup>th</sup>. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Barnet to finish in the top half (11/10, Coral) or Barnet to make the play-offs (9/2 Ladbrokes). </span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b><u>Bristol Rovers</u></b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In: </b>Jay Malpas (MF, Academy), Tyler Lyttle (RB, Academy), Kieran
Preston (GK, Academy), Ryan Broom (MF, Academy),<b> </b>James Clarke (DF), Cristian Montano (W/ST), Chris Lines (MF).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Out: </b>Abdul
Bell-Baggie (W), Andy Monkhouse (MF), Angelo Balanta (W), Neal Trotman (DF),
Aaron Ward-Baptiste (ST). </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hotter
on the heels of Barnet than the taxman was of Southend United last season,
Bristol Rovers finished a point behind Martin Allen’s side in the league table.
But with momentum on their side, victories over Forest Green and Grimsby Town
in the play-offs followed to send the Gas back to whence they came, ending a
single year of non-league exile. Rovers return to the league with renewed hope
and a manager that has shown a genuine care and passion for the club, both in
promotion and relegation. Furthermore, Clarke has opted to retain the majority
of his squad, with just three incomings and three outgoings over the summer so
far. If the Gas can continue their home form and the recent goalscoring
exploits of Ellis Harrison, whilst addressing an away record (2 wins) which
proved their undoing during their League Two relegation campaign; they should
be looking at a lower mid-table finish. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@LucyRovers: </i></span><i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">This season marks my
football team, Bristol Rovers, being back in the Football League at first time
of asking, making us the only side in the last 10 years to immediately bounce
back. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">In spite of last season’s success,
Darrel Clarke doesn’t want us to stop here. He wants a top 7 finish from the
squad and I think with a few more signings, it’s perfectly possible. Personally,
I’d be happy with a top half finish in our first season back, but a player-off
push certainly isn’t out of the question just yet. Our young player to look out
for is Ellis Harrison. He was our standout performer in the second half of the
season, scoring key goals including the equaliser against Grimsby at Wembley. Rewind
to a year ago and he was on the transfer list but with DC's guidance, he’s
worked hard and matured into a player with bags of potential. I can’t wait for
the season to start now, come on you Blues!</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Bristol Rovers to finish in the bottom half (Evens, Paddy Power) or Ellis Harrison top goalscorer (80/1, Ladbrokes).</span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>Cambridge United</u></b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In: </b>Leon Legge
(CB), Mark Roberts (CB), Keith Keane (CM), Barry Corr (ST), Elliot Omozusi (RB),
Luke Berry (MF), Daniel Carr (ST), Sam Beasant (GK), Jeff Hughes (MF), Connor
Newton (ST), George Taft (LB, Loan).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Out: </b>Matteo
Lanzoni (DF), Mitch Austin (MF), Richard Tait (DF), Michael Nelson (DF), Ian
Miller (CB), Luke Chadwick (MF), Ryan Bird (ST), Nathan Arnold (ST), Tom
Elliott (ST), Tom Champion (MF), Liam Hurst (ST), Ayrton Bevins (ST), Johnny
Hunt (MF), Bobby Joe-Taylor (LW). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI9CJ7Z4oSNcr3JpaqsFLA-_K1YH92N6DQg3rtfd-FT9-Eq0X-XLRp4k6f4w7VnLDe8c62ROeAFkH6hvltDvV8Oh-fMmbB5Br8nxbAeyp7B6Mb9Qd1GbNAA4GBp_NlS9Zhupj0wKGkP-6/s1600/Money.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghI9CJ7Z4oSNcr3JpaqsFLA-_K1YH92N6DQg3rtfd-FT9-Eq0X-XLRp4k6f4w7VnLDe8c62ROeAFkH6hvltDvV8Oh-fMmbB5Br8nxbAeyp7B6Mb9Qd1GbNAA4GBp_NlS9Zhupj0wKGkP-6/s320/Money.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dick Money showing the only way is up.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
a raft of impressive new signings and plans unveiled to redevelop The Abbey
Stadium unveiled, it’s been a promising summer for Cambridge fans. Last season’s
FA Cup replay against Manchester United has swelled the coffers, with club
management publically admitting that a play-off place is required in return for
such heavy investment. Twelve have been released by Richard Money including
Luke Chadwick, but it’s those through the door at the Abbey that have really
caught the eye. Leon Legge and Mark Roberts provide experience in joining from
mid-table League One clubs, while Keith Keane and former star Luke Berry return
to Cambridgeshire in hope of creating a dynamic central midfield partnership.
Up front Barry Corr turned down the chance of a crack at League One with
Southend United to join the U’s, with Elliot Omozusi also bolstering the
defence at right-back. The impressive Ryan Donaldson and winger Harrison Dunk are
the pick of those that remain from last season. While Cambridge’s squad
suggests they should be pushing for a play-off place, if not the automatic
spot, doubts remain over manager Richard Money and whether he himself has the
quality to lead this group of players to a second promotion in three years.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><i>This time last year, most of the fans didn't really know what to expect after 9 years playing Conference football. Some expected to see the side challenge for a play-off place, however the majority, including myself, said we'll simply be a mid-table side with neither promotion hopes nor relegation trouble. Sadly, both camps were wrong, as we endured a terrible time just after the Manchester Utd cup tie, and found ourselves having to look over our shoulders. Richard Money had kept faith in the players who got us up, but it was evident that most of them were not experienced enough to play in League 2, and changes had to be made.</i></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><i>Money has rectified this problem by bringing in 12 new faces so far, the majority of whom are experienced League 1 and 2 players, and that number could well increase by a couple of more signings. There's also Gearoid Morrissey, the Irish player Money signed during the season, who, although only featuring in 3 games last year because of injury, looks like a real exciting prospect, and we're all looking forward to his return this coming season. Naturally, these signings have gone down well with the U's fans, and now expectations are much higher. No one is saying they'll be happy with simply a mid-table finish, and most of us expect to mount a serious play-off challenge. Personally speaking, I won't be too disappointed if we fail in this objective, just as long as we put up a good fight, and still be in with a chance going into the last couple of months, and I'm getting the impression a lot of U's share this view. </i></span></span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;">But the big question the United fans are asking is this - will the new faces settle down instantly or take a long time to gel? If Richard Money is able to get his players playing as a well-drilled side after a few weeks, then I think we're in for a good season!</i></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Cambridge to gain promotion (4/1, StanJames), or Cambridge to finish top half (8/15, Coral).</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b><u>Carlisle United</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Connor Hammell (MF, Academy), Luke Joyce (MF), Michael Raynes
(CB), Jason Kennedy (MF), David Atkinson (DF), Tom Miller (DF), Bastien Hery
(MF), Jabo Ibehre (ST), Alexander McQueen (RB), Angelo Balanta (W), Kevin Osei
(ST), Joe Thompson (RW). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>David Amoo
(ST), Stephen Elliot (ST), Josh Gillies (MF), Sean O’Hanlon (CB), Matty Robson
(W), David Symington (RB), Brad Potts (MF), Nathan Buddle (CB), Kyle Dempsey
(MF), Anthony Griffin (MF), Mark Beck (ST), Billy Paynter (ST), Paul Thirlwell
(DM), Jordan Marshall (LB). </span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcmVw8pzhOkVPxopwCl_9L-46NkRl80vTwswYrRVZDJIwdR4__vXMriKPhR1LrcXq490GzqVld7nW3HMEZ5sxdoEfkJRMFYvVFcba5ujspnT4Bx4pToVnbDer_hVdUrNPfUFVqpWZRzJ7/s1600/brick.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPcmVw8pzhOkVPxopwCl_9L-46NkRl80vTwswYrRVZDJIwdR4__vXMriKPhR1LrcXq490GzqVld7nW3HMEZ5sxdoEfkJRMFYvVFcba5ujspnT4Bx4pToVnbDer_hVdUrNPfUFVqpWZRzJ7/s400/brick.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The brick and lipstick in question.<br />
www.itv.com<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Allegations
of a player breaking down in tears and manager Keith Curle bringing a brick and
lipstick into a Friday press conference just about sum up last season’s utter
shambles at Brunton Park. Whilst Curle needless to say isn’t everyone’s cup of
tea, he did keep the Cumbrians up, and with a shade over 20 incomings and
outgoings at Carlisle over the summer, its clear Curle has sought to establish
his own mark on the team. What Curle needs to do however is to shore up the
Cumbrians leaky defensive unit. United conceded the second highest tally of 74
goals in the league last season, a number only counter-balanced by their record
as the highest scorers in the bottom five. Michael Raynes is a solid
acquisition having played at this level before, and alongside Danny Grainger at
left-back United have half of what looks to be a promising defensive line. Two
players that the manager did not want to lose however were Kyle Dempsey and
Brad Potts, youngsters who have moved up the ladder to Blackpool and
Huddersfield respectively, the former for a decent transfer fee. The pair also
contributed 17 goals to Carlisle’s league campaign last season, making them the
clubs two highest scorers. Without them the onus will fall on Charlie Wyke who
hit 6 in 16 during the second half of the campaign, but without contributions
from elsewhere United may struggle. Expect a lower mid-table finish once more
for the Cumbrians.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>In last season's preview I said two things. I didn't know how we'd adjust to an unfamiliar division, and I'd be disappointed if we didn't make the play-offs. I was correct on both counts. I didn't know and I was disappointed. This season though I'm much more certain of how we'll fare, we'll probably be the most boring side in the division and will finish in the bottom half, though hopefully without the relegation peril of last season.</i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>There's just so little to talk about when it comes to us. We've strengthened the team I think with some solid, experienced signings such as Kennedy, Joyce and Ibehre but the loss of Dempsey and Potts means I can't see where the excitement will come from, and I can still see us breaking the seventy mark on the goals against column.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Last season we had one of the youngest teams around, often fielding sides with five or six teenagers and an average age of 22. Since then we've let those who didn't measure up leave while the most promising ones have been poached. That leaves left back Patrick Brough as the only prospect remaining so he's our young player to watch by default, unless Connor Hammel is able to repeat Dempsey's success in his first professional season.</i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 17.6333332061768px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>In previous seasons we’ve made disastrous starts that have left us bottom of the table with no win, no manager and an embarrassing goal difference by the first week in September. If perhaps with our added experience we can just avoid making such an awful start this time around then we're in uncharted territory, and hopefully can plod to mid-table obscurity. That really is all I can realistically hope for.</i></span></span><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Carlisle to be relegated (12/1, BetVictor), or Carlisle to finish in the bottom half (4/5, Betfair).</span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Crawley Town</u></span></b></h3>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u><br /></u></span></b></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Simon Walton
(MF), Joe McNerney (CB), Luke Rooney (MF), Shamir Fenelon (ST), Jon Ashton
(DF), Freddie Woodman (GK, Loan), Callum Preston (GK), Roarire Deacon (ST), Lee
Barnard (ST), Liam Donnelly (CB, Loan). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Joe Walsh
(DF), Marvin Elliott (MF), Brian Jensen (GK), Dean Leacock (DF), Charles Banya
(MF), Emmett O’Connor (MF), Blair Anderson (MF), Bradley Isaacs (MF), Kelly
Youga (DF), John Cofie (ST), Ryan Richefond (MF), Josh Simpson (MF), Ryan
Dickson (DF), Matthias Pogba (ST), Dean Morgan (ST). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KAmYitUkvoI5A98730KNdHsr021ItEIT3iacX3_f_tDbU0iKZT10mooPI7WVG8vvBa9N6HUHawEDRMEm6kumDJDZCtdHBIzFGtfTAhlgF6WNrnJeiM9AWErBXjT0AVdiCZON94B3SxXx/s1600/crawley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KAmYitUkvoI5A98730KNdHsr021ItEIT3iacX3_f_tDbU0iKZT10mooPI7WVG8vvBa9N6HUHawEDRMEm6kumDJDZCtdHBIzFGtfTAhlgF6WNrnJeiM9AWErBXjT0AVdiCZON94B3SxXx/s320/crawley.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Yeah give us a gurn, Mark. The crowds love a good gurn".<br />
www.theargus.co.uk<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Relegated
from League One last term, Crawley are something of an unknown quantity going
into the 2015/2016 season. New manager Mark Yates has previously done well at
Cheltenham Town with similar budgetary constraints, but not with as threadbare a
squad that he’s inherited at the Broadfield from former boss Dean Saunders. Fifteen
have departed including Joe Walsh and Ryan Dickson at the back, with Izale
McLeod looking set to follow. It leaves Yates with a job on his hands once more.
Conor Henderson, Gwion Edwards and the wonderfully named Bobson Bawling ensure
a competent midfield, but up front and in defence the Reds are lacking. Joe
McNerney, signed from Woking after 250 appearances with the Cards looks to be a
decent purchase, but aging forwards Matt Harold, Lee Barnard and the 23 year
old Roarie Deacon do not appear to be inspired choices in attack. On that
basis, I’d predict a lower mid table finish with the potential for a relegation
scrap for Crawley Town.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@CraigyBratt: </i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>After the emotional
roller coaster of last season which ended in relegation to the fourth tier on
the final day, it's been a summer of change in West Sussex. Dean Saunders was
strongly back to permanently take his interim position as manager, but his departure
to Chesterfield saw former Mark Yates take over the reins. One of his first
jobs was bringing in his own players, and it was out with the old and in with
the new as Joe McNerney, Simon Walton, Jon Ashton, Luke Rooney and local boy
Shamir Fenelon all signed. It is Fenelon who is one to watch next season. After
impressing for Torquay last season, the Crawley born former Brighton forward
has impressed this pre-season. With a bit of re-structuring behind the scenes,
a few more suitable, experienced signings and a more stable relationship
between board and fans, the Reds should achieve a mid-table finish, although
Yates has stated that the play-offs are his aim.</i></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Crawley to finish in the bottom half (4/7, Betfair), or Crawley to be relegated (9/1, SportingBet).</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Dagenham & Redbridge</u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Nyron
Nosworthy (CB), Matt McClure (ST), Josh Passley (RB), Matt Richards (CM). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Abu Ogogo
(RB/CM), Scott Doe (CB), Billy Bingham (CM), Luke Howell (CM), Joel Nouble
(ST), Brian Saah (CB), Bradley Goldberg (ST). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaGG6N3qnrPzEiNKzvUC5iCG1xHOCdf8oNGOGw_u7sO53gby9mEJ4aRfXQ9woEilfCpB1cPxQH4tyPbgpcixArCkHSurw-Ywla9qBFvtbvWw80Dq1IpXvyh3DUHYvThGCxKl2wFuDNOG9n/s1600/cureton.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaGG6N3qnrPzEiNKzvUC5iCG1xHOCdf8oNGOGw_u7sO53gby9mEJ4aRfXQ9woEilfCpB1cPxQH4tyPbgpcixArCkHSurw-Ywla9qBFvtbvWw80Dq1IpXvyh3DUHYvThGCxKl2wFuDNOG9n/s320/cureton.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When your hat-trick is extra cheeky.<br />
www.tgsphotos.photoshelter.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How do you fill a gap left by four players with over 650 club appearances between them? Scott Doe and Abu Ogogo with over 500 appearances between the pair have both left the club alongside Luke Howell and Billy Bingham, with Doe and Howell opting for the somewhat odd choice of a move to Boreham Wood. It leaves Daggers with a core devoid of experience, although the capture of an aging (as we speak) Nyron Nosworthy has softened the blow as long as Wayne Burnett can find a more youthful centre-half to go alongside him before the month is at a close. It’s the defensive line which could and potentially will break Daggers’ season. Up front the Victoria Road outfit are solid. Jamie Cureton was League Two’s second top scorer last season, while Christian Doidge and new signing Matt McClure provide ample back-up. Excitingly or worryingly for Daggers fans, it looks as though it could be a season of attempting to outscore the opposition, which although sounding obvious, may not be quite so simple depending on how many goals are conceded. Home form is also key and with the potency Daggers possess in attack, relegation remains unlikely. Young midfield Jodi Jones is your one to watch.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Edward Johnson: 'Another season and another clutch of first team players gone for Daggers fans to mourn over. This time the core has been ripped out of the side, although that has been subset by the quality signings of Matt Richards in particular who has shone in pre-season. Yesterday's pre-season victory over Crystal Palace proves that on our day we have what it takes to mix it with the best, although whether that can manifest itself into the league remains another question. We have enough quality to avoid relegation, and in young player Jodi Jones we appear to have a real talent on our hands who will likely be the next one to leave the club for a good fee. Hopefully we can keep him for a while though as a move early on in a young players career isn't always the best choice. As for us, we have goals but our defence looks somewhat rickety, it could be another interesting season for Daggers fans!.</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Jamie Cureton to be top goalscorer (25/1, bet365), Dagenham to win group 'D' consisting of Accrington, Morecambe and Mansfield (11/2, Coral), or Dagenham to be bottom on 1st September 2015 (11/1, SkyBet).</span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.8666667938232px;"><b><u>Exeter City </u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In: </b>Josh Read
(DF, Academy), Josh Charles (W, Academy), Cameron Gill (ST, Academy), Alex
Byrne (CM, Academy), Manny Oyeleke (MF), Lee Holmes (W), Bobby Olejnik (GK),
Troy Brown (CB), Will Hoskins (ST).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> Out: </b>Clinton Morrison (ST), Liam Sercombe
(MF), Pat Baldwin (CB), Graham Cummins (ST), Scot Bennett (DF), Jimmy Keohane
(CM).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThfpDXbh_YSP9x1Ejxt71rqh_4ZDyy02WayYlg0h_8a7-b9d7TneB60d84cZ3nWTByEq3ExDJdmLa-20ekmwvH78VAuj9co0a2P0yETHOyW6A4REloObpNyNodET1t16zC3LVLgsMri0Y/s1600/tis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThfpDXbh_YSP9x1Ejxt71rqh_4ZDyy02WayYlg0h_8a7-b9d7TneB60d84cZ3nWTByEq3ExDJdmLa-20ekmwvH78VAuj9co0a2P0yETHOyW6A4REloObpNyNodET1t16zC3LVLgsMri0Y/s320/tis.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">www.exeterexpressandecho.com<br />
<br />
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</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perhaps
the most unpredictable side to make a prediction on (No, I’m not talking about
Paul Tisdale’s fashion sense), Exeter look to be in a good position to make a
serious play-off push this season. The sale of Matt Grimes to Swansea in
January put a substantial £1.75 million into the Grecians coffers and with key
players Christian Ribiero and Matt Oakley retained, City look to have a good
base to build on for the season ahead. In terms of incomings, Bobby Olejnik and
Troy Brown both represent good pieces of business, even if the latter has the
unenviable record of having being relegated from League Two in two of the last
three seasons. All in all Exeter look well placed to make a more substantial
push for the play-offs this season, and through the continued promotion of
youth at St James Park, Paul Tisdale appears to have found a sustainable future
for the Grecians.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@ecfc32: </i></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><i>I believe that this season will be a successful one. We've got the players, the coaching staff, and more importantly, the manager to make this season a success. The atmosphere around the club has been the total opposite to last season, seeing as then we had no money, not many players and a transfer embargo just to make sure. This year however, it’s completely the opposite. We have money from the Matt Grimes sale, we’re attracting players that will help us mount a serious promotion challenge, the supporters & players know we can get promoted and it's going to be a good one! The two things that we do need, in my opinion is a target man up top to help young Tom Nichols (more about him soon!) and a big, horrible looking centre back to help out another of our stars for the future, Jordan Moore-Taylor. We need that someone to take command at the back, and be the rock of the defence that we've been missing the last couple of seasons. A player to look out for this season will definitely be young Tom Nichols. He's got raw talent that you can clearly see and has an eye for goal, which as a striker, is always a bonus! The young lad has the potential to score 25+ goals this season, and with the midfield that we have behind him, I don't see why he can't and won't do it. A lot of higher league clubs will be looking at him, and if his season is as impressive as last season, I can see him being at least in the Championship in the 2016/2017 season.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Exeter to win the play-offs (28/1, Boylesports), or Exeter to make the play-offs (6/1, Boylesports).</span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.3999996185303px;"><b><u>Hartlepool United </u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Rakish
Bingham (MF), Rhys Oates (ST), Harry Worley (DF), Carl Magnay (DF), Jake
Carroll (LB), Trevor Carson (GK), Billy Paynter (ST), Kudus Oyenuga (W), Adam
Bartlett (GK), Peter Denton (GK). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Marlon
Harewood (ST), Jack Compton (MF), Darren Holden (LB), Jonny Maxted (GK), Tommy
Miller (MF), Stuart Parnaby (RB), Jonathan Franks (ST), Scott Flinders (GK), Neil
Austin (RB).</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4B-pRtL6HY22pmOYYYteTs62k0cGzidDesmBxh4EufapZHWnXNOwe6XJI_19_8l_v1JJxIHZWeFrC-mMcXdezGE6WDHlYAJ3e9cqrjZ9qjzSj1-cGWCkLYB2_Urb4DnE4W0O7s-qXTKe/s1600/Magnay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4B-pRtL6HY22pmOYYYteTs62k0cGzidDesmBxh4EufapZHWnXNOwe6XJI_19_8l_v1JJxIHZWeFrC-mMcXdezGE6WDHlYAJ3e9cqrjZ9qjzSj1-cGWCkLYB2_Urb4DnE4W0O7s-qXTKe/s320/Magnay.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carl Magnay an excellent addition.<br />
www.thegrimsbytelegraph.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s fair to say that last season was anything but
comfortable for Hartlepool fans. Stranded in the relegation zone for large
parts of the campaign, including a stint 10 points adrift at the bottom of the
table, Ronnie Moore somehow managed to save a sinking ship and guide the
Monkeyhangers to the relative comfort of 22<sup>nd</sup> position, securing
safety and avoiding the humiliation of a drop to the Conference. It’s fairly
easy to pinpoint where things went wrong for Pools last season – everywhere.
The second lowest scorers in the division (a problem that is long-standing),
and the third leakiest defence are statistics that evidence the miraculous job
Ronnie Moore has done in keeping them up. Summer signings have gone some way to
rectifying things, with Cheltenham’s standout player from last season Trevor
Carson a more than ample replacement for the outgoing Scott Flinders. Carl
Magnay is also deserving of a shot at the Football League after a solid
campaign with Grimsby, while Harry Worley knows his way around League Two
without being a spectacular signing. As I highlighted in last year’s preview
however, Pools major problem for many a year has been goalscoring. Although
Rakish Bingham may go some way to solving that problem, Rhys Oates and the
uninspiring Billy Paynter do not necessarily strike me as the answer to Pools
problems. Thankfully for the Victoria Park based outfit however, Ronnie Moore
is a manager that knows how to get the best out of his players, and that could
go a long way once again for Pools this season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Glasshalffullpools, www.onefootballforum.co.uk: Pools fans for the first time in 5 years are feeling optimistic, you have to realise we have gone from mid-table League One to 10 points adrift at the bottom of League Two in the blink of an eye. Ronnie stepped in and saved us and now we are at the start of stage two. We easily have a better squad than last season, then again so did the team finishing 4th bottom! The question I have is, if Ronnie can get a bottom of the table squad playing like a mid-table one, can he get a mid-table squad playing like a promotion squad? For I feel that is the type of team we have assembled. Bearing in mind the dross we have been dished up here over the last 5 years it’s no wonder some of us (not me obviously!) have been getting a bit excited at the signing of Rakish Bingham. But if you are going to watch us when we visit your side I would ask you to look out for one of our youngsters who was here before Ronnie. He has improved beyond belief in the last 6 months and his name is Michael Woods – a player who won’t be here in a year’s time because he is destined to get picked off by a club further up the ladder. As far as predicting where we finish, I learnt a long time ago to stop doing that! But I believe we will score more than we concede and win more than we lose. In summary, we have new owners, a new manager and a host of new players, what could possibly go wrong?!</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Hartlepool to finish in the bottom half (4/7, Betfair), or Hartlepool to bottom on 1st September 2015 (20/1, SkyBet).</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Leyton Orient</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Sandro Semedo
(W, Academy), Sean Clohessy (DF), Sammy Moore (MF), Blair Turgott (W), Paul
McCallum (ST), Ollie Palmer (ST), Frazer Shaw (LB), Connor Essam (DF), Alan
Dunne (CB), Alex Cisak (GK). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Scott
Cuthbert (DF), Adam Legzdins (GK), Kevin Lisbie (ST), Elliot Omozusi (RB),
Chris Dagnall (ST), Gary Sawyer (DF), David Mooney (ST), Romain Vincelot (CM),
Darius Henderson (ST), Shaun Batt (ST), Marvin Bartley (MF), Nathan Clarke (DF),
Andrea Dossena (LB), Giovani Plasmati (loosely described as ST), Josh Wright
(CM). </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeZz87KvS9fbRkFm0WakXX7fqn_2d2Ffu2m4dUeqlTuiUwL3efA6NZdpZhVMtr2Mz5ymYiDGKwEDHBT_93_ZGrW7PWgW-ODnt6nGmWPg37SjNt0hAdQErovcY0UW5gunkrgqVzwQKzh7H/s1600/bechetti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBeZz87KvS9fbRkFm0WakXX7fqn_2d2Ffu2m4dUeqlTuiUwL3efA6NZdpZhVMtr2Mz5ymYiDGKwEDHBT_93_ZGrW7PWgW-ODnt6nGmWPg37SjNt0hAdQErovcY0UW5gunkrgqVzwQKzh7H/s320/bechetti.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing"<br />
www.news.bbcimg.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the dictionary of English football, ‘eccentric foreign
billionaire/millionaire’ are the three or four words that should be feared
above all else. And so it proved for Orient last season, with four managers, a
player rumoured to be on £10,000 a week and a manager that couldn’t speak a
word of English condemning the O’s to League One relegation, just one year on
from their appearance in the play-off final. Surely no club has endured such a
fall from grace in the period of a single year? If it wasn’t so utterly tragic
and endemic of English football, it might be funny. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQylte5Y2xC6Rq9vV34vVnNvYnDq5Ec36tn-J3Qkdy3g6W-kdUC6RMot76_cKHszReUpLN0VnIPzy8P5z3ztWSGJiXELiAy0SG18snwljg7eF1r7VrCKtwGMFjhzPE9i47eqtWO6XzrJHZ/s1600/Dunne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQylte5Y2xC6Rq9vV34vVnNvYnDq5Ec36tn-J3Qkdy3g6W-kdUC6RMot76_cKHszReUpLN0VnIPzy8P5z3ztWSGJiXELiAy0SG18snwljg7eF1r7VrCKtwGMFjhzPE9i47eqtWO6XzrJHZ/s320/Dunne.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alan Dunne a solid signing<br />
www.twitter.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As it stands, Bechetti has seemingly learnt the error of his
ways in appointing a coach who although doesn’t get the pulses racing, does
have a knowledge of lower league football. Ian Hendon is the new man in the
Brisbane Road hotseat, plucked from West Ham after Sam Allardyce was voted out
of Upton Park by the country’s most hilarious fanbase. And what a job he has on
his hands. Fifteen players have so far left East London, including Darius
Henderson, Scott Cuthbert and Romain Vincelot as Hendon attempts to reduce
wages and establish his own mark on the side. The former West Ham coach appears
intent on doing that by signing players that both he and assistant coach Andy
Hessenthaler already know, with Paul McCullum, Blair Turgott, Frazer Shaw and
Connor Essam all in the door at Brisbane Road. Signing familiar young players
is a risky strantegy, but one that could pay off if McCullum’s pre-season form
in particular translates itself into league goals. The management pair have
however acquired well at the back, the duo of Alan Dunne and Sean Clohhesy from
Millwall and Colchester respectively have more than enough experience and
talent to potentially make Orient one of League Two’s toughest defences.
Elsewhere Dean Cox and Mathieu Baudry, two top half League One players remain
at the club suggesting that a promotion push remains the aim, even if Jay
Simpson appears to be the only striker of any real significance on the books.
If Orient fail to achieve a play-off place under Ian Hendon or whoever else is
in charge by May, the season will be classed as a failure once more by the
Italian board. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Daniel_Slaw: '</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well after last season’s relegation Os fans
certainly have been brought back down to Earth. The squad has been overhauled
and new backroom staff appointed, indicating that we are going for a back to
basics approach. Ian Hendon, former Captain of the club is now steadying the
ship and his crew of nine new signings are on board as well as a whole starting
eleven jumping ship. We have taken a youthful approach, which is very exciting
as a fan looking in (but my feet are staying firmly grounded). In Pre-Season
the manager has included players from our youth set up and a name that should
be on everyone’s radar is Scott Kashket. Small in size he may be, but his work
rate is reminiscent of last season’s top goal scorer Chris Dagnall who is now
playing in India. Keep an eye out for the nineteen year old this season as he
has featured heavily throughout pre-season grabbing three goals.</span></i><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Promotion is on everyone lips after last season’s
relegation, but with such a line up change it may take the squad some time to
gel. I personally hope we are in around the playoff places at a minimum come
the end of the season as if we fail to at least achieve that goal, our chairman
could decide to get rid of Hendon as his track record of sacking and hiring
managers in just one season is nothing short of ridiculous. Keep an eye out for
new signing Paul McCallum as he has been banging in the goals over the summer. I
would love us to get automatic promotion, but my heart tells me we will end up
in the play-offs.'</span></i></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Leyton Orient to make the play-offs (10/3, Ladbrokes), or Orient to finish top London club (4/5, BetVictor).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Luton Town</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Craig King
(GK, Academy), Isaac Galliford (MF, Academy), Jack Marriott (ST), Scott
Cuthbert (DF), Dan Potts (CB/LB), Cameron McGeehan (MF), Stephen O’Donnell
(DF/RB), Josh McQuoid (ST), Danny Green (W), Magnus Okanghae (CB), Paddy McCourt
(W), Mark O’Brien (DF), Craig Mackail-Smith (ST). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Alex Wall
(ST), Charlie Walker (ST), Jim Stevenson (MF), Kynan Isaac (MF), Ian Rees (MF),
Charlie Smith (MF), Brett Longden (DF), Shaun Whalley (W), Danny Fitzsimons
(LB), Ricky Miller (ST), Ross Lafayette (ST), Mark Cullen (ST), Fraser Franks
(CB), Lee Angol (ST), Alex Lacey (CB), Andy Parry (CB), Andy Drury (AM). </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vOZ2Z0OxBwgUoXTClDgeBLplW0YyvUGcXE-kJBby5f9zUGetxlABAIb0kf2XL1pF6TUkraMWoA0hRskWk1ldcGUXUeIbN440-v1vCHfSQCU8WIjKoTGC0mHgYzzAZV-O42ZaG5057IBb/s1600/greeny.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vOZ2Z0OxBwgUoXTClDgeBLplW0YyvUGcXE-kJBby5f9zUGetxlABAIb0kf2XL1pF6TUkraMWoA0hRskWk1ldcGUXUeIbN440-v1vCHfSQCU8WIjKoTGC0mHgYzzAZV-O42ZaG5057IBb/s320/greeny.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oh Danny, we can't stay mad at you.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tipped
for automatic promotion last time around, this season looks a far safer bet for
anyone thinking of taking a punt on Luton to make the top three. Deadwood and
fringe players have been shipped out, Mark Cullen aside who was sold to
Blackpool, with proven quality and League Two experience brought in.
Unsurprisingly wily manager John Still has continued his affinity with Dagenham
& Redbridge opting to sign Magnus Okuanghae, Craig Mackail-Smith and Danny
Green, the latter of whom looks to be one of the best free transfers of the
summer in the fourth tier. Meanwhile Dan Potts further solidifies the
back-line, while Cameron McGheehan and Scott Cuthbert are excellent additions
who should find a place in the Hatters starting XI. It’s a squad packed with
talent, and although Town are somewhat short in the striking department on
balance with the rest of their squad, expect that to be rectified before the
end of August. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@LTFC_Dave: </i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>It's been a busy transfer market with the most
noticeable departures being Mark Cullen (Blackpool), Michael Harriman (loan
ended), and Jake Howells (requested) leaving the club, however crucially, the
players coming in have been on greater quality. Up front, Still has used
his connections to persuade Craig Mackail-Smith to drop down to League 2, and
with a lack of real "quality" strikers, the goals he can provide
could be the difference maker with Paddy McCourt and Danny Green on either
wings providing the ammunition for him. Despite looking strong defensively last
year, the arrivals of Scott Cuthbert, Magnus Okuonghae and Mark O'Brien will
ensure competition is rife for the centre back slot, whilst the arrival of
Cameron McGeehan on a permanent deal was a massive coup for the club. </i></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>
<br />
<span style="background: white;">The bookies currently have us as joint second
favourites for the title (only Pompey at shorter odds than us) and I think this
is a pretty fair reflection. I think we'll be in the top 3 this season,
alongside the aforementioned Pompey and Oxford. </span><span style="background: white;">As a young player to watch, I have chosen former
West Ham left back Dan Potts. The consensus amongst Luton fans is that he's
arrived to provide competition for Scott Griffiths, but I think that he'll
usurp him before too long and be one of the first names on the team sheet.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="background: white;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Luton to win League Two (7/1, StanJames), Luton to win promotion (2/1, StanJames), or Luton to be top on 1st September 2015 (14/1, SkyBet).</span></span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><u>Mansfield Town</u></b></span></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>Players In: </b>Chris Spencer
(MF, Academy), Conor Green (LM/LB, Academy), Anthony Dwyer & Chris Spencer
(Academy), Mitchell Rose (MF), Malvind Benning (LB), Matt Green (ST), Lee
Collins (CB), Chris Beardsley (ST), Adi Yussuf (ST), Nathan Thomas (W), Craig
Westcarr (ST), Nicky Hunt (RB), Brian Jensen (GK), Scott Shearer (GK), Krystian
Pearce (DF), Nathan Thomas (RW). </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b>Lee Beevers
(DF), Alex Fisher (ST), Simon Heslop (MF), Ricky Ravenhill (MF), Michael Raynes
(CB), Martin Riley (DF), Sascha Studer (GK), Matt Rhead (ST), Ritchie Sutton
(DF), Junior Brown (MF), Ollie Palmer (ST), Michael Raynes (CB), Rakish Bingham
(ST), Liam Hearn (ST). </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zYF55TST3kkP6jmv1e7Fywn83BvQQrKsP0cEC5UWTxo0b2Idgmr5gEoimGjQ5k5vJ72aZ4OHnT_gmSrBh8e4M9ESQUYHQZoosmFj5_WYvzkAI1VBXsR9vFpGul7HfU9q_wMQeJgYAiiz/s1600/Murray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8zYF55TST3kkP6jmv1e7Fywn83BvQQrKsP0cEC5UWTxo0b2Idgmr5gEoimGjQ5k5vJ72aZ4OHnT_gmSrBh8e4M9ESQUYHQZoosmFj5_WYvzkAI1VBXsR9vFpGul7HfU9q_wMQeJgYAiiz/s320/Murray.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Why is this scarf so heavy?"<br />
www.mansfieldtown.net<br />
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</tbody></table>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">A new season and a new approach for Mansfield Town as the
youthful Adam Murray takes charge of his first full campaign. Murray replaced
Paul Cox last season, breathing new life into a club that had gone somewhat
stale from Cox’s brand of more direct football. With a number of Cox’s failed
signings now ousted from Field Mill, along with a man synonymous with Cox’s
brand of football, Matt Rhead, the coming season should prove to be an
interesting one if nothing else for Stags supporters. Four players have been
handed professional contracts straight from the academy, while the return of
Matt Green who scored 25 goals in Town’s promotion winning season from the
Conference has raised spirits. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">
Joining him at Field Mill is the promising Adi
Yussuf who went one better than Green; scoring 26 goals for Conference North
outfit Oxford City last season. If Town
are to improve on last season’s paltry tally of 36 goals, Yussuf, Green or
fellow new signing, the well travelled Craig Westcarr will be required to step
up to the plate. Conceding goals was also a problem for the Stags last term,
and although Scott Shearer a seven times promotion winner and Krystian Pearce
have joined the ranks, Mansfield’s defence still looks vulnerable. Another
mid-table campaign may be the best that can be hoped for once more for the
Stags.<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b>What the fan says: </b><i>@CraigPriest14: </i><span style="background-color: white;"><i>This
season has a feel of going back to the year dot. Adam Murray in the past 18 months
has gone from exiled assistant manager loaned out to local non-league sides to
being manager. When he took the reins from Paul Cox, he had a squad of his team
mates and it was always going to be tough to change their mentalities and style
of play. In January he tried to bring in his own players but couldn’t do that
to excess without moving some on which sadly didn’t happen.</i></span></div>
</span>
<br />
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now
contracts have expired, he’s been able to wield the axe and put his stamp on
Mansfield Town. The games so far in pre-season have been far less direct ala
Cox and much more possession based which is what runs deep in Murray’s blood!
We’ve held Championship MK Dons and a very strong Leicester City side to home
draws and, finally, had a penalty which returning goal machine Matt Green
tucked away, at the same end and in the same spot as his last goal which took
us into the Football League before his exit to Birmingham. There’s nothing like
picking up where you left off! Murray’s tenure has a good feel to it and whilst
there are a few things which cause some worried “oohs” generally we are turning
a corner and those jibes of “cheap option” are fading away. Murray is also
using home grown talent having restructured the academy set-up, Jack Thomas and
Liam Marsden will always be young ones to watch but are more established now,
I’d keep an eye out for Joe Fitzpatrick (Midfielder) and Corbin Shires (Centre
Back) – I think they will make a break through this year. I don’t do
predictions but I think “positive progression” is imminent.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Mansfield to win Group 'D' (7/2, Coral), or Mansfield to finish in the bottom-half (8/15, Betfair). </span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<h3 style="background: white; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Morecambe</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Charlie
Bailey (MF, Academy), Jack Kelleher (MF, Academy), Tom Barkhuizen (ST), Lee
Molyneux (W), Adam Dugdale (CB), Aaron Wildig (MF), Peter Murphy (MF). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Padraig
Amond (ST), Mark Hughes (CB), Andy Wright (RB), Ryan Williams (MF), Jack
Sampson (ST), Declan Watson (DF), Will Bell (GK), Marcus Marshall (W), Andreas
Arestidou (GK), Jack Redshaw (ST), Stewart Drummond (DM), Tom Stewart (GK). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnrd5NErAVxBavHz5ZmXjMJBVaL7jvapm0UMyC32mpVZ2p9_gf2VIJhwie_y1yxIvACFgwOF5ViyGljgsxROMnaD_QzJgXCSaS5uXTQDCVCfcuuInsNNpudJVDKKj8va0NUPVdWFGSbf0/s1600/murphy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWnrd5NErAVxBavHz5ZmXjMJBVaL7jvapm0UMyC32mpVZ2p9_gf2VIJhwie_y1yxIvACFgwOF5ViyGljgsxROMnaD_QzJgXCSaS5uXTQDCVCfcuuInsNNpudJVDKKj8va0NUPVdWFGSbf0/s320/murphy.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Murphy in action for Wycombe.<br />
www.zimbio.com<br />
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</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perennially tipped for relegation along with Accrington and
Dagenham, Morecambe start the season as surprise sixth; yes you heard it right,
sixth choice favourites for relegation. And with good reason. Despite often
suffering from a slow start or a poor run towards the end of the season, in
their seven years as a Football League club, Morecambe have never even come
close to dropping back down into the Conference. Even with the loss of star
striker Jack Redshaw to Blackpool ahead of the upcoming campaign, it appears
unlikely that the Shrimps will find themselves embroiled in any relegation
trouble. The five signings that Jim Bentley has made will all enhance the
current squad. Peter Murphy excelled for Wycombe last season, Lee Molyneux is
proven League Two quality, Tom Barkhuizen is young and has scored goals at this
level before whilst Adam Dugdale, although currently injured will only improve
a relatively tight back-line. Crucially talismanic midfielder Kevin Ellison has
also been retained. The man opposition supporters love to hate has an
outstanding return of 51 goals in 170 appearances for Jim Bentley’s side and
will only add to that in the season ahead. With Jim Bentley at the helm and
unlikely to move on any time soon, I make Morecambe this year’s dark horses for
the play-offs. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the journalist says: </b><i>@AdamLordLM: </i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jack Redshaw's departure is the most significant thing to
happen at the Globe Arena this summer. Although all are agreed his departure to
Blackpool was right for player and club it does leave a big hole in The Shrimps
squad. At the time of writing Jim Bentley was working hard to find a
replacement, a signing that could have a big say in how Morecambe's season pans
out. Despite being a comfortable 11th last time around they have once again
been written off by the bookies as more likely to drop out of the Football
League than challenge at the sharp end of the table. At the Globe Arena though
all eyes are on improving on that and making a sustained run at the top seven,
something which looked likely for large parts of last season before fading. New
faces Aaron Wildig and Lee Molyneux have both impressed in pre-season and could
provide much-needed goals from midfield that were lacking last season. That
could help Morecambe make the jump into the play-offs but it remains a big ask
in a division that looks as tough as ever. Watch out for young Aaron McGowan, a
19-year-old full back who is unlucky to find himself competing for a spot in
the side with last season’s player of the year, Shaun Beeley.</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Morecambe to make the play-offs (9/1, Boylesports), or Morecambe to finish top-half (5/2, BetVictor). </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Newport County</u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Kieran
Parselle (MF, Academy), Tom Owen-Evans (ST, Academy), Rhys Taylor (GK), Scott Barrow
(DF), Lennell John-Lewis (ST), Alex Rodman (W), Danny Holmes (RB), Medy Elito
(W), Matt Taylor (DF), Scott Boden (ST), Stanley Abborah (CM), Nana
Ofori-Twumasi (RB), Nathan Ralph (LB), </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Lenny Pidgeley (GK), Aaron O’Connor
(ST), Lee Minshull (MF), Andy Sandell (DF), Ryan Jackson (FB), Shaun Jeffers
(ST), Joe Parker (ST), Max Porter (MF), Jamie Stephens (GK), Robbie Willmott
(W), Ismail Yakubu (CB), Michael Flynn (MF), Kyle Patten (MF), Adam Chapman
(MF), Darren Jones (CB). </span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxXaQZ0eWxf8qjRBqH0c8YrWrO6V7J_LogUuGwIpUKY_pXR5v2RFe661uvFpcIGGe0VerRa1yDsKlfi8GFq-YWXYJKI5nnC-TEc9X_DGCkvaoMJl6ruFAOYXfhwXZRomfGb7v6SXAVdFQ/s1600/butcher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlxXaQZ0eWxf8qjRBqH0c8YrWrO6V7J_LogUuGwIpUKY_pXR5v2RFe661uvFpcIGGe0VerRa1yDsKlfi8GFq-YWXYJKI5nnC-TEc9X_DGCkvaoMJl6ruFAOYXfhwXZRomfGb7v6SXAVdFQ/s320/butcher.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">www.bbc.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Newport
County are this season’s team to watch – but not necessarily for altogether
positive reasons. New manager Terry Butcher has taken a chainsaw, an axe and
then a flamethrower to last year’s side put together by Justin Edinburgh,
getting rid of fifteen players including five, Lee Minshull, Ismael Yakubu,
Andy Sandell, Aaron O’Connor and Adam Chapman who made a combined 196
appearances last season, with O’Connor top scorer on 11 goals. If you ever want
to ask a manager how to make a mark on a new side, give Butcher a call. Butcher
by name, butcher by nature. In their place are seven players from non-league football
including the Conference top scorer from last season Lennel John-Lewis, Alex
Rodman from Gateshead and Matt Taylor most recently of Cheltenham Town. It
remains to be seen whether the Newport seven can make the step up, especially
in the case of John-Lewis who has flattered to deceive before now at League Two
level. Newport will however be getting proven quality in the form of Medy
Elito, signed from Dutch side VVV Venlo. Elito has previously lit up the league
with Dagenham & Redbridge and employed in the correct position can be a
serious danger going forward. The big question is whether all of these new and
thrown together components can work together under a manager who suffered
relegation in his last managerial role at Scottish club Hibernian. Personally,
I don’t think they can.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Lauralizbethh: </i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With Butcher wielding the
axe on last season's squad, new faces arriving behind the scenes & the idea
of a supporters trust run club closer to reality, it’s a hard season to
predict. The budget being slashed represents a challenge for Butcher to improve
on last season’s league finish, however I’m confident he’s is the right man to
get the best out of a small budget & build a team to compete in this
league. A new look squad includes Danny Holmes, Scott Barrow & Seth
Nana Twumasi, all of whom look to be exciting prospects. Meanwhile at the age
of just 17, Regan Poole looks set for another solid season in defence. Our
options up front are also promising. With more training to get fully fit Scott
Boden looks a great buy and along with John-Lewis & Alex Rodman they’ll
hopefully get the County faithful cheering. For me though, Medy Elito is a
stand out player that will excel in this league & be very important for us
this season. With such a small squad still needing time to gel, any injury
problems could cause issues, but I’d be happy with a mid-table finish in
Butcher’s first campaign in charge.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Newport to be relegated (5/1, BWin), or Newport to be bottom on the 1st September 2015 (7/1, SkyBet).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Northampton Town</u></b></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Sam Warburton
(LB, Academy), Danny Clifton (CM, Academy), Alfie Potter (CM), Nicky Adams (MF),
David Buchanan (LB), Josh Lelan (RB), Adam Smith (GK), Ryan Clarke (GK), Rod
McDonald (DF), Sam Hoskins (ST). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Matt Duke
(GK), Darren Carter (CM), Lee Collins (DF), Ben Tozer (DF), Lewis Hornby (MF),
Ross Perry (CB), Ian Morris (MF), Billy Bodin (LW), Tom Newey (DF), Shwan Jalal
(GK). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxXl6wbZhHyZKKHV4lQbAuEL2UsytR8drzL8LgFkTmdYIgtuPVxJAJvtp10K1Qhc1mA-j22GdcQ1dQ-TjgtGHON-NZ-wxWZbWWxuzxY84p4RJQo3DaFzd40GXdnicZcX3ry3nGznLmVRD/s1600/stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrxXl6wbZhHyZKKHV4lQbAuEL2UsytR8drzL8LgFkTmdYIgtuPVxJAJvtp10K1Qhc1mA-j22GdcQ1dQ-TjgtGHON-NZ-wxWZbWWxuzxY84p4RJQo3DaFzd40GXdnicZcX3ry3nGznLmVRD/s320/stand.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meh, we like it open plan.<br />
www.northamptonchron.co.uk<br />
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</tbody></table>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For
Oldham 15<sup>th</sup> in League One, see Northampton Town 12<sup>th</sup> in
League Two. The Cobblers are the definition of a side that consistently middle
half-way up the league, with a manager in Chris Wilder who doesn’t do much to
set the pulses racing. But with a rumoured £1 billion Indian consortium looking
to purchase the club, things could be about to change (Or alarm bells could
start ringing). Either way Wilder appears to have retained the base of last
season’s squad, although Ben Tozer and Lee Collins have both been released
which could prove to be a mistake in the long run. One area Wilder has enhanced
however is the midfield. Creative midfielder Nicky Adams has been brought in
from Bury where he was placed on the transfer list, and if he can provide the
ammunition for Marc Richards who hit 18 goals in just 31 appearances last term,
the Cobblers could be onto a winner and a shout of a play-off place. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Tylerjason_: '</i></span></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Optimism and trepidation are the overriding feelings heading into a
Northampton Town season that is likely to set the tone for the club’s
future. Among all the goings on at Sixfields it's easy to forget there's
actually a football team somewhere in the middle of it all. Work has stopped on
a new stand that was due to be completed a year ago, leaving it to linger
awkwardly like a fart at a funeral. The future is far from certain,
notwithstanding the half-baked monstrosity on one side of the ground. Chairman
David Cardoza confirmed he is looking to sell to an Indian consortium, the
identity of whom is unknown but that hasn’t stopped the rumours, with reports
of the leader’s wealth to be valued in billions. </i></span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Whilst the changes in ownership and their reputed riches are giving some
excitement to the supporters, manager Chris Wilder knows he needs to deliver
with what can certainly be considered ‘his’ squad. Nicky Adams looks to be
the marquee signing of the summer from Bury and adds to an attractive looking
forward line that includes Ricky Holmes and Lawson D’Ath behind striker Marc
Richards. Wilder will need back up for last season’s top scorer, especially if
Ivan Toney completes a move to Newcastle United. Wilder has also signed
Alfie Potter and Ryan Clarke, who he worked with at Oxford United. David
Buchanan and Josh Lelan have come in to shore up defensive options, but
question marks still linger ahead of a campaign in which a top-seven finish
will be expected.'</i></span><span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Northampton to finish in the top half (4/7 Labdbrokes), or Marc Richards to be top goalscorer (12/1, bet365).</span></div>
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<h3 style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Notts County</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Jordan
Richards (DF, Academy), Lartey Sarpong (RM, Academy), Scot Bennett (MF/DF),
Rhys Sharpe (LB), Robert Milson (MF), Gill Swerts (DM/RB), Mawouna Amevor (CB),
Jon Stead (ST), Graham Burke (ST), Filip Valencic (ST), Kyle de Silva (CM),
Adam Campbell (ST), Julien Jenner (W), Genaro Snijders (W), Scott Loach (GK),
Wes Atkinson (RB), Filip Valencic (ST), Stanley Aborah (CM). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Mustapha
Dumbuya (RB), Fabien Spiess (GK), Greg Tempest (MF), Cieron Keane (DF), Brad
McGowan (DF), Hayden Mullins (CM), Drissa Traore (MF), Elliot Whitehouse (MF),
Shaun Harrad (ST), Garry Thompson (ST), Jordan Cranston (FB), Gary Jones (CM), Balint
Bajner (ST). </span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA2wTZ0bxTfodWKEfWqWpGBzqYZHq3_YDSfEVv_V9wdI4k5FJlxOhiozkliZgKOrB8uMi7ON_gXIDtoHIG-I36haXl08EKhmuDr-Mkul0PKg9gbNWnxC7TGxvPnGUyKYG9rhtzD9cakvR/s1600/moniz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNA2wTZ0bxTfodWKEfWqWpGBzqYZHq3_YDSfEVv_V9wdI4k5FJlxOhiozkliZgKOrB8uMi7ON_gXIDtoHIG-I36haXl08EKhmuDr-Mkul0PKg9gbNWnxC7TGxvPnGUyKYG9rhtzD9cakvR/s320/moniz.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moniz<br />
www.nottinghampost.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another
very intriguing club to keep an eye on this season are likely to be Notts
County, now under the stewardship of Dutchman Ricardo Moniz. Unfortunately for
Moniz his first month or so was hardly flying, unable to save County from
relegation back to League Two six years after their last visit. And over the
summer it’s been all change at Meadow Lane. Thirteen have departed from the
banks of the Trent, with Hayden Mullins, Gary Jones and Garry Thompson leading
the exodus from the Pies. In their place comes a mixture of experience and
flair, both European and domestic. Filip Valencic comes from Slovenia, Julien
Jenner, Genero Snijders and Mawouna Amevor
are all Dutch whilst right-back Gill Swerts has 17 caps for the Belgian
national side between 2006-2009. Snijders looks the pick of the continental
crop having previously played for Vitesse and Willem II, and at 26 years of age
should be in his prime. One player not in his prime, but still an excellent
addition to League Two is Jon Stead; he joins Scot Bennett and Adam Campbell as
the pick of the domestic players signed by County over the summer. Aside from
player recruitment, home form will be imperative for County this term. The Pies
recorded the lowest home points tally last season with a paltry 21, improvement
is needed at Meadow Lane in order to get the results and perhaps more crucially
in the long term, to get the fans back. County should be looking to make the
play-offs at the very least this season, whether Moniz will still be in charge
by the end of the season however remains open to speculation.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@<i>Totk_10: '</i></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>As a team, and in some ways a club, Notts are
completely unrecognisable from the wilting spineless mess that threw away
survival in the last couple of minutes at Priestfield last season. Forced to
adapt to the personnel and play dull direct football, few were impressed with
Moniz’s ‘continental’ influence on the club after being appointed. However,
that has been ceremoniously chucked out of the window over the summer with a
focus on recruiting pace and creativity. What has followed has been an
astonishing wave of transfer activity with 15 signings made so far and another
few to come. A Togolese international, two Dutchmen, a Slovenian and two
Belgians have all entered the fray, ranging from the genuinely exciting like
Mawouna Amevor to the bizarrely nomadic Stanley Aborah. Obviously with these
sort of signings we’ve been bombarded with the usual clichés about foreigners
in lower league football but quietly we also possess a very strong spine of
English players including our talisman Jimmy Spencer, Jon Stead, Rob Milsom,
Liam Noble and the talented local boy Curtis Thompson who was raised around
half a mile from Meadow Lane.</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>
<br />
I’d love to throw a bold prediction in about our chances but frankly, I have no
idea how we’ll do. On paper, it’s one of the strongest squads in the division
with two or three big further additions promised – but on the flipside is the
risk/reward aspect of a flair-packed enigmatic group. In terms of players to
watch; the great Jimmy Spencer is fully recovered and far too good for this
division, the aforementioned Thompson could be a very special holding
midfielder who nets us a tidy sum at some point, and newly acquired Kyle de
Silva has looked a revelation in pre-season.'</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Notts County to finish in the top 3 (13/2, Boylesports), County to be top Midlands club (7/1, Coral), or County to be the top relegated team (2/1, BetVictor). </span></span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Oxford United</u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Freddie Grant
(FB, Academy), Robbie Cundy (CB, Academy), AJ George (MF, Academy), Kemar Roofe
(ST), Liam Sercombe (MF), Ryan Taylor (ST), Sam Slocombe (GK), George Baldock
(CB, Loan). </span></div>
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<b style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Players Out: </b><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Andy Whing
(DF), Jonathan Meades (DF), Will Hoskins (ST), John Campbell (ST), Josh Shama
(MF), Matt Bevans (MF), Jeremy Balmy (ST), Ryan Clarke (GK), Jamie Ashdown
(GK).</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLnXrYNkXsWXJYx09jLyoFg3ABLomKryOfhSnwx2NTLEXUiYuE3jqcw21FhucAYkq8CaQTrPrORWqDF_gIbXT76Ce1aFy8OcZIo1Rzoguerpaz7R7OmiDWjdw-4xgzLOLFQshMkZCapX2s/s1600/roofe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLnXrYNkXsWXJYx09jLyoFg3ABLomKryOfhSnwx2NTLEXUiYuE3jqcw21FhucAYkq8CaQTrPrORWqDF_gIbXT76Ce1aFy8OcZIo1Rzoguerpaz7R7OmiDWjdw-4xgzLOLFQshMkZCapX2s/s320/roofe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Roofe<br />
www.oufc.co.uk<br />
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</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Something
sensational has happened at Oxford in the last 12 months. Michael Appleton has
stayed at a football club! I know I can’t quite believe it either. But stay he has
and summer recruitment has gone well for the Football League grasshopper, with
Kemar Roofe who scored six goals on loan at the Kassam last season the pick of
the bunch. He joins Ryan Taylor in putting pen to paper at the U’s in a coup
which leaves United looking very handy in the forward department. Although some
defensive experience has been lost with the departures of Andy Whing and
goalkeeper Ryan Clarke (267 apps), Sam Slocombe on a permanent deal and George
Baldock on loan fill the void nicely to leave the U’s contented with their
summer dealings. For all my criticism of Appleton it appears as though he’s
building a squad of players intent on playing football whilst retaining the
importance of promoting from the academy, and with that in mind it’s hard to
dismiss Oxford as contenders for a play-off spot and outsiders for an automatic place.</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@<i>EthanSimlett24: '</i></span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The buzz around the Kassam Stadium at this
moment in time is something to behold! I have not experienced such excitement
among Oxford fans for a very long time & a ball is yet to be kicked! With
Stewart Donald, a lifelong Oxford fan purchasing a 10% share in the club,
combined with Michael Appleton's ability to bring in his main transfer targets
early on in the window, confidence for the new season is seemingly sky high.
Kemar Roofe & George Baldock, who performed so admirably last season, were
seen as the two key men to retain & to the surprise of many Oxford fans,
this is exactly what happened. This coupled with the signings of experienced
players Sam Slocombe, Liam Sercombe & Ryan Taylor, has given the squad a
strong look. The academy, at long last, seems to have yielded some useful
talent too - 3 potentially top drawer players to keep an eye out for are Callum
O'Dowda, James Roberts & Josh Ashby. With all this being said, it would be
seen as a massive disappointment if the U's were not to at least pinch a
play-off spot.'</span></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Oxford to make the play-offs (13/5, Ladbrokes), or Kemar Roofe to be top scorer (20/1, bet365).</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Plymouth Argyle</u></b></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Louis Rooney
(ST, Academy), Callum Hall (MF, Academy), Ryan Lane (LB, Academy), Gary Sawyer
(DF), Jake Jervis (ST), Josh Simpson (MF), Graham Carey (MF), Gregg Wylde (MF),
Hiram Boateng (MF, Loan). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Jason Banton
(MF), Dominic Blizzard (MF), Marvin Morgan (ST), Matt Lecointe (ST), River
Allen (MF), Ollie Norburn (MF), Jamie Richards (DF), Paul Wotton (DF/MF), Lewis
Allesandra (ST), Anthony O’Connor (CB).</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M9w2UJRt7ApFFOlMtbJvw6_kHeceT_FjmuvOgsqDJe7liWMy_4RdiM7sO4B_OF4rx6GWuH10xJSi48J02oN7zHKh9yezQJTXnL26_smEoCHVgYnelKbmPakYECY4C9-rFn5Mk-cr0Xab/s1600/adams.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4M9w2UJRt7ApFFOlMtbJvw6_kHeceT_FjmuvOgsqDJe7liWMy_4RdiM7sO4B_OF4rx6GWuH10xJSi48J02oN7zHKh9yezQJTXnL26_smEoCHVgYnelKbmPakYECY4C9-rFn5Mk-cr0Xab/s400/adams.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I've never seen one of these in Scotland"<br />
www.plymouthherald.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Five seasons later and Plymouth’s fantastic supporter base
still hasn’t seen them gain automatic promotion out of League Two. It’s an
utter travesty really, and with last year’s failed play-off campaign now a
distant memory following the dismissal of John Sheridan, it’s down to young
Scotsman Derek Adams to try and direct the Pilgrims back to the third tier. On
the face of it, there doesn’t appear to be too much upheaval since the end of last
season. A defensive unit which conceded the league’s second lowest tally of
just 37 goals remain largely intact, whilst 18 goal striker Reuben Reid remains
and has Jake Jervis for company fresh from spells in Scotland and Turkey.
Argyle’s potential problems however lay in midfield, where Jason Banton, Lewis
Allesandra (although technically a striker) and loan star Bobby Reid have all
departed, leaving behind a dearth of goals and creativity. New manager Adams
has attempted to replace them with players familiar to him, a bold move and one
that could prove a success just as easily as it could backfire. Hiram Boateng
on loan from Crystal Palace is an astute signing and continues the recent
connection between the two clubs. The play-offs will be the aim once again for
the Home Park outfit, but in a much stronger league this time around it’ll be a
far tougher ask.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@DaveWeeks20: '</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">If we can continue to
improve season on season as we have done in the last few years, we should be
looking at a 5</span><sup style="line-height: 115%;">th</sup><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"> place finish! I'm hoping for the
automatics though (along with the double being re-done over Exeter). We've got
a young manager who has a huge hunger to get us out of this league and
crucially has the charisma to make bold decisions and big changes when they’re
needed. We’ve also signed Hiram Boateng on loan from Crystal Palace. He
seems like he could play a big part in how we do. I don't know much
about the bloke as I've never seen him play! However, he's a bit of a
beast looking at him from photos and one of his goals on youtube looks
fantastic. I do realise however that YouTube has the ability to make anyone
look good. Crystal Palace fans rate him highly and believe he's unlucky not to
have played more first team football with them which is only good news for us. Our
own youngster to watch though is Ryan Brunt, well I say young he's 22
so not exactly young anymore in football terms! Hopefully he can find the net a
bit more this season. Fans like him and he's on form in pre-season. He’s
well built, tall and can be a real handful which usually goes quite well
in League Two.'</span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Plymouth to finish in the bottom half (Evens, SkyBet), or Reuben Reid to be top goalscorer (16/1, Coral). </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b><u>Portsmouth</u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Brandon
Haunstrup (LB, Academy), Snorre Nilsen (CB, Academy), Chad Field (CB, Academy),
Kyle Bennett (MF), Kal Naismith (ST), Enda Stevens (LB), Gary Roberts (MF), Adam
McGurk (ST), Adam Barton (MF), Christian Burgess (CB), Michael Doyle (CM),
Jayden Stockley (ST, Loan), Matt Clarke (CB, Loan), Ben Tolitt (MF), Gareth
Evans (W). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Nicky Shorey
(LB), Dan Butler (LB), Tom Craddock (ST), Joe Devera (CB), Ben Chorley (DF),
Danny East (DF), Wes Fogden (MF), Bradley Tarbuck (W), Ryan Taylor (ST), Jed
Wallace (CM), Craig Westcarr (ST), Andy Barcham (W), Jonny Ertl (DM), Paul
Robinson (CB), Nicky Shorey (LB).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOZF6LfHwQa0x4Wp2Hiy7AN50HJLkjLkOOey9Sjc2wPtLY3ZvH9VrkGmXKvLxoyCxqkN7l2466w4BgVvQIgbShqQ_yQMUbPCLIUN04VEb6n1PphGx-YlFKWx9dwMe4fuQHCbazxjdQzF3/s1600/tubbs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtOZF6LfHwQa0x4Wp2Hiy7AN50HJLkjLkOOey9Sjc2wPtLY3ZvH9VrkGmXKvLxoyCxqkN7l2466w4BgVvQIgbShqQ_yQMUbPCLIUN04VEb6n1PphGx-YlFKWx9dwMe4fuQHCbazxjdQzF3/s320/tubbs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pompey shouldn't be a crockett this season.<br />
www.portsmouth.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Always
the bookies first choice for promotion, this season there appears to be some
foundation in their odds as favourites for the title. New manager Paul Cook has
already experienced promotion from League Two with Chesterfield, and he brings
with him a wealth of experience and talent in the form of twelve summer
signings. Adam McGurk and Gary Roberts have both won promotion in the past two
seasons, while Christian Burgess and Michael Doyle played at League One level
last season for Peterborough and Sheffield United respectively. The loss of Jed
Wallace to Wolves is a blow, but retaining the services of promising young
centre-half Jack Whatmough ensures youth remains in the Pompey first XI. And
with Matt Tubbs leading the line up front, the blues look to have a solid core
that should enable them to challenge for promotion. What Pompey must do however
is make an improvement on their away form. Away from Fratton Park, Portsmouth
have accrued just eight victories in the last two seasons, an appalling record
for a club with aims of automatic promotion. With Paul Cook in charge though,
that should be rectified and a top seven finish will be a minimum requirement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@FrattonFaithful: '</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Expectations are
higher than usual at Pompey now that there is a proven winner in charge. Paul
Cook has recruited well over the summer, with he and the players under no
illusion that promotion is the aim this season and anything less would be
deemed unacceptable after two poor seasons in the basement division since the
PST takeover. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">However, with so many new faces arriving the manager himself has admitted that
his team are a work-in-progress and will take time to gel having culled the
majority of last season's under-performing squad. Jed Wallace will also be a
huge miss having been the outstanding player in the side last season and only
time will tell if the likes of Kyle Bennett and Kal Naismith can come close to
replacing him.</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
<br />
Not only that, but the squad still looks short in numbers, especially in
defence following the surprising departure of Paul Robinson which now means the
back four lacks experience and leadership. Extra cover in goal and up front is
also required as an injury to a key player or two could really hamper Pompey's
prospects of at least a top seven finish. Still, with one of the best players in League Two in Gary Roberts and arguably
the best striker in the division in Matt Tubbs, this Pompey squad looks of
better quality than last season and with a few more additions the aim of promotion
whilst playing an attractive brand of football should be achievable under the
club's latest manager.'</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Matt Tubbs to be top goalscorer (8/1, bet365), or Portsmouth to gain promotion (5/6, bet365). </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Stevenage</u></b></span></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Dale Gorman
(MF, Academy), George Casey (MF, Academy), Dipo Akinyemi (ST, Academy), Mark
Hughes (CB), Brett Williams (ST), Steven Schumacher (MF), Fraser Franks (DF).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Jon Ashton
(DF), Chris Beardsley (ST), Bira Dembele (DF), Roarie Deacon (DF/ST), Joseph
N’Guessan (W), Fejiri Okenabirhie (ST), George Allen (DF), Sam Beasant (GK),
Michael Richens (DF), Harry Worley (CB), Andy Bond (ST), Simon Walton (MF),
Calvin Zola (ST), Darius Charles (CB), Dave Martin (LM), Conor Calcutt (ST).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaPtQEFiQ6b9ZCiBeIXuKuaEslRL5Lek8enXzvR45_piqg7i0dO9Awb9Z8PYP-nbDn2wDUoheUfQxE4TTkUinhyphenhyphennwdWl4U6ojJbgb9xwl-zk1gQqTY3SnwfGdpsZmqFpXlQG7QxrDlah8/s1600/sheringham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaaPtQEFiQ6b9ZCiBeIXuKuaEslRL5Lek8enXzvR45_piqg7i0dO9Awb9Z8PYP-nbDn2wDUoheUfQxE4TTkUinhyphenhyphennwdWl4U6ojJbgb9xwl-zk1gQqTY3SnwfGdpsZmqFpXlQG7QxrDlah8/s320/sheringham.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I immediately regret this decision"<br />
www.thecomet.net</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
last season’s play-off failure and Graham Westley’s departure in the summer,
it’s down to managerial virgin Teddy Sheringham to pick the troops up and try
again over at Broadhall Way. The good news for Sheringham is that star
midfielder Tom Pett has signed a new deal, while Brett Williams who has scored
39 goals in the last two years in the Conference joins from Aldershot. Those
two as well as the rest of the Reds squad should only benefit from the
experience that Sheringham is able to give them, potentially making the ‘Boro a
dangerous attacking outfit in the season ahead. At the back however the
experience of Jon Ashton, Darius Charles and Bira Dembele has been lost, with
Mark Hughes and Fraser Franks their replacements. While the base of last
season’s squad has been retained the team remains dangerously thin on the
ground, although the promotion of youth, particularly in the case of young
Northern-Irish forward Ben Kennedy is to be admired. In a year when most of the
league’s top sides have strengthened, a Stevenage side lacking the brutality
and ruthlessness of Graham Westley could struggle. On the other hand a more
expressive and creative manager such as Sheringham could see the ‘Boro
flourish. It’s one that could go either way, but I’m more inclined to say
mid-table at best for the Lamex outfit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Govey24: '</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After two seasons of decline, last season showed a side
finally ready to push back up to the higher reaches of the Football League,
with a spirited defeat to Southend in extra time ending Boro's hopes of
attending Wembley and returning to League One at the first time of asking. The
core squad remain together, which is something we've missed in the last few
seasons, with three consecutive seasons of wholesale changes. That said, a huge
change has occurred in management, with Teddy Sheringham taking the reins from
Graham Westley, who saw out his contract. The board decided it was time for a
radical new direction, with Graham Westley having been at the club for eight of
the last twelve seasons. It's a risk, but a calculated risk. Teddy has been there and
done it all as a player. Coached by the likes of Sir Alex, Clough and Venables,
he'll undoubtedly have plenty of wisdom and knowledge to inspire this
relatively youthful squad. The main concern at the moment is the lack of
transfer activity and the squad size. Injuries have already hit the camp, with
players from the youth squad playing a significant role in pre-season. Whether
they'll play their part in the regular season remains to be seen. Essentially
all of this is a step into the unknown.</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One player to look out for is Adam Marriott, who scored 45
goals in 42 Cambridge City appearances before joining us last season. It was an
injury ravaged year for Adam though, and the striker only made thirteen
appearances, scoring three goals. If he can stay fit, then the potential for
Adam to develop under a Champions League winning striker is frightening. Adam
staying fit could well be the fine line between play-offs and mid-table.'</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Stevenage to finish bottom half (19/20, Betfair), or Stevenage to make the play-offs (4/1, Ladbrokes). </span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Wycombe Wanderers</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Garry
Thompson (ST), Ryan Sellers (LB/LM), Anthony Stewart (CB/RB), Jason Banton
(W/ST), Danny Rowe (CM/CB), Michael Harriman (RB, Loan), Luke O’Nien (MF),
Stephen McGinn (MF). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Peter Murphy
(MF), Steven Craig (ST), Hogan Ephraim (LW), Matt McClure (ST), Charlie Horlock
(GK), Nathan Evans (LM), Tommy Fletcher (CB), Stewart Bannister (Kitman). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JWa-5gF6hyphenhyphenYgX_uPz2mEgFFtKuv3Yfi3zywp9_TV1kQj7wxzjwMfZzuI-uXQDk8H0U9AFP_qoWBlh1gC2O5Ivol-sliNfHWKj7uzsJpyTotl1E7_342PA7b4e8PyZJ_UbhMKgq4QiQsP/s1600/ainsworth.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0JWa-5gF6hyphenhyphenYgX_uPz2mEgFFtKuv3Yfi3zywp9_TV1kQj7wxzjwMfZzuI-uXQDk8H0U9AFP_qoWBlh1gC2O5Ivol-sliNfHWKj7uzsJpyTotl1E7_342PA7b4e8PyZJ_UbhMKgq4QiQsP/s320/ainsworth.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ainsworth looking to be top of the pops.<br />
www.wycombewanderers.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After two years of polarity between relegation and promotion
contention, Wycombe fans could be forgiven for wanting a rest this time around.
Wanderers came within minutes of promotion to League One in May, but they’ll
have to go again this term with a squad that once again appears to be lacking
in depth. Whilst a smaller squad is excellent for moral, it often takes its
toll on players towards the end of the season when the demands of the league
catch up on them as was the case for the Chairboys last season. LMA manager of
the year Gareth Ainsworth has made solid if unspectacular business, shoring up
the defensive line with the acquisitions of Anthony Stewart and Michael
Harriman, whilst adding flair into the midfield by poaching Jason Banton from
Plymouth and bringing him back closer to his London home. Losing Peter Murphy
to Morecambe is a blow after the midfielder netted an impressive seven goals
last season, and with Sam Saunders returning to Brentford after a loan spell,
the signing of Banton appears all the more important. Wycombe used the loan
market effectively last season and expect them to do so again, with the aging
Paul Hayes and Garry Thompson the sole strikers at the club. With so many sides
having strengthened so well in the close season, another push for the top three
is a tough ask for the Chairboys. The play-offs will likely be the aim for
Gareth Ainsworth, and with a bit of luck and an astute loan signing here and
there there’s no reason why that target is not achievable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Lisa Bowker: '<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">As Wycombe fans we have
to manage expectations after our phenomenal success last season. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">However, Gareth Ainsworth has again brought in
some quality players, a mixture of youth and experience that adds to last season’s
squad that will certainly keep us in the top half of the table and should
enable us to push for promotion once more. However with some very strong sides
and a lot of money being spent elsewhere, we still have the smallest squad and
budget.</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>
<span style="background: white;">The Adams Park pitch has also been replaced and
hopefully this will improve our home performances. We had the best away record
in the entire Football League last year and I see no reason why that can’t
continue. </span><span style="background: white;">At the back we hoped Alfie Mawson would sign for
us but Anthony Stewart has returned to the club and is a strong centre-back.
Despite being solid in defence, he can score goals and will partner Aaron
Pierre with Jombati and Jacobson either side at RB and LB. Through</span><span style="background: white;"> existing players and new additions, we have
a team that will give everything for their manager and will never know when
they are Beaten.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span style="background: white;">Striker Aaron Holloway is one to watch. Has been
nurtured by Ainsworth and his staff after being plagued by injury but looks
strong and this could be his season. Young</span><span style="background: white;">left sided player Ryan Sellers has also
shown what he is capable of in the pre-season friendlies and hopefully that can
translate into the league.</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">Most people are expecting Wycombe to be up there
with Oxford, Portsmouth and Notts County and I agree with them! We will produce
another successful campaign and put right the heartbreaking defeat at Wembley
to gain automatic promotion.'</span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><br /></span></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Wycombe to make the play-offs (4/1, Ladbrokes), or Wycombe to finish top half (4/5 Coral). </span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><u>Yeovil Town</u></b></span></span></span></h3>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Matt Dolan
(MF), Jack Compton (W), Marc Laird (MF), Ben Tozer (CB), Jordan Gibbons (MF),
Shaun Jeffers (ST), Omar Sowunmi (DF/CB), Jamie Burrow (AM), Stephen Arthurworrey
(DF, Loan), Ryan Dickson (DF), Ryan Bird (ST), Wes Fogden (CM), Iffy
Allen (W), Alex Lacey (DF), Matt Dolan (DM). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>Craig
Eastmond (CM), Nathan Ralph (LB), Sam Hoskins (ST), Joel Grant (ST), Gozie Ugwu
(ST), Kieffer Moore (ST/DF), Seth Ofori-Twumasi (LB), James Hayter (ST), Alex
Smith (DF), Liam Davis (MF), Fergus Bell (MF), Sam Foley (MF), James Berrett
(MF), AJ Leitch-Smith (ST), Adam Morgan (ST), Joe Edwards (RB), Gareth Stewart
(GK).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ra0wTbeQ5kHhVVAyPIaS7qumL3tTlQH5MHbU_K8U74z7VbZRt_ZhdOj49oSxGOhYQ4ohDLnkskINI_Dt5LV-6zn6Fem36MMSBH6v9BGMGqIU-qjVyGjkCZDkgnNDy3QFf9ZdfkbtDj17/s1600/ryan+bird.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-Ra0wTbeQ5kHhVVAyPIaS7qumL3tTlQH5MHbU_K8U74z7VbZRt_ZhdOj49oSxGOhYQ4ohDLnkskINI_Dt5LV-6zn6Fem36MMSBH6v9BGMGqIU-qjVyGjkCZDkgnNDy3QFf9ZdfkbtDj17/s320/ryan+bird.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"I've never been this low in the table before"<br />
www.bbc.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaRNiUo6qrqwmAL7us-sKYwNtUg7JyabI5cnkxsNJffuVsx8Z5hb_r0f12CYl0X0iMW23YYvUU5Pz_Pk7vsIMgyXpmFJPdjLjNKw-vVIU5FoGuFaCpZzDigKd90BgWxcjY1aEK5rVrnKT/s1600/yeovil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgaRNiUo6qrqwmAL7us-sKYwNtUg7JyabI5cnkxsNJffuVsx8Z5hb_r0f12CYl0X0iMW23YYvUU5Pz_Pk7vsIMgyXpmFJPdjLjNKw-vVIU5FoGuFaCpZzDigKd90BgWxcjY1aEK5rVrnKT/s320/yeovil.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#KickThingsLikeThisOutOfFootball<br />
www.youtube.com<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
suffering successive relegations things can’t get much worse for Yeovil Town. Paul
Sturrock was installed as the new manager following Gary Johnson’s sacking towards
the end of last season, and with 32 players combined through the doors at Huish
Park it promises to be a fresh start for all concerned. And it needs to be.
Town were relegated with a pathetic 36 goals scored last season, the lowest in
the league, and with 75 conceded at the other end it’s easy to see why the
Glovers finished 12 points adrift of safety at the bottom of League One. Things
are looking more positive for the season ahead however. Ryan Bird who has
scored goals wherever he’s been in spite of limited opportunities appears to be
the marquee signing, while Mark Beck will be hoping for similar fortunes to
former Glover Paddy Madden who like Beck made the move from Carlisle to Yeovil.
Ben Tozer, Marc Laird, Wes Fogden, Ryan Dickson and Matty Dolan should also be
familiar names to those with League Two knowledge. If they can all bed in, Paul
Sturrock appears to have assembled a solid if unspectacular core to his side.
The problem once again however looks as though it will be finding net. In spite
of the signing of Ryan Bird, creativity looks sparse elsewhere and with a
dearth of recognised, proven forwards at the club; it’s likely someone will
need to step up. A season of stabilisation beckons for the Somerset club, with
avoiding a triple relegation and stemming the losing mentality currently
instilled at the club the immediate priority. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Alex Porter: 'With two seasons of misery and crushing defeats (albeit one season in the Championship), all we Yeovil fans want is a side that can win a few games, especially at home! Last season was miserable for us, FA Cup tie against Man Utd aside. Paul Sturrock is a man with lower league knowledge though and the player's he's brought in seem to suit as well which should allow us to finish in mid-table at the very least. This is an important season for us, and so long as we don't get off to a poor start I think we'll be fine under Sturrock. Hopefully we make the top twelve!'</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Yeovil to be relegated (15/1, 10Bet), or Ryan Bird top goalscorer (80/1, bet365).</span></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>York City</u></b></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>In: </b>Callum Rzonca
(MF, Academy), Ben Godfrey (CB, Academy), Vadaine Oliver (ST), George Swan
(DF), Scott Flinders (GK), James Berrett (MF), Eddie Nolan (DF), Mark Beck
(ST), Tarane Hare (CB). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Out: </b>Wes Fletcher
(ST), Ryan Jarvis (ST), Lewis Montrose (MF), Daniel Parslow (DF), Jason Mooney
(GK). </span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY12kM2sl-vr8TH9tv4sG1zFwAjBTcu4V3NftxQB83rMXpMalUvB94vFHmaH7Vbhvm8KQ16eWjXzldNr92Lr6fBZmZ-rYXTr8fpTpaalCrpin_S5KMicFYIyaRFpa3ln7O6iBdILh7BL0C/s1600/booth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY12kM2sl-vr8TH9tv4sG1zFwAjBTcu4V3NftxQB83rMXpMalUvB94vFHmaH7Vbhvm8KQ16eWjXzldNr92Lr6fBZmZ-rYXTr8fpTpaalCrpin_S5KMicFYIyaRFpa3ln7O6iBdILh7BL0C/s400/booth.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goodbye to a famous old ground.<br />
www.yorkpress.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last
but no means least (unless we’re ranking teams in terms of entertainment last
season), is York City. Managed by a man with more draws to his name than an
underwear model, City have become synonymous with a 0-0 home scoreline over the
past two seasons. Russ Wilcox has sought to change that reputation over the
summer however with the enterprising signing of, er, Vadaine Oliver. When you
consider the Minstermen have let both Ryan Jarvis and Wes Fletcher leave
Bootham Crescent, it’s evident that Oliver will need to improve on his albeit
respectable tally of 7 goals in 30 games on loan at Mansfield Town last season.
I have nothing against York per se, but when a striker with a relatively
average goalscoring record is the best signing in a team that clearly needs
improvement, I wouldn’t be massively upbeat for the season ahead. Especially
with Wilcox in charge. The good news that comes with being an uninteresting
side is that York’s defensive unit is largely solid; in-fact the Minstermen had
one of the best defences outside of the play-offs last season. They have a team
of workers which in essence is a good thing, players like Keith Lowe and
Russell Penn are the sort that get fans on side and provide a good dose of
morale to those involved. The problem is that with one half of the jigsaw
complete, York lack the creativity, flair and goals to compliment their gritty
determination. In their final season at Bootham Crescent I’d be surprised if
the Minstermen made the top twelve, with a bottom half slog looking the more
likely affair. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@JohnnyDobbo: '</i></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>In the end, it was quite comfortable. After sweating for
much of the season, City found some home form in the last month of the campaign
and ensured another season of League football with games to spare. That's really just the start of it. Russ Wilcox was working
largely with the pile of dross signed by the previous manager. Of those, only
captain Russell Penn began to look like quality under the new man, freed as he
was of the burden of doing the job of two or three men in the midfield. Slowly
but surely, Wilcox has transformed the look of the squad, finding willing
buyers for most of those that simply aren't good enough. A few remain, still on
the transfer list, but the job is almost complete.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>The problem last season wasn't conceding, but scoring.
Nobody got into double figures for the season and centre-back Keith Lowe came
close to ending as the top scorer for the season. Loanees came and went, but
only a couple impressed and then for not long enough. To this end, in comes
Vadaine Oliver, but his goal-scoring record throughout his career doesn't
inspire great confidence and goals again look in short supply. The loan market
may well provide a solution once again. Despite that, the defence looks strong once again and
there's an upgrade in goal too, so mid-table once again looks plausible.
Anything comfortable will do. There are enough teams in division 4 that look
appreciably worse and that's fine.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>One to watch: George Swan</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>The 20-year old centre-back arrived in the off-season from
Wolves. Formerly captain of Man City's U18s, he is the son of former York
skipper Peter Swan. If he gets anywhere near the heights of his old man, we've
got ourselves a good one.'</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>York to be relegated (11/1, Coral), or York to finish bottom half (2/3, SkyBet).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luton Town and Cambridge United dual forecast - 50/1 (SkyBet).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Portsmouth and Luton Town straight forecast - 25/1 (SkyBet).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And there you have it. The most comprehensive League Two preview you're likely to read before the weekend, with my take on things, a fans view if you completely disagree and twenty four bets that over the course of the last two seasons would have earned supporters in the region of £600. All that's left to say is good luck to everyone for the season ahead, and make sure you keep up to date with my musings on Twitter if you're that way inclined using @NickMurphy1995.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If anyone is looking for a forum to use to discuss the leagues, transfers and games for the upcoming season I also recommend One Football Forum (www.onefootballforum.co.uk), the best of its type on the internet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you for reading!</span></div>
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></h3>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Segoe UI', sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-14399745476494264952015-03-02T18:10:00.000+00:002015-03-02T18:10:57.913+00:00The Curious Case of English Football. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Harry Kane, ‘B’ teams, and the gut-wrenching £5.136 Billion
Premier League Television deal. Not the sordid title of a rejected Roald Dahl
novel, but three separate entities that can all be included within the discussion of
English football’s longest running soap-opera, the development of homegrown
players. And much like a soap-opera on Christmas Day, a time of the year that
should be lauded and celebrated, we’re faced with a dark gloom and haze as to
what has just gone on and that very English footballing question, “Where do we
go from here?”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">According to the FA, the Football League and the Premier
League, one of the various solutions is to introduce Premier League ‘B’ teams
into the already fatiguing Johnstone’s Paint Trophy. Quite how a handful of games
a season against sides that more often than not don’t take the competition
particularly seriously until the latter stages will benefit the
development of young English players, I don’t really know. But the FA does, so
why question it? It’s not like we matter, is it? We’re only good for crowd
shots in the latest Barclays or Sky advert anyway. We’re not supporters, we are
the advertisement. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From my own personal perspective it also damages the
integrity of the competition I secretly enjoy. The JPT isn't glamorous, but it’s
one of the very few chances a lower league supporter has of seeing his or her
side get a chance to play at Wembley. You try telling a Walsall supporter who
will see his/her side at Wembley for the first time in the clubs history this month
that it’s a worthless competition and see what response you get. Introducing ‘B’
teams here is the start of a slippery slope, a slope that we already have
minimal footing on as it is. Allowing this to happen without a fight is akin to
digging our own graves. They wanted to introduce ‘B’ teams into our leagues
before, and they’ll want to do it again if they see weakness. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But it’s not just the thought of this that disturbs me and
many other supporters of lower league clubs, but also the lack of consultation
that has surrounded the seemingly sudden implementation of this idea. I'm realistic as a football supporter, I know that I won’t hear the ins and outs of
everything that goes on at my football club or in the wider context of the game
in general, and that’s quite right. But to brush such a fairly big decision
under the carpet, to the point where it has only become apparent as a result of
supporters trust meeting, is utterly despicable. We don’t expect total
transparency as supporters, but we expect honesty when something that we’re
involved in is subject to change despite the fact we have not been consulted.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s not just the fact that our opinions have not been heard
in this matter, as the majority don’t want ‘B’ teams anywhere near our
competitions, but also the simple fact none of our number were even aware that
such a vote was taking place at any point. Surely it is the duty of the FA, the
Football League or simply individual clubs to notify supporters that such a
significant issue is being discussed. It’s not about the implementation, it’s about
the principle. It’s a phrase I detest, but in a lot of ways it sums up the way
supporters are treated within English football, with total and utter disdain. I
don’t care about some rubbish McCoy’s promotion, the SkyBet Transfer fund or a
Capital One advert which are systematically churned out nonchalantly by every
club’s standardised official website. I care about what is happening to my game
and ultimately what we as supporters can do to aid the development of English
football. We’re not unapproachable dinosaurs you know; consult us; maybe we’ll
actually have some reasonable suggestions as to how to realistically improve
English football. “We are football”, so we’re told sparingly by the media, so
why not listen to us? The FA has done a fantastic job of corroding English
football, so why not give us a chance? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quite frankly, your average match-going supporter of a
Premier League side right the way down to the regional combinations is more in
touch with what football really needs than anyone sitting in the ivory towers
at Wembley will ever be. It’s ‘jobs for the boys’, it always has been and it
always will be. None of ‘our kind’ will ever get a say because we don’t fit,
but that’s by-the-by. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Moreover it’s fairly clear so far that we don’t know the ins
and outs of the discussion, but for only one club in League Two to vote against
it (AFC Wimbledon), it suggests something is awry. Given the Premier League’s
previous with EPPP, which Football League clubs were more or less blackmailed
into signing up for, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that there is more than
meets the eye. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Instead of
putting a sledgehammer to lower league supporters, the FA should be embracing a
modern form of the game instead; Futsal. It’s probably escaped the attention of
the majority of football supporters, but England does in fact have a steadily
improving national Futsal team. Buoyed by a crowd in excess of 1400 on Saturday
afternoon, a gate similar to that of a bottom end League Two side, England
defeated Sweden 7-3 at one of London’s premier sporting arenas, the Copperbox.
An affordable, fun and ultimately enjoyable day out for supporters, it also has
the potential to develop the next generation of young English talent. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We’re relatively
new to the Futsal game in this country, having only established a national team
as recently as 2003. In the first five or so years, progress was slow and
tentative, with the lowlight a 24-1 defeat to Portugal in 2004 under manager
Graeme Dell. But under the stewardship of current manager Pete Sturgess, in
place since 2008, England have made good progress, climbing the rankings to 55<sup>th</sup>
in the world and amassing a total of thirty victories, including a recent run
of six wins on the bounce. Yet despite this, we remain behind countries such as
Uzbekistan, Solomon Islands, Macedonia and Guatemala in the rankings. And
without wishing to disrespect the aforementioned associations, you can’t help
but feel with some emphasis from the FA, a larger degree of funding and a more
wider publicity, Futsal in this country could grow and go on to significantly
aid the development of young English footballers. No-one is suggesting this
could bring radical changes straight away, but if done properly, it has the
potential to be a stepping stone in the progress of our homegrown footballers. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Added to that,
it’s a way of progressing technically, adding something different to the game
that we do not currently have in this country. Football League clubs already
embrace Futsal, so why don’t the Premier League? Could it be something to do
with the ability to import ‘talent’ as a result of a certain TV deal? I think
so. Futsal teaches the art of close control, tight passing and finding gaps in
the play whilst also retaining that frenetic element we all love about
football. It has such fantastic untapped potential if used correctly by the
clubs that have the funds. Let’s face it, it’s not like the Premier League is
strapped for cash at the moment. Instead of wasting £4 million on that
half-rate Spanish forward who scored a handful of goals for Numancia, invest in
the future. Germany did, turns out they’re half decent, bit bloody weird that. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Does anyone
want to see the youngsters of our game play at most eight games a season
against sides in League One or Two? How does it aid their development? Of what
benefit is it to the real clubs in those leagues that are more or less reduced
to friendly encounters? We have a thing that we use already to enable players
to get serious game time amongst professional footballers on a weekly basis, it’s
called the loan system if you didn't know. It’s not perfect, and a lot of the
time players that go out on loan won’t make it to the top level, but that’s the
nature of the beast of football. You only need to look at Harry Kane to witness
the positive effects that it has in association with top level coaching – an issue
which deserves a whole post of its own given the astronomical prices coaching
badges cost in this country. Introducing ‘B’ teams into the JPT won’t change
anything, it just creates the illusion that an effort is being made when in
reality it’s not.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If the FA or
the Premier League wants to make some sort of impression in the lower leagues,
do so by funding Football League academies. Allow a proportion of the TV money
to be given to those that need it, to those that will spend it and cherish it.
You only have to look at Jordan Ibe’s flourishing form to see the effects. He
was a product of Wycombe Wanderers’ academy, an academy that is no longer
running due to lack of funds. What sort of injustice is that; that a club can
produce a player with the quality of Ibe yet be forced to shut down their
academy? The FA or the Premier League should be begging Wycombe to keep their academy
open, but instead it has been allowed to wither and die. It’s a similar
injustice for clubs that fall out of the Football League, whereby their academy
funding is cut. Why? It’s a totally backwards mentality to have when actually
funding these academies could produce the next great England player, or at the
very least a competitive Englishman in the Premier League. The system is
completely flawed from top to bottom. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To be quite honest, this has been nothing more
than a ramble. The ramble of a supporter who is becoming increasingly
disillusioned with a lot of what surrounds football. I don’t think I’ll ever
fall out of love with my club, but in the wider context you so often wonder
what the actual point is. And if you totally disagree with me, ask yourself this,
is what I'm proposing any more barbaric than what the FA are seeking to do?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep updated
with @AgainstLeague3.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: 81.75pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Follow me on
Twitter at @NickMurphy1995. </span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-7257331312328143592014-08-05T18:57:00.000+01:002014-08-05T23:40:56.854+01:00League Two Preview 2014/2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With little under a week to go until the new season kicks off in the Football League, it's that time again where we take a deeper look into the fortunes of the twenty-four teams competing in SkyBet League Two this season. We have six new recruits this season, with Luton Town, Cambridge United, Tranmere Rovers, Carlisle United, Stevenage and Shrewsbury Town, while Bristol Rovers, Torquay United, Chesterfield, Rochdale, Fleetwood Town and Scunthorpe United have all exited the division. In this preview we take a look at all of the incomings and outgoings in each squad, academy included, the opinions of the supporters and how to make a few quid along the way in the betting market this season. As we begin, there's no better place to start than right at the top of the table in Lancashire, with Accrington Stanley.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gPWQUrbhFZWN9z1J5OUWIEDCfDTNKOQvO4g1pER9ECqMuP4ELBUDf_ZSzVBRfQ-xvs3yfucppAp23nGP_lRVlwm549q9FC1m6wODdOycOvAm078DjPzZx6sT39mQatDswaBsOElWlD7X/s1600/League+Two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7gPWQUrbhFZWN9z1J5OUWIEDCfDTNKOQvO4g1pER9ECqMuP4ELBUDf_ZSzVBRfQ-xvs3yfucppAp23nGP_lRVlwm549q9FC1m6wODdOycOvAm078DjPzZx6sT39mQatDswaBsOElWlD7X/s1600/League+Two.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Accrington Stanley</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">James
Jenkins (ST, Academy), Liam Goulding (CB, Academy), Luke Greaves (DF, Academy),
Adam Buxton (CB), Luke Simpson (GK), Connor Martin (MF). </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Luke
Clark (RB), George Miller (MF), Danny Webber (ST), Laurence Wilson (FB), Ian
Dunbavin (GK), Peter Murphy (RB). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perennially tipped for relegation, once again I feel as
though Accrington will have enough to avoid the clutches of the Vanarama
Premier. While their recruitment has been far from impressive, and losing
forward Danny Webber will be a big blow, with James Beattie in charge, Stanley
have an advantage over the other teams that will inevitably be in the mix come
the business end of the season. Ensuring that Dean Winnard and tricky forward
George Bowerman remain at the club has been a coup for Beattie, who will be
looking to 22 year old James Gray to fill the void left behind by Webber. This
season could be more difficult for Stanley than the previous few, but I still
feel as though Accy will just about have enough in the bag to ensure survival
for another season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Ben Crutchlow, "We had a fairly solid year in James Beattie's first season in charge, and hopefully we can build on that. As always, ensuring we stay safe from relegation is the main aim, along with the development of some of our youngsters such as James Gray. A much better start than last year would also be welcomed, especially with our home form which suffered towards the first part of the season. Hopefully we can maintain our league status and defy the odds once again." </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Accrington to win "Group 4", at 4/1 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>AFC Wimbledon</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Will
Nightingale (CB, Academy), George Oakley (ST, Academy), Chace Jacquart (MF,
Academy), Tom Beere (ST, Academy), James Shea (GK), Adebayo Akinfenwa (ST),
Jack Smith (RB), Adebayo Azeez (MF), Dannie Bullman (CM), Mark Phillips (CB),
Sean Rigg (RM), Matt Tubbs (Loan ST).</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Seb
Brown (GK), Will Antwi (CB), Peter Sweeney (MF), Jack Midson (ST), Charlie
Strutton (ST), Luke Moore (ST), Rhys Weston (RB), Callum Kennedy (DF), Charlie Sherringham
(ST), Jim Fenlon (CB), Aaron Morris (RB), Darren Jones (CB). </span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_pLTIxTR04QLlRNMOusqIYE_D9EMG8N4ENxZlQYIcRQN8hB0tERHNRJE5MJCV61wBF-vy2OzpxyywY0EZ_pQ50elQC5Bh4iAfYBgy6LMqqamEHbbdYwAGWjk3-7EebRlZsgG-5paSZaQ/s1600/Bayo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0_pLTIxTR04QLlRNMOusqIYE_D9EMG8N4ENxZlQYIcRQN8hB0tERHNRJE5MJCV61wBF-vy2OzpxyywY0EZ_pQ50elQC5Bh4iAfYBgy6LMqqamEHbbdYwAGWjk3-7EebRlZsgG-5paSZaQ/s1600/Bayo.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He's a nice bloke, really.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a relatively anonymous season in League Two last time
around, Wimbledon fans will be dreaming of a promotion push in their third
season back in the Football League. Mediocre experience has been ousted in
favour of g</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">enuine goalscoring talent with the arrival of Matt Tubbs and Bayo
Akinfenwa, while the defence has been shored up with the signing of Mark
Phillips from Southend. If the Dons can maintain a fully fit backline for the majority
of the campaign </span><i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and </i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">get Tubbs and
Akinfenwa to form an effective partnership, a play-off push seems likely. If
however they’re unable to make it all click, then the lack of experience in the
attacking department could cost the Dons dear. Harry Pell will be key in the
midfield. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@MattMightSay: "</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>This summer has seen Neal Ardley bring in some of the biggest names we’ve
had in the AFCW era, with the likes of Matt Tubbs, Bayo Akinfenwa, Sean Rigg
and Dannie Bulman replacing the weaker players we released at the end of a long
and frustrating 2013-14 campaign. With these new faces, some shiny new BMO
vests for us to all squeeze into, the godlike presence of Barry Fuller and the
growing likelihood of a return to Merton, I think there’s plenty to look
forward to at our club this season. If the new players can gel then I see no
reason why a play-off push isn’t possible."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Wimbledon to finish in the top half, 13/8 at SkyBet. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Burton Albion</u></b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Joe
Doyley (Academy, CM), George Taft (DF), Lucas Akins (ST), John Mousinho (CM),
Shane Cansdell-Sherriff (CB), Callum McFadzean (Loan, MF), Stuart Beavon (Loan,
ST), Jon McLaughlin (GK). </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span>Michael Symes (ST), Gary Alexander (ST), Zander Diamond
(CB), Freddy Hall (GK), Jack Dyer (MF), David Gray (RB), Marcus Holness (DF),
Chris Hussey (LB), Kevin Poole (GK).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After two near misses in the play-offs in the last two
seasons, this will surely be the make or break year for the Brewers. Often
sides who lose in the play-off final go on to have a disastrous follow up
campaign, but with the impressive signings of playmaker John Mousinho and solid
defender Shane Cansdell-Sherriff, expect Burton to maintain a serious charge
for automatic promotion this time around. Stuart Beavon will add more prowess
up front alongside Billy Kee and Adam McGurk, and with the young and ambitious
Gary Rowett remaining in the Pirelli dugout, Albion fans are assured of having
one of the best managers in League Two at their disposal once again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Liam Stack: "</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Wembley defeat in May
to Fleetwood Town was a bitter pill to swallow for Albion fans after we defied
the odds to make the play-offs again. Highly rated boss Gary Rowett has again
recruited well and new additions Lucas Akins and John Mousinho are likely to be
key players, alongside forwards Adam McGurk and Billy Kee. Ian Sharps has committed
to another year and the Brewers look strong as they go for promotion at the
third attempt. The big concern, however, will be keeping hold of talented
manager Rowett when the bigger clubs come sniffing."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Burton to gain promotion, available at 4/1 with BetVictor. To win Group B, 7/2 with PaddyPower. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Bury</u></b></span></span></h2>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Marcus
Poscha (Academy CM), Antony Dudley (Academy ST), Ryan Lowe (ST), Shwan Jalal
(GK), Kevin Etuhu (CM), Chris Hussey (LB), Keil O’Brien (CB), Danny Mayor (RM),
Nicky Adams (RM). </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Trevor
Carson, Richard Hinds, Tommy Miller, Lewis Young, Brian Jensen, Robbie
McIntyre, Temitope Obadeyi, Phil Picken, Reice Charles-Cook, Ashley Grimes. </span></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2uPXyyvU-ycEorxE1B157trydITEqzv8b5hdiBdgj6fz6_r-O0SfkPEmYj3-OWFrgQ6CRp9Hg8Kt6BzmaDnI00Oq0TFiqooCcdN6V4RCGOdH2JJIHKsQ0W3JlxcNKHLtE1fL2wAV5TbF/s1600/flicker.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY2uPXyyvU-ycEorxE1B157trydITEqzv8b5hdiBdgj6fz6_r-O0SfkPEmYj3-OWFrgQ6CRp9Hg8Kt6BzmaDnI00Oq0TFiqooCcdN6V4RCGOdH2JJIHKsQ0W3JlxcNKHLtE1fL2wAV5TbF/s1600/flicker.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Flicker is No. 1. </td></tr>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of a number of sides tipped by the bookies for automatic
promotion this season, Bury appear to have made the signings that back the
claim up. Former hotshot and fans favourite Ryan Lowe returns to Gigg Lane
after a three year absence to spearhead the attack, while Danny Mayor and left-back
Chris Hussey will likely slot straight into the starting line up after loan
spells last year. After the appointment of David Flitcroft last year, Bury were
arguably one of the best sides in the division, and if they can continue that
revival again into the new season, specifically at home, then they’ll
definitely be one of the sides to watch out for. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says:</b><i><b> </b>@Ben_Brumby, "</i></span><span style="color: #282828; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I feel Bury will be
one of the stronger teams this season and will be competing at the top. Our
towards the end of last season coupled with some good signings for this level,
such as Lowe and Adams, has instilled much optimism amongst supporters, with
the majority expecting promotion. However, in my opinion we have a squad which
lacks depth, especially in attack where we only have 3 forwards on the books,
therefore I feel we lack the strength needed to win the league. I predict we
will finish 4th."</span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Daniel Nardiello to be League Two top goalscorer, 20/1 at 888bet. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Cambridge United</u></b></span></span></h2>
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Chris
Dunn (GK), Robbie Simpson (ST), Luke Chadwick (MF), Johnny Hunt (DF), Kewsi
Appiah (Loan, ST), Harry Lennon (Loan, DF).</span></span></span></div>
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</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ashley
Chambers (MF), Sam Smith (ST), Kevin Roberts (CB), Andy Pugh (ST), Matthew
Barnes-Homer (ST), Scott Garner (CB), Blaine Hudson (CB), Rory McAuley (DF), Luke Berry (MF), Nathan Arnold (ST, Loan).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back in the Football League after an nine year absence,
Cambridge United should have what it takes to avoid an immediate drop back down
to non-league. The signing of Luke Chadwick from MK Dons on a permanent deal
could prove to be imperative for Richard Money, while Robbie Simpson and Kwesi
Appiah, on loan from Crystal Palace, could both prove to be hits down at the
Abbey Stadium. Losing midfielder Luke Berry to Barnsley will be a significant blow, meaning a
solid mid-table season for the U’s would represent a good first year back in
the league for Money’s men. And as with all promoted sides, good home form is
imperative, especially at the start of the season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Stueycufc, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our first season back after nine years out! I think we could
well be dark horses this season, having kept the majority of our side together
bar midfielder Luke Berry who left for Barnsley. The Abbey is buzzing at the
minute, and if we can continue to play the ball on the ground this season
whilst using our impressive pace, I think we can expect good things. Overall my
head says we’ll finish 12<sup>th</sup>-15<sup>th</sup>, but my heart reckons we’ll
nick a play-off place!"</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Cambridge to finish in the bottom half, 8/13 with BetVictor. </span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;"><b>Carlisle United</b></u></h2>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Patrick
Brough (ML, Academy), Kyle Dempsey (MF, Academy), Danny Grainger (LB), Gary
Dicker (CM), Antony Sweeney (MF), Billy Paynter (ST), Troy Archibald-Henville
(DF), Danny Kearns (MF), Dan Hanford (GK), Alex Marrow (MF), Steven Rigg (AM).</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dean
Bouzanis, Chris Chantler, Danny Livesey, Prince Bauben, Liam Noble, Lee Miller,
Mike Edwards, Greg Fleming, Jack Lynch, Lewis Guy, Nacho Novo, Pascal
Chimbonda, Danny Cadamarteri (ST).</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjrTSOFEtyknHQxk3XObS7D4NhyphenhyphenPgWbGT__-I7lBzthMF1kPUwvLv6qQsydy4nuExadZjzbVPkHt7AYV_Fo9cyAuPmpfT48pPjnlfbmuSL8bq2MWaCsC4imvhMPW3Bo8erJ0OqFYpYybf/s1600/Carlisle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjjrTSOFEtyknHQxk3XObS7D4NhyphenhyphenPgWbGT__-I7lBzthMF1kPUwvLv6qQsydy4nuExadZjzbVPkHt7AYV_Fo9cyAuPmpfT48pPjnlfbmuSL8bq2MWaCsC4imvhMPW3Bo8erJ0OqFYpYybf/s1600/Carlisle.jpg" height="103" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How far?!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Deservedly back in League Two after a torrid year in League
One, Carlisle fans will be expecting a tilt at the play-offs this season. A
total of 22 incomings and outgoings at Brunton Park signals big changes under
Graham Kavanagh who will be looking to assert his control in his first full
season in charge. The signings the Cumbrians have made however look to be
positive. Former Swindon hotshot Billy Paynter appears to be the pick of the
bunch, while Anthony Sweeney and Gary Dicker are impressive additions to the
midfield. Steven Rigg, signed from Penrith in the summer scored 35 goals last
term, and could be another to look out for. In what appears to be an average
league, if Carlisle can remain consistent and solid, especially at Brunton
Park, they should have little trouble making the top seven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Will from Cumbria, "</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s difficult to separate the hopes from the expectations for how we’ll
do in an unfamiliar division. Much has changed after an abject year of
transient and uninterested players and humiliating results and as fans we’re
getting excited but have a natural pessimism. The players brought in all fit
the plan for a solid and consistent squad nicely, and I’d expect us to at least
be tough to score against. Currently, new arrival Billy Paynter looks our main
attacking threat but we need to complement him by signing more creative
players. It’s hoped that last season’s top scorer David Amoo can cause problems
with his blistering pace but needs to impose himself on games more, while
former forgotten man Josh Gillies has impressed in pre-season. My personal
player to watch though is Brad Potts, a box-to-box midfielder from the youth
set-up who was the best thing about watching United last year. He covers
ground, runs fearlessly at defenders and if he can improve his shooting could
be a star of the division. Without saying it’s definitely where we’ll finish,
I’d be disappointed if we failed to make the play-offs."</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Billy Paynter to finish League Two top goalscorer, 25/1 at Bet365.</span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><u>Cheltenham Town</u></b></span></span></h2>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Harry
Williams (MF, Academy), Bobbie Dale (Academy, ST), Adam Powell (Academy, CM),
James Bowen (Academy, FB), Lee Vaughan, Asa Hall (MF), Paul Black (LB), Andy
Haworth (W), Trevor Carson (GK), Jack Deaman (DF), Matt Taylor (DF), Omari Sterling-James (W),
Koby Arthur (W, Loan). </span></span></span></div>
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<div>
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Jermaine
McGlashan (ML), Connor Roberts (GK), Sido Jombati (LB), Sam Deering (MF),
Ashley Vincent (AM), Ed Williams, Scott Brown (GK), Jamie Cureton (ST). </span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s safe to say that last season was wholly disappointing
for Cheltenham fans. A 17</span><sup style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> place finish in a campaign blighted by
inconsistencies, none more so than their form at Whaddon Road where the Robins
picked up just five victories, was a stark contrast to the previous two
seasons’ play-off efforts. Allegations of players “not trying” in training
emerged towards the end of the season, summing up a thoroughly dismal 10 months
for the Rubies. Now though, with the bad blood out, Robins fans can begin to
dream again, although a play-off tilt appears unlikely this time around. Mark
Yeats has made some solid if unspectacular signings; the capture of highly
rated Lee Vaughn from Kidderminster a particular highlight. However, losing
‘keeper Scott Brown to Aberdeen is a significant blow, and with striker Jamie
Cureton also departing for pastures new, the onus will fall on the duo of Byron
Harrison and Terry Gornell to provide the goals for any hope of that elusive
place in League One. </span><span style="background: white;"></span><br />
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<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@PeterJFielding, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Wholesale
changes were inevitable after last year’s 17</span><sup style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">th</sup><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"> place finish, and
Mark Yates has so far made nine new signings in order to create a young, yet
hungry squad with a point to prove.Yates has brought an eclectic mix of players
to Gloucestershire, some of whom boast plenty of Football League experience,
while others embody raw, exciting talent. Striker Byron Harrison might be worth
a flutter for League Two top scorer a 40/1, while midfielder Omari
Sterling-James could prove to be a diamond-in-the-rough. </span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack" style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"></a><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Due
to the unproven-nature of Yates’ new-look squad, this season is difficult to
foretell, however with the feel-good factor having returned to the Whaddon
Road, I see Cheltenham Town securing a mid-table finish and would not rule out
a play-off push."</span></span></i></span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Cheltenham Town to finish as top SouthWest club, 7/2 at BetVictor.</span></span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background: white;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.600000381469727px;"><u>Dagenham & Redbridge</u></span></span></span></h2>
<span style="background: white;">
</span>
<div>
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 27.600000381469727px;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Jon
Nouble (ST, Academy), Liam O’Brien (GK), Mark Cousins (GK), Ashley Chambers
(MF), Damien Batt (RB), Nathan Green (CB), Frankie Raymond (MF), Joss Labadie
(MF), Matt Partridge (CB), Jamie Cureton (ST), Ashley Hemmings (W), George Porter (W). </span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"> </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<span style="background: white;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; line-height: 115%;">Chris
Dickson (ST), Chris Lewington (GK) ,Femi Ilesanmi (LB), Alex Osborn (ST),
Jordan Seabright (GK), Luke Wilkinson (CB), Gavin Hoyte (RB), Medy Elito (MF).</span></span></div>
</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug6fO7dUClNiGF9NCjMSnPgDz5Hl_wxdh1mYZzaalMRMLQQ5vwF-Jh9Bx3XAWazOTuS4RhjJUumRC8pcWQ0MG9-85Le6TBNug3i0CDEE5hdDoOp2KedjZsfyShf6YptXa6Ivg9M63G-Ei/s1600/Curo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjug6fO7dUClNiGF9NCjMSnPgDz5Hl_wxdh1mYZzaalMRMLQQ5vwF-Jh9Bx3XAWazOTuS4RhjJUumRC8pcWQ0MG9-85Le6TBNug3i0CDEE5hdDoOp2KedjZsfyShf6YptXa6Ivg9M63G-Ei/s1600/Curo.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curo.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Embarking on their eighth consecutive season in the Football
League, Dagenham & Redbridge fans will be hopeful of another good season
after an impressive 9<sup>th</sup> placed finish last term. The summer has seen
major upheaval at Victoria Road; goalkeeper Chris Lewington has moved to
Colchester, winger Medy Elito to Holland, while Gavin Hoyte remains unattached
after rejecting a new contract at Victoria Road. However, with the midfield
bolstered and creative options added, Daggers appear to have much more pace and
spark going forward, and with the experienced Jamie Cureton leading the line, goals shouldn't be a problem. This does however mean that the physicality of the side is compromised, potentially leading to more goals being leaked from set-pieces, a
real bug bear for the Essex side last season. For Daggers a lot depends on
whether the side clicks, if they do, a play-off push could be on the cards, if
not, then it could be a lower end basement battle. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@LeeWilsonDRFC, "All change at the Daggers this summer with no less that 10 players coming in. Experienced striker Jamie Cureton is the most recognisable of the bunch with an impressive scoring record over the years, especially at League Two level. Elsewhere, Joss Labadie will be familiar to many League Two followers after a fruitful recent spell at relegated Torquay. Overall, I'm expecting a fairly transitional season. There is quality within the team, but I feel as though we may be a little soft across the pitch which will see us bullied out of points on various occasions. However this squad, now filled with more experience, should be more than capable of lurking around mid-table. If all clicks, then an outside promotion push is a possibility. If I had to predict though, I would estimate we'll finish somewhere between 8th and 14th. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Dagenham to finish in the top half, 3/1 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Exeter City:</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Matt
Jay (Academy, ST), Ollie Watkins (Academy, ST), Jason Pope (Academy, MF),
Connor Riley-Lowe (FB, Academy).</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Artur
Krysiak (GK), Sam Parkin (ST), Jon O’Flynn (ST), Alan Gow (ST), Elliott
Chamberlain (ST), Jacob Jagger Cane (AM), Jake Gosling (LM).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a difficult season last year, things could be about to
become a whole lot harder for Paul Tisdale and Exeter City. A thin squad,
coupled with the departure of at least two key players and barely noticeable
incomings paints a sorry picture for the ravaged Grecians. To make matters worse,
attendances are falling at St James Park, while club captain Danny Coles’
future is in doubt courtesy of an ill-thought out Twitter row. Fans began to
turn on manager Paul Tisdale last season following a string of results that at
one stage stood at thirteen without victory at home, a sequence that if
repeated this time around, will almost certainly spell disaster for the
South-West outfit. One beacon of hope however lies with the academy, and if the
four graduates this year can perform as well as Tom Nicholls (7 goals in 39),
there could be hope yet for the beleaguered Grecians. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@exemsg, "</i></span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One word to describe City's
pre-season - tumultuous! A PFA loan, a transfer embargo, the Chairman
resigning, a famous trip to Brazil, the captain losing the armband for abusing
someone on Twitter - and more besides...City's financial woes meant a number of
summer departures, and as yet nobody in. Quite rightly, therefore, we have been
installed as relegation contenders by most. However, City have something of a
"golden generation" coming through, a team that pulled off notable
scalps in last season's Premier League U21 Cup (including Southampton) and the
side which despatched Fleetwood and Scunthorpe to preserve City's L2 status
last season is mostly still intact. Key will be whether we can hold on to
teenage starlet Matt Grimes, who has attracted interest from the likes of
Sunderland and Liverpool during the summer. Paul Tisdale, the second longest
serving manager in the top four divisions, is relishing the challenge of
developing his young squad. Most City supporters will be pleased just to win a
few more home games and be well clear of the dreaded drop!"</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Exeter to finish bottom, 10/1 with Ladbrokes. </span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Hartlepool United</u></b></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh
Nearney (Academy, DF), Matthew Bates (CB), Stuart Parnarby (RB).</span></span></div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Zak
Boagey (MF), Andy Monkhouse (LM), Greg Rutherford (MF), Simon Walton (CM),
Antony Sweeney (CM), James Poole (ST), Nialle Rodney (ST). </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ISMOBzuHajtPsDXp-T6E-fMW-Vq-kv93ikunTQOznfvxJg5jtUFh58POrw21w-2xAgAS76dzhmP7WkKacYwY2Gv5vXcaBtmOx08kpSLBPp6zx1QNeaVUA7B9dslPh6GJyHhbH_4uuBxY/s1600/H'Angus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_ISMOBzuHajtPsDXp-T6E-fMW-Vq-kv93ikunTQOznfvxJg5jtUFh58POrw21w-2xAgAS76dzhmP7WkKacYwY2Gv5vXcaBtmOx08kpSLBPp6zx1QNeaVUA7B9dslPh6GJyHhbH_4uuBxY/s1600/H'Angus.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This doesn't look creepy at all. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unsurprisingly for Pools fans, Hartlepool have had a pretty
Hartlepoolesque summer. There have been very few signings to get pumped up about,
while the outgoings have somewhat weakened the squad. The defence however has
been bolstered, with the arrivals of impressive former Middlesbrough pair
Matthew Bates and Stuart Parnaby, bringing the ex-Boro count to four. Luke
James remains without doubt the one to look out for in the Pools squad, having
scored 13 goals in just 16 games last season. Once again this means the onus
will likely fall on </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">James to score the majority of Pools goals this season,
with the ageing Marlon Harewood unlikely to hit double figures. It means Pools
fans can probably look forward to a mid-table finish, although if the goals dry
up, expect Colin Cooper’s men to become embroiled in yet another relegation
scrap. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@DavidPKL, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">It’ll most likely be a slightly boring but
respectable mid-table finish here at Victoria Park. We've struggled for
consistency over the last few years and currently have a thin squad which makes
that mid-table mediocrity look even more likely. We have brought in some
experienced players such as Stuart Parnaby and Matthew Bates who’ll be looking
to help aid the progress of our talented young players to ensure that we won’t
be at the wrong end of the table come May. Luke James is the player in our side
to look out for. James was our top scorer last season and quite rightly won the
club’s Player of the Year Award. The teenager is a nightmare for defenders to
face with his pace, aerial ability and skill and any lazy centre-half will be
run ragged by him after 90 minutes. James has had interest from other clubs and
it’s clear why but, fortunately for us, he has recently signed a new contract."</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Hartlepool to reach the play-offs, 6/1 with SkyBet. </span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><b><u>Luton Town</u></b></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Curtley
Williams, Andy Drury (MF), Luke Wilkinson (CB), Charlie Walker (ST), Mark
Onyewah (LB), Ricky Miller (ST), Ross Lafayette (ST), Lee Angol (ST), Paul
Connolly (RB), Paul Benson (ST). </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Lathaniel
Rowe-Turner (LB), Jerome Jibodu (RB), Jake Woolley (ST), Anthony Charles (CB),
Jon Shaw (ST), David Viana (AM), JJ O’Donnell (ST), Ronnie Henry (DF), Andre
Gray (ST), Lee Angol (Loan, ST).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZDRnHXd65MwhmeF5Mg-TO-E1c5PxeZQDZLIpWc6EgsbwP4baI8B046xHyRtovDdwPqSjjvY9GCjWRC5sBp-kdVj0tb2OgoiNofhuaorvDgKqZOeOkyrz_1WkF51M8nOqcFp-2bxqoygV/s1600/Luton.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZDRnHXd65MwhmeF5Mg-TO-E1c5PxeZQDZLIpWc6EgsbwP4baI8B046xHyRtovDdwPqSjjvY9GCjWRC5sBp-kdVj0tb2OgoiNofhuaorvDgKqZOeOkyrz_1WkF51M8nOqcFp-2bxqoygV/s1600/Luton.png" height="179" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Luton Town, remember them?</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Following a seven year exile in the Conference, Luton are
back in the big time. But don’t just take my word for it, the Hatters have even
emblazoned their new kit this year with a, “We Are Back”, hashtag, just in case
you didn’t know. Stewarded by the wiley old fox that is John Still, Luton are
unsurprisingly one of the bookmakers favourites for promotion from League Two
this season. Losing key forward Andre Gray to Championship side Brentford is a
blow, but with Still’s knack of turning non-league talent into Football League
gems, the capture of Ricky Miller (Boston Utd) and Charlie Walker (Peacehaven
& Telscombe), should provide ample competition for veteran striker Paul
Benson, one of a contingent of four who have previously worked under Still at
Dagenham & Redbridge. Key to the Hatters progress in League Two will be
maintaining their sterling home form. With only two defeats throughout the
whole of last season, and nineteen during their five year spell in the
Conference, Kenilworth Road must remain a fortress if Town are to launch a
crusade for a return to the third division. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@LTFC_Dave, "<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">It hasn't been a bed
of roses for Luton on our return to the league, after losing 30 goal striker
Andre Gray to Brentford, but the return of Andy Drury to Kenilworth Road to
play alongside Luke Guttridge means creating chances shouldn't be a problem for
the Hatters. With some League experience added to the defensive ranks in
Paul Connolly and a couple of potential John Still gems plucked from
non-League, it'll be interesting to see how Luton fare in their first season
back in the Football League</span><span style="line-height: 115%;">. <span style="background: white;">Sides going from the Conference - especially as champions - have tended
to acquit themselves pretty well in League 2, and backed by nearly 6000 season
tickets holders, Luton should be able to challenge for a top seven place and the
lottery of the play-offs (which will hopefully be 5th time lucky!)"</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Luton to win League Two, 10/1 with Coral. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><u>Mansfield Town</u></b></span></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Simon
Heslop (MF), Luke Jones (CB), Sascha Studer (GK), Fergus Bell (MF), Alex Fisher
(ST), Liam Hearn (ST), Rob Taylor (MF), Amari’i Bell (LB, Loan).</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Paul
Black (DF), Ian Deakin (GK), Ross Dyer (ST), Ben Hutchinson (ST), James
Jennings (DF), Keiran Murtagh (MF), George Pilkington (DF), Godfrey Poku (AM),
Jake Speight (ST), Lee Stevenson (MF), Louis Briscoe (ST), Anthony Howell (MF),
Liam Mitchell (GK), Lindon Meikle (ST), Alan Marriott (GK), Colin Daniel (ML).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s been an average summer of transfer activity down at
Field Mill. A glut of players have left the club, while only seven have come
the other way. The most notable of these being the Jones and Heslop double
swoop from Stevenage which will undoubtedly improve both the backline and the
midfield. Meanwhile Fergus Bell and Alex Fisher make the cross from Italy after
joining from regional side, Monza. However, the most impressive piece of
business this summer for manager Paul Cox is retaining the services of sought
after striker, Sam Clucas, after the Stags spurned the advances of both Leyton
Orient and reportedly Nottingham Forest during the off season. If Town are to
improve on last season using their somewhat direct current style, a fit and
firing Clucas is essential, otherwise it could be another long old drag for
Stags fans in the upcoming campaign, culminating in relegation back down to the
Conference.</span> </div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>James Simpson, "Having cleared out a lot of the deadwood, there are hopes that we can improve on last season. Keeping Sam Clucas has been a real bonus, and hopefully he repays us by finding his scoring touch again. My only real worry is our lack of goalkeeping options, with new signing Studer our only contracted 'keeper. I expect us to improve on last seasons finish and make a push towards the play-offs."</i></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><i>Murphy's Best Bet: </i></b></span></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><i> </i>Mansfield finish bottom half, 8/15 with Skybet. Relegation, 10/1 with BetVictor.</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><i><br /></i></span></span></span>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><u>Morecambe</u></span></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18.399999618530273px;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Declan
Watson (Academy, W), Jamie Devitt (RM), Ryan Edwards (CB), Laurence Wilson
(LB), Alan Goodall (DF), Tom McCready (MF), Paul Mullin (ST).</span></span><br />
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Chris
McCready (CB), Robbie Threlfall (FB), Joe Mwasile (MF), Joe McGee (MF), Tony
Diagne (LB).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYQ2gcFFG1rLTADd3ihlIVNhz1GSf3q9xE0VufOrLLCzGtAWVtsuMqlX9SnteLGHldnqvghueYH7A45CAxM7lvUPYMkbhTpS0M703HxF5yEHj5AIU5YyO2dQydihVmw4fa6V0jyQGN5Qv/s1600/Ellison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiYQ2gcFFG1rLTADd3ihlIVNhz1GSf3q9xE0VufOrLLCzGtAWVtsuMqlX9SnteLGHldnqvghueYH7A45CAxM7lvUPYMkbhTpS0M703HxF5yEHj5AIU5YyO2dQydihVmw4fa6V0jyQGN5Qv/s1600/Ellison.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morecambe's poster boy. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s been a quiet summer down at the Globe. Only five new
players have been brought in from external sources, while only five have left,
creating an equal balance for boss Jim Bentley. Every season Morecambe tend to
defy the bookmakers odds by retaining their place in League Two, but this year
I think it could be harder than ever. There’s a heavy reliance on the duo of
Kevin Ellison and Jack Redshaw, particularly Redshaw to score the goals that
will see the Shrimps out of trouble, and if they hit a bad rut of form, you can
see it being difficult for the Lancashire outfit. Under Jim Bentley however,
they have every chance; a man skilled in getting the best out of an average
bunch both as a player and manager, if Morecambe are to retain their League Two
place, Bentley is key. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@AdamLordLM, "</i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Morecambe are quietly confident this season. Once again written off by the bookies they have signed up many of the players who were signed on loan or short-term deals during the latter part of last season. Jamie Devitt is the stand out, bringing an added dimension in attack with his guile and flair. The signings have brought a new depth to what was a thin squad last season meaning they look more likely to last the course having faded after a bright start last time around. Like Accrington Stanley and Dagenham & Redbridge, Jim Bentley will be content to see his side shock a few of the big boys on the way to a safe midtable finish. Anything more will be deemed a real success."</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Morecambe to be relegated, 5/1 at William Hill. </span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Newport County</u></b></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Darren Jones (CB), Yan Klukowski (MF), Mark Byrne (CM),
Kevin Feely (CB).</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b>David Pipe (RM), Ryan Burge (CM), Harry Worley (CB), Darcy
Blake (RB), Aaron Amadi-Holloway (ST), Tony James (CB). </span></div>
<div>
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<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Newport’s first foray back into the Football League will
forever be remembered for the troublesome Rodney Parade pitch. A pitch that
ultimately scuppered any hopes the Exiles had of back-to-back promotions,
thanks to six postponements through the course of the season. Now though, with
that calamity behind them, County fans should be able to look forward to a
relatively comfortable season ahead. Aside from David Pipe, there have been no
significant outgoings in South Wales, while the trio of Darren Jones, Yan Klukowski
and Mark Byrne in particular appear to be solid signings, with Byrne adding
some steel into the midfield. They join a squad filled with talent, including
the likes of Chris Zebroski and Rene Howe, both of whom are capable of double
figures if they manage to stay fit. If County can rebuild their terrific home
form from the start of last season, and put in some better performances on the
road, expect an improvement on last year’s 14<sup>th</sup> placed finish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Nathan Watkins, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">I think Newport will
do reasonably well in<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>the season
ahead. We have had a brilliant and confident pre-season and look a<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>more stable outfit than we did last
season. I feel as though the play-offs are what we should be aiming for.
Supporters should look out for Aaron O’Connor, a player with a lot to prove
after being injured for the majority of last season. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> As for the new signings, Mark
Byrne looks an excellent signing from Barnet and hopefully he can bring some
steel to the midfield. <span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;">On the whole I think that
the new season will be an<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>exciting
one with some great encounters against some exciting teams."</span></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><br /></span></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Newport to make the play-offs, 6/1 with Ladbrokes. </span></span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span></i></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b><u>Northampton Town</u></b></span></span></span></h2>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: white; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Connor
Roberts (Academy, RB), Marc Richards (ST), Zander Diamond (CB), John-Joe O’Toole,
Evan Horwood (LB), Emile Sinclair (ST), Daniel Alfei (RB, Loan), Kaid Mohammed
(LM, Loan), Jordan Archer (GK, Loan). </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Leon
McSweeney (RM), Joe Widdowson (DF), JJ Hooper (ST), Gary Deegan (CM), Alan
Connell (ST), Claudio Dias (RM), Matty Harriott (LM), Ben McNamara (GK), Matthias
Kouo-Doumbe (RB). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
</div>
</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqGv3CUT4j4R11rs9O_pBrG1ArM0s0b7xFcfiEBq9u6HtL9tRF6okPydks33ylccxXq3Q9Gh3AEY_EVB4URmcmMD5nlumXUc-WypV7yFhtsxLpwhUY8k5FUfAMtRFQ9WTus-viKrtNnqH/s1600/toney.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbqGv3CUT4j4R11rs9O_pBrG1ArM0s0b7xFcfiEBq9u6HtL9tRF6okPydks33ylccxXq3Q9Gh3AEY_EVB4URmcmMD5nlumXUc-WypV7yFhtsxLpwhUY8k5FUfAMtRFQ9WTus-viKrtNnqH/s1600/toney.jpg" height="226" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ivan Toney, one of the Football League's hottest prospects.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a truly horrid campaign last time out, much more is
expected of Northampton this season. Led impressively away from relegation by
former Oxford boss Chris Wilder, the Cobblers survived on the last day of last
season after a horrific opening four months to the campaign. Now though the
defence has been bolstered and the attack revitalised, with several impressive
players brought in. Defensive rock Zander Diamond joins from Burton, Emile
Sinclair from Crawley and arguably League Two’s player of the season last year,
John Joe O’Toole, from Bristol Rovers. If Wilder can combine all of these
elements while continuing to get the best out of young talents such as Ivan
Toney, Town should be able to make a charge for the play-offs once again. The
timely return of Alex Nicholls from a long term injury lay-off should also give
the Cobblers a significant boost. </span></div>
</div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@TylerJason_, "</i></span></span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Last season was a
living nightmare for Cobblers fans after narrowly scraping Football League
survival. Aidy Boothroyd and his deadwood have departed and Chris Wilder has
given three-year contracts to highly rated Marc Richards, John-Joe O'Toole who
impressed at relegated Bristol Rovers last term, and defensive rock Zander
Diamond. Doubts remain over the quality and depth of the rest of the squad and
whilst promotion is a hopeful ambition, we are sure to fare better than we did
during the last campaign."</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Northampton to make the play-offs, 7/2 with Ladbrokes. </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Oxford United</u></b></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Josh
Ashby (CM, Academy), Aidan Hawtin (MF, Academy), James Roberts (ST, Academy), Sam
Humphreys (W, Academy), Michael Collins (MF), Danny Hylton (ST), Junior Brown (LM), George Long
(GK, Loan), Carlton Morris (ST, Loan). </span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Deane
Smalley (ST), Sean Rigg (RW), Scott Davies (CM), Wayne Brown (GK), Dave Kitson
(ST), James Constable (ST), Kenzer Lee (CB), David Lynn (LB), Joe Riley (FB,
Loan).</span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s fairly safe to say that Oxford United haven’t had the
most ideal preparation ahead of the upcoming season. A change in ownership
signalled a change in management, with Gary Waddock, only two months into his
tenure at the Kassam, sacked in favour of mercurial grasshopper, Michael
Appleton. Appleton’s record in his short time at each club isn’t anything to
write home about, although his favouring of youth is; something that bodes
particularly well for highly rated forward James Roberts. And with long term
U’s striker James Constable heading to a money pit in Hampshire, Roberts will
almost certainly need to step up to the plate if United are to have any hopes
of mounting another play-off challenge.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@OllieWilliams33, "</i></span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I
think most Oxford fans would admit that if we are to have a successful season
we will have to rely on senior players avoiding injury, which hasn’t been the
case in the last few seasons! We already start the season without Ryan Clarke
and Andy Whing and the squad is made up of lots of younger pros. New manager
Michael Appleton has brought George Long and Joe Riley into the building with
him, both of whom have experience at a higher level, but perhaps our most
exciting signing of the off-season was new first team coach Derek Fazackerley
who has worked alongside Roy Hodgson and Kevin Keegan as their assistants. If
we can keep the core of the squad together there is no reason why we can’t
improve on last season and push on for a Play-Off place. Losing forwards Dave
Kitson and James Constable will be tough, but youngster James Roberts looks to
be a great prospect and could be a valuable player for us this season."</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Oxford to finish in the bottom half, 5/4 with BetVictor. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Plymouth Argyle</u></b></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">River
Allen (MF, Academy), Aaron Bentley (Academy, CB), Deane Smalley (ST), Lee Cox
(MF), Peter Hartley (DF), Kelvin Mellor (DF), James Bittner (GK), Carl McHugh
(CB), Reuben Reid (ST), Oliver Norburn (MF), Anthony O'Connor (DF, Loan). </span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i> </i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Maxime
Blanchard (CB), Romauld Boco (MF), Jake Cole (GK), Matt Parsons (LB), Neal
Trotman (CB), Isaac Vassell (ST), Luke Young (CM), Andres Gurrieri (MF),
Durrell Berry (RB), Conor Hourihane (CM), Jamie Richards (CB, Loan).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMeEv-Pd8vyosr0TMgi-8L2daMwndcdW0nxrw8Es0HzLRpqK8E8faFA6gxptczbQGyb9oCmPKRhGNXaBV2VhJAR4ugcIiGJiwrRMcxLaIFdP1TpnRRM_1xlcKRWAeDAIcCbPMhjGBSltu/s1600/hourihane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOMeEv-Pd8vyosr0TMgi-8L2daMwndcdW0nxrw8Es0HzLRpqK8E8faFA6gxptczbQGyb9oCmPKRhGNXaBV2VhJAR4ugcIiGJiwrRMcxLaIFdP1TpnRRM_1xlcKRWAeDAIcCbPMhjGBSltu/s1600/hourihane.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"See ya lads"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Displaced
as the biggest fish in the smallest pond by Portsmouth last year, Plymouth will
once again be targeting a top-seven finish this time around. A 10<sup>th</sup>
placed finish last term ensured steady progress for the Pilgrims, but with the
solid signings of Ollie Nurburn and League Two powerhouse Reuben Reid, a player
who performed well whilst on loan at Home Park last season, manager John
Sheridan will be hopeful that his side have enough to progress in what is sure
to be an average league. Losing captain and talismanic midfielder, Conor Hourihane
to Barnsley is bound to be a big blow, but with Lee Cox and academy product
River Allen potentially available to fill the void, Sheridan will be confident
in his options. Defender Kelvin Mellor from Crewe is another inspired
acquisition, and if Argyle can get all the parts to click and score more goals </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@crmedia1992, "</i></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
don’t like making predictions as I normally get bitterly disappointing when I
get them wrong, but this season I am feeling quietly confident. Although having
said that, Conor Hourihane’s transfer to Barnsley was a big blow, although
Oliver Norburn has been brought in to fill the void, and has performed well
alongside Lee Cox in pre-season. The signing of Reuben Reid provided another
huge boost after his spell here last season, and with Peter Hartley, Kelvin
Mellor and Carl McHugh at the back, we should be a lot harder to break down
this season. Their experience and recent stints in League One last season will
be a massive plus point for us. Taking all of this into consideration, I feel
as though Argyle will finish 5<sup>th</sup>. We have the potential to finish
higher, but let’s wait and see what the season brings."</span></i></span></span><br />
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></span>
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Plymouth to be the best South-West club, 5/4 with William Hill. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Portsmouth</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ben
Close (Academy, MF), Paul Jones (GK), Michael Poke (GK) Craig Westcarr (ST),
Danny Hollands (MF), James Dunne (MF), Nigel Atangana (MF), Miles Storey (ST,
Loan), Alex Wynter (DF, Loan).</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">George
Branford (CM), John Sullivan (GK), Ashley Harris (ST), Jake Jervis (ST), Yassin
Moutaouakil (RB), Marcos Painter (LB), Thery Racon (MF), Bondz N’Gala (DF),
Romain Padovani (DM), Josh Warren (CB), Liam Triggs (RB), Phil Smith (GK),
Simon Ferry (MF), Sonny Bradley (DF),</span></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having found their feet last season in League Two, it’s safe
to say bigger and better things are expected of Portsmouth this time around.
After being tipped for promotion at the beginning of the last campaign, Pompey
never really got going, largely due to a mixture of awful away form and
inconsistent home performances. Three managers later however, and Andy Awford
appears to be the man to lead Pompey forward. The dross has been cleared out,
two season long loans have been confirmed and the very pleasing signing of
former Charlton man, Danny Hollands has been made. With a confident blend of
youth and experience, more is expected of the Fratton Park outfit this season,
with a top seven finish the target for the Pompey faithful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@FrattonFaithful, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Expectations
are high following a summer where all of the dead wood players were released
and some seemingly higher quality players were brought in to mount a promotion
push. On paper, Pompey look to have the strongest midfield in the division
(Barcham, Wallace, Hollands, Dunne, Fogden), which is capable of scoring plenty
of goals and the forwards offer a good variety of attacking options. The only
real worry about the team is the defence which lacks pace and has leaked goals
in pre-season although Awford says that he will fix the issue. Awford is
inexperienced in first-team management but he seems to know what he is doing
and with young players like Jed Wallace and Jack Whatmough who can flourish
this season, the play-offs will be a minimum requirement, although automatic
promotion should undoubtedly be the aim."</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Portsmouth to make the play-offs, 11/4 with SkyBet. </span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><u>Shrewsbury Town</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players In: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Jason
Leutwiler (GK), Mark Halstead (GK), Scott Vernon (ST), James Caton (W), James
Wesolowski (MF), Mickey Demetriou (DF), Cameron Gayle (DF), Nathaniel
Knight-Percival (DF), Mark Ellis (CB), Jean Louis-Akpa-Akpro (ST), Ashley
Vincent (W/ST), Jordan Clark (W), Liam Lawrence (MF), Andy Robinson (W), James
Collins (ST), Andy Mangan (ST).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Joe
Anyon (GK), Asa Hall (RM), Joe Jacobson (LB), Alex McQuade (CB), Paul Parry
(LM), Luke Summerfield (CM), Chris Weale (GK), Tamika Mkandawire (CB), Dave
Winfield (DF), John Marsden (ST), Tom Bradshaw (ST), Jon Taylor (MF).</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8rHz1lWuCyl_yYPITLmR3ZFWEAm3z6yirTZO53dYi0Rxv2WJbxYsj9P3kYgmQX7g8bNdQtpFhKct3SjEcVTtklnQc7kXUTNFZQUmCW6u5L8BQ0uzi-5qUwOkoQv0iNT0z5ebkG13_YnZ/s1600/Mickey+Mellon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD8rHz1lWuCyl_yYPITLmR3ZFWEAm3z6yirTZO53dYi0Rxv2WJbxYsj9P3kYgmQX7g8bNdQtpFhKct3SjEcVTtklnQc7kXUTNFZQUmCW6u5L8BQ0uzi-5qUwOkoQv0iNT0z5ebkG13_YnZ/s1600/Mickey+Mellon.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mickey Mellon poses for the cameras. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After relegation from League One last term, it’s fair to say
that the Shrews board are pinning their hopes on an instant return, with a
clearly significant financial outlay being spent on the playing budget this
season. While key men Tom Bradshaw and Joe Jacobsen may have left, manager
Micky Mellow has acted to bring in tried and tested performers that should do
the business in League Two. One of the main acquisitions, midfielder James
Wesolowski from Oldham, turned down a new contract at Boundary Park to move to
the Greenhous Meadow, a sure sign of Town’s ambitions for the season ahead.
Recapturing striker James Collins, the man who scored the goal to send the
Shrews into League One is also a solid buy, while Liam Lawrence brings with him
invaluable Premier League experience. Midfielder Ashley Vincent also has a
point to prove after stalling at Cheltenham last year, as does manager Micky
Mellon; sacked by Fleetwood over a year ago. Shrewsbury tend to be solid at
home in League Two, and if they can replicate that this time around, they’ll be
in with a very good shout towards the end of the season once again.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@AlexCrossan, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">New manager, Micky Mellon, has come in and completely revamped the dire
Shrews of last season with an impressive squad for the upcoming League Two
campaign; signing the likes of Liam Lawrence, James Collins and Scott
Vernon. </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Make no doubt about it, we are
spending big in the pursuit of promotion and the fans are expecting it,
although it will be tough with so many quality players in the league this
year. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">My player to watch out for this season is hard to pick but
I'll have to go with young Ryan Woods. ‘Woodsy’, broke onto the scene at
right back last season but playing in his preferred centre mid role he will
easily be one of the best in the league at only 20 years old. </span><span style="background: white; line-height: 115%;">Hoping for a memorable one under MM this year. </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">UP
THE TOWN!"</span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Shrewsbury to finish top relegated team, 2/1 with SkyBet. Promotion at 5/2 with StanJames.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b><br /></b></span></span></i></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<u><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Southend United</span></u></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Jack
Bridge (MF, Academy), Ellis Brown (Academy, ST),</span><b style="line-height: 115%;"> </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Myles Weston (LW), Lee Barnard (ST), David Worrall (MF), Mads Ibenfeldt
(DF), Isaac Layne (ST), Shaquile Coulthirst (ST, Loan).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Freddy
Eastwood (ST), Mark Phillips (CB), Marc Laird (CM), Anthony Straker (LM), Seedy
Njie (ST), Ryan Auger (RM), Bedsente Gomis (DF), Luke Chambers (GK). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They may have left it late in the day, but Southend have
finally added some much needed attacking talent in this transfer window. The
signing of highly rated Spurs forward Shaquile Coulthirst on a season long loan
should provide ample competition for fans favourite Barr Corr, giving Southend
far more of a cutting edge up front. Moreover, given Phil Brown’s recent
success rate with loan signings, it could prove to be an inspired piece of
business for the Shrimpers. Elsewhere tricky winger Myles Weston should fit
right in to the XI, while impressive youngster Isaac Layne joins from
Billericay. It leaves United with a good looking squad for the season ahead,
especially in the midfield where Kevan Hurst will likely be the focal point
once more. Losing Michael Timlin for three months is a blow, and I feel as
though the defence could be stronger, but the Shrimpers should still be good
value for a play-off charge once again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@AllAtSeaFanzine, "</i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Failure to get
promotion out of League Two has traditionally resulted in Southend's best
talent leaving for pastures new. However, this year, Phil Brown has kept hold
of the likes of Ryan Leonard, Kevan Hurst and Daniel Bentley. With Barry Corr
always reliable for goals and a nuisance factor, the only areas of concern are
in central defence, where the absence of loanees John Egan and
Jakub Sokolik will leave a void, and in attack - Lee Barnard has
failed to hit the net from open play since signing in January. New signing
Myles Weston has looked sharp up front in pre-season, scoring four
goals. Supporters will expect Brown's side to at least make the play-offs,
but the competition promises to be a lot stronger than last time
around.</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;">"</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Southend to make the play-offs, 4/1 with SkyBet. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b><br /></b></span></i></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b><u>Stevenage</u></b></span></span></h2>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 16.866666793823242px;"><b>Players In: </b></span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ryan Johnson (Academy, DF), Sam Beasant (GK), Ronnie Henry
(RB), Chris Whelpdale (MF), Chris Beardsley (ST), Andy Bond (MF), Simon Walton
(MF), Harry Worley (CB), Charlie Lee (DF), Dean Wells (DF), Tom Pett (ST), Adam
Marriott (ST), Calvin Zola (ST).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">James
Dunne (MF), Francois Zoko (ST), Dani Lopez (ST), Craig Reid (ST), Oumare
Tounkara (ST), Jimmy Smith (MF), Anthony Furlonge (DF), Jordan Burrow (ST),
Matt Ball (MF), Sam Wedgbury (MF), Michael Thalassitis (ST), Steve Arnold (GK),
Simon Heslop (MF), Luke Jones (CB), Peter Hartley (DF), Lucas Aikins (ST), Luke
Freeman (W), Joseph N'Guessan (W, Loan).</span></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of the few men more despised than Steve Evans.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having suffered relegation from League One last term, Graham
Westley and Stevenage appear well placed to make a good challenge for an
immediate return. The signings of the
experienced Andy Bond, Chris Whelpdale and Simon Walton improve a midfield that
is now without both James Dunne and Simon Heslop following their exits.
Francois Zoko is also a loss, but in Calvin Zola, the Boro have a readymade and
proven replacement. Potentially the most exciting signing however, providing he
features, is that of 22 year old forward Tom Pett who joins from Wealdstone
after scoring 18 times to help seal the Stones promotion to the Conference
South last season. If all of the cogs fit together, their form at Broadhall Way
is solid and a consistent striking partnership is formed, expect Stevenage to
mount a significant challenge for the top seven and possibly the top three. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Govey24, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">To say
the last few years as a Stevenage fan have been difficult would be an
understatement. We've been in freefall ever since a 1-0 defeat at Colchester
began the end of our brief stint at the top end of League One. Things got worse
the following season and relegation to League Two appeared imminent. An
overhaul of players, however, and a newly instilled work ethic, as well as a
promising pre-season (barring a 1-0 defeat to Barnet...) has given the Boro
faithful plenty of confidence for the upcoming season. There were few shining
beacons last season, but keeping Roarie Deacon and Dean Parrett could prove
crucial. The return of Ronnie Henry could also be vital in instilling that
classic attitude that has brought us so much success in the past. Optimism
hasn't been this high for a while. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Prediction- 3rd"</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Calvin Zola to finish top goalscorer, 40/1 at Coral. </span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Tranmere Rovers</u></b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sam
Ramsbottom (Academy, GK), Michael Ihiekwe (CB), Kayode Odejayi (ST), Danny
Woodards (RB), Eliot Richards (ST), Matt Gill (MF), Marcus Holness (DF), Marc
Laird (MF), Clayton McDonald (DF).</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Ryan
Lowe (ST), Ian Goodison (CB), Jean-Louis Akpa Akpro (ST), Callum Morris (RB),
Steve Jennings (CM), Andy Robinson (W), Evan Horwood (DF), Ash Taylor (DF),
Jason Mooney (GK), James Wallace (MF).</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From Championship promotion contenders to relegation from
League One in the space of 18 months, it’s been a torrid turn around for
Tranmere Rovers. But in some ways, perhaps it is a welcome one. Relegation
gives Rovers the chance to rebuild, gain momentum and have a more solid crack
at League One in the future, although not everyone may see it like that. In
their first season in League Two/Division Four in a quarter of a century,
wholesale changes have been made in order to bounce back at the first attempt. A
number of key performers from last season have left Prenton Park in favour of
tried and tested League Two experience, particularly in the forward area where
both Kayode Odejayi and Elliot Richards, both of whom performed well last
season, have been brought in. The trio of Michael Ihiekwe, Danny Woodards and
Marcus Holness also have League Two experience, and as such should shore up the
back line well. Taking everything into account, I can see Rovers maintaining a mid-table finish this season, although if
all goes well, don’t expect them to be too far away from the play-off places.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@ZaaanderSmith, "</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">What with having a disastrous season last year and being relegated, I'm
hoping for a better one this term! Being in League 2 for the first time in 25
years the club have taken on a new approach with things, appointing new manager
Rob Edwards as well as a new coaching staff. With the budget being tight and
virtually the whole squad of last season leaving, Edwards has said he wants a tight
knight side this season. We have made some good signings with plenty of League
2 experience, but the one the fans are the most glad about is creative
midfielder Jason Koumas penning a new deal for this season. If Tranmere can
keep him fit I'd be more than confident of us securing a playoff place but I
think this season is most about steadying the boat and a chance for Edwards to
bring some new young talent through on his first managerial job, with that and
promotion being the key aim with the clubs new regime."</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Tranmere to finish in the bottom half, Evens with BetVictor. </span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><u>Wycombe Wanderers</u></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players In: </b></span>Aaron Pierre (DF), Paul Hayes (ST), Sido Jombati (LB),
Nathan Evans (W), Peter Murphy (RB), Alex Lynch (GK), Joe Jacobson (DF), Danny
Rowe (DF, Loan), Nicky Walker (AM, Loan).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Marvin
McCoy (RB), Leon Johnson (CB), Lee Angol (ST), Jesse Kewley-Graham (DF), Jo
Kuffour (ST), Anthony Jeffrey (RW), Dean Morgan (ST), Jon Paul-Pittman (ST),
Matt Spring (CM).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i> </i></span><i> </i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYDXCzmVNfhCbFi6X18k81SYp1ftPxRnvHbbGWn_oDFIJ_qaL0DF__cK5GVeFDOX9_0asF8L0_lCqXtWfxEvkx5jpwRv2qA2NPZpR-3OGtfr5tibA6Nz7w5VgfgwmEPE4ZzkzQJGfFTRf/s1600/wycombe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihYDXCzmVNfhCbFi6X18k81SYp1ftPxRnvHbbGWn_oDFIJ_qaL0DF__cK5GVeFDOX9_0asF8L0_lCqXtWfxEvkx5jpwRv2qA2NPZpR-3OGtfr5tibA6Nz7w5VgfgwmEPE4ZzkzQJGfFTRf/s1600/wycombe.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wycombe survive. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The greatest comeback since Lazarus, or the greatest escape
since Houdini – that’s the only way to describe Wycombe’s last day heroics last
term. After looking dead and buried in the penultimate match, the Chairboys
pulled off an extraordinary result at Torquay to condemn Bristol Rovers to
relegation down to the Conference on the final day. Now fully recharged,
Wanderers fans will be looking for a much quieter campaign this time around. On
paper, Wycombe appear to have a relatively decent squad. But in practice, I
feel as though it’s far too hot/cold. An unhealthy reliance on forward Matt
McClure does little to improve matters, especially given their dire need to be
more consistent at Adams Park. Coupled with the tactical inaccuracy of boss
Gareth Ainsworth, a predicament lamented by their fans, it looks as though the Chairboys could be relegation contenders once more this time around.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>@Alky007, "This promises to be a season of transition at Adams Park. Following the great escape on the final day, changes had to be made, and they have. Several high earners have left the club and have been replaced by new players who are hopefully hungry to succeed. The captures of Sido Jombati, Joe Jacobsen, Paul Hayes, Peter Murphy and Aaron Pierre are all very decent and much will be expected from them. If anything, we now seem to be a little heavy on midfielders. Hopefully we see another striker come in to add some competition as we are currently quite light up front. Hopes for the season are that we can do much better than last year and get a more comfortable mid table position. </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Wycombe to be relegated, 6/1 across the board. </span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>York City</u></span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b><span style="line-height: 115%;">Femi
Ilesanmi (LB), Jason Mooney (GK), Jake Hyde (ST), Dave Winfield (DF), Marvin
McCoy (RB), Anthony Straker (W), Luke Summerfield (CM), Lindon Meikle (W). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b>Players Out: </b></span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Calvin
Andrew (ST), Sander Puri (MF), Adam Reed (CM), Chris Dickinson (ST), Tom Allan
(CB), David McGurk (CB), Harry Coates (MF), Tom Chamberlain (ST), Shaq McDonald
(ST), Ryan Bowman (ST), Lanre Oyebanjo (DF).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After narrowly missing out on promotion last term following
a stoic unbeaten run towards the end of the season, York City will be hoping to
go one better this time around. Nigel Worthington has recruited well through
the summer after losing a trio of key players in the heart of his defence by
signing Dave Winfield and Marvin McCoy, both formerly of Wycombe fame (sic). Up
front, Wes Fletcher and Ryan Jarvis will face competition from former Barnet
hotshot Jake Hyde after the striker signed a three year deal at Bootham
Crescent in the summer. As always, York will prove to be a difficult team to
play against, with their rough and ready approach sure to ruffle a few feathers
in League Two. If the Minstermen can combine last year’s terrific finish, and
the season prior’s consistent start, City fans could see their side reach the
play-offs once again this term. </span></div>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b><i>Mark,</i></span></span> <i>"<span style="background-color: white; color: #282828; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So another season for City after coming close last time with an amazing run from January onwards,
sadly we have lost Pope, Davies, and Oyebanjo from a rock solid defence to be
replaced with Mooney from Tranmere, Ilesanmi from Daggers and McCoy from
Wycombe. </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The
key for us is the strong spine of the team with a very solid centre back
pairing of Lowe and McCombe, proven midfield partnership in Summerfield and
Penn, and the talented Fletcher up front alongside the nippy Hyde. Biggest
question marks are down both wings, Worthington likes his full backs to bomb on
and his wingers to track back and we will be starting with at least three of
those four with new players until we see the return of Carson later in the
year. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #282828; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">I
think this season could mirror the last one with it taking a while for the new
players to bed in and when that happens and we get Carson back I expect us to
go from strength to strength. For me it's going to be a stronger league this
season and I fear the break up of that defence so I'm predicting us to finish
just outside the play off places I'm afraid."</span></i></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>York to make the play-offs, 4/1 with SkyBet.</span></span></div>
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<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are of course plenty more transfer dealings that can be done, but as of 05/08/2014, the above are all of the current deals that have been completed. Several notable players, for example Gavin Hoyte, Dany N'Guessan, Lawson D'Ath, Francois Zoko and David Ngoo remain without clubs, and will likely be snapped up before the end of the window. </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And so there you have it, the most comprehensive and in detail look at League Two you're likely to read ahead of the upcoming season. Furthermore, if you followed my tips last season, you'd have earned over £400 for yourself; unfortunately however, I didn't. Make sure you follow me on Twitter, <b>@NickMurphy1995</b> for more League Two related musings, thanks for reading!</span></span><br />
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-4207326478909232012014-05-08T19:10:00.001+01:002014-05-09T00:24:26.281+01:00#SayNoToLeague3<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The FA's proposal to introduce "B sides", for teams currently residing in the Premier League is quite simply ridiculous. The league, currently ear-marked for introduction in 2016, would see ten Premier League sides develop "B sides", which would then go on to compete in a newly formed "League Three", between the Conference and League Two alongside ten Conference clubs. Understandably there has already been vehement opposition to the decision from large sections of the English game, specifically those involved towards the bottom end of the Football League. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are many, extensive reasons as to why this proposal is totally ludicrous. The fact it has been put forward based on no fan representation on the FA Commission, the fact it has "worked" in Spain so it must surely work here, and most importantly the fact that the lower leagues have been totally disregarded in favour of supporting Premier League clubs, and England we're supposed to believe. The introduction of B sides would be a disaster for English football and its heritage. We, as a nation, are the envy of the world for our approach to club football and the football pyramid. To destroy that would be a disgrace, and one that simply isn't worth it for the estimated prospects of the England team.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The main impact of course, as always, would fall on the shoulders of the lower leagues. League One, League Two, the Conference and beyond would all suffer beyond doubt. Attendances would drop, fan interest would die and ultimately it is not totally ridiculous to suggest that some clubs would cease to exist. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Did Morecambe supporters wait 87 years to get into the Football League to face Stoke City B? Did AFC Wimbledon fans reform and achieve five promotions in eight seasons in order to take on Aston Villa B? Did Carlisle complete that famous final day escape from relegation to the Conference so their supporters could have a local derby with Sunderland B? The answer is clear, and if the FA let this happen, it would surely be a dereliction of their duty to English football to let such a change go through.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quite simply, League One, Two and the Conference would become devalued. What happens if six 'B' sides fill up the six promotion and play-off spots in League One? They can't go up to the Championship, so surely lower league football has no point in this new system? We will become a reserve league for the bigwigs to try out their young talent. The Elite Player Performance Plan, incited by the Premier League, already attempts to hoover up the best young English talent and stockpile it for the future. Despite some of the arguably benefits it brings, clubs are effectively cheated out of transfer fees by bigger, more powerful clubs. EPPP in conjunction with "B sides", would simply repeat the cycle of players going on loan to lower league clubs, by sending them to their first teams B side. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unsurprisingly the football clubs that this change would undoubtedly benefit are the Premier League bigwigs. Your Manchester United's, your Liverpool's, your Arsenal's and even Stoke City would you believe. The fact that a club such as Stoke supports it, a club that were in League One as recently as 2002, really is a travesty. The FA seemingly have no idea of what our local clubs mean to us. While Premier League clubs have become globalised, so many football clubs towards the bottom end remain at the heart of the community. The introduction of 'B' sides would destroy that completely. The organisation that claims to protect our clubs, is now threatening to kill them off. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If the FA wants talent to develop, restrict the number of youngsters allowed at Premier League academies, don't punish us honest football fans for supporting our local clubs. So many players have been lost down the years due to the stockpiling of players, from John Bostock to Nick Powell, the latter of whom would arguably have developed further by remaining at Crewe rather than joining and stagnating in his first year at Manchester United. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What's more, the FA intend to advise the Premier League to give lower league clubs "back-handers", for use of a better term, to accept the proposed changes. If the whole situation didn't stink of desperation and elitist views beforehand, it certainly does now.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We are the foundation of football Mr Dyke, and while this may be something of a ramble given my absolute disgust at your proposals, lower league clubs and lower league supporters do not deserve this. We are the lifeblood of the English game, and we do not deserve to be treated like this. If this is what is required for England to be successful, then quite frankly, the FA can shove it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Sign the petition: http://www.change.org/en-GB/petitions/the-football-association-say-no-to-b-teams?recruiter=92321052&utm_campaign=twitter_link_action_box&utm_medium=twitter&utm_source=share_petition</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Tweet #SayNoToLeague3</span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-16454605738512671382013-12-20T14:39:00.001+00:002013-12-20T14:43:11.459+00:00Darts World Championship, Day 8 Preview.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjlsNLzWXD9cU4Ti2U3EGY_ngO1BYmLBHs0PLRlfrvgZIyVZhyphenhyphenXBMrOmomRrPnlucpmDQyUe5oz_3KiuDwsCbDOIuhU3bPmF4fstMvpWfOEEGi3XVJc9aeqPbA7BsfbUZdqXuc-hejbBd/s1600/barney1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUjlsNLzWXD9cU4Ti2U3EGY_ngO1BYmLBHs0PLRlfrvgZIyVZhyphenhyphenXBMrOmomRrPnlucpmDQyUe5oz_3KiuDwsCbDOIuhU3bPmF4fstMvpWfOEEGi3XVJc9aeqPbA7BsfbUZdqXuc-hejbBd/s400/barney1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Round One is dead, long live Round Two – as the French would
say. Thursday’s spectacular array of matches brought to an end a vastly
entertaining first round, with more shocks than any other year. Now though we
advance into the 2<sup>nd</sup> round, with Phil Taylor, Raymond van Barneveld and Peter Wright all looking to book their place in the last-16 on Day 8 of the Darts.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><u>Peter Wright vs Per Laursen</u><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the first game of the second round, ‘Snakebite’ Peter
Wright takes on Denmark’s Per Laursen. In the first round it was Laursen who
had to overcome the biggest test. After beating Colin McGarry in a qualifier,
Laursen, making his third appearance in the last-32, performed well to overcome
a spirited performance against Terry Jenkins, winning 3-2. Peter Wright meanwhile
had an altogether easier match against Joe Cullen, emerging victorious with a
3-0 win with an impressive 98.68 average. Ranked 15<sup>th</sup> in the world
and a Semi-Finalist at the UK Open earlier in the year, Wright should have
enough in his locker and certainly in his wardrobe to overcome Laursen who’s
making his first appearance at a Major since 2012.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Head to Head: N/A.</span></i></div>
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<b>Wright to Win: </b>1/7
(William Hill)</div>
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<b>Laursen to Win: </b>6/1
(SkyBet)</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u><i>Raymond van Barneveld vs Jamie Caven</i></u></b><i style="font-weight: bold;"><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even with 2013 being a far better year for Barneveld, the
Dutchman will be cursing his luck having been landed with an extremely
difficult second round tie against Jamie Caven. Despite not being at his best in the 1<sup>st</sup>
Round, Caven managed to get the better of the high scoring Jelle Klaasen,
progressing through with a 3-1 win and an 87.03 average. Barneveld however had
no such trouble in seeing off Welsh youngster Jamie Lewis, racking up 98.56
average and hitting six 180’s en route to a convincing 3-0 victory. A European
Championship Quarter-Finalist, Caven will provide an altogether different test
against Barneveld, winner of the Irish Players Championship just over a month
ago. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Head to Head:
Barneveld 3-1 Caven</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<b>Barneveld to Win: </b>1/3
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<b>Caven to Win: </b>11/4
(Ladbrokes)</div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Phil Taylor vs Michael Smith</u><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The final game of the evening should, in theory, be the most
straightforward, as 16-time Champion of the World Phil Taylor takes on the up
and coming Michael Smith. It’s no exaggeration to say that in his first round
match, Taylor barely scraped through against qualifier Rob Szabo. After losing
the first set, Taylor fought back to win the next three with extreme
difficulty, ultimately recording a 3-1 victory, but with a remarkably poor
doubles success rate of just 34%. His opponent this evening, Michael Smith, can
also be accused of being lackadaisical in the first round, squeezing past
Japanese qualifier Morihiro Hashimoto 3-1. The World Youth Champion will have
to vastly improve on his 76.69 average and doubles success rate of just 20% if
he is to stand any chance against the tournament favourite. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Head to Head: Phil Taylor 5-0 Michael Smith.</span></i></div>
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<b>Taylor to Win: </b>1/33
(BetVictor)</div>
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<b>Smith to Win: </b>35/1
(Betfair)</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Murphy’s Magic Bet:
Over 11.5 180’s between Raymond van Barneveld & Jamie Caven – Evens (Coral)</span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">(Previews will return to The Sports Planet as soon as the site sorts out its technical difficulties.)</span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-61892774936751250902013-11-06T18:02:00.001+00:002013-11-07T18:37:01.900+00:00The Magic of the Cup, Round One.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The FA Cup 1<sup>st</sup> Round always has the potential to
bring about all kind of shocks. Already in the competition we have seen lowly
Shortwood defeat Conference side Aldershot Town, Brislington overcome
Conference South outfit Weston Super-Mare, and Bishop's Stortford squeeze through
to the first round with a fine 1-0 victory over Forest Green Rovers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Two of the above mentioned sides have made it to the first
round proper; with Shortwood participating for the first time in their 113 year
history. Alongside Bishop's Stortford, they have been rewarded with plum ties
against Football League sides, both of which have been chosen for Television coverage. In this Blog we
take a look at the fates of several non-league sides post-millennium, detailing
their exploits against league opposition in the first round of the cup.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2DuPNDYML6TpKVTDJ5eeaGqyeIHl2uqEQ1kf-akK183HYBprhCM4rxNHyXLwYdYuHb3e7k0rMcym1pDoV1ktN_is6BqxitUJ41ANeuq9Ga2MhJlvn14j-fC6seoCCImKTZyDYsOMoXZs/s1600/Canvey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU2DuPNDYML6TpKVTDJ5eeaGqyeIHl2uqEQ1kf-akK183HYBprhCM4rxNHyXLwYdYuHb3e7k0rMcym1pDoV1ktN_is6BqxitUJ41ANeuq9Ga2MhJlvn14j-fC6seoCCImKTZyDYsOMoXZs/s320/Canvey.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canvey celebrate.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our overview starts in the 2000/2001 season, a year that
proved to be a bumper round for 1<sup>st</sup> round shocks. Northwich Victoria defeated Bury in a replay,
Kingstonian turned in a terrific performance to outgun Brentford 3-1 at Griffin
Park, while Kettering Town and Nuneaton Borough defeated Hull City and Stoke
City respectively, both now current Premier League clubs. Perhaps the most
impressive stand alone display was that of Yeovil Town. The Conference side stunned
Division Two Colchester United 5-1 at Huish Park, a result that still remains
as the biggest margin of victory between a non-league and a league side since
the millennium. However, the combined performance of the round was from Canvey
Island who were up against division two outfit Port Vale. Having been 2-0 down
at the break, Canvey staged a second half fightback – bringing the score back
to 2-1 and then 3-2. Vale looked to have killed off the game through Jeff
Minton’s strike, but Canvey fought back once more, scoring twice through Andy
Jones and Wayne Vaughan in the final two minutes to secure a remarkable 4-4
draw and earn the most unlikeliest of replays at Vale Park. A goalless first 90
minutes followed in the replay, before Neil Gregory and Wayne Vaughan netted in
extra-time to send Canvey through 2-1 victor’s in a famous evening for the then
Ryman League outfit.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEZF9mCjkIQzwfInGSug7SVqey-zuExeBMr9p-DMqc64kD8WLlbBoHYykNMSHmNWdGJccCIqhepo2CuhhlbvyMndSErtXkWk5IapFNzTuqx0xwZd88OYfbPHYT4MSritq4VANvxFjRxpJ/s1600/Gregory.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQEZF9mCjkIQzwfInGSug7SVqey-zuExeBMr9p-DMqc64kD8WLlbBoHYykNMSHmNWdGJccCIqhepo2CuhhlbvyMndSErtXkWk5IapFNzTuqx0xwZd88OYfbPHYT4MSritq4VANvxFjRxpJ/s1600/Gregory.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Neil Gregory<br />
www.bbc.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The following season provided a barren weekend for first
round shocks, but once again it was the Islanders of Canvey who stole the show
with a memorable victory at Division Two side Wigan Athletic. A dreadful
performance from the Latics who had won so convincingly with a 6-1 thrashing of
Stoke City the previous weekend, was compounded by Canvey who came into the
clash on the back of a 17 game unbeaten record. It was a miserable afternoon
for Wigan who had Tony Dinning and Lee Ashcroft sent off with the game still at
0-0. With just two minutes left on the clock, the hero of last season Neil
Gregory capitalised on the two man advantage, slotting home to send the Gulls
through to the 2<sup>nd</sup> round for the second consecutive season. Jeff
King’s side went on to reach the 3<sup>rd</sup> round, before losing out 4-1 to
Burnley at Turf Moor. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlGCpBo-ZwPh1EcR9CO9JYPepIwv-L3kFrPMazjwvnsfYl52bBh_3Lrpcf_sceT9mM6E6JAWsOTUkgDkPPcl2tFiUYzLYcEhFDBYvWT_Xqk3mW_I0Uy7sjeeKb1Ju-VuiXuMPrfPUo2nL/s1600/Rovers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJlGCpBo-ZwPh1EcR9CO9JYPepIwv-L3kFrPMazjwvnsfYl52bBh_3Lrpcf_sceT9mM6E6JAWsOTUkgDkPPcl2tFiUYzLYcEhFDBYvWT_Xqk3mW_I0Uy7sjeeKb1Ju-VuiXuMPrfPUo2nL/s1600/Rovers.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Minnows Rovers celebrate dumping Ian Holloway's<br />
QPR out at Loftus Road.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a lull in the 01/02 campaign, the 2002/2003 season provided
the public with four major upsets. Margate drew 1-1 with Leyton Orient to earn
a replay where they duly dispatched the O’s with a 1-0 victory, while
Colchester United were victims once again, losing out 1-0 at home Chester City.
However the first major casualties were Notts County. Having raced into a 2-0
lead, the second division side lost out 4-2 away at Southport as the Port
sailed through with a brace from Steve Pickford and one apiece from Peter
Thomson and Chris Lane. The biggest losers of the round however, were QPR.
Dumped out on penalties in a replay at Loftus Road by Unibond Division side
Vauxhall Motors, Rangers were second best throughout as Karl Connolly’s miss
confirmed Motors of their place in the 2<sup>nd</sup> round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The total of first round upsets rose once more in 2004/2005,
with six non-league clubs getting the better of their league opponents. Of the
minor shocks, Halifax Town beat Cambridge United 3-1; Bristol Rovers were
narrowly defeated 1-0 by recently relegated Carlisle United, while Exeter City
claimed a 1-0 victory over Grimsby Town. One of the bigger scalps came at
Middlefield Lane, where the now extinct Hinckley United overturned Torquay
United, a side 53 places above them in the footballing ladder. Goals from
Richard Lavery and Neil Cartwright secured one of the last famous wins for
supporters of the Knitters. Meanwhile Southern League Histon dumped out
Shrewsbury Town, with Slough also advancing through with goals from Ian Hodges
and Glen Harris ensuring victory over a Paul Merson led Walsall side.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxxV0YWiQ_CpK2F4vKoSDH6cVxO22FmZKR6vLrFfq8ZN7LlcBu450ISAz7qi5SId1qOIRmXkcb4L4d0KaiVXf5o6fLuMoCtNyEVd3U9yfVE-S5AWrVhkmMLJVK4wQUWlTwj67NEd40opL/s1600/Burscough.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxxV0YWiQ_CpK2F4vKoSDH6cVxO22FmZKR6vLrFfq8ZN7LlcBu450ISAz7qi5SId1qOIRmXkcb4L4d0KaiVXf5o6fLuMoCtNyEVd3U9yfVE-S5AWrVhkmMLJVK4wQUWlTwj67NEd40opL/s320/Burscough.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Burscough net a last minute winner.<br />
www.kentonline.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With a bumper number of upsets the previous year, certain
clubs were brought back down to earth in the 2005/2006 first round. Harrogate
and Weymouth lost out in replays against league teams, while Leamington were
dealt a harsh footballing lesson with a 9-1 defeat at Colchester United. Even
with the aforementioned set of results, shocks remained. Conference outfit
Burton Albion sent Peterborough United crashing out in a first round replay,
Shaun Harrad becoming an instant hero with the sole strike just 20 minutes from
time. But the major upset came in Lancashire, where Unibond League side
Burscough upset all the odds to overcome Gillingham 3-2 courtesy of two late
strikes. The home side took the lead through Karl Bell, but second half efforts
from Matt Jarvis and Mark Saunders looked to have secured Gills their place in
the 2<sup>nd</sup> round. However with just two minutes left, Gillingham’s Ian
Cox put through his own net before David Rowan turned the tie on its head by
scoring in injury time to give the Linnets an unexpected victory against the
League One Gills.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6i9lxQjsU8PMi5DSQPxH_Oq5ykAw_-QnD1C2eu_tHViPv1C68YsJJo9MRk0jiLfGxtaCFXv9wzEK0UJBsa5MjCOVkFP6jUgitO5LfM38dgwaQ2BNIyxXYmUkjOsNPWB6qJSSzk07ZbJO1/s1600/Matt+Warner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6i9lxQjsU8PMi5DSQPxH_Oq5ykAw_-QnD1C2eu_tHViPv1C68YsJJo9MRk0jiLfGxtaCFXv9wzEK0UJBsa5MjCOVkFP6jUgitO5LfM38dgwaQ2BNIyxXYmUkjOsNPWB6qJSSzk07ZbJO1/s1600/Matt+Warner.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Basingstoke's Matt Warner<br />
celebrates his winner<br />
www.basingstoketown.net</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite there being no fewer than 23 ties pitting Football
League sides against their non-league counterparts, the 2006/2007 season bore
witness to just three first round shocks. There was to be no repeat embarrassment
for Gillingham who saw off Bromley 4-1 at Priestfield, while Northwich Victoria
were the side to face the wrath of League One new boys Brighton & Hove
Albion, Victoria going down 8-0 at the Withdean. Weymouth were twice ahead
against Bury in a replay, but ultimately lost out 4-3, leaving it down to
Rushden & Diamonds and Basingstoke to provide the feelgood stories of the
first round. Former league outfit Rushden brushed aside League One Yeovil Town
with a comprehensive 3-1 victory courtesy of a Michael Rankin double after
Chris Hope’s opener. But the result of the round came at Saltergate, where Basingstoke
shocked Chesterfield; giantkillers themselves following victories over West Ham
and Manchester City in the League Cup. But on cup weekend they were given a
taste of their own medicine as Matthew Warner blasted home with 25 minutes
played to send the Conference South side through to the 2<sup>nd</sup> round.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6wED5IPWxvWuIoPx9UUzLqBq9JOCtkCIcU1MOh2ealLbpzOGo_vkwJ4oKnS4OOUyDcMJQLIED8I4Tb-eelp9DeRR79BfD5mO_EaFqCLlhZYC7bDP8JL4DKRz8wq_o4riFkLfump6Pzs8/s1600/fgr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF6wED5IPWxvWuIoPx9UUzLqBq9JOCtkCIcU1MOh2ealLbpzOGo_vkwJ4oKnS4OOUyDcMJQLIED8I4Tb-eelp9DeRR79BfD5mO_EaFqCLlhZYC7bDP8JL4DKRz8wq_o4riFkLfump6Pzs8/s320/fgr.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Goalscorer Giles celebrates with the gaffer.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One team that seem to feature heavily throughout this thirteen
year overview is Yeovil Town. The 2007/2008 campaign proved to be no different
as the Glovers crashed out embarrassingly with a 4-1 defeat at South-West
rivals Torquay United. Rushden & Diamonds continued their cup exploits with
a 3-1 win over League Two Macclesfield Town, while Ryman Premier outfit Staines
defeated League Two promotion hopefuls Stockport County on penalties in a
scintillating replay at Wheatsheaf Park. The performance of the round however
was to be found at Millmoor, where unfancied Conference side Forest Green
Rovers picked up their first ever victory over a league team with an
extraordinary 3-0 victory over Rotherham United. In truth Rovers were the
better side throughout and deserved to take the lead midway through the first
half thanks to Chris Giles’ header from a perfectly weighted corner. The
visitors capitalised on their dominance in the second period to seal the game;
Simon Clist firing home the rebound from Mark Beesley’s strike that had hit the
post, with Stuart Fleetwood rounding things off to make it 3-0 with just
minutes left to play.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YQezj1XJKsQnYVWcDCyt4Y-sxh1pT_y3LZ21P3vRGv3GiLay2qYKrAWgVcizFvAsjWRS4tnuYGBgWav_tNxQpRc41qqUgyBkgzbLfind_oz_Ecs-0qn9dDRCDLa7fL3alb_G2bc21FmI/s1600/Curzon.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5YQezj1XJKsQnYVWcDCyt4Y-sxh1pT_y3LZ21P3vRGv3GiLay2qYKrAWgVcizFvAsjWRS4tnuYGBgWav_tNxQpRc41qqUgyBkgzbLfind_oz_Ecs-0qn9dDRCDLa7fL3alb_G2bc21FmI/s320/Curzon.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Curzon dare to dream in the dressing room.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The real upset of the round the following season came in
Greater Manchester, where despite being separated by four divisions, Curzon
Ashton hosted Exeter City in front of 1200 supporters at Tameside Stadium. A ruthless
display from Ashton began in the first half, with Chris Worsley’s effort giving
the hosts the lead just before the break. The game exploded into life soon
after the restart, James Ogoo made it 2-0 to Curzon before Michael Norton
seemingly put gloss on proceedings giving the Blues an inexplicable 3-0 lead
over the League Two high-flyers. Exeter came back fighting in the final ten
minutes with goals from Steve Basham and Dean Moxey, but it wasn’t enough as
the Unibond Division One North side advanced through to the second round. Elsewhere
Droylsden also picked up an impressive win over another promotion chasing side
in Darlington, as Blyth Spartans earned a shock 3-1 win over Shrewsbury Town
with goals from Shaun Reay and Andy Leeson. Another superb performance was to
be found at Sincil Bank, where despite going behind to Lenny John-Lewis’
header, Kettering advanced through thanks to Craig Westcarr and an injury time
strike from Iyseden Christie. Histon also pulled off a memorable 1-0 victory
over former Premier League side Swindon Town.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1-mIPAoAXBlKmd9lxSPLOCcp1NsujwfaGRos9Lvr9d_Kxzj5R0p_-5tibqSMd1_0dxopsxsbmlQudAi5X7RCQZ2_iG2vtlv2A0J6NR53yI01lNRibjS9iYKeMPM_Oa9cjqwBIEjnL8hk/s1600/north.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO1-mIPAoAXBlKmd9lxSPLOCcp1NsujwfaGRos9Lvr9d_Kxzj5R0p_-5tibqSMd1_0dxopsxsbmlQudAi5X7RCQZ2_iG2vtlv2A0J6NR53yI01lNRibjS9iYKeMPM_Oa9cjqwBIEjnL8hk/s320/north.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Northwich players pile on in front of the camera's.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Paulton Rovers were the story of the 1<sup>st</sup> Round in
the 2009/2010 season. Making their first appearance at this stage in the
competition, they were handed a plum draw at home to Norwich City. Televised
live on ITV, Paulton stood firm until 15 minutes in when Grant Holt’s strike
opened the floodgates to a 7-0 victory for the Canaries in front of 2000
supporters. But while one recently relegated side from the Championship breezed
through against lower league opposition, another faltered. Also televised live
on ITV, Conference North side Northwich Victoria entertained the relative might
of Charlton Athletic in what promised to be an intriguing contest. The Vics
dominated proceedings in what some Addicks fans described as the worst performance
they’ve seen from a Charlton team in living memory. Even with a dismal away
performance, Charlton remained on level terms until ten minutes from time when
18 year old substitute Wayne Riley struck the decisive blow to dump Charlton
out of the cup at the first hurdle for the first time since a 1-0 defeat at
Bournemouth in 1973. Meanwhile, Shrewsbury Town were subject to a second
successive first round upset, losing out 1-0 to Staines at the Greenhous
Meadow. Hartlepool and Yeovil (yes, Yeovil again), also bowed out with defeats
against Kettering and Oxford respectively, while Bath City took advantage of
Grismby Town’s poor league form to spring a surprise 2-0 victory at Blundell
Park.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XjjcF6GTr01ZJnxo-U_64pUyuq5VBWc8Ge2oINf66TiaByIwZ16YJI1AfDrG6moiZpir9I_I-s_Ks771Ei5jhjIhzuh0LN7g4_xdZyXfM1VQ4Wf2xIQyPUPeZ_i5nhH6ygBgup5l4XNo/s1600/Dover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7XjjcF6GTr01ZJnxo-U_64pUyuq5VBWc8Ge2oINf66TiaByIwZ16YJI1AfDrG6moiZpir9I_I-s_Ks771Ei5jhjIhzuh0LN7g4_xdZyXfM1VQ4Wf2xIQyPUPeZ_i5nhH6ygBgup5l4XNo/s320/Dover.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Endearing image of Dover fans and players celebrating alike.<br />
Ironically 3 years ago today exactly.<br />
www.guardian.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvH2ixorfKgGzLY2dX1QFyLd3TpXwIzwts7JGam4CC7ZvblMmAe-9WOoVWyOrKCVpqM5yyxYYGEt0Po8sf-MTGWu0uS_zF8RUjVnLESTJgwHXUcxSO4c76COY-3dyS6RL8q52hAKeKjgq/s1600/FCUM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidvH2ixorfKgGzLY2dX1QFyLd3TpXwIzwts7JGam4CC7ZvblMmAe-9WOoVWyOrKCVpqM5yyxYYGEt0Po8sf-MTGWu0uS_zF8RUjVnLESTJgwHXUcxSO4c76COY-3dyS6RL8q52hAKeKjgq/s320/FCUM.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FC United fans at Spotland.<br />
www.pitchinvasion.net<br />
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</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The cup draw in the 2010/2011 season threw together some
interesting pairings, including three relative local derbies and a meeting of
two old foes from FA Cup shocks past. Rotherham suffered another humiliating 3-0
defeat, this time away at York City, while another League Two side in Port Vale
scrambled through in a replay against Dartford having drawn the first match 1-1
at Princes Park. Perennial cup strugglers Yeovil Town managed to get one over
on old cup rivals Rushden & Diamonds, Vauxhall Motors lost out to
Hartlepool United in a replay, while Hythe and Guiseley were defeated heavily
by league teams. In one of the upsets of the round, Gillingham once again found
themselves on the wrong end of a cup upset, this time against Dover Athletic.
Strikes from Adam Birchall (latterly to be a Gills player), and Luke I’Anson secured
a priceless victory in the Kent derby. The story of the round however, was to
be found at Spotland where Rochdale hosted FC United of Manchester in front of
a bumper crowd comprised largely of away supporters. It was real Roy of the
Rovers stuff for FC United who built a two goal lead with strikes from Nicky
Platt and Jake Cotterill either side of the half time break. But Dale
threatened to derail the party for the side from the Evo Stik Premier, striking
twice midway through the second half as the tie looked headed for a replay. But
in the fourth minute of added time, Michael Norton sent the breakaway club into
jubilation by pickpocketting Josh Lillis and slotting home into an empty net –
sending United through to the 2<sup>nd</sup> round in what can be considered
the biggest 1<sup>st</sup> round result in the last five years.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">First round ties in the 2011/2012 season produced few
upsets; Luton defeated Northampton Town, Bath City took Dagenham &
Redbridge to a replay before ultimately losing out, and moneybags Fleetwood
Town shocked League One side Wycombe Wanderers with a 3-1 victory at Highbury.
However, the biggest non-league upset was to be found at the War Memorial
Athletic Ground, where Stourbridge overturned League Two crisis club Plymouth
Argyle. Having been held 3-3 at home by the Southern League side, a match in
which the Bridge had held the lead twice, the Pilgrims were sent packing in
controversial circumstances in the replay. With a bumper crowd in tow, the
Bridge were given a helping hand in the first half courtesy of Paul Bignot’s
contested sending off. The hosts made the man advantage count, advancing coolly
through to the 2<sup>nd</sup> round with second half strikes from Sean Evans and
bricklayer Paul McCone.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfIKkzjBoCZINhpZkv9qGahLnw02q_KGpYgkT_oKZvZDCNqxkmiH_BUyhVeBEruv8rVKZzFwHpPJoWDFKO0cVjXFJkr-XUmN8d0q1zQGNZGQceuF1izzXP0ssgSEi_2nSGq8FXd0S5UfD/s1600/dorch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqfIKkzjBoCZINhpZkv9qGahLnw02q_KGpYgkT_oKZvZDCNqxkmiH_BUyhVeBEruv8rVKZzFwHpPJoWDFKO0cVjXFJkr-XUmN8d0q1zQGNZGQceuF1izzXP0ssgSEi_2nSGq8FXd0S5UfD/s320/dorch.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jubilation for Dorchester.<br />
www.caughtoffside.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The 2012/2013 FA Cup saw all manner of first round upsets
and exquisite performances. Conference South side Chelmsford City defeated
Essex rivals Colchester United, Hastings beat Bishops Stortford and Harrogate
Town secured a famous win away at Torquay United. Plymouth were dumped out in
acrimonious circumstances for the second season in a row, this time losing out
to Jake Gosling’s strike for Dorchester having been reduced to 10 men with less
than 10 minutes played. But the performance of the round arguably came from
Lincoln City. After leading League One hotshots Walsall courtesy of Jamie
Taylor’s strike, the Imps were pegged back with just minutes remaining of their
original tie against the Saddlers, George Bowerman forcing a replay at The
Banks Stadium. The replay took a similar path, with Alan Power’s strike
cancelled out by Richard Taundry to force extra-time. And that’s when the Imps
pounced on their higher league opponents, goals from Vadaine Oliver either side
of half-time in extra-time enough to see off under-par Walsall who could only
muster a consolation in injury time. The 3-2 victory sent Lincoln through to
the second round where they quickly went out after defeat to Mansfield Town in
a replay.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the review of the past twelve or thirteen years
complete, we look ahead to the weekend’s games and what exactly each team is
up against. Below is the entire list of 1<sup>st</sup> round fixtures ahead of
the 2013/2014 weekend, with their league placing’s in the English football pyramid
featured in brackets beside each clubs name. This ranking system is also based
on the premise that Hinckley remain as a club, despite their dissolution,
constituting 24 teams in the Southern Premier Division.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Shortwood
(356) vs (56) Port Vale</b> <i>(Vale have lost in R1 in 12 of the last 16 seasons)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Chesterfield
(71) vs (263) Daventry Town</b> <i>(Daventry’s
first ever appearance in the 1<sup>st</sup> Round proper)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>St Albans
City (192) vs (60) Mansfield Town</b> <i>(Mansfield reached the 3rd round last year, losing to Liverpool)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Brentford
(49) vs (137) Staines Town </b><i>(Staines' sixth time in the first round proper)</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Boreham Wood
(149) vs (60) Carlisle United</b> <i>(Wood have
not reached the 2<sup>nd</sup> Round for 16 years)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Corby Town
(216) vs (136) Dover Athletic</b> <i>(Dover have
reached R2 just twice in their history)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Gloucester
City (156) vs (69) Fleetwood Town </b><i>(Wood
have won all 3 meetings with Gloucester)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Hednesford
Town (117) vs (57) Crawley Town</b> <i>(Hednesford
currently top of Conference North)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Leyton
Orient (45) vs (108) Southport </b><i>(Orient
have lost just twice so far this season)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Gillingham
(62) vs (121) Brackley</b> (<i>2 of Gills last 3
R1 defeats against lower league opposition)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Macclesfield
Town (106) vs (51) Swindon Town</b><i><b> </b>(Macc
knocked Swindon out in R1 last season)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>MK Dons (52)
vs (104) FC Halifax </b><i>(Shaymen are yet to
win away in the league this season)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Preston
North End (48) vs (99) Barnet </b><i>(Preston
are two times winners of the cup)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Burton
Albion (75) vs (111) Hereford United</b> <i>(Burton
have won 5 out of 7 meetings at the Pirelli)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Oxford
United (70) vs Gateshead (103)</b> <i>(Gateshead
have made it past Round 1, 21 times)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Bishop’s
Stortford (124) vs (92) Northampton Town</b> <i>(Stortford
have 5 home wins, Cobblers, 1 away)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Kidderminster
Harriers (94) vs (126) Sutton United</b> (Harriers unbeaten vs Sutton in 90
minutes)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Stourbridge
(182) vs (212) Biggleswade Town </b><i>(Waders
first time in Round 1)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>AFC
Wimbledon (83) vs (55) Coventry City</b> <i>(1<sup>st</sup>
Round meeting between two previous cup winners)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Accrington
Stanley (91) vs (64) Tranmere Rovers</b> <i>(Stanley
have not beaten Tranmere since 1958)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Peterborough
United (47) vs (74) Exeter City </b><i>(Twelve
draws at London Road between the pair)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Tamworth
(112) vs (86) Cheltenham Town</b> <i>(Cheltenham
have reached R3 in last three seasons)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Stevenage
(63) vs (85) Portsmouth</b> <i>(Pompey last
knocked out in R1 in 1981)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Lincoln City
(105) vs (85) Plymouth Argyle</b> <i>(Argyle
haven’t been past R1 in last three seasons)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Braintree
Town (98) vs (78) Newport County</b> <i>(Newport
won last FA Cup meeting 4-3 vs Braintree)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Grimsby Town
(96) vs (76) Scunthorpe United </b><i>(First
meeting between the two sides since 2008)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Torquay
United (89) vs (72) Rochdale </b><i>(Torquay
have won 30 of last 41 vs Dale at Plainmoor)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Oldham
Athletic (61) vs (46) Wolverhampton Wanderers</b> <i>(Wolves last lost in R1 in 1988)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Bristol City
(64) vs (79) Dagenham & Redbridge</b> <i>(First
ever competitive meeting between the sides)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Wycombe
Wanderers (80) vs (66) Crewe Alexandra </b><i>(Chairboys
reached FA Cup Semi-Final in 2001)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Hartlepool United (81) vs (68) Notts County</b> <i>(Pools have won 9 of 14 games vs County at home) <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Salisbury
City (97) vs (109) Dartford</b> <i>(Dartford won
last 2 vs Salisbury City)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Colchester
United (58) vs (67) Sheffield United</b> <i>(Sheffield
Utd last failed to reach the R1 in 1981)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Wrexham
(109) vs (101) Alfreton Town </b><i>(Alfreton
have never lost at Wrexham’s Racecourse Ground)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Walsall (53)
vs (59) Shrewsbury Town </b><i>(Saddlers
unbeaten at home to Shrews since 1993)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Welling
(100) vs (95) Luton Town</b> <i>(Hatters reached
Round 5 of the FA Cup last year)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Rotherham
United (54) vs (50) Bradford City </b><i>(Millers
have won their last four vs Bradford)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Morecambe
(73) vs (77) Southend United</b> <i>(Southend
have never beaten Morecambe)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Bury (90) vs
(93) Cambridge United </b><i>(Smallest league
position gap inbetween leagues)<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>Bristol
Rovers (88) vs (87) York City </b></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">(York lost
3-2 at Rovers in a League Two match in August)</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Of the 40 ties
across the weekend, 20 of them will pit a non-league side against a Football
League counterpart, with the highest indifference being 56<sup>th</sup> placed
Port Vale away at 356<sup>th</sup> place Shortwood United, a difference of 300
places in the English Football pyramid. By contrast the closest tie on paper is
between two sides who are separated by just a single place in League Two;
Bristol Rovers and York City.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Also, just to clarify something, my rankings for teams like Shortwood and Biggleswade are based on the fact that their respective regional division is akin to three others of the same level. As a result those four divisions have been added together along with the three regional premier divisions, the Conference South/North, the Conference, League One, League Two, The Championship and finally the Premier League to find out their positional ranking.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And with that, we've reached the end of our comprehensive overview of the FA Cup past and present, detailing various cup shocks along with the rankings for this seasons first round. Depending on the reaction I get to this Blog, I may bring it back for the ensuing cup rounds with a similar or tweaked format. Thank you for reading and remember to follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-10978673655939043512013-11-04T16:20:00.001+00:002013-11-04T16:25:13.396+00:00Hartlepool United 2-1 Daggers, WhirlPoole. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygazzGhWfKMZuEprvyyJRBXRPK1HGsO5-AYRmHv_HJOI1NzHTskh0ylA6NBmwaccgKvSPuwTuIhVg3HRTPukDsPX_JkNqPAvqMIqOBit2dDn31lMz4IcJlGCNdZ1wR1zyMDas8TNOmdZT/s1600/Hartlepool+United+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiygazzGhWfKMZuEprvyyJRBXRPK1HGsO5-AYRmHv_HJOI1NzHTskh0ylA6NBmwaccgKvSPuwTuIhVg3HRTPukDsPX_JkNqPAvqMIqOBit2dDn31lMz4IcJlGCNdZ1wR1zyMDas8TNOmdZT/s320/Hartlepool+United+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a near two month hiatus,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Daggers Scale<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>returns to bring you news of a first Dagenham & Redbridge away defeat in over two months. So it's just
typical that it's the first match report in quite some time that I've decided
to publish - that despite having written both of the bulk of the text for
Northampton and Southend away. Nevertheless we're back, and so are Dagenham,
with goals from James Poole and Andy Monkhouse either side of Zavon Hines'
exquisite second half strike condemning Daggers to only their fourth league defeat
of the season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
Before we delve into the mystery of a day that was Hartlepool away, I should
probably bring you up to speed on what's happened since that fateful day at
Morecambe. Essentially, since then Dagenham have set League Two alight, or at
least lightly doused the flame of the perpetual League Two candle. Three straight
wins followed the last gasp equaliser at The Globe Arena, including a
5-2 annihilation of Southend United at Roots Hall in the Johnstones
Paint Trophy. Defeat followed the weekend after in the form of a 2-1 reverse to Cheltenham
Town at home, before a draw against Northampton ensured us of our first ever
point against the Cobblers. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then it was Southend again, and to everyone's
amazement we picked up our second win inside two weeks at Roots Hall, Rhys Murphy
netting the vital goal that proved to be the winner. That was followed up by a
superb 3-1 victory over League Two leaders Rochdale last weekend, a result that
moved us up to 8th in the table. And so that led us on to Hartlepool away,
a fixture that for some reason seemed appealing at some point in October.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With tickets bought in advance and train tickets at a discounted fare, the
journey began at an insatiably early 7:00am. A time that goes down in the
record books as my earliest away day. Meeting at Chadwell Heath station, we
headed to Liverpool Street via Stratford to meet Harry, before being dealt an
early blow in the form of a derailed train at Farringdon. It meant we had to
switch our Tube plans, using the Northern Line and Jubilee Line via Holburn
instead of the usual straight through route to Kings Cross</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.<br />
Nevertheless we arrived with just enough time to glance pity and shame toward
the poor souls whiling away their lives taking pictures at Platform 9 & 3/4
quarters at 8:00 in the morning. More to the point, if you've watched the
films, it's not even in the right location. But I left my qualms for another
day and boarded our plush Grand Central service to Sunderland, via Hartlepool
of course. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully for everyone involved, our train was on a direct service meaning we
were not forced to change anywhere along the route. And having picked up Bill
at York, we headed on the final stretch of the journey to Hartlepool, past
place names that may or may not exist. I mean Northallerton, Stockton, Thirsk
and Eaglescliff - are you even sure they're real?</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWK3VsRIVKEdn4m_u94sfpBd2-Eck1zdlzLFTmz9ixWULbl9KTgtmEH4LlvlwevdhPoR7ZGkhsdLBQSotEdd6_KhXByCKwdlaKjtslmNe_ZYCdV3QeoB6DytTos3AtYPHc2bUD1Ouqibwe/s1600/pret.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWK3VsRIVKEdn4m_u94sfpBd2-Eck1zdlzLFTmz9ixWULbl9KTgtmEH4LlvlwevdhPoR7ZGkhsdLBQSotEdd6_KhXByCKwdlaKjtslmNe_ZYCdV3QeoB6DytTos3AtYPHc2bUD1Ouqibwe/s320/pret.PNG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still, having sussed out that these place names may contain actual
civilisation, we arrived in Hartlepool just shy of 12:00, somewhat amusingly
ahead of the first team who were travelling up on a later train and had earlier been spotted in pret a manger. First
impressions of the town were largely positive, a small marina and what looked
like a market either side of the large </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">retail park allowed Hartlepool to go
instantly above Scunthorpe and Morecambe in the away days table.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A quick stop in KFC ensued, before we went exploring in the town where H’Angus
the Monkey had formerly been elected mayor. The brusque Northern wind soon hit
as we went in search of a pub, with our pursuit taking us around the backstreets
of the town, the majority of which seemed quite dilapidated. And that's a
shame, because on the whole it looked like an area with real potential, and
with a bit of investment it could become a place where people want to live -
bringing jobs and prosperity back to the local area.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
</span>
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t0Ng82J_T18Zb6RpfCcDeN6HTdufsVL657zNe88UdskMRggAXN9wrbAvYxHYl3dHGuSlY14exba-8CCO-iKZ_9XlejTHenUjMwzJxe0P6bJ-AUeRbKGg_gFGATyxia3ajSiWZPT2qlvA/s1600/marina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t0Ng82J_T18Zb6RpfCcDeN6HTdufsVL657zNe88UdskMRggAXN9wrbAvYxHYl3dHGuSlY14exba-8CCO-iKZ_9XlejTHenUjMwzJxe0P6bJ-AUeRbKGg_gFGATyxia3ajSiWZPT2qlvA/s320/marina.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hartlepool Marina<br />
<a href="http://www.thisishartlepool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/hartlepool-marina.jpg">http://www.thisishartlepool.co.uk/wp-<br />content/uploads/hartlepool-marina.jpg</a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having scoured the streets for a good 15 minutes, we finally found a homely little pub,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Millhouse</i>,
located a stone’s throw away the stadium itself. From the outside it seemed
inviting, while the inside just reinforces that view. With all beer and cider
priced at a more than reasonable £2.50, Sky TV, a pool table and friendly bar
staff - we'd found our haunt for the afternoon. Just a pity there was a match
to go to really. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Our stay in the overly packed pub lasted just over two hours before we decided
to head off into the ground for kick-off. Weaving our way through the pot-hole
ridden car-park, we located the away end with some difficulty before heading
through the turnstiles and being greeted with the piercing mid-afternoon Sun.
Brighter than Sam Williams' fake tan, it was nigh on impossible to see
anything.<br /><br />
</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYNaKrAuYo6hsBOt14h1VVXXo3Xfda6XslJHO7dsaN-B8g9EOWmqz2AF4Uu6HHhTWFqCYmFl_RKHipn44sHuEe1k6gby1oTwVn7U9VhyLrb01JNZhaISgjBnroZoxNNntgbuZErT5TL11/s1600/Victoria+Park,+Hartlepool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPYNaKrAuYo6hsBOt14h1VVXXo3Xfda6XslJHO7dsaN-B8g9EOWmqz2AF4Uu6HHhTWFqCYmFl_RKHipn44sHuEe1k6gby1oTwVn7U9VhyLrb01JNZhaISgjBnroZoxNNntgbuZErT5TL11/s320/Victoria+Park,+Hartlepool.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having said that, my first impression of Victoria Park is that it was a very
quaint League Two ground. Comprising of both seating and terracing, it has
something for everyone. The main stand embodies this, with the upper tier
solely seating (even if the seats had no backs to them), while the bottom half
is terracing in its entirety. It had the feel of the grandstand at Cheltenham,
but more modern and welcoming. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On the left hand side of the away stand was an all seated section for home
supporters. At first glance this looked the most modern build, and yet it
happened to be the second smallest construction in the stadium. Opposite us was
the home terrace where we naturally assumed the majority of the noise would
come from. With an old fashion design, it almost single handedly signified
football in the lower reaches of English football. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That left us with the away end, or to give it its proper the name, The Rink
End. The smallest stand inside the ground holding just 1035 supporters, it was
to be our home for the next two hours. It is also unusual in the sense that it
puts you right on top </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">of the action such is the way it's built, leaving
virtually no room behind the goal giving the feeling of a proper old fashioned
football ground, as previously mentioned. And as a result of its size, unless
you sit directly at the front, your view of the match is restricted by the cold
concrete poles that obstruct your viewing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2nEgBt4DefSkXOhiwke0QELqrsno8wk_WWeXXLu8bWWojVsaaMTtbOx0QkdTd4aArGgMV9gHFjCd7SHQX3ROtzMRoymCz4kRPS7HL6AnFpvcnKfHczXiUw5rR5lztmY0oAeq4zWvHiXQ/s1600/Victoria+Park,+Hartlepool+United.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO2nEgBt4DefSkXOhiwke0QELqrsno8wk_WWeXXLu8bWWojVsaaMTtbOx0QkdTd4aArGgMV9gHFjCd7SHQX3ROtzMRoymCz4kRPS7HL6AnFpvcnKfHczXiUw5rR5lztmY0oAeq4zWvHiXQ/s320/Victoria+Park,+Hartlepool+United.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With my analysis of the stadium complete, it wasn't long before the teams made
something of an abrupt entrance onto the pitch, half way through a tune from
The Beatles. Applause emanated from all sides of a relatively packed Victoria
Park, courtesy of the Pools' fantastically priced season tickets. With the
handshakes completed, the Dagenham & Redbridge players jogged over to the
away end to applaud the 99 travelling supporters.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before we begin with the match action, it's probably best to go through who
exactly was playing for both sides. So the teams lined up as follows...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><b>Hartlepool United:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Flinders,
Duckworth, Auston, Walton, Baldwin, Burgess, Franks, Dolan, James, Poole,
Monkhouse.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Collins, Rafferty, Sweeney,
Rodney, Richard, Holden, Walker.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /><b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Hoyte, Doe, Saah, Connors, Howell, Bingham, Ogogo, Elito, Murphy, Hines.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Femi, Scott, Obafemi,
Dickson, Shields, Wilkinson.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMikuJ8NaKWE2tKBu8hBQEyyBiWhKNu56oIWHhU0-eldzhrNMoloFsVH7Do-qo4cnIG8JDGYFec82OHfzaEvuZbYClMY4C-hFcvwGj5f-8k3Jti_6qenW4evVJHfqvmZI5oaI_jZI7rwP/s1600/Hartlepool+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEMikuJ8NaKWE2tKBu8hBQEyyBiWhKNu56oIWHhU0-eldzhrNMoloFsVH7Do-qo4cnIG8JDGYFec82OHfzaEvuZbYClMY4C-hFcvwGj5f-8k3Jti_6qenW4evVJHfqvmZI5oaI_jZI7rwP/s320/Hartlepool+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And so it began, the biting wind formed icicles on the end of my pertruding nose
and I realised that winter football was back. Oh, and the game kicked off as
well. The game opened with a smattering of opportunities for both sides, Simon Walton's shot was deflected wide while up the other end Zavon Hines curled the wrong side of Flinders' goal. Prolific striker Rhys Murphy was next to register his
intent, skewing wide after an impressive run down the left. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But despite Daggers' early pressure, it was Hartlepool that opened the scoring
with little over 10 minutes played. A combination of misplay between Duckworth
and James resulted in the ball being squared for James Poole to slot past Chris
Lewington from close range, despite the best efforts of Scott Doe on the line.
With more than a whiff of fortune about the goal, alongside muted claims for
offside - Daggers were behind to the in-form Pools. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
After the restart it became clear the wind could destroy what had the potential
to be an enticing contest. Strong gales disrupted Chris Lewington's kicking,
causing havoc as Daggers attempted to plump the ball forward, giving Hartlepool
the clear advantage in the first half. And the hosts dominance was clear as we
reached the halfway point, James Poole firing wide before Chris
Lewington had to be at his best to deny Simon Walton's close range
effort. Lewington's save seemingly acted as a catalyst as Daggers and in particular
Medy Elito finally worked themselves into the game. Winger
Elito pick-pocketed a Pools defender, advanced forward by sliding the ball
between another opponents legs before breaking into the box and seeing his shot
across goal palmed back out by the perfectly positioned Flinders. The pressure
didn't end there though, with Hines picking up the ball shortly after and
firing past Flinders, only to see youngster Jack Baldwin clear off the line.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the half drawing to a close, both sides continued to squander
opportunities. Billy Bingham and Luke Howell both thundered wide from outside
the box for the visitors, while Luke James' free-kick was dealt with well by
the Daggers defence. Andy Monkhouse then found himself in the book for a late
tackle on Gavin Hoyte, an action that effectively saw the end of an intriguing
first period.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_83kROoumJ2Wk4LkyCUt1ADpBfjd2DzySOdznYswcuqnAIfnV2E_GAzVpeEvPw7kYDYdM5a1Q7XT3CWvkpntxDr0PIg0pWtXq4lrVrxmHTtwZyV77kxOgPCBLiNHJ5o299J64ONqhb0Iv/s1600/hartlepool+away+sign.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_83kROoumJ2Wk4LkyCUt1ADpBfjd2DzySOdznYswcuqnAIfnV2E_GAzVpeEvPw7kYDYdM5a1Q7XT3CWvkpntxDr0PIg0pWtXq4lrVrxmHTtwZyV77kxOgPCBLiNHJ5o299J64ONqhb0Iv/s320/hartlepool+away+sign.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice touch by Hartlepool</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As the first half drew to a close, I put to an end my discrepancies with League
Two catering and headed to sample the Hartlepool burger bar. Aptly named the
Hungry Monkey, coinciding with Hartlepool's famous nickname, it
offered a decent choice of food, even if murmurs surrounding the pies were not as favourable. Nevertheless I persevered with the hot-dog, and priced at £3.50 you
certainly get a bang for your buck! Without doubt the best half-time snack I've
had in League Two (bold claim), and they even serve alcohol if it takes your
fancy, which given the conditions, it didn't. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having returned to my seat that I didn't sit on, the second half began in
earnest as Daggers looked to conjure up an equaliser. Imperatively the visitors
now had the wind with them, giving an extra kick when it was needed with ball's
lofted over the top. The only problem with this of course, is that if you over
hit a lofted pass then there's a high chance that it'll go out of play for a
goal kick - something that happened on many occasions in the second period. It began slower than the first forty-five as cynical challenges threatened to dominate the play. With inspiration and imagination looking decimated, it was left to that man
Zavon Hines to magic up something out of nothing once again. The
slippery wideman beat two Pools defenders before cutting inside and onto his
left, hitting a spectacular curling effort that flew past Flinders to put
Daggers back on level terms. Zavon Hines, the patron saint of unexpected away
day equalisers.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjersR84jazhuGAW9qfd4_5T6CMH0AFWKrklRNdiR_rzGbKbQt3y213x4l4ODgbc3KpU_IxrGJ94ph5rKjb5vAwlv2-Fq95rqDH8T67Smac9p3HfoHKw0x_i3qVaA-J8EahxzJIvMFH1WH7/s1600/Abu+Ogogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjersR84jazhuGAW9qfd4_5T6CMH0AFWKrklRNdiR_rzGbKbQt3y213x4l4ODgbc3KpU_IxrGJ94ph5rKjb5vAwlv2-Fq95rqDH8T67Smac9p3HfoHKw0x_i3qVaA-J8EahxzJIvMFH1WH7/s1600/Abu+Ogogo.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ogogo came close</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett's men then went in search of a second that would have given them
the lead in the contest, and but for a brilliant piece of defending from
Baldwin they would have had it. Rhys Murphy advanced into the box following his
release down the left, but instead of being selfish the ex-Arsenal youngster
opted to square the ball for Ogogo who would have given Daggers the lead had
Baldwin not stuck out a crucial leg at the crucial moment.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As the game entered its final half an hour, the chances came thick and fast.
The corner from Baldwin's block led to a Pools counter attack, resulting in
another superb close range stop at the near post by Lewington from Coronation
Street's Duckworth. Despite that close encounter of the Pool kind, Daggers
continued to assert considerable pressure. Just moments later a free-kick on
the right was headed goalwards by Abu Ogogo, forcing Flinders into another fine
save to divert the ball round the post.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Siege mentality was by now incumbent on the Daggers forward line, highlighted
by Zavon Hines' continuous nature of drawing fouls out of the
Hartlepool full backs. Again Dagenham nearly took the lead from a set-piece,
this time Brian Saah's glancing header bounced agonisingly wide of the far
post, much to the relief of the helpless Flinders. At the other end Pools midfielder Christian Burgess headed wide of the mark,
while the referee made himself busy by dishing out two yellow cards in quick succession. First Zavon
Hines was cautioned for a mistimed challenged, with Simon Walton going into the
book minutes later for wrapping his legs around Hines' midriff in
controversial fashion. Luke James soon lamped a shot wide of the near post as
Hartlepool cranked up the pressure.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And with little over ten minutes remaining of the contest, Hartlepool made
their minimalistic pressure count in the most frustrating of circumstances. A
corner on the right hand-side was met at the back stick by Andy Monkhouse who
out-jumped the Daggers defence to head across Chris Lewington and into the net.
Another set-piece goal conceded for Burnett's side who appear to still have
lingering doubts about their method of defending from corners.</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWzEcR-yiYBgMMHMvWbz2bXzyl0KeBlO5gG8jnPgsPgEP7EX1JmTNdSsgk_a1tqSqfYH_xqzz6tyXJnZZGAvHkj0Rvq8uEcgC6afhhMiyr7OooPLCCBViuNgoH6v7YnEPPCC_l5t_Ap56/s1600/Billy+Bingham.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWzEcR-yiYBgMMHMvWbz2bXzyl0KeBlO5gG8jnPgsPgEP7EX1JmTNdSsgk_a1tqSqfYH_xqzz6tyXJnZZGAvHkj0Rvq8uEcgC6afhhMiyr7OooPLCCBViuNgoH6v7YnEPPCC_l5t_Ap56/s320/Billy+Bingham.JPG" width="101" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bingham tested Flinders<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Any remaining hope of a comeback was extinguished minutes after the goal as
Burnett introduced Chris Dickson in place of Luke Howell. An attacking change,
although my current scepticism of Dickson suggests that we may have been better
off sticking Seabright up front. I've been harsh to give him such a hard time
so early on in his Daggers career, but as yet he's not impressed me when he's been
tasked with doing a job. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Still, there was ten minutes left for Daggers to find an answer - and it so
nearly came when Christian Burgess handballed on the edge of the area. Billy
Bingham and Zavon Hines stood over the ball, but Bingham took it following
Hines' lay off, with only another superb Flinders diving save denying Bingham's
drilled effort that somehow found its way through the Hartlepool wall. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
A double change quickly ensued as both sides attempted to end the game on top;
Obafemi was on for Daggers while Jordan Richards came on for Pools. Despite the substitution, Daggers were unable to mount any real attack as Hartlepool closed the
game out superbly. Their attackers kept hold of the ball up the field to deny
Dagenham any last foray forward, with the defence snuffing out any ball that
was punted upfield in search of a Daggers forward. The referee had by now seen
enough, blowing his whistle to signal the end of the contest and the end of
Dagenham's recent unbeaten run.</span><br />
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3RH5nuIMBsGbpg6whaYP1GUv7j-GJ37qAcBX7S4z6E5kr85qevwbcDNjAeO0r4UspTelZYrclA896CxrlgE-lE1KSOB4q5nT7fLtJlMni_BOdWsA3rMFM1yHvuiTlqEg2ndpFmsnGLuB/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3RH5nuIMBsGbpg6whaYP1GUv7j-GJ37qAcBX7S4z6E5kr85qevwbcDNjAeO0r4UspTelZYrclA896CxrlgE-lE1KSOB4q5nT7fLtJlMni_BOdWsA3rMFM1yHvuiTlqEg2ndpFmsnGLuB/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My camera skills are still top notch.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a disappointing defeat
given our second half display in particular, made all the more frustrating by
the fact that it was probably the best performance we've put in for a good
month or so. Our ability to fashion numerous goalscoring chances and score
through flashes of brilliance is a welcome plus to our season, and something
that will surely help us out a lot more in the coming weeks. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But it was sloppy defending,
especially the set-piece that has undone us again and denied us a share of the
spoils. That and tremendous goalkeeping from Scott Flinders, whom I firmly
believe is by far and away the best goalkeeper in League Two. If you have him
in your side, you've already got one up on your opponents at the back. His
tremendous form has been apparent for years now, making him a real asset in the
Pools promotion charge. Elsewhere I was also impressed with Hartlepool veteran
Andy Monkhouse alongside tricky young forwards Luke James and James Poole. They
have a decent core of a side and if they can get another striker in during
January to banish their profligacy, then they'll be contenders come the end of
the season.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for Daggers, I'm not quite
sure whether it was a case of missed opportunities or poor defending. So I'll
put it down to a combination of both, with an emphasis on the former. Billy
Bingham shone in midfield, while Zavon Hines continued to prove what a valuable
player he is in the side. And for all of the flak Chris Lewington gets
(deserved or undeserved), he proved once more on Saturday why he's in the team;
making a string of successive stops to ensure Hartlepool didn't open up a wider
lead. It's hard to be damning of our performance because it really wasn't bad
at all. All we can do is pick up the baton next week against Bristol City and
try to resurrect this result with a scalp in the FA Cup - something we are
perfectly capable of doing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where Hartlepool as a place is concerned, it
seemed charming and rather nice. I can't stress enough how away supporters should
visit the Millhouse Pub if you ever go to Victoria Park, while the ground
itself is also a mix of the old and the new in football. The whole place
retains a certain charm that some places in League Two do not seem to have,
making it one of my favoured away days so far this season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So that's it really, a defeat,
but plenty of positives to take as we strode back out into the dark night of
Hartlepool. As mentioned, we travel to Bristol City next week in the middle of
a combination of games that upon culmination against AFC Wimbledon, will have
seen us play eight away and just three at home since the beginning of October.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Daggers Scale<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>doesn't do FA conspiracy theories,
but if we did....<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There will more than likely be an
away report for Bristol City, seeing as it's a new ground - so have a good week
and we'll reconvene next Sunday! Remember you can follow me on Twitter with,
@NickMurphyDRFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-8298691769865037582013-09-23T23:18:00.000+01:002013-09-23T23:18:06.777+01:00Morecambe 2-2 Daggers, Murphy Ogogo!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv-vKMU3DUcrWTS3B1sEVR6jz0Y51MxIWBnSmAqLRVVi8Z9yE0o7YdBb-soQhBPf_ILKt-FiEQzUrKBz_T7q_m6CD4Ov-ndaskudQKQ3tKi3hU7z_NytCa5byTnESmUIekZ75fGXxr8hI/s1600/Globe+Arena%252C+Morecambe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLv-vKMU3DUcrWTS3B1sEVR6jz0Y51MxIWBnSmAqLRVVi8Z9yE0o7YdBb-soQhBPf_ILKt-FiEQzUrKBz_T7q_m6CD4Ov-ndaskudQKQ3tKi3hU7z_NytCa5byTnESmUIekZ75fGXxr8hI/s320/Globe+Arena%252C+Morecambe.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Trips to Morecambe are usually
eventful for,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Daggers
Scale - </i>predominantly because our last two attempts to reach the Globe Arena
have failed due to inclement weather. But on Saturday, we finally made it to
the seaside resort to witness Dagenham & Redbridge salvage a </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">last gasp draw
courtesy of a Rhys Murphy 94th minute equaliser. That was only after Morecambe
turned the game around through Mark Hughes and Ryan Williams following Abu
Ogogo's strike early on.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With no risk of the game being called off due to the weather this time around,
we set off from Chadwell Heath at around 8am for the long journey to
Lancashire. After a quick change, we boarded our surprisingly empty Virgin
Trains Service to Lancaster just shy of 9:30am. Another quick change onto
possibly the most modern Northern Rail service I've ever been on (this was more
1990's rather than the usual 1960's feel); we arrived in Morecambe at around
12:30pm.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Upon arrival we opted to take the scenic route through the town by walking the one
mile distance to the ground rather than calling a taxi. It allowed me the
chance to make several judgements about the place. Namely one - it resembled
God's waiting room, and two, it didn't seem like a very multicultural community.
Then again, we only get a snapshot of the town in the time that we're there and
as a result can only base our opinions on what we see in that short time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4L-3ZMlOh_5909IcUfUM4HUnVvjGx4OJKQ7MMqDwYBcV3lcJPaYzBAgBZ08ZPynXgzz-_BA_Z1wREOMo5TCEgWomq6nm16_5jJmlHSZKdYI4MGbdgQ1C9xhVAOK9bZe1FLtaXvgA_FWlz/s1600/Morecambe+Polo+Tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4L-3ZMlOh_5909IcUfUM4HUnVvjGx4OJKQ7MMqDwYBcV3lcJPaYzBAgBZ08ZPynXgzz-_BA_Z1wREOMo5TCEgWomq6nm16_5jJmlHSZKdYI4MGbdgQ1C9xhVAOK9bZe1FLtaXvgA_FWlz/s320/Morecambe+Polo+Tower.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The </i>must see attraction on Morecambe seafront. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After finding directions to the ground, we set about finding the seafront to
guide our path to the stadium. It's fair to say Morecambe is quite a rundown
place unfortunately. Dilapidated buildings line the streets; while a multitude
of houses down the side roads remain unused and seemingly forgotten about. What
Morecambe does have however, is a polo tower. Quite why I'm not sure, but
nonetheless it amused me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having walked down the long, straight road for a good 20 minutes, we finally
came across the Hurley Flyer Pub where we resided for an hour or so. With no
Sky TV to show the lunchtime kick off's and ID required to buy a drink - we
were devoid of both pre-match entertainment and a pre-match pint. Nevertheless
it was a quaint little pub that I'd recommend to away fans if they can go
without watching the early Saturday kick-off's.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With 15:00 approaching we exited
the pub for the Globe Arena, which is situated literally a stone’s throw from
the back of the pub itself. With a slick front entrance, not
to dissimilar to the one at Burton Albion - it's easy to think that
the Globe is just your run of the mill modern build. The away turnstiles
quickly tell you otherwise, at just over a foot wide making it nigh on
impossible for anyone above average build to enter into the stadium.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6RHU2pMzttc2CYuZrfzKsnbla7ofFhkJbcPxkPvpt4KCPCDPNZNJfjwT48jeKcoUdTk-bMpARMzLX18knjDXtBDymP0KkLE1SZChriw4mKavrtq12iCywiIuz9SjY8hMAgocm8IQYBkR/s1600/The+Bay+Radio+Stand,+The+Globe+Arena,+Morecambe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6RHU2pMzttc2CYuZrfzKsnbla7ofFhkJbcPxkPvpt4KCPCDPNZNJfjwT48jeKcoUdTk-bMpARMzLX18knjDXtBDymP0KkLE1SZChriw4mKavrtq12iCywiIuz9SjY8hMAgocm8IQYBkR/s320/The+Bay+Radio+Stand,+The+Globe+Arena,+Morecambe.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The vacant away terrace.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The away concourse is what I've come to expect of the stadiums in League Two.
The cold concrete structure has a large amount of space complete with Sky TV in
the corner to catch Jeff Stelling and co with the scores at half time. After a
short twisting walk you reach the pitch, made to seem park like by the lack of
a real stand on the far side. At this point I should mention we were housed in
the corner of the main stand for the afternoon, rather than the away terrace
that supporters who travel in large numbers receive.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Our stand which is named after the current chairman, Peter McGuigan, is all
seated and also accommodates home fans. With a capacity of 2,200 it's
completely undercover with no viewing restrictions and plenty of leg-room if
you want to sit down. It also has reinforced sides to ensure that the sea-breeze
doesn't give away supporters frostbite - a feature that is especially important
in the winter months.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuToBrPvqaWEfRatjB827KkhWqUdsS8YFjo5EZeaZZLuRfvj4Bx_PBAXICp5FNx4hYsXppq4-jrG0CxaX4jdbl91ZKlJqFRYv4wNq8ljr0zb0JP5jnRgYGredsFaypkOaRYYBDq6GEelsq/s1600/Globe+Arena+Morecambe+FC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuToBrPvqaWEfRatjB827KkhWqUdsS8YFjo5EZeaZZLuRfvj4Bx_PBAXICp5FNx4hYsXppq4-jrG0CxaX4jdbl91ZKlJqFRYv4wNq8ljr0zb0JP5jnRgYGredsFaypkOaRYYBDq6GEelsq/s320/Globe+Arena+Morecambe+FC.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The rest of the ground feels a lot more "League Two", but that's not
to say I didn't like it. The majority of the home support stands in the West
Terrace which has a capacity of 2234, allowing for a great deal of noise to be
generated when the Shrimps are doing well. The rest of the supporters are given
the long uncovered terrace that is split into two parts on the far side. At
just a few steps high, only the hardiest of souls would dare to set foot their
on a rainy day - which begs the question, why was a roof not put over it when
the stand was built?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Nevertheless we took our seats in the rather steep main stand, which gave us a
terrific view across the town including the now famous, Polo Tower. The PA
system blared out some terrific pre-match tunes, which were unfortunately
somewhat out of place in a stadium that contained just over 1700 people. I was
enjoying myself anyway. After the final song had played over the tannoy, the
teams emerged from the tunnel to a warm ripple of applause. They lined up as
follows...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Morecambe:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Roche, Hughes, Diagne,
Wright, Parrish, Kenyon, Williams, Drummond, Sampson, Ellison, Amond.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington, Connors, Doe,
Saah, Hoyte, Bingham, Ogogo, Howell, Hines, Murphy, Obafemi.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Woodall, Elito,
Wilkinson, Femi, Reed, Saunders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne Burnett chose to name an
unchanged side for the visit to Morecambe, allowing forward Afolabi Obafemi to
retain his starting place. Jake Reed returned to the bench in place of winger
Sean Shields, while Josh Scott remained missing due to illness/injury. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvWvmKB1HDABC5_PPOWP6ffgGFnJe6E7GaJQFQh_uFeef2RTcmOuf0VLcy9FEYkMTybp_xpEdu5P85i7JL727qNAgOMAJQoDPv9Ym5iMzNMN1Jty5p4d-wwfg2qxgYFTb1zNnP0c8wYyZ/s1600/Morecambe+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWvWvmKB1HDABC5_PPOWP6ffgGFnJe6E7GaJQFQh_uFeef2RTcmOuf0VLcy9FEYkMTybp_xpEdu5P85i7JL727qNAgOMAJQoDPv9Ym5iMzNMN1Jty5p4d-wwfg2qxgYFTb1zNnP0c8wYyZ/s320/Morecambe+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the teams announced and
ready to go, the referee blew his whistle to indicate the start of the match.
It started lively with Daggers on the attack, Zavon Hines seeing his shot
deflected onto the post and behind for a corner. It was end to end action, with
Jack Sampson testing Chris Lewington before Padraig Amond crashed his glancing
header onto the crossbar and out for a goal kick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With both sides pressing early
on, it was inevitable that the match would quieten down as the half
wore on. Even with that lull, Daggers still looked threatening and as a result
took the lead with 20 minutes played. Neat build up down the right hand side
released Afolabi Obafemi in the centre who threaded through for Abu Ogogo to
slot the ball calmly through the legs of Barry Roche for a 1-0 lead. Incredibly
it was Ogogo's fourth goal of the season, despite having only scored five in
his previous four years at Daggers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Nonetheless it was a deserved lead for the visitors who would now undoubtedly
sit back inviting pressure from the Morecambe front line. And as predicted,
that was the case. First the lively Kevin Ellison saw his shot comfortably
saved by Lewington, before Amond tested Lewy who gathered at the second
attempt. Even with the Shrimps pressure, Daggers were still able to carve out
opportunities - Obafemi dragging a shot wide of the post on the half hour
mark. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
From then on in it was all Morecambe and in particular Kevin Ellison, the chief
orchestrator in the home sides onslaught. First he saw his fierce strike closed
down well by Brian Saah, while minutes later Padraig Amond headed just over
from Ryan Williams' corner that initially came about through Ellison down the
right.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqLQp2H858sMfaxWH_x8G_HbCPC4xQAuZx4Sroea5Fx2nOxjxskTzQNpt1lQUYnWzqvZirMnsuanSTOig_MOA5ZDVxSQ4NuCg-pj1wWCceKXGWa2jZQYu93HszNQUdiYAa9iCQpGLeeF/s1600/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMNqLQp2H858sMfaxWH_x8G_HbCPC4xQAuZx4Sroea5Fx2nOxjxskTzQNpt1lQUYnWzqvZirMnsuanSTOig_MOA5ZDVxSQ4NuCg-pj1wWCceKXGWa2jZQYu93HszNQUdiYAa9iCQpGLeeF/s320/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the pressure increasing, Lewington was forced into two more brilliant
diving saves before the break to deny both Ellison and in particular Rhys
Williams, whose effort just before half-time was extraordinarily parried over the
bar by the former Leatherhead 'stopper. Meanwhile ex-Macclesfield left-back
Tony Diagne glanced over unmarked from a corner as Daggers just about held on
following a succession of controversial free-kicks towards the end of the half.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the ball was booted upfield,
the referee who was being lambasted by Daggers fans blew for half time. It was
an immense relief to hear the whistle for all concerned in the visiting camp,
whose had been under siege for large parts of the second half. Quite how
Morecambe hadn't gone in level at half-time was a mystery. But
more bewildering was why Daggers had slumped so poorly in the latter
stages of the second half after such an impressive start.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
During the interval I decided to go downstairs to sample some of Morecambe's
famed cuisine. They may officially have the best pies in the country, but what
the surveys don't tell you is that they have the most overpriced hot-dogs. At
£2.60 for a hot dog about as long as my index finger, in a bun that crumbles
faster than Barnet's Conference promotion challenge - I was not impressed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ-idsXrVaCdA0cpNrGurMj7TQ8f0KA7hjVG5PamyoEZiBhajWIoeRB0IpjxEBLPLYSZdY6zwx4Wom90u8ZbEd4rI8FpWYd1-Bo1bFgrYgIhThehGEtSNZFfFoZrIL8ioAHJxsiNoVria/s1600/Morecambe+FC+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZ-idsXrVaCdA0cpNrGurMj7TQ8f0KA7hjVG5PamyoEZiBhajWIoeRB0IpjxEBLPLYSZdY6zwx4Wom90u8ZbEd4rI8FpWYd1-Bo1bFgrYgIhThehGEtSNZFfFoZrIL8ioAHJxsiNoVria/s320/Morecambe+FC+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The second half restarts.<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With that discouraging episode out of the way, the teams returned for the
second half to yet more uplifting music. It's a shame really, because
Morecambe's selection of tunes would be brilliant in a sell out stadium at full
capacity, but with just under 2000 inside the Globe, it was always going to be
hard to create a good atmosphere. Also, I'm pretty sure I mentioned that at the
top of the Blog. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After the break, Morecambe continued from where they left off. Tony Diagne's ball
in from the left was quickly cleared away, before Rhys Murphy was flagged
offside for the umpteenth time up the other end. The Shrimps were finally
rewarded for all of their hard work on 52 minutes, and unsurprisingly it was
yet another set-piece goal conceded by Daggers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A free-kick on the left from Ryan Williams found the unmarked head of
ex-Accrington frontman Padraig Amond who glanced home past Chris Lewington to
level things up at 1-1. Unusually it wasn't the poor defending for the goal
that caused the most frustration for the away fans, more the contentious nature
of free-kick in the first place. Most (including myself), felt that Gavin Hoyte
had made a perfectly good challenge, but the referee who I'm obliged to say was
having a shocker anyway, felt differently and ultimately awarded the free-kick.
I know it doesn't excuse the poor defending, but you have to ask the question
of whether it was even a free-kick in the first place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
If you think for a minute that the Morecambe goal may have sprung Daggers back
into action, you're wrong. If anything it worked as an incentive for the hosts
to push on even more and go for a winner. The dangerous Kevin Ellison headed
over from close range, before Diagne screwed a shot wide from distance and then
Ellison again flashed one wide of the post. Sandwiched inbetween the Morecambe
pressure Wayne Burnett managed to make a change - bringing on the bigger Brian
Woodall for the pacey, but ineffective Afolabi Obafemi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The Shrimps onslaught continued as the half wore on, Jack Sampson the latest
to see an effort go wide of the post after he had worked himself into a good
position. He was soon substituted for Joe Mwasile in a like for like change.
With 15 minutes remaining the hosts came the closest yet, Diagne's ball in from
the left headed goalward by Amond, but Lewington saved comfortably.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6mdu51H5m1C9mSap3xBHXyAw2I7zzQQY7u5YusjwrAz06j1Jz5uMR2lZ7gSFDyXEygGeqUIfxrYpIGeRMWt8H9rMbilK1OPF3_PSlGj7cZq2PxNZAZJZkBcljRybkKYjk-DU1jcvc8fa/s1600/Morecambe+FC+Open+Terrace,+Globe+Arena.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6mdu51H5m1C9mSap3xBHXyAw2I7zzQQY7u5YusjwrAz06j1Jz5uMR2lZ7gSFDyXEygGeqUIfxrYpIGeRMWt8H9rMbilK1OPF3_PSlGj7cZq2PxNZAZJZkBcljRybkKYjk-DU1jcvc8fa/s320/Morecambe+FC+Open+Terrace,+Globe+Arena.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The fans in the open terrace had something to cheer about.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the pressure steadily increasing throughout, a goal
was inevitable and on 77 minutes, both sets of supporters were
finally put out of their contrasting miseries. Ryan Williams' corner wasn't
dealt with properly, leaving former Barnet midfielder Mark Hughes to scoop up
and slam the ball home into the roof of the net from close range. No matter how
much you expect the goal, it's always a killer when it goes in and
unfortunately this time, we deserved it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
That goal made it 2-1 to the hosts, leaving Daggers deflated after a dismal
second half showing. Medy Elito was quickly introduced for the unusually poor
Billy Bingham to try and give the visitors more attacking intent going into the
final 10 minutes. Yet it was the hosts who continued to provide the majority of
the pressure, Amond forcing another diving save from the overworked Lewington.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With time running out, Daggers launched a final onslaught in the closing five
minutes and but for Barry Roche, would have been level. Gavin Hoyte's brilliant
inswinging ball into the box was knocked back by Hines towards Rhys Murphy, who
saw his tame header saved at point blank range by Roche to preserve the
Morecambe lead. Brian Woodall followed up with the rebound but could only blast
into an empty terrace. Surely it was Daggers' best and ultimately final chance
of the afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBxnVATHCxfduVbQkF19V6guCW1jp-x3AW_P6Bc6F7788Q6IawiVmMyaWG-5eCtCj-MDYe39bSqtQcP2BgCdcaKDXVRkzSTgMUo1Uyu0YbczH581SOmbV3f7qQARdmvW5_a9Y9oLzEj9F/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+fans+at+Morecambe+FC.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSBxnVATHCxfduVbQkF19V6guCW1jp-x3AW_P6Bc6F7788Q6IawiVmMyaWG-5eCtCj-MDYe39bSqtQcP2BgCdcaKDXVRkzSTgMUo1Uyu0YbczH581SOmbV3f7qQARdmvW5_a9Y9oLzEj9F/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+fans+at+Morecambe+FC.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">77 Travelling Daggers fans.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But just as all looked lost, Daggers salvaged a late equaliser four minutes
into stoppage time. Chris Lewington's hopeful punt upfield was latched onto by
Hines who interchanged with Abu Ogogo before advancing into the box and
squaring for Rhys Murphy to slam the ball home past Barry Roche and into the
roof of the Morecambe net, sending the away fans delirious in the process. The
73 Daggers in the away stand couldn't believe it - myself included.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The players ran into the corner where several supporters had gathered to
celebrate together, making a congregation of high octane emotions. There was
the small matter of having to suppress a late Morecambe surge from the restart,
but the referee quickly blew up to send Daggers home with a perhaps undeserved
share of the spoils. Cue the biggest cheer you'll hear for an away point all
season, with the exception of Scunthorpe last month where we did exactly the
same thing for Luke Howell's last gasp equaliser.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42FonNs-dz0pDizyoCyIdc8fEt8R61Ii4EBy25b8yg5jMG7wxHW03WQQbBk52p34tKLLU1AFZXiL-XPtxoW2mE3wUcboEmA5ODNAlpL-ApmHpMz8BjEg-lf4SrwzVbP59JmdYKO-ijqXh/s1600/Dagneham+&+Redbridge+Team+Huddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj42FonNs-dz0pDizyoCyIdc8fEt8R61Ii4EBy25b8yg5jMG7wxHW03WQQbBk52p34tKLLU1AFZXiL-XPtxoW2mE3wUcboEmA5ODNAlpL-ApmHpMz8BjEg-lf4SrwzVbP59JmdYKO-ijqXh/s320/Dagneham+&+Redbridge+Team+Huddle.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Morecambe supporters quickly evacuated the Globe Arena, disconsolate that such
a dominant performance had seen them come away with just the point. It also
broke the clubs run of four successive victories, moving them outside of the
play-off zone in the process. The Daggers faithful meanwhile remained,
applauding the players and management team following a hard earned, but not
deserved point.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
It's an interesting one really. We dominated the opening 20 minutes, but after
taking the lead we looked like a different side. There was a lack of urgency in
all areas, we were second best all over. If not for Chris Lewington in
particular during the first half, the scoreline could have looked a lot
different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Nevertheless we came away with a point, and maybe that's testament to our
resolve this season. In past years I think that's the sort of game where we may
have caved in completely and shipped three or four - but we didn't. We dug in
at the end and that extra bit of quality that you pay for in Hines paid off.
His dazzling bit of skill was his only really significant contribution all
afternoon, but what a contribution it was. Coupled with Murphy's predatory
striking instinct, we have a cracking pair of players going forward. Credit
also needs to go to Abu Ogogo for notching yet another goal!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have to admit though; I was
very surprised with the selection of Obafemi up front instead of a more
physical sort of player like Brian Woodall. I know we need pace, but away from
home generally we've seemed to go for the approach that best combats the
centre-halves - which normally is strength. Elsewhere Jack Connors continued to
impress, looking assured on the ball at left-back while Luke Howell put in
another committed performance in midfield.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My only other qualm is our
worrying deficiancies when defending from set-pieces. It’s clear to everyone at
the club, management staff included that this is our major weakness this
season. And once again it was exposed on Saturday afternoon. If we can sort
that out somehow, we will be a far sturdier outfit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Unfortunately I can't let the game go without having a moan at the officials.
They were absolutely abysmal, the worst I've seen in League Two in a good few
years. You don't expect them to get all decisions correct at this level, but a
decent grasp of the game would have been nice. Some of the decisions didn't
make sense and quite frankly, it became embarrassing. I don't like moaning at
the officials (contrary to popular belief), but Saturday's collection were
bordering on a joke. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And that was it basically. Finally we had completed a trip to Morecambe and
secured a point for our troubles. The journey home was largely uneventful,
although Zavon Hines was on our train for one reason or another.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next up for Daggers is Bury at
home on Saturday, while Morecambe travel south to Northampton Town. I do regret
to tell you that due to Sixth Form work and other
writing responsibilities,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The
Daggers Scale<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>will now only
be reserved for away matches - meaning no home games will be reported upon.
That is of course unless there's a freak home result, in which case a report
may be filed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always thank you for reading
and I'll speak to you again soon! Remember to follow me on Twitter
@NickMurphyDRFC.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-16050639348539444652013-09-09T19:47:00.001+01:002013-09-09T19:47:12.764+01:00Daggers 1-1 Exeter City, Parkin Space.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGk0izePUW40ow5YUxEqREnYZNBpkkd0mlCdGajn4zZ_-ZbHA9E3sxGh-ecj-XRlwxtHT2AdFBv4_0PMQe8T7V9aaCu28xhyvyUq4WP3Oz-He0IUDQEEZTIzCZkyJnOPYhaREJ4YyjJMg/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Exeter+City.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbGk0izePUW40ow5YUxEqREnYZNBpkkd0mlCdGajn4zZ_-ZbHA9E3sxGh-ecj-XRlwxtHT2AdFBv4_0PMQe8T7V9aaCu28xhyvyUq4WP3Oz-He0IUDQEEZTIzCZkyJnOPYhaREJ4YyjJMg/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Exeter+City.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><br /> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham & Redbridge
continued their mediocre start to the new season on Saturday with a 1-1 draw
against promotion chasing Exeter City. Despite a tough opening to the match,
Daggers took the lead in the first half through Josh Scott, before Sam Parkin
equalised for the visitors late in the second half with a controlled
header. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before the match there was cautious optimism ahead of the clash with Exeter.
Despite our notoriously poor record against the Grecians, we claimed all three
points at St James Park last year when we needed it most. Not only that but our
impressive 4-1 victory over Colchester United in midweek was also encouraging,
retaining our unbeaten home start to the season. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
There was to be no pre-match pints this week, as upon arrival we sought shelter
from the arctic winds in the warm alcove that is, the Sieve. Soon after our entrance
the teams were announced, but not without one or two surprise selections.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers boss Wayne Burnett made three changes to the side that was defeated in
convincing fashion at Mansfield last week. After his debut in the Johnstones
Paint Trophy in midweek, left back Jack Connors was handed his full league
debut at the expense of Femi who dropped to the bench. Medy Elito and Luke
Wilkinson were also replaced by Josh Scott and Gavin Hoyte, allowing Scott Doe
to revert to his more familiar centre back position alongside Brian Saah.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Connors, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Howell, Bingham, Ogogo, Hines, Scott, Murphy.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Wilkinson, Saunders,
Woodall, Elito, Obafemi, Femi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Exeter City:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Krysiak,
Woodman, Bennett, Baldwin, Coles, Sercombe, Oakley, Davies, Grimes, Gow,
Parkin.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the Daggerettes having completed their "routine", the teams soon
emerged from the tunnel to be greeted by warm applause from the 2000 or so
supporters inside the ground. After the pre-match pleasantries were adhered to
and the two most stylish managers in the division had shaken hands, we
began. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFjn6C3tNsqXVufLM_XWhpJ17y2XzjL_-y1zJtipu9yGTE13GjswB5ca4FMGlyhO7N2rh4BCnXoojIacVa32bwSZXY69kCq3UbuK4pMWTsrWZK7jjPUcXG9xBO4BmQiSbsz4xwraQc-DX/s1600/exeter+city+fans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgFjn6C3tNsqXVufLM_XWhpJ17y2XzjL_-y1zJtipu9yGTE13GjswB5ca4FMGlyhO7N2rh4BCnXoojIacVa32bwSZXY69kCq3UbuK4pMWTsrWZK7jjPUcXG9xBO4BmQiSbsz4xwraQc-DX/s320/exeter+city+fans.PNG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Exeter City fans<br />(From Twitter)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
From the off the visitors came within a lick of paint of taking the lead. Jack
Connors, on his Football League debut, gave the ball away on the left, allowing
Exeter to attack. A swift move saw the ball played to Arron Davies who took a
touch before curling a terrific effort goalwards that glanced off the post before
going out for a goal kick. It was a nervous start for Connors, who
understandably was feeling the pressure early on. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite that early chance, neither side could establish a real foothold on
proceedings during the opening stages. Zavon Hines shot wide for the hosts from
long range, while defender Danny Coles was on hand to deal with the early
threat down the Daggers' right hand side. With few chances for either side, it
was perhaps appropriate that Wayne Burnett's men should take the lead in
slightly fortuitous circumstances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A hopeful punt upfield from Brian Saah was raced onto by Josh Scott, who, after
Exeter goalkeeper Artur Krysiak fluffed his clearance, volleyed home from a
difficult position outside the box to give Daggers a 1-0 lead. The moment of
madness from Krysiak seemed to take an age to happen, leaving Daggers fans on
tenterhooks as to whether the ball had in fact gone in. Nonetheless we were now
1-0 up through Josh Scott's first league goal of the season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
That goal gave the hosts momentum to push forward in search of a second. The
onus was on Hines in particular, who was giving his full back a torrid time as
we edged closer to half time. The dynamic winger flashed down the right before
firing in a cross that evaded both sets of players before going out of play for
a throw in. Chances for Exeter were few and far between, but top scorer Alan
Gow managed to test Chris Lewington 30 minutes in with a long range effort.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAP0_TvTnPXiRdLUjlMpuC2FNEx1mT9knG34v_Vo_laKl0PXPY4yPS8FNLLI_vWwfCLsLzDm6t8Nb7OUzg1_A7KjnksiuaNEuqcGsBwZKMn9guJsxRw1WAogKTUprTVbLSCuex_MRUdDD/s1600/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAAP0_TvTnPXiRdLUjlMpuC2FNEx1mT9knG34v_Vo_laKl0PXPY4yPS8FNLLI_vWwfCLsLzDm6t8Nb7OUzg1_A7KjnksiuaNEuqcGsBwZKMn9guJsxRw1WAogKTUprTVbLSCuex_MRUdDD/s320/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Liam Sercombe and Luke Howell then both traded strikes on goal, but in truth it
was a half of few chances. Neither side had been able to establish a real
foothold on the game, and as a result, few clear cut chances had been created.
The referee soon blew his whistle for half time, bringing to a close a
satisfactory half for Daggers fans.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
During half time we were treated to another rendition of the Daggerettes, who
as I'm sure you know by now, are my favourite Barking & Dagenham based
dance troupe. Soon after their three minutes of fame was over, the teams
re-emerged for the second half, with the visitors having made two changes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Jimmy Keohane was introduced for Arron Davies, with David Wheeler replacing
midfielder Matt Grimes. Despite the change, it was Daggers who opened the half
the stronger. Once again it was Hines who looked the most menacing, forcing a
shot from close range out of Krysiak after he weaved his way round the Exeter
defence. From the resulting corner he went close again, this time firing just
over the bar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Exeter then began to grow into the game, forcing successive corners that were
dealt with by the resolute Daggers defence. Up the other end Rhys Murphy headed
narrowly wide, while the newly introduced Keohane forced a quick double stop
from Chris Lewington. It was the same pair who came closest as the half wore
on, Murphy sliding another effort wide before Keohane flashed a shot just the
wrong side of the post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With just over 25 minutes left both teams continued to push for a goal -
Daggers to make the game safe and Exeter to draw things level. Yet it was the
hosts who continued to create the better of the opportunities. Jack Connors who
was growing into the game more and more as it progressed skipped past his man
before playing the ball to Zavon Hines. Hines, the architect of so much of
Daggers' best work all afternoon, turned on his brilliance once again, forcing
his way to the byline before cutting back for Josh Scott whose left footed shot
was superbly stopped by the diving Artur Krysiak. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiGbYlKUYDD_ov2JtQzHLv4l4cpfqR5b25kYyeQU1b8P-zkSxcJd26e8tITkorUEA6DCVOmTUa5uNVFwPc84BgXmQoX2qcMD_RnwwY3812va7jeu1cLoefIsu3YYadavvUYgA0Bsg2haw/s1600/Brian+Woodall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaiGbYlKUYDD_ov2JtQzHLv4l4cpfqR5b25kYyeQU1b8P-zkSxcJd26e8tITkorUEA6DCVOmTUa5uNVFwPc84BgXmQoX2qcMD_RnwwY3812va7jeu1cLoefIsu3YYadavvUYgA0Bsg2haw/s320/Brian+Woodall.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
That terrific save seemingly acted as the catalyst for an Exeter revival. But
before they could truly kickstart their push for a point, Daggers made a double
change. First Brian Woodall came on for Rhys Murphy, then five minutes later
Medy Elito was introduced for Josh Scott. The substitutions seemed to disrupt
Daggers' play, allowing Exeter back into the game to create several
opportunities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
First the home defence were forced to clear away a tricky Pat Baldwin delivery,
and then Alan Gow fired another speculative effort wide of the post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But the Grecians finally found
their leveller on 80 minutes. Former Leicester City maestro Matt Oakley
delivered a ball in from the left that found Sam Parkin who was on hand to
convert superbly with a glancing header that tied things up at 1-1. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the game there for the taking, both sides pushed following the equaliser.
Good work on the left was wasted by Brian Woodall, who fired high and wide
after working himself into a good position thanks to yet more neat play from
Zavon Hines. Keohane aimed a late effort wide of the post, while Medy Elito
found the scoreboard behind the goal during the three minutes of injury time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Ultimately 1-1 was how it stayed. Daggers were punished for failing to
capitalise on their chances against a strong Exeter City side that will be
there or there about’s come the end of the season. Their lack of goal threat
could be an issue however, with Alan Gow the only real problem bar Parkin's header
for the goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers meanwhile will be
disappointed to have let three points slip from their grasp through abject
finishing. Still, it was good to have Josh Scott score on his 100th appearance
with a well taken finish. Hopefully alongside Murphy, Josh will thrive in a
similar way to when he played alongside Paul Benson. Elsewhere Jack Connors did
well after a nervous start, while Zavon Hines continued to prove why League One
clubs were looking at him through the summer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next up for Daggers is Bristol
Rovers at home on Saturday, while Exeter City are on their travels again at
Northampton Town. Have a good week and remember you can follow me on Twitter at
@NickMurphyDRFC. Thanks for reading! </span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh and sorry for the lack of pictures from the game, only my Blackberry decided to stop working for the afternoon.</span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-90281811472751973672013-08-26T20:01:00.001+01:002013-08-26T20:01:17.242+01:00Daggers 1-1 Newport County, Hines Means Beans!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HGxBz2Gzj1vjn5FFbdOFNQNYLf6nFJy1OmlQR-_ZbIfP7aF6c3jTIgCAxvszfIFr1FqEpOJ9ciC3KEadcQeoQvx7_1AmYp0-nzYKTDn3kxUyUnBJGQ9A8ybm7LOH5stSxqiRLMmagjzv/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Newport+County.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HGxBz2Gzj1vjn5FFbdOFNQNYLf6nFJy1OmlQR-_ZbIfP7aF6c3jTIgCAxvszfIFr1FqEpOJ9ciC3KEadcQeoQvx7_1AmYp0-nzYKTDn3kxUyUnBJGQ9A8ybm7LOH5stSxqiRLMmagjzv/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Newport+County.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham & Redbridge extended
their unbeaten league run to three matches on Saturday afternoon courtesy of a
1-1 draw with newly promoted Newport County. Abu Ogogo's strike midway through
the second half cancelled out Chris Zebroski's early effort as both sides left
Victoria Road with a point a piece. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Pre-match there was a good level of optimism following on from last weekend’s
1-1 draw with Scunthorpe. The second half performance at Glanford Park was one
of the best Daggers have produced under Wayne Burnett, if that could be
translated into a full 90 at home then we stood a good chance of picking up 3
points. Nevertheless Newport couldn't be underestimated. With momentum still
carrying on from last year’s promotion, the Exiles had taken 6 points from a
possible 9 available, with their attack forming the basis of their current good
form.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the rain drizzling down overhead, there was no stop in the clubhouse this
week, only time to meet up in the pie & mash shop and head down to Victoria
Road. As we entered, the rain grew heavier which was made increasingly evident
by the sparse nature of the Bury Road End. Well would you be mad enough to
stand out in it? Then again, we're all mad enough to be here in the first
place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Just as we found our spot in the Sieve, the teams emerged from the tunnel to
warm applause from all four sides of the stadium. The pre-match rituals were
completed with haste whilst the line ups rang out from overhead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Femi, Saah, Doe, Hoyte, Ogogo, Howell, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Bingham, Obafemi,
Wilkinson, Dennis, Connors, Hines.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite the availability of fit again centre half Luke Wilkinson; Wayne Burnett
persevered with the same side that picked up a point last weekend against
Scunthorpe. The front three of Murphy, Scott and Woodall continued with Medy
Elito supporting them from just behind. Zavon Hines, who signed on a one year
deal during the week, had to be content with a spot on the home bench.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Newport County:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Pidgeley,
Pipe, Hughes, Sandell, Naylor, Worley, Chapman, Minshull, Willmott, Zebroski,
Jolley.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Stephens, James, Jackson, Flynn,
Crow, Washington.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknkKQYfC8oER8-gJKu-NaH09icX5TcFz_TcGigErPHqQaqlTK1vrstdGrFrXpF4wfdxf9IcMICkypipxJalehR-ClXNHn7ikWJqE4AC8D1xd5VsTGseUC_eTfhNabnjryOFogbUs9XAKY/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Newport.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgknkKQYfC8oER8-gJKu-NaH09icX5TcFz_TcGigErPHqQaqlTK1vrstdGrFrXpF4wfdxf9IcMICkypipxJalehR-ClXNHn7ikWJqE4AC8D1xd5VsTGseUC_eTfhNabnjryOFogbUs9XAKY/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Newport.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the teams lined up and ready to go, the referee blew his whistle to get
the contest underway. Within minutes of the start, County 'keeper Lenny
Pidgeley was called into action. Medy Elito drove down the middle of the pitch
before releasing Josh Scott on the right who after taking a touch, shot
straight at Pidgeley, allowing the former Chelsea 'stopper to make a
comfortable save. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The hosts continued their early pressure soon after with Rhys Murphy firing
over from just outside the box. With little over 5 minutes played, Chris
Lewington was forced into a brilliant diving stop to deny Christian Jolley's
goalbound volley from Chris Zebroski's pin point cross. A terrific piece of
goalkeeping from Lewington who continues to cement himself as one of the
division’s best shot stoppers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Newport soon began to clasp a foothold in the game and should have taken the
lead when Jolley crossed for Zebroski, only for the ex-Torquay forward to fire
over from close range. Despite their dangerous looking attack, the visitors
were looking decidedly shaky at the back. And it showed once more 20 minutes in,
when Rhys Murphy found space on the left and shot just wide of Lenny Pidgeley's
goal from a tight angle. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco4RmOh203gx-YaUuLyhyke7fjkjHMgrY_9CYT0lnendfg0vcpXeAGTKkU5-cvrAqHHl6YwMiEVQsh9WvbtqD4blA9ajovI_Sqz_zhdVaOstGHtMY3w4Moy9_CHgnQU4r8Kylq3PR8g-g/s1600/Scott+Doe,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgco4RmOh203gx-YaUuLyhyke7fjkjHMgrY_9CYT0lnendfg0vcpXeAGTKkU5-cvrAqHHl6YwMiEVQsh9WvbtqD4blA9ajovI_Sqz_zhdVaOstGHtMY3w4Moy9_CHgnQU4r8Kylq3PR8g-g/s320/Scott+Doe,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doe was at fault, amongst others.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to the open nature of the
game, it wasn't long before we saw the first goal of the afternoon. Josh Scott
was caught in possession going forward and after neat play in the middle of the
park, Chris Zebroski skipped past Femi, Brian Saah and Scott Doe before
unleashing an assured finish past Chris Lewington and into the corner of the
net. It sent the Exiles into a somewhat deserved 1-0 lead as the rain continued
to lash down on Victoria Road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers and in particular Josh Scott, looking to avenge his earlier mistake,
sprung back into action following the goal. Josh picked up the ball just
outside the box, dropped his shoulder to beat a defender before turning and
striking a shot which Pidgeley gathered at the second attempt. Newport were
quickly up the other end and but for a timely deflection, would have found
themselves two goals ahead. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With half-time approaching, a goal looking increasingly unlikely and the rain
coming down to such an extent that the pitch was barely visible - most were clamouring
for the half-time whistle. There was time for one more opportunity, a
cross-cum-shot on the left hand side whistling wide of the far post much to the
relief of Pidgeley. Nevertheless the referee soon ended everyone's misery and
brought an end to a dismal first half. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The half time break was uneventful at best, with the rain continuing to teem
down on the metal roof of the Sieve. The situation was made even worse
with the news that once again, my Saturday afternoon bet was failing to
materialise into cold, hard cash. One day I'll win, one day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Yf7jieygs2A4hLyydVq2zrBKYeN5jPDIOjaqxgJ9_8WQFrQK5paGcfZ163_2kmdilJst4jELewWwyn805H1Up_cs-SOUL988E341zw4uAS6uMZg5LoB4lnVZOBMO6AykWkcTwxOzHLNG/s1600/Billy+Bingham.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1Yf7jieygs2A4hLyydVq2zrBKYeN5jPDIOjaqxgJ9_8WQFrQK5paGcfZ163_2kmdilJst4jELewWwyn805H1Up_cs-SOUL988E341zw4uAS6uMZg5LoB4lnVZOBMO6AykWkcTwxOzHLNG/s320/Billy+Bingham.JPG" width="101" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before the second half could begin, Wayne Burnett opted to make a striking
double substitution. The average Medy Elito and Josh Scott (presumably taken
off as punishment for his mistake), were replaced by Billy Bingham in centre
midfield and new signing Zavon Hines in order to add a more creative
edge. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite the second half subs, it was Newport that looked the more likely to
score as the half began. Andy Sandell saw his first effort blocked behind by
Gavin Hoyte, whilst Chris Lewington was soon on hand to palm away Tom Naylor's
close range header. The two sides then traded blows, Lee Minshull firing a
strike past the post before Luke Howell saw his effort from the edge of the box
parried away by Pidgeley. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the half wearing on it becoming increasingly likely that the visitors
would double their lead, rather than Daggers finding an equaliser. On 56
minutes Adam Chapman's volley fell for Andy Sandell who could only fire
agonisingly over the bar from close range. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But just two minutes later, Daggers found their equaliser. Gavin Hoyte's far
post delivery was met by Abu Ogogo who bundled the ball home to make it 1-1.
Newport boss Justin Edinburgh acted quickly and in a surprise move replaced
standout performer Christian Jolley, with forward Conor Washington, who
once trialled with Daggers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the game now at level pegging, both sides felt as though three points were
there for the taking. First Robbie Willmott had an effort blocked by goalscorer
Ogogo, whilst up the other end Zavon Hines' mazy run resulted in a lazy shot
that was easily blocked by former Aldershot man, Sandell. The introduction of
Hines at half time acted as a catalyst for Daggers who now had a creative spark
in the side willing to take players on and crucially get down the wings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
On 73 minutes Justin Edinburgh opted to make his second change of the
afternoon, replacing Robbie Willmott with Michael Flynn, now in his third spell
with the Exiles. Despite the change, Daggers continued to pressure in the same
way that Newport had late in the first half. The mercurial Zavon Hines unlocked
the fragile County defence once more, advancing forward before firing a
deflected shot into the body of Pidgeley who was on hand to deny Daggers once
more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbV6OQuMcvqHbSQsOwgWLisTsql-61ed750Ig2mG2QfASiv4hCWQBTrHHNZ4NjC5P3w0rYUVrB2TzRtUtXW6Ny98ZuwqVA5JgbUed3hNNPDi_J8sdyQfbLOmwSlMtrZc8DjcWBStFyvWIW/s1600/Zebroski.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbV6OQuMcvqHbSQsOwgWLisTsql-61ed750Ig2mG2QfASiv4hCWQBTrHHNZ4NjC5P3w0rYUVrB2TzRtUtXW6Ny98ZuwqVA5JgbUed3hNNPDi_J8sdyQfbLOmwSlMtrZc8DjcWBStFyvWIW/s320/Zebroski.jpg" width="165" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Zebroski<br />www.SouthWalesArgus.co.uk<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As we headed into the final 10 minutes of the match, the visitors thought they
had snatched all three points. Directly from Rhys Murphy's cross, County broke
upfield, but from a tight angle with minimal home defending, Lee Minshull
could only manage to find the side netting. The break in play following the
missed chance saw Edinburgh make his final substitution, bringing on Danny Crow
for the impressive Chris Zebroski.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Perennial thorn in the Daggers side, Minshull continued to look like the most
likely scorer after the substitution. Particularly adept in the air, he first
managed to glance a header wide of the post before minutes later he came even
closer, directing the ball just inches the wrong side of the near post after
being left completely unmarked. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After Newport's near miss, it was the turn of the hosts to come agonisingly
close to finding a winner themselves. The talismanic Hines who had been a
danger ever since being introduced skipped past several defenders before
curling another effort just a yard or so wide of Pidgeley's post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And then minutes later a change by Wayne Burnett, Afolabi Obafemi being brought
on for Rhys Murphy, nearly heralded a goal. The pacey forward beat Derby loanee
Tom Naylor to the byline, before cutting inside and hitting a shot that beat
Pidgeley, but not Andy Hughes on the line whose last gasp clearance denied
Daggers a near certain victory.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Into stoppage time and back up the other end Newport were awarded a late, late
corner. These days at Victoria Road, corners are bemoaned as much as penalties,
such is our inferior defending from set-pieces. Luckily though, Andy Sandell's
corner was headed over the bar which ultimately wrapped up proceedings. A point
a-piece for Edinburgh and Burnett, with both sides remaining in the top half of
the table.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The game itself was very end to end and for both sides to come away with a
point is the right outcome. Daggers looked much improved following the
introduction of Zavon Hines, with the winger providing an injection of pace and
creativity as mentioned above. Luke Howell meanwhile ran the show in the middle
of the park and alongside Billy Bingham in the second half, an effective
pairing was formed. Bingham's calm nature on the ball accompanied Howell's engine-room
like qualities magnificently.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Newport on the other hand have some impressive qualities of their own. Despite
looking decidedly shaky at the back, going forward they're not to be messed
with. The goal threat of Zebroski alongside Christian Jolley is clear, not to
mention the added potency of Conor Washington who came off the bench. It
accompanied a strong aerial threat from Minshull in particular. Even with their
defensive frailties and their tendency to allow opponents too much time on
the ball, I've seen enough to suggest Newport will finish in the top half.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The league this year seems to be full of sides who are dangerous going forward,
but suspect at the back. Home form will be key for both Newport and Daggers
this year, with the former having already picked up 6 points from 6 at Rodney
Parade. Wayne Burnett's side relied heavily on away performances last season,
but this year we look like a far tougher outfit at Victoria Road, whilst
remaining more than competent on the road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next week Daggers travel to
Mansfield Town in a game that for one reason or another has been designated<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>all ticket.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>This means you cannot buy your
matchday ticket on the day, it must be bought in advance. Newport meanwhile
face West Bromwich Albion in the League Cup tomorrow evening, and for that
match I wish them the best of luck! I won't be at Field Mill next week, so we'll
reconvene in a week or so after either the Colchester or Exeter City match.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember you can follow me on
Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC. Enjoy your week and here's hoping for a Daggers
victory on Saturday</span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt;">!</span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-60336406425460694922013-08-19T19:18:00.001+01:002013-08-19T19:27:24.970+01:00Scunthorpe United 1-1 Daggers, Howell's About That!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoRKLK8Cw_uNLLnHuuxNrRQenMYdMWhGgUQbLpf2TBi1noIlb0bokkbBuWOl5peldl6uVbB2W-xNxft2-ua2NviLrt6isQPQ3BmPGjjdhdjzANziG20lnufIUmiBqpM2vhtsPU21zH87C/s1600/Scunthorpe+United+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXoRKLK8Cw_uNLLnHuuxNrRQenMYdMWhGgUQbLpf2TBi1noIlb0bokkbBuWOl5peldl6uVbB2W-xNxft2-ua2NviLrt6isQPQ3BmPGjjdhdjzANziG20lnufIUmiBqpM2vhtsPU21zH87C/s320/Scunthorpe+United+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
a defeat and a victory from their opening two games, Dagenham & Redbridge
completed the set on Saturday with a creditable 1-1 draw against Scunthorpe
United at Glanford Park. In what was a tight affair, all of the action came in
the final 20 minutes of the contest. Late goals from Chris Mirfin and Luke
Howell ensured both sides took a share of the spoils in the first ever meeting
between the two clubs. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ahead
of the game there was cause for optimism. Despite an opening day defeat at
Fleetwood, last weekend's 2-0 victory over York left many believing that we had
a chance against the Iron. Our forward play in the first two matches had been
admirable, with only the defence, and in particular our defending from
set-pieces letting us down. Against a powerful Scunthorpe side, that
was inevitably going to cause problems.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
all of the afternoon to look forward to, we set off from Chadwell Heath at
around 8:20 before arriving at Kings Cross just over an hour later. We soon
boarded our "Hull Trains" connection to Doncaster where we changed
onto the TransPennine Express, arriving at the quaint Scunthorpe station just
after 12:30. We quickly found a cab company and departed for Glanford Park
where upon arrival, we were denied access to the Iron Bar. Apparently there's
not enough room for away fans, although it was only half empty when we arrived.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgfdeNtt9SllIFtSlyEgH7pnCLQ4AWe1oTduTiArpnRGv6wMrqpujBgWsbKApM8aLR-a8EzukYPFTfoa4SdKsYiZSmG17MeJK9uSTa9lgQyPYYekrVeiOmReuijsyE9L3IplE9h4iI-uC/s1600/Scunthorpe+United+Badge+The+Iron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgfdeNtt9SllIFtSlyEgH7pnCLQ4AWe1oTduTiArpnRGv6wMrqpujBgWsbKApM8aLR-a8EzukYPFTfoa4SdKsYiZSmG17MeJK9uSTa9lgQyPYYekrVeiOmReuijsyE9L3IplE9h4iI-uC/s320/Scunthorpe+United+Badge+The+Iron.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That setback aside, we soon found
a pub/restaurant willing to take us in for the afternoon. After hiding Harry's
Bombardier's in a hedge outside (No, really), we went in for some pre-match
drinks. After a good couple of hours inside the Farmhouse, which is neither a
farm nor a house, we exited and headed for the stadium as kick-off approached.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Upon entering the stadium, you're greeted with a narrow concrete pathway and a
tunnel which leads out into the remainder of the four stands. Glanford Park is
quite a small arena, but one that can probably generate a terrific atmosphere
when full up. Three parts seating and one part terrace, it has a traditional
feel despite being a relatively modern build. The stadium itself is quite a
simple one, with all stands the same in height and adjoining onto one another
to create a bowl like shape. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHR-hAQS3C4XLsi8viIV-7LlYHW_7XGispI1tdwmFLu3ZFOGpgOyZMQ7XUK7xx6j5Vm2OCPmReFoqim6_3UmCeWIRdJhOr7skLLmPXwlHPEcupo8LdHuHXcnUdKOKICPAmbzfwargfx2E/s1600/The+South+Stand,+Glanford+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBHR-hAQS3C4XLsi8viIV-7LlYHW_7XGispI1tdwmFLu3ZFOGpgOyZMQ7XUK7xx6j5Vm2OCPmReFoqim6_3UmCeWIRdJhOr7skLLmPXwlHPEcupo8LdHuHXcnUdKOKICPAmbzfwargfx2E/s320/The+South+Stand,+Glanford+Park.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The South Stand.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Due to the anticipated low number of travelling supporters, Scunthorpe fans
were given use of all four stands within the stadium meaning Daggers were
housed in the Clugston overspill area in the East Stand. Usually visiting
supporters are given the 1678 capacity South Stand, but on our visit that was
reserved for families and those with promotional tickets. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Soon after we arrived, "Hi Ho Silver Lining" rung out over the PA
system as the atmosphere began to build ahead of kick off. With 3500 supporters
inside the ground ready and waiting, the teams emerged from the tunnel to a ripple
of applause.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Scunthorpe United:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Slocombe,
Dawson, Mirfin, Canavan, Nolan, McAllister, Hawkridge, Sparrow, Collins,
Burton, Winnall. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Daggers:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington, Femi,
Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Ogogo, Howell, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Connors, Bingham, Reed,
Gayle, Obafemi, Dennis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Unsurprisingly Wayne Burnett kept with the same eleven that won convincingly at
home to York City last weekend, with the front three of Brian Woodall, Rhys
Murphy and Josh Scott continuing to lead the line. Elsewhere both Sean Shields
and Gianluca Gracco were missing from the bench, allowing defender Ian Gayle to
give Daggers more defensive cover if needed.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLchFoN-chbM5p9wOcO0c9pq2UWVIU1rMzn0Y6-WR1JqQ83P9IPtow-NavhWE8ww3ID8Ik5fi4cosTPZhYTEsOnzde1_LBWe3Kau1IO6LXZAz2diT-Z7Ni7l6a5YczW_8KNx-I_rYQYPyi/s1600/Scunthorpe+United+FC+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLchFoN-chbM5p9wOcO0c9pq2UWVIU1rMzn0Y6-WR1JqQ83P9IPtow-NavhWE8ww3ID8Ik5fi4cosTPZhYTEsOnzde1_LBWe3Kau1IO6LXZAz2diT-Z7Ni7l6a5YczW_8KNx-I_rYQYPyi/s320/Scunthorpe+United+FC+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the pre-match pleasantries completed and the rain petering out overhead,
referee Darren Deadman blew his whistle to signal the beginning of the match.
And for the first quarter of an hour or so, we were all left wishing he hadn't.
An uninspiring start from both sides saw a </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">midfield battle engulf proceedings,
with few opportunities for either side. The well travelled Dean Burton tested
Chris Lewington with a tame header, whilst Sam Winnall shot well over for the
hosts.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As the half wore on the hosts
became increasingly dominant, first new signing Terry Hawkridge flashed a shot
wide of the post before Craig Dawson guided an effort over Lewington's bar.
Daggers were finding it difficult to establish a foothold in the match,
although Femi and Medy Elito were offering a degree of solace on the left hand
side. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With just over half an hour gone, Daggers finally registered their first shot
on the Iron goal. Following a Scunthorpe attack, the ball was played out to
Femi who after striding forward laid it to Medy Elito in the centre of the park.
Elito advanced forward, skipping past several challenges on his root to goal
before firing a misplaced shot wide of Slocombe's goal to the delight
of the home supporters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFaGK6UH71HdX24CY8mrSithRIMu9HAbWuHUMlR4DLaJm2IFDAp64jAXYkvGrbxMJ-bnk598FnyLM5MOSnYH4dpYTpyCLt7tAyvbgKTq-EH5CZD1RilDmTgvg7iQSsMVWqZSzP92QI3C5B/s1600/Abu+Ogogo,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFaGK6UH71HdX24CY8mrSithRIMu9HAbWuHUMlR4DLaJm2IFDAp64jAXYkvGrbxMJ-bnk598FnyLM5MOSnYH4dpYTpyCLt7tAyvbgKTq-EH5CZD1RilDmTgvg7iQSsMVWqZSzP92QI3C5B/s320/Abu+Ogogo,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="159" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Elito's effort was a mere blip in the first half for Scunthorpe who continued
to look the more likely scorers. Chris Lewington was called into action once
more to deny the impressive Terry Hawkridge after Abu Ogogo's mistake, whilst
Eddie Nolan headed over from a corner when he really should have found the
target. That miss brought an end to a poor first half showing from both sides,
even if Scunny looked the more likely to break the deadlock.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The visitors were being undone by their inability to stay onside in the
opposition half. This trait links directly to Rhys Murphy, who must have been
offside at least five times in the first half for failing to hold his run.
Murphy clearly knows where to be on the pitch when his team-mates have the ball;
he just needs to be a little less eager when latching onto any ball through.
After sitting through one of the better half-time entertainments in League Two,
the teams re-emerged onto the pitch for the second half. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As we started the second half Daggers looked rejuvenated, causing serious
problems to the hosts from the outset. Femi immediately posed a threat down the
left hand side, with Slocombe at full stretch to deny his cross reaching a
Daggers forward. Seconds later Brian Woodall was released through on goal, but
his low strike was tipped round the post superbly by the diving Slocombe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
From the resulting corner Daggers came even closer, Medy Elito's near post
delivery was met by Josh Scott who glanced his header onto the woodwork. The
rebound was scrambled away to Abu Ogogo who crossed tamely into the box for a
Scunthorpe defender to clear away before Rhys Murphy could latch onto the end
of it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The danger wasn't over yet for the Iron though who conceded another corner
minutes later. This time it was a Burnett special, with Elito drilling the ball
towards Murphy in the middle of the box, only to see his shot blocked by the
Scunny defender on the line. The clearance fell to Ogogo who after steadying himself
drilled a half-volley just wide of the near post. Two brilliant pieces of play
from Daggers that on another day, may have heralded two goals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers continued to push forward,
with Luke Howell driving another effort over the bar soon after. The two teams
then traded blows, with Scunthorpe's main threat, Hawkridge, drilling wide of
the mark before Elito drove forward past several defenders before firing a left
footed strike just over Slocombe's crossbar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsrCKS1MxopzW4ZRtEpTlvraybZZYYyK4miGFdJoVmLkAfSOR7UjYjfbTqeZ2LocqaRc3-zUaLgRN4VIhr3P0IKIjAdEyZzVnUMB6mK_0g6UehDH-9n4z92ijhalfBAowtUdQ4wlEKR7Z/s1600/Iewlumo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDsrCKS1MxopzW4ZRtEpTlvraybZZYYyK4miGFdJoVmLkAfSOR7UjYjfbTqeZ2LocqaRc3-zUaLgRN4VIhr3P0IKIjAdEyZzVnUMB6mK_0g6UehDH-9n4z92ijhalfBAowtUdQ4wlEKR7Z/s320/Iewlumo.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Och Aye the D'OH!<br />
www.telegraph.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Scunthorpe soon made their second change of the afternoon, with Chris
"Remember that miss for Scotland" Iwelumo, replacing former Gills man
Deon Burton. Regardless of Iwelumo's blunder-some reputation, he was sure to
cause problems at League Two level. With Burnett busy in the background
readying a substitution of his own, Abu Ogogo flashed another effort yards wide
of the post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With 66 minutes played, Louis Dennis was introduced for the tireless Josh Scott
with the hope of heightened creativity going forward. But directly after the
change, it all went downhill for the visitors. Terry Hawkridge's difficult
delivery from the right was misjudged by Daggers left back Femi, who appeared
to handle the ball from inside the box. The referee took the same view and
appeased the cries for a penalty from the 3400 home supporters by pointing to
the spot.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Upon the award, Chris Iwelumo quickly grabbed the ball, showing his confidence
and intentions for the penalty. The Scotland International placed the ball on
the spot and stepped three yards back before turning to face Chris Lewington.
Deadman blew his whistle, Iwelumo stepped up, but the Daggers 'stopper guessed
correctly, diving low down to his left to push the ball out of harm’s way and
wide of the post. Groans quickly emanated from the Iron terrace as Daggers fans
jumped for joy as the scoreline remained locked at 0-0.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCz9jS3W81TpuPvmlUZjjUtvZksmkArw1d6TCMIhKBO7rVTBd6f_0BQUSq_JbsOqOBoI9czX1rUuN341sQnItmJyLJPypDHucaaTH9vIz_JIhAjgxXOqVGMRTFc7muhVJzhQXQ7ZClpBN/s1600/Brian+Woodall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnCz9jS3W81TpuPvmlUZjjUtvZksmkArw1d6TCMIhKBO7rVTBd6f_0BQUSq_JbsOqOBoI9czX1rUuN341sQnItmJyLJPypDHucaaTH9vIz_JIhAjgxXOqVGMRTFc7muhVJzhQXQ7ZClpBN/s320/Brian+Woodall.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The visitors were quickly
breaking up the other end and were given a terrific opportunity to take the
lead when Eddie Nolan brought down Femi on the left hand side. Brian Woodall
took the set-piece, but Sam Slocombe was equal to the forwards effort once
more. Soon Scunthorpe were back on top and really should have taken the lead 80
minutes in. Craig Dawson's free kick from the left hand side was met by Iwelumo
who could only direct his free header wide of the post from six yards out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It looked easier to score for
Iwelumo, but somehow the languishing forward managed to miss the best chance of
the afternoon. It was yet another reprieve for Daggers who were really riding
their luck by this point. Both sides then made a change in an attempt to bring
on fresh legs. The Iron introduced Jamie Wootton for tiring striker Sam
Winnall, whilst Daggers replaced the all action Rhys Murphy with Jake
Reed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the game seemingly heading
for a draw, Scunthorpe broke the Daggers resistance from yet another set piece.
Terry Hawkridge's delivery on the right hand side was met by Chris Mirfin who
rose highest to head home powerfully, despite the best efforts of 'keeper Chris
Lewington. It was that familiar sinking feeling for Daggers fans who have now
conceded three out of four goals in the league from set-piece situations.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZMQcKLZ9qSn8Yr_ozClPCwGpglxptULBwAr50k3BHxhOVhz4v5jNtdyx2kfTYtcGB-gd6rEDm91AaXJIFO4SX0yK0qk6AaQHLFto4nb4smBN-1znx_T-IilhxJGH0AeiLdSKXT8JAdeh/s1600/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIZMQcKLZ9qSn8Yr_ozClPCwGpglxptULBwAr50k3BHxhOVhz4v5jNtdyx2kfTYtcGB-gd6rEDm91AaXJIFO4SX0yK0qk6AaQHLFto4nb4smBN-1znx_T-IilhxJGH0AeiLdSKXT8JAdeh/s320/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="172" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Howell</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite the late goal, there was
still hope as the fourth official raised the board to signal a minimum of four
minutes of injury time. And within minutes of going behind, Daggers were back
level in dramatic fashion. After neat play in the midfield, Brian Woodall
played a well weighted ball through two Iron defenders and into the path of
Luke Howell who slotted home coolly underneath Sam Slocombe to make it 1-1.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The celebrations in the away end
quickly turned to fear as immediately after the restart, Scunthorpe were
awarded a free-kick in a dangerous position. Matt Sparrow struck the ball, but
thankfully his effort was blocked by the Daggers wall and cleared away upfield.
Before Brian Laws' men had a chance to pump the ball back into the Daggers box
once more, the referee called a halt to proceedings which ensured a deserved
point apiece for both sides. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne Burnett brought the players
over to applaud the 107 travelling fans that had made the trip to Lincolnshire,
before what I can only foresee as congratulating his team on a hard earned
point. In hindsight a point is a terrific result against a team that will
probably be challenging for promotion this season, however you can't help but
feel if we'd have taken our chances in the opening 20 minutes of the second
half, it could have been a lot different. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwC3WG3Q_QOn4ozydZzuuNy1FxjTU0rcmCardWU8oTXSEGYyKDxDJvGtTDU37hLmKYu4JtunrclLstiFlGUCuZHc2EQCevtgrulTMMR-B55fs_x0_bbc2UFeV6B8WANO0ZPw1qbI7EWPjW/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Applause.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwC3WG3Q_QOn4ozydZzuuNy1FxjTU0rcmCardWU8oTXSEGYyKDxDJvGtTDU37hLmKYu4JtunrclLstiFlGUCuZHc2EQCevtgrulTMMR-B55fs_x0_bbc2UFeV6B8WANO0ZPw1qbI7EWPjW/s400/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Applause.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The only qualm I have with the
display is once again conceding from a set-piece. It's something that needs to
be worked upon because at the moment, it's the one vital flaw in our game.
Going forward we look sound, the performances of the marauding Medy Elito are
proving to be a particular unexpected highlight. If we can keep up the sort of displays
that have seen us pick up a point on Saturday and a win against York City, we
should have no doubts over survival.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scunthorpe meanwhile will have
better days. There's no doubt that in the long run they will be a force to be
reckoned with in this league. They struggled for creativity without Etienne
Esajas, but the youngster Terry Hawkridge, signed from Gainsborough Trinity in
the summer looks like a brilliant transfer. The less said about Chris Iwelumo
however, the better.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Saturday's point moves us up a
place to 11th in the League Two table, meanwhile Scunthorpe drop to 8th. Next
week we're back at Victoria Road to face newly promoted Newport County who will
undoubtedly provide a stern test for Wayne Burnett. Until then, have a safe
week and we'll reconvene next Monday! Remember you can follow me on Twitter
using @NickMurphyDRFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oh, and if you're wondering, yes,
Harry's Bombardier's were still in the hedge 6 hours later. A successful day all
round. </span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-6350853776114584812013-08-12T23:07:00.000+01:002013-08-12T23:07:25.659+01:00Daggers 2-0 York City, Minstermeat.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwjdLJX43L0lFg86Pf9mC1gMUiUbl49fLZj94TnPecJz3luuYyaQHiR18J0SHQLNKSekheKYp9ZIZMVY0KFHpaDTiJgROFzEicVw62M5OA3e0e_isMRNJ_dwmBICz4ZzNVC6dLE0GeHEQ/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York+City.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghwjdLJX43L0lFg86Pf9mC1gMUiUbl49fLZj94TnPecJz3luuYyaQHiR18J0SHQLNKSekheKYp9ZIZMVY0KFHpaDTiJgROFzEicVw62M5OA3e0e_isMRNJ_dwmBICz4ZzNVC6dLE0GeHEQ/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York+City.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After two successive defeats to
open the season, Dagenham & Redbridge finally got their league campaign up and
running yesterday with an assured 2-0 victory over York City. Rhys Murphy and
Brian Woodall bagged the goals for the Daggers who pick up their first three
point haul at Victoria Road since last February's encounter against Cheltenham
Town. More importantly it was also Wayne Burnett's first home victory as
Daggers boss, marking the end of his home hoodoo as manager. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Ahead of the game I have to admit I wasn't particularly optimistic. To be more
accurate, I assumed that like last season’s home meeting with York, we would
lose by the odd goal in a tight affair. But still, if we were to perform as we
had done against Brentford on Tuesday night, we stood more than a fighting
chance of taking not just one, but three points from the travelling Minstermen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having had a quick couple of ciders in the clubhouse, we headed down, out and
through the turnstiles to be greeted by the evergreen Victoria Road pitch for
the first time this season. The foxholes that had been exposed scandalously on
"92 Live" had been covered for the opening game, and we were ready to
go. The teams emerged from the tunnel and were announced over the tannoy as
follows...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Femi, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Howell, Ogogo, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Woodall.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Connors, Afolabi,
Bingham, Reed, Shields, Dennis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett made a single change from the Tuesday night league cup defeat at
Brentford, bringing in Brian Woodall up front for Jake Reed. It ensured Daggers
lined up with a front three packed with vibrancy, and hopefully with
goals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>York City: </b>Ingham, Oyebanjo, Davies, Smith, McGurk,
Coulson, Chambers, Montrose, Platt, Jarvis, Cresswell.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the teams announced and
everyone in place, the pre-match pleasantries completed the referee blew his
whistle to get the contest underway.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ca4DDy_CAWHs3tLmIHXdnEQthdzrlsvEVturD42CXwxgCD-Yx2b74wR3c9xtZ2LooUT9AaQ5Z6Yi-aP-Zx3r9g6uWSn6pHghm7TDSd9GNJRY1gEPT1a_5BuzqV_LrWnBoTBDVR7NRwCp/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ca4DDy_CAWHs3tLmIHXdnEQthdzrlsvEVturD42CXwxgCD-Yx2b74wR3c9xtZ2LooUT9AaQ5Z6Yi-aP-Zx3r9g6uWSn6pHghm7TDSd9GNJRY1gEPT1a_5BuzqV_LrWnBoTBDVR7NRwCp/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After an initial slow start, Daggers slowly imposed their authority on
proceedings ten minutes in. First Josh Scott skewed a tame shot wide of the
post, whilst Medy Elito was soon stopped in his tracks down the left hand side.
The hosts failed to make their early advantage count, allowing their opponents
back into the game with a string of crosses that were defended well by the Daggers
defence. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">
York continued their assault on the Daggers goal as we reached the twenty
minute mark, with Abu Ogogo's goalline clearance the only barrier denying the
visitors from taking the lead. Scott Doe and Brian Saah had to be at their
sharpest to deny Richard Cresswell going forward as Nigel Worthington's side
sought reward for their hard work. Chris Lewington was soon on guard to deny an
Oyebanjo header, whilst another strike from Cresswell was dealt with well by
the home defence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite the fervent York pressure, it was the hosts who came closest as the
half wore on. Brian Woodall in particular got pulses racing with two
spectacular efforts. The first drifted tamely wide of the post, but the second
was mesmeric. After receiving the ball on the left hand side, Woodall took a
single touch before turning and firing a rasping effort over Michael Ingham and
onto the roof of the net. Had it gone in, it would have been real Van Basten
stuff.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But Daggers did take the lead soon after. A hopeful punt downfield by Gavin
Hoyte was met by Brian Woodall, who, after a smart turn laid the ball through
to the onrushing Rhys Murphy. The Irishman who netted last week at Fleetwood
rounded Michael Ingham before slotting home coolly into the back of the net.
That's how you do it Daggers! It all seems so simple when you give the ball to
a Murphy, doesn't it?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSj7TRfUdy8P2wCacv0ZGai84IscbUJx9-jNcUBSdTxl6kZp12Wm8oXcQYrQ6_fph_PfQBLoYU3d5C1evmJccNs2jMxJmpQ8FUg_frlinv9ml4g_LJYxuKlICvipgMPWRqx4vBBIVCMDkD/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSj7TRfUdy8P2wCacv0ZGai84IscbUJx9-jNcUBSdTxl6kZp12Wm8oXcQYrQ6_fph_PfQBLoYU3d5C1evmJccNs2jMxJmpQ8FUg_frlinv9ml4g_LJYxuKlICvipgMPWRqx4vBBIVCMDkD/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The half ended in much the same way as it had begun, with a midfield tussle
cancelling out both sides' creative input. Medy Elito offered a significant
threat for the hosts, while Chris Lewington had to remain vigilant to deny
David McGurk's goalbound effort on the stroke of half time. But sure enough
after a minute of additional play, the referee drew a close to the first half
with Daggers leading by a goal to nil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After an uneventful half time period, the action was soon back underway with
Michael Coulson firing a shot inches wide of the post for the visitors. Despite
early pressure from York, it was the hosts who forced the first save of the
second period. After good play down the left Medy Elito cut in and drew an
assured stop from Ingham, before Femi predictably sliced the follow up strike
into the advertising hoardings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With it becoming evident his York side were lacking going forward, Nigel
Worthington acted to make a change on 60 minutes. It was a like for like swap
in midfield, with Craig Clay replacing Lewis Montrose as the Minstermen went in
search of the creative input they dearly lacked. Unfortunately it only worked
to fire the Daggers up even more, with Brian Woodall going close soon after
with another shapshot on the edge of the box.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wes Fletcher was then introduced
for Ashley Chambers as York continued to hunt down that elusive equaliser.
Again it only served to give Daggers the initiative, this time Medy Elito
curled a shot just wide of the post. The York pressure soon subsided, giving
the hosts the chance to put the game out of sight. And but for Scotsman,
Michael Ingham tipping Rhys Murphy's effort wide of the post they would have
done just that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers then made a change of their own, with Billy Bingham replacing Luke Howell
in midfield. Directly after the change, Daggers extended their lead. Medy Elito
took control on the left before picking out Brian Woodall with a sublime ball across
the park. Upon receiving the pass, Woodall took a single touch to beat his man
before toe-poking home the finish off of the post and into the back of the net.
Cue celebrations in the Sieve and a somersault from
an exuberant Woodall, his first goal since January.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgo_rk78TBkVJjAbDGAanD67386g1xTe_glsqz4YQRax9064hVEbeh8iG5-b5pzXsXucsNmneaEEnwj4hJzpNKXPUmubD0TxsJSRdRIpQmRyT2zn8SjgYzl4KG6Iu9FezuYbnChAQ-ZsT/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+at+Victoria+Road.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAgo_rk78TBkVJjAbDGAanD67386g1xTe_glsqz4YQRax9064hVEbeh8iG5-b5pzXsXucsNmneaEEnwj4hJzpNKXPUmubD0TxsJSRdRIpQmRyT2zn8SjgYzl4KG6Iu9FezuYbnChAQ-ZsT/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+at+Victoria+Road.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The goal from Woodall effectively sealed the contest, yet there was still time
for substitute Afolabi Obafemi to blast over from five yards out – a gilt edge
chance for the youngster. Nevertheless it's a much needed win for Daggers, and
a win that has ended Wayne Burnett's home jinx in the process. The victory
lifts the Essex outfit up to 12th in the standings after two games, whisper it
quietly but we're only a point from the play-offs (too soon for optimism, eh?)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Still, there were plenty of positives to take from the victory. The most
poignant perhaps was the performance of Medy Elito. It's a new season with a
relatively new manager and he seems like a new player. He took players on, got
past them and managed to get opposition players booked - as a winger that's
what he should be doing. He looks rejuvenated under Burnett, long may
it continue.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The front three performed very well, it seems clear they already have that sort
of striking bond you need if a team is to be successful. Rhys Murphy in
particular looks like a terrific signing; meanwhile it's evident that Brian
Woodall has his confidence back. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
So after that victory we now move on to Saturday, where we make our first ever
trip to Glanford Park in our first ever meeting with Scunthorpe United. I shall
be there to witness this no doubt historic occasion, so make sure you read my
musings on Monday! Until then, have a great week and remember to follow me on
Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-6110296461953887432013-08-09T15:50:00.002+01:002013-08-09T16:23:20.138+01:00Brentford 3-2 Daggers, Bees Bite Late.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkGgYf8354AgYPkv9cGhB2DulPEbG51KgzaL18pShFwcHlw2ZOqqQOPeQcruXGPTZKJd7A1-5wzQd70YqfowbzQ26AnVcpRQ4sePt5_bX71OmJAzbRCfBluujv7F59mu3yA9A2aYWiCQz/s1600/Brentford+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkGgYf8354AgYPkv9cGhB2DulPEbG51KgzaL18pShFwcHlw2ZOqqQOPeQcruXGPTZKJd7A1-5wzQd70YqfowbzQ26AnVcpRQ4sePt5_bX71OmJAzbRCfBluujv7F59mu3yA9A2aYWiCQz/s320/Brentford+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The League Cup has never been a
competition that has been kind to Dagenham & Redbridge fans. But on Tuesday
evening it really twisted the knife on Wayne Burnett's men, who, despite a
terrific performance were undone by a 94th minute header from Farid El Alagui.
That goal at the death condemned Daggers to a 3-2 defeat, and a seventh consecutive
first round defeat.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Unsurprisingly there was little room for optimism before the game. Our
aforementioned record in the competition is woeful and as such most believed we
had little chance against a team fancied for promotion from League One. Still,
with tickets at just £1 for Under 18's we persevered through the rush-hour
commuters at Waterloo before arriving at Brentford station just shy of
19:35. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After a quick walk down the high road we arrived at Griffin Park just in time
for kick-off. In my last visit here Daggers had lost 2-1 courtesy of an 87th
minute Nicky Forster goal. Little did we know history would repeat itself
(almost). Before the game kicked off we were quickly read the teams which
looked like this...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Brentford:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Bonham,
O'Connor Barron, Venta, Nugent, Saunders, Dallas, Fillo, Reeves, Oyeleke,
Hayes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Femi, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Ogogo, Howell, Elito, Scott, Murphy, Reed.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Bingham, Dennis,
Shields, Woodall, Connors, Obafemi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett made a single change from Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Fleetwood,
bringing in Jake Reed for central midfielder Billy Bingham. This ensured
Daggers lined up with no less than four strikers on the field of play which put
even more pressure on Luke Howell and Abu Ogogo to keep the midfield tight.
Former Daggers Sam Saunders was in Brentford's starting eleven, whilst Harlee
Dean failed to make the eighteen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWo29fhlGcZEEFS5VH6qrKnG6yt0vxEPm1p7IqwcSsjNAy0jcWaj5ycK-A38pBrJiVKW3LgqxIo5l-j17IWldZeDFzqHpzY1fx7I8bGemesuHN0lo49Q9sWX_-Noe3zpGuB-y_XAWPDtpi/s1600/Dagenham+vs+Brentford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWo29fhlGcZEEFS5VH6qrKnG6yt0vxEPm1p7IqwcSsjNAy0jcWaj5ycK-A38pBrJiVKW3LgqxIo5l-j17IWldZeDFzqHpzY1fx7I8bGemesuHN0lo49Q9sWX_-Noe3zpGuB-y_XAWPDtpi/s320/Dagenham+vs+Brentford.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With most unable to make sense of what formation we were playing, the game soon
kicked off underneath the glow of the evening sun. Brentford started the
brighter, forcing two free kicks, both of which were dealt with well by the
Daggers defence. Midfielder Jake Reeves then flashed a shot just wide of the
post on the volley as the Bees cranked up the pressure early on.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As the game wore on Daggers gradually became more of a threat with Medy Elito's
whipped free-kick allowing for the first chance for the visitors. But it was
another cross 17 minutes in that bore the first goal of the evening, albeit in
slightly fortuitous circumstances. Josh Scott's run down the left
hand side culminated in a ball into the box which was turned into his own net
by debutant Ben Nugent. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Cheers emanated from the Daggers end, but not before a moment of
uncertainty as the linesman briefly ruled out the goal for offside. After a
minute of discussion, the referee overruled his counterpart to ensure the goal
stood, giving the visitors a shock 1-0 lead at Griffin Park.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After the goal Brentford continued to look the more likely to score, with
former Dagger Sam Saunders providing the main threat. His quick feet was being
complimented by Daggers' slack closing down allowing the tricky winger to get
several shots away at the goal. The first slid comfortably wide of the post
whilst his second went high into the second tier of the away stand.
Nevertheless, allowing such a player so much time on the ball is never a wise
thing to do.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Up the other end Daggers remained contenders going forward, with only an
offside flag denying Rhys Murphy the chance to make it two. Minutes later Murphy
had another chance after being fed a ball through over the top by Luke Howell.
This time however he could only drill his diagonal shot wide of the post and
out for a goal kick. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As half time approached Brentford continued their assault on the visitors goal.
First, Manny Oyeleke fired wide before Stuart Dallas drilled a further shot way
over the bar following a rebound from Sam Saunders' initial free-kick. Despite
the Bees pressure it was Daggers that ended the half with the final
opportunity, Josh Scott heading wide of the post from a difficult angle.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvFy2qd8iRMKKJgwGYmioFJyfQzt0YBIDWwdvoeMa5HH9uf-L-JAJfg01BjSzMold6R2Ss_zTBQ0g7IYQoPhOeRIMjJqvXP45bxY4zs7E_0bfz4SafxeQV6CkV-3wBJRZswkzWScq6vJm/s1600/Half+Time+Griffin+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkvFy2qd8iRMKKJgwGYmioFJyfQzt0YBIDWwdvoeMa5HH9uf-L-JAJfg01BjSzMold6R2Ss_zTBQ0g7IYQoPhOeRIMjJqvXP45bxY4zs7E_0bfz4SafxeQV6CkV-3wBJRZswkzWScq6vJm/s320/Half+Time+Griffin+Park.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The referee blew his whistle and we were at half-time and quite unbelievably,
we were 1-0 up! As Wayne Burnett, Darren Currie and Warren Hackett rushed past
the sprinklers, we were left to contemplate whether we could hold onto this
advantage in the second half. The general consensus is that we had no chance,
yet some degree of optimism remained. We had taken the lead in a match; we
rarely do that these days!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The teams returned for the second half with Brentford boss Uwe Rosler opting to
make a change, with Tony Craig replacing Kevin O'Connor. Despite the
substitution it was Daggers that started the second half on the front foot.
Femi continued to make his presence felt down the left whilst Medy Elito was
linking up well with the front three. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With little over 10 minutes
played in the second half Daggers came within inches of doubling their
advantage. Gavin Hoyte’s terrific in-swinging ball from the right hand side was
met by Josh Scott whose glancing header crashed off the bar and away from Jack
Bonham's goal. The header seemed to take an age to reach the frame of the goal,
and when it did it caused agony for Daggers fans who were waiting open mouthed
to celebrate once more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With that miss, Daggers now found themselves on the back foot. Farid El Alagui
was soon brought on for the Bees and that was when the trouble really began to
materialise. His first action however was to go down in the box attempting to
win a penalty. The referee took a dim view and booked the sub for diving, much
to the Brentford fans' frustration. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_j35YqZqX4Xvj1ucqwBKt-BNhbCXyQVAP63aYPX6_nOsXXYOBdnp_JcG4LgjKwudZs0qAWaQ3Aan0KVhYQOS_HQ2mf1_ND9Fry6QxzkkZOp9N8wkuv32scrDsr3TCFKNLNG-CNj0vBWlY/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Fans.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="204" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_j35YqZqX4Xvj1ucqwBKt-BNhbCXyQVAP63aYPX6_nOsXXYOBdnp_JcG4LgjKwudZs0qAWaQ3Aan0KVhYQOS_HQ2mf1_ND9Fry6QxzkkZOp9N8wkuv32scrDsr3TCFKNLNG-CNj0vBWlY/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Fans.PNG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers Fans in Shock<br />
@Post_Daggers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Soon after though, he really became a thorn in Wayne Burnett's side. A cross
into the box from the right hand side wasn't dealt with, allowing El Alagui to
pounce first and fire the ball past Chris Lewington from close range. Within
five minutes of their equaliser, the Bees had turned the game around
completely. Martin Fillo latched onto a perfectly weighted Stuart Dallas ball
through, and with his first touch he swept the ball beyond Chris Lewington to
make it 2-1 to the hosts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the visitors rattled, the game threatened to boil over following Abu
Ogogo's strong tackle on Scott Barron. From where we were it looked as if Abu
was wrongly cautioned, having clearly gathered the ball despite taking his
opponent in the process. Sam Saunders soon flashed another free-kick wide of
the post before Wayne Burnett made a double change with Afolabi Obafemi and
Brian Woodall being introduced for Medy Elito and Jake Reed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Instantly they proved a hit, causing the Bees backline no end of problems as
Daggers pushed for an equaliser. First Josh Scott's weighted cross was
collected confidently by Jack Bonham and then Luke Howell's corner was
scrambled away by the Brentford defence. The resistance didn't last though and
with ten minutes remaining, Daggers were back on level terms. Femi's back post
ball in was met by Brian Woodall who headed across for Josh Scott to slam home
past a helpless Bonham and into the roof of the net. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having scored twice (something we rarely do in the league, let alone the league
cup), Daggers fans now had renewed belief that their team could go on and win
the game. Wayne Burnett's men continued to look dangerous down the wings but
were unable to force a winner as the game edged closer and closer towards extra
time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Then came the moment Daggers fans had dreaded all night long. Sam Saunders had
been given plenty of opportunities to score during the evening, but his
best undoubtedly came on 88 minutes. Martin Fillo was fouled by Scott
Doe on the edge of the area which gave Saunders the chance to knock out his
former club. And he would have done had it not been for the outstretched hand
of Chris Lewington who made yet another superb stop to deny the winger. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the game seemingly headed for extra time, the fourth official indicated
four minutes of added time. As we entered the fourth minute with both sides
still pushing for a winner, Luke Howell gave away a free-kick in a dangerous
position on the edge of the area. Surely we couldn't concede now, surely not cruel
heartbreak in a competition we've had little, if any luck in for the past six
years?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scott Barron stood over the ball
ready to deliver. As the referee blew his whistle, Barron swung the ball over
to the back post where El Alagui out-jumped his marker to head home past Chris
Lewington into the corner of the net. Sighs of
expectation emanated from the away end as the Daggers players looked
at each other in bewilderment, wondering how they'd got a set piece wrong yet
again.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pxBDCHU9S-pZhyphenhyphenrZfSo_rsSRs0O8uLC56drU_mo5or2ABIDDNlt4DhTotYT7aTZ2TOcO-62xA14XSXf9Os3maaDN-glKEXU-nonoJ18WUmPc1mDwxxN7sX2rfJqWgXP9rqIVO9NgGhFe/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6pxBDCHU9S-pZhyphenhyphenrZfSo_rsSRs0O8uLC56drU_mo5or2ABIDDNlt4DhTotYT7aTZ2TOcO-62xA14XSXf9Os3maaDN-glKEXU-nonoJ18WUmPc1mDwxxN7sX2rfJqWgXP9rqIVO9NgGhFe/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team+2014.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The visitors kicked off once more and immediately lumped the ball forward. It
ended up on the right hand side where a cross into the box was only just about
cleared by the Brentford defence, as Rosler's men scrambled to hold on. With
one final punt up-field, the referee blew his whistle to signal a painful
defeat for Burnett's side. It wasn't so much the fact we'd been knocked out,
more the <i>way</i> we'd been knocked out
and the timing and fashion of the goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Still that takes it to seven defeats in seven attempts in the League Cup, and
in a quirky way I'm proud we've kept our 100% record in the competition. No Daggers supporter takes this competition seriously anymore, do they? So to even score two goals
is a bonus! The performances of Rhys Murphy, Femi and Medy Elito were all
highlights from an evening where Daggers were dreadfully unlucky not to head
through to the second round.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
We won't dwell on this result, so I'll just remind you that our next game is at
home to York City (remember them?), at Victoria Road tomorrow afternoon. You
can read my report from that on Monday, and you can also follow me on Twitter
using @NickMurphyDRFC. Thanks for reading!</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-49322386616801009522013-08-06T13:47:00.001+01:002013-08-06T13:49:40.065+01:00Fleetwood Town 3-1 Daggers, Murphy's Law.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS_mvBrsvdP0lNtHxjKRceQyfX_2yFvbceTsdc-S-mxl2gCLrbZLxKujqyEocPtmRNveP5OK2xstOXxm0OP81D1GDJPFp3fkV0OKtIOtg0D-EBaLwgwQvB0TPpQILymbdqzMjS-tzC3Dl/s1600/Fleetwood+Town+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIS_mvBrsvdP0lNtHxjKRceQyfX_2yFvbceTsdc-S-mxl2gCLrbZLxKujqyEocPtmRNveP5OK2xstOXxm0OP81D1GDJPFp3fkV0OKtIOtg0D-EBaLwgwQvB0TPpQILymbdqzMjS-tzC3Dl/s320/Fleetwood+Town+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.PNG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The 2013/2014<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>SkyBet<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>League Two got up and running on
Saturday afternoon and unsurprisingly for one particular team it started with
defeat. That team of course, was Dagenham & Redbridge. A combination of
atrocious defending and inconsistent marking ensured that Wayne Burnett's first
game of the new campaign ended in defeat to one of the division’s promotion
favourites.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
It's slightly disappointing to say, but for most Daggers fans that set out up
on the trip to Lancashire, defeat seemed almost inevitable. Graham
Alexander had recruited well over the summer, bringing in League Two quality in
the form of Steven Schumacher and Ryan Cresswell amongst others. Daggers
meanwhile had completed minimal transfers over the close season, with forward
Rhys Murphy and centre half Brian Saah the only likely starters.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
All of this and more was discussed on the trip up to the distant North-West
which began at 6:30am, before meeting at Chadwell Heath for 8am. After
gathering several others along the way we reached Euston in good time to make
our Orient filled train at 9:30am. With a lack of seating, sol,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>and</i><span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>a blow up doll all on the same carriage
it was sure to be an eventful journey. After nearly departing at Wigan
North-West we arrived at Preston just after 12:00 where we changed onto the
luxurious Northern Rail service.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
I moan about public transport in London, but when you step onto a Northern Rail
service it makes you really appreciate what you've got. Two carriages of
misery, toilets that didn't work and a distinct lack of seats - welcome back to
the North, Daggers fans.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInOaGqZ4Ty2pH5U242dc6s3zpejKJMAYtK8cq3uyR5de9dY4kyW-F0zszH0SvSFzybZCDfNYizvhWy6oHmTl3oVGR9RVfaz8cPqwNF7gEq8-lBndHoQLQc1KVVAzHwrvjw2HquzZuJ3en/s1600/Fleetwood+Town+Turnstiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInOaGqZ4Ty2pH5U242dc6s3zpejKJMAYtK8cq3uyR5de9dY4kyW-F0zszH0SvSFzybZCDfNYizvhWy6oHmTl3oVGR9RVfaz8cPqwNF7gEq8-lBndHoQLQc1KVVAzHwrvjw2HquzZuJ3en/s320/Fleetwood+Town+Turnstiles.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The front of the stadium.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With half an hour of toil completed, we finally arrived at Blackpool North just
after 13:00. Thanks to the blustery sea breeze wearing shorts no longer seemed
like a good idea. At least it was warmer than our last trip to Highbury in
March! With the taxi's already and waiting we hopped in and headed along
Blackpool promenade to Highbury Stadium, located a good 15 minutes away from
real civilisation. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Once there our first port of call, naturally, was Jim's Bar - the Fleetwood
Town clubhouse. And it is without doubt, one of, if not<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>best clubhouse in the whole of
League Two. It's so swanky it feels like a nightclub. Leather seats litter the
pristine wooden flooring whilst "booths" are also available for
groups of supporters. All of this is completed by a vast array of TV's all over
the bar, including two in each individual booth. If you go to Fleetwood this
season, I can't recommend this place highly enough. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A good hour and a half was spent drinking Cider in the company of the home
supporters with several songs exchanged as 15:00 edged ever closer. As the bell
tolled for final orders (at 14:40?!), we headed towards the away end and went
in through the automated turnstiles. The cold concrete concourse greeted us as
we went along and up the stairs into our seats for the afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVKZ042prLQr-zG8Lonj58ceiCv9ru4QpTi_z4vQbF2cLa9ORwPAjvDlybxeVtoNb_rnIVZlgjkF7UVVksAVemsIex-2ij-UqpIGVpNwfFNMev8diutCzzNTPBpk_74dthoOxEHhCxfNP/s1600/fleetwood+vs+dagenham+and+redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRVKZ042prLQr-zG8Lonj58ceiCv9ru4QpTi_z4vQbF2cLa9ORwPAjvDlybxeVtoNb_rnIVZlgjkF7UVVksAVemsIex-2ij-UqpIGVpNwfFNMev8diutCzzNTPBpk_74dthoOxEHhCxfNP/s320/fleetwood+vs+dagenham+and+redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
For the second year running at Fleetwood we had been allocated the Parkside
Stand as our support didn't warrant opening the terrace behind the goal. As our
mini allocation began to fill up, the sprinklers rose from the ground
to douse the pitch underneath the "blazing" Lancashire sun. With
little over 5 minutes until kick off, that anticipation for the new season
began to rise like it does every year. The pitch was in pristine condition and
the supporters were full of optimism (maybe not for both sides). The new season
was finally here.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The teams emerged from the tunnel to a rapturous round of applause from both
sets of supporters, eager to see their relatively new look sides in competitive
action for the first time. The pre-match pleasantries took place before the
Daggers XI came over to clap the 133 travelling fans that had made their way to
this secluded corner of Northern England.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Fleetwood Town:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Davies,
Hogan, Cresswell, Roberts, Jordan, Schumacher, Hughes, Brown, Sarcevic, Ball,
Crowther.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington,
Femi, Doe, Saah, Hoyte, Howell, Ogogo, Bingham, Scott, Murphy, Elito.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Reed, Conners, Dennis,
Woodall, Shields, Obafemi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As expected Daggers lined up in a hybrid 4-4-2/4-3-3 formation which saw Abu
Ogogo revert to central midfield and Gavin Hoyte to right back. With Luke
Wilkinson still sidelined Brian Saah partnered Scott Doe at centre half. Billy
Bingham started in midfield whilst a front two of Rhys Murphy and Josh Scott
would be assisted by Medy Elito. Tricky wingers Sean Shields and Louis Dennis
remained on the bench alongside new signing Afolabi Obafemi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLIgp7dRHxo3bpweAe1yGi9is3XQEnY9v_4BdYJmQ3tlcSTi-HzPLLjiIrRtd-rukckCPwZW5ZAd__u4zreN7vwB6a3__HQ5NnddvvJ_EVc3CABY7I05Mke_io6ffuVPO-wvD7WIg8uBB/s1600/fleetwood+town+fc+vs+dagenham+&+redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdLIgp7dRHxo3bpweAe1yGi9is3XQEnY9v_4BdYJmQ3tlcSTi-HzPLLjiIrRtd-rukckCPwZW5ZAd__u4zreN7vwB6a3__HQ5NnddvvJ_EVc3CABY7I05Mke_io6ffuVPO-wvD7WIg8uBB/s320/fleetwood+town+fc+vs+dagenham+&+redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the huddles completed and the photographs taken, the teams lined up to
begin the new 2013/2014 season. The referee blew his whistle and we began. Surprisingly
it was the visitors that started on the front foot. Despite the early momentum,
Fleetwood quickly asserted themselves and Chris Lewington was soon forced into
action to deny David Ball's drilled shot with less than three minutes played.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The early pressure from the hosts continued before eventually manifesting
itself into a crucial mistake by the visitors. Billy Bingham was caught with
the ball just outside his 18 yard box and was forced to track back and concede
a corner. From the resulting set-piece, the hosts took the lead. Ryan Crowther's
floated ball towards the back post was perfect for debutant Mark Roberts who
escaped his marker to power home his header with just four minutes
played. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett attempted to gee up the troops but by the time his enthusiasm
could muster a response, Daggers found themselves two goals behind. Jeff
Hughes, who once scored a hat-trick against Daggers whilst at Bristol Rovers
latched onto a loose ball twenty yards out before rifling it past a crowd of
defenders and into the corner of the net for 2-0. By all means I didn't expect
to win this match, but to be 2-0 down inside 10 minutes was shambolic -
criminal even. Oh well, only 4130 minutes of the season to go lads.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The shell-shocked visitors now had a mountain to climb against one of the
promotion favourites and already it seemed as if the game was beyond our reach.
Nevertheless the Essex outfit persevered and nearly pulled one back five
minutes later, but Medy Elito's delivery evaded all of those in the box before
drifting out for a goal kick. Unusually Daggers looked fragile at the back and
but for another fantastic stop by Lewington, Hughes would have taken his tally
for the afternoon to two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKG79B1W3ux8_kBNiiddTzATurGXyza8FXcVjGvKipVLoH522lBWzpNvjNW9KuCJEk2zN9-u0g5J4hWEU-HrGscq0oMcJUB9rdwuqYHEiKCkDUPR3UdcfROg7bRljpcrKf6y37KOXLxOF/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsKG79B1W3ux8_kBNiiddTzATurGXyza8FXcVjGvKipVLoH522lBWzpNvjNW9KuCJEk2zN9-u0g5J4hWEU-HrGscq0oMcJUB9rdwuqYHEiKCkDUPR3UdcfROg7bRljpcrKf6y37KOXLxOF/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Burnett's favoured passing style
was being implemented in part, but it was a simple ball over the top that
brought about the Daggers response. Billy Bingham picked out the arcing run of
Medy Elito who beat the offside trap for the first time, before advancing and
squaring for debutant Rhys Murphy who slid in to net his first ever goal in
English football. After a disastrous opening, with 25 minutes gone we
were suddenly back in the game. Optimism was renewed and we began once
more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After such an explosive start the match soon quietened down and turned into
more of a midfield scrap. Unfortunately for Daggers it was the Cod that were
winning the majority of the battles as the visitors continued to look too
lightweight in midfield. When we did get the ball, our main outlet was down the
left where Medy Elito looked to get a run on the full back, but failed
miserably.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Following Gavin Hoyte's booking Daggers almost found an equaliser. The ball was
played down the channel to Murphy who controlled brilliantly before bamboozling
his defender and curling a shot just inches wide of Scott Davies' post. It was
a glimpse of what Murphy was capable of despite an ultimately weak shot. We've
lacked a striker with a bit of imagination since Gayle's departure; hopefully
Murphy can feel that void.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRD4wl6a4Jb0OdX3jVP0DfSTdbmJRHzGXwkT5Dt_iSAPbMOev1JYgd8rxuWQVU29xlr-iB-yx-V-wDpZrci4WrNTSfC_0h0gZDPRXELpTYrywgPn1G5yHDmEIeNGWKw8wilsJA_Qn5aHWB/s1600/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRD4wl6a4Jb0OdX3jVP0DfSTdbmJRHzGXwkT5Dt_iSAPbMOev1JYgd8rxuWQVU29xlr-iB-yx-V-wDpZrci4WrNTSfC_0h0gZDPRXELpTYrywgPn1G5yHDmEIeNGWKw8wilsJA_Qn5aHWB/s320/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lewington</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
His miss meant Daggers still trailed 2-1, a scoreline that was nearly extended just
before the break. The Daggers defence were forced to defend two more corners,
with Chris Lewington called into action once more to ensure that the deficit
remained at just the one during half time. It wasn't an ideal half, but to go
only one down at the interval after a disastrous start can be considered
acceptable. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
In our brief 15 minute respite I decided to head down to the concourse to
sample what minimal food Fleetwood had on offer. After seeing the menu, I
decided against it. I mean, they're called the Cod and they don't even serve
fish, it's an outrage! We soon headed back up to the stand where a slightly
drunk Bill (@EssexDaggerBC) was optimistic for the second half.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The second half began in earnest and Daggers were immediately looking to find
that elusive equaliser. Another Elito ball into the box was cleared away before
Murphy narrowly failed to get on the scoresheet once more when a cross was pitched
just a yard or so in front of him. That was made even more frustrating five
minutes later when Daggers were undone from yet another set piece. This time it
was former Southend centre half Ryan Cresswell who was left unmarked to head
home past Chris Lewington despite the best efforts of Brian Saah on the line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
All of the early hard work in the second half had been undone as a result of
lackadaisical defending once more. With that we were back to square one, a two
goal deficit against what will probably turn out to be one of the strongest
defences in the league - what chance did we have? Well if Rhys Murphy's
creative runs were anything to go by, we were still in the game. He escaped his
marker once more but was unable to provide a telling finish as the Fleetwood
defence mopped up the danger.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With a goal looking increasingly unlikely, Burnett acted to make a double
change. Medy Elito and Josh Scott were withdrawn to be replaced by Afolabi
Obafemi and Jake Reed. Josh hadn't really made much of a contribution to
proceedings, but playing in an unfamiliar wide left position that should come
as no surprise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Both sides continued to attack in search of goals at either end for different
reasons. It was the hosts that came closest from yet another set-piece, but
this time Scott Doe was on the line to make a sensational last gasp clearance
to prevent the scoreline extending to 4-1. Up the other end Obafemi came close
whilst Jake Reed also looked creative without really threatening the Fleetwood
Town goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe6qcLqtHy42X1hIDqdrGWWeBr_XsZ4T-HWLsv480E7FjOGfhaD_jyonifEM2AHisg-i0r5Y4U9Tz63lqmkXTiF3SRKGHWLK1b-291_AZX_Cp5IB6QX6NmzkeouN301tq81bC-ufaCSCB/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVe6qcLqtHy42X1hIDqdrGWWeBr_XsZ4T-HWLsv480E7FjOGfhaD_jyonifEM2AHisg-i0r5Y4U9Tz63lqmkXTiF3SRKGHWLK1b-291_AZX_Cp5IB6QX6NmzkeouN301tq81bC-ufaCSCB/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Team.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
By the time Brian Woodall was introduced on 87 minutes, the game was already
over as a contest. After enduring four extra minutes of pain, the referee blew
his whistle to signal an end to the first match of the season. The phrase going
through my mind at this point was something along the lines of, "Same sh*t,
different season." Oddly enough we looked ok going forward, but it was our
exploits at the back that are a cause for real concern - especially where set
pieces are concerned.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
In reality it was the start that killed us. That and our inexplicably bad
defending from set pieces. If we can tighten our defence and improve on our
organisation then we'll be a markedly better side ahead of next week - but Rome
wasn't built in a day of course. The key thing for me is to play players in
their favoured positions. It's so frustrating seeing Abu play in centre mid, a
position where in a passing orientated outfit really doesn't suit him. I'd much
prefer him playing at right back, a position where he excels.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A similar case to this is that of Josh Scott. He was forced out wide on the
left on Saturday, a position that really didn't suit him. If we want to get the
best out of Josh has to play down the centre. But then you have the dilemma of
what to do with Murphy, who, by all accounts looks to be our biggest goal
threat this season. It's a difficult situation and one that Burnett will do
well to manage.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSRxUxRDF3zS59xygxrmXJr1GkZfXc2xXcRGVsXg6BP1yjdHrZ5lE8oOiDLZqv4xziX_xmmYPAzQ9B3ru4fW0rh2vHZonHiOMVFBt8JZTwRmTiBektA3aOIaGuKJ57EoXBxg5u5abFq95n/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Huddle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSRxUxRDF3zS59xygxrmXJr1GkZfXc2xXcRGVsXg6BP1yjdHrZ5lE8oOiDLZqv4xziX_xmmYPAzQ9B3ru4fW0rh2vHZonHiOMVFBt8JZTwRmTiBektA3aOIaGuKJ57EoXBxg5u5abFq95n/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Huddle.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having briefly dissected the afternoon’s performance in my head, we journeyed
back past the jubilant home fans and into the rammed Fleetwood clubhouse to
drown our sorrows. We even had our own booth, although we were avoided like the
plague. One more pasty and half a pint of cider later we departed for Blackpool
North, only to have to spend an hour at the station waiting for our Northern
Rail service back to Preston.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Harry (@HarryBird94) and Bill stocked up on fosters for the train journey home,
although quite how Bill was still standing was a mystery to us all. Having
arrived at Preston we quickly switched onto the Virgin service before
commandeering an old couples table to enjoy a jolly on the way back to Euston.
After three hours (perhaps the longest of our life) we arrived back at Euston
at around 22:45. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having parted ways with Wilson, Mike and Matt the rest of us took the short
walk to Euston Square before hopping on the Metropolitan Line back to Liverpool
Street. Another quick change saw us onto the overground service where we
arrived back at Chadwell Heath soon after 23:30. To say it had been an
exhausting day, was an understatement. Eighteen hours of laughs and misery in
equal measure, you've got to love football.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A little side note to the day is quite
how Fleetwood will sustain their ambitions. I know they have backers, but to
have just 2500 at home on the opening day after paying around £200,000 for a
player is simply not sustainable. When you couple that with the brilliantly
cheap season tickets they offer, especially for Under 16's (they're free), it's
a shame that so many aren't taking up the offer. I like Fleetwood, but you
wonder whether in the long term it'll all work out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Now though we turn our attention to tonight's clash with League One promotion
favourites Brentford in the League Cup at Griffin Park. Personally I'd love to
see Shields and Dennis given a go on the wings in a 4-4-2 formation, but
whether that'll happen I don't know. We've lost on all six of our previous
first round ties, so maybe, just maybe, we can finally get a win in this
competition. But probably not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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Thanks for reading and remember to follow me on Twitter @NickMurphyDRFC. Oh and for the record, I will always hate Fleetwood's goal music.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-52466811972393816762013-07-31T19:41:00.000+01:002013-08-01T12:39:55.768+01:00League Two 2013/2014 Preview, <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Come one, come all as <i>The Daggers Scale </i>takes its annual stab at trying to analyse how each of the 24 teams in League Two will do in the coming season. This year there's more information than ever with analysis, transfers, fan opinions and odds all waiting for you to consume. So sit tight and enjoy the smorgasbord of information I've put together for your enjoyment. As always feel free to agree or disagree with my opinion.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZXkNnqbbjnhddpns-XShyphenhyphenvgZfu7urM6oW4apYt62qSoVhvKQX63AdJl6bh6XMX3PJck0bawz1pB8PI4ea0EgQujykR4D_WovLjZ46cPQT71Vnr2cUARDtl2_rrmbYMMC7rYgtVt3NtrA/s1600/Sky+Bet+League+Two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZXkNnqbbjnhddpns-XShyphenhyphenvgZfu7urM6oW4apYt62qSoVhvKQX63AdJl6bh6XMX3PJck0bawz1pB8PI4ea0EgQujykR4D_WovLjZ46cPQT71Vnr2cUARDtl2_rrmbYMMC7rYgtVt3NtrA/s320/Sky+Bet+League+Two.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><u>Accrington Stanley</u></b></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Rob Atkinson (CB), Shay McCartan (ST), Nicky Hunt (RB), Josh Windass (MF),
Danny Webber (ST). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Romuald Boco, Bohan Dixon, Charlie Bennett, Amine Linganzi, Aiden Chippendale,
Tom Eckersley, Craig Lindfield, Lee Molyneux, Padraig Amond.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB_qxbtzrwdpfY3ecCvU954J-3pAmzTRHHbBE-pm6GgYcseID6pr0F-O70rem2klNjDthT2u0YhgJgPnbel7YNNr7tmbMOwPYwYibWofnUeMWpo1Du2VprQ0vIFzw3zim2k3ZPA4sjsms/s1600/Boco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyB_qxbtzrwdpfY3ecCvU954J-3pAmzTRHHbBE-pm6GgYcseID6pr0F-O70rem2klNjDthT2u0YhgJgPnbel7YNNr7tmbMOwPYwYibWofnUeMWpo1Du2VprQ0vIFzw3zim2k3ZPA4sjsms/s320/Boco.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Key man Boco has left.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk<br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So we kick off with Accrington, and out of everyone this season I fear for them most. With minimal transfer incomings and some key players in the likes of Romauld Boco heading away from
the Crown Ground, it could be a baptism of fire for James Beattie who takes the
hotseat for his first managerial foray. With no real long term successor since
legend John Coleman’s departure in January 2012, Stanley will be hoping Beattie
provides the results and security needed to ensure the Lancastrian outfit
remain in the Football League. New signing Danny Webber will be key if they’re
to maintain their Football League status, but without a talismanic player like
Francis Jeffers, whom they coaxed into joining last year and whose performances
ultimately saw Stanley survive; it could be a long season ahead. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Stanley_OSC:</span> <i>"<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A slightly different summer for Stanley with
James Beattie taking over the managerial hot-seat. The first thing James has
done is to get the majority of the squad signed back up, whilst bringing in a
mixture of youth and experience including Rob Atkinson and Danny Webber who
will give us more steel and spark. As always for Stanley it’s a case of defying
the odds, but I think we will surprise a few teams and I’ll be looking for a
top half finish come the end of the season."</span></i></div>
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<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Accrington to finish bottom, best priced 7/1 at Ladbrokes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><u>AFC Wimbledon</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
George Porter (ST), Callum Kennedy (LB), Charlie Sheringham (ST), Barry Fuller
(RB), Chris Arthur (LM), Ross Worner (GK), George Francombe (RB), Ashley Bayes
(GK), Andy Frampton (LB), Max Noble (LW), Michael Smith (Loan ST). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Jason Prior, Warren Cummings, Huw Johnson, Mat Mitchell-King, Rashid Yussuf,
Stacy Long, Frankie Merrifield, Pim Balkenstein, Chris Hussey, Kelly Youga,
Curtis Osano, Mikhael Jaimez-Ruiz, Louis Harris.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnnZYYUqKvbkw9cjyTDGpSuBtMYHom8ci4yUs5ZQGrHNMfzB6i47Qd61Z7HLZ7FwzbHSRvkKyWfCwXEDzpMcAAtBIbEv0M1706z2lAUwPTHRv1AwlGY9Y7RQGX7e0g7NnSfPbNTqMlmil/s1600/Kingsmeadow,+AFC+Wimbledon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXnnZYYUqKvbkw9cjyTDGpSuBtMYHom8ci4yUs5ZQGrHNMfzB6i47Qd61Z7HLZ7FwzbHSRvkKyWfCwXEDzpMcAAtBIbEv0M1706z2lAUwPTHRv1AwlGY9Y7RQGX7e0g7NnSfPbNTqMlmil/s320/Kingsmeadow,+AFC+Wimbledon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After last
season’s brush with relegation, the Dons will be hoping for a calmer campaign
this time around. The main problem for Neal Ardley’s side was their excessively
leaky defence, which conceded 76 goals through the course of the season, the
highest in the league. Former Gills left back Andy Frampton and Norwich right
back George Francombe have been brought in to address that problem as the Dons
look to tighten their ship. Key forward Jack Midson remains and will be assisted by the signing of Burnley forward George Porter on loan. The London
based outfit will be looking for a season of </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">improvement this time around with
a stronger squad, but whether that will materialise I'm not so sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@MattMightSay: <i>"After a tense 2012-2013 season
that would almost certainly have seen us relegated were it not for Neal
Ardley’s squad overall, things are now looking brighter at Kingsmeadow. Expect
the Dons to play with a different style to last year as Ardley tries out a new
formation. For Dons fans though, most seem confident of a mid-table finish, and
that should keep most of us smiling. But most importantly this season, we should
learn more details of our return to Merton. Fingers crossed."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Jack Midson League Two top goalscorer 25/1 at Coral.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Bristol Rovers</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Steve Mildenhall (GK), John-Joe O’Toole (MF). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Scott Bevan, Joe Anyinsah, Adam Virgo, Oumare Tounkara, Ross Staley.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite not
making much of a splash in the transfer window, Rovers are looking quietly
confident of ending their disastrous spell in the basement division of English
football. The signing of creative midfielder John-Joe O’Toole from Colchester
by boss John Ward looks likely to be a masterstroke. O’Toole lit up the league
in his loan spell at The Mem last season and alongside promising midfielders
Oliver Norburn and youngster Ellis Harrison the trio could prove potent.
Despite that, Rovers have been dealt an early blow with the news that Fabien
Broghammer will miss the majority of the campaign. Regardless, Rovers have a
squad that should be towards the top half of the table with a probable play-off
push on the cards. </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What the fan says:</span></b> <span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@HarddToBeatt:<i> "We have a very young squad and while that is an exciting prospect
for Gasheads, it means we’re all quite reluctant to make bold predictions.
However the permanent signings of Steve Mildenhall and John-Joe O’Toole to
strengthen the spine of the team has given us real belief. If we can shake off
the injury curse we endured last season then I think the top 7 is a realistic
aim. We have a few starlets on our hands, but look out for homegrown winger
Ellis Harrison who signed a new 3 year deal this summer. He’s got pace and
skill, he’s direct and he isn't afraid to shoot, he could become very important
for us."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Bristol Rovers to make the play-offs available at 10/3 with Ladbrokes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Burton Albion</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Rory Delap (RW), Rene Howe (ST), Chris Hussey (LB), Alex MacDonald (RM), Phil
Edwards (CB), Ian Sharps (CB), Michael Symes (ST), Adam Reed (CM).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
John McGrath, Stuart Tomlinson, Nathan Stanton, Calvin Zola, Aaron Webster,
Cleveland Taylor, Evan Garnett, Adi Yussuf, Jack Green, Jacques Maghoma, Andy
Corbett.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1mrjXN7Ib4G1GHQJArIiV01Fc2WEB4jx7vGheZQ4quqlx8bIyG8y3guOOHexHl3ZxAVBH0O88QCYRk1y-9wJZXuGT5KjkgEfsKyTg8YxAup6AEhyphenhyphenD00BgkZnbCRNAnTi5caaVPCywzIw/s1600/Maghoma.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk1mrjXN7Ib4G1GHQJArIiV01Fc2WEB4jx7vGheZQ4quqlx8bIyG8y3guOOHexHl3ZxAVBH0O88QCYRk1y-9wJZXuGT5KjkgEfsKyTg8YxAup6AEhyphenhyphenD00BgkZnbCRNAnTi5caaVPCywzIw/s200/Maghoma.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maghoma<br />
www.teamtalk.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After last
season’s play off agony, the Brewers will be looking to go one better this time
around. With the impressive signings of Rene Howe, Michael Symes and Ian Sharps
to replace the outgoing Nathan Stanton, Jacques Maghoma and Calvin Zola; Gary
Rowett has recruited well through the summer. Even with key losses the Brewers
retain a strong squad that should be capable of going for the play-offs and
possibly automatic promotion once more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@AdamBAFCdrew: <i>"<span style="background-color: white;">Last season was regarded by Burton fans as the greatest ever. We were one of the favourites to go down but ultimately finished 4th before losing out in the play-offs. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Whether we can do it a second time, without Jacques Maghoma and Calvin Zola, remains to be seen.. We have had so many changes to the squad, moreover I think we'll be one of the sides that teams want to beat. </span><span style="background-color: white;">I still think we will finish in the top half of a very tough league though. </span><span style="background-color: white;">Rene Howe and Rory Delap are the two to look out for, and they're the two who have excited fans."</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Burton to reach the play-offs, available at 4/1 with Ladbrokes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Bury</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Anton Forrester (Loan, ST), Richard Hinds (CB), Reice Charles-Cook (GK), John
Rooney (AM), Chris Sedgwick (RW), Rob Lainton (GK), Gareth Roberts (LB), Greg
McDermott (CM), Nathan Cameron (CB), Ashley Grimes (AM), Andy Proctor (CM),
Jessy Reindorf (ST), Marlon Jackson (ST), Shaun Beeley (Loan RB), Aidan Chippendale (LM).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Andy Bishop, Craig Fagan, Mark Hughes, Valery Mezague, Max Harrop, Jordan
Melia, Mark Carrington, Joe Skarz, David Healy, Carl Regan, Christian Dibble,
Cameron Belford, Marcus Marshall, David Worrall, Steven Schumacher, Efe Sodje.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With ongoing
financial worries behind the scenes last season, relegation from League One was
the least of Bury’s problems. With that all sorted, Kevin Blackwell has been
busy in the transfer market trying to find players capable of lifting the
Shakers up to the third tier once more. Ashley Grimes and Chris Sedgwick both
look to be smart acquisitions and will soften the blow of club captain Steven
Schumacher leaving for Fleetwood. Anton Forrester on loan from Blackburn should
accompany the experienced Shaun Harrad going forward as Gigg Lane prepares for
a possible play-off push.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Tommy_Ankers:<i> "It will be hard to judge how we’ll do
this season until we get at least 10 to 15 games in, as you will have seen
we've had to build a whole new squad and we’re still 3 or 4 players short. I do
think we’ll have a slow start which is what you’d expect while the whole team
gels. Hopefully we see some improvement from last season and end the year with something we can build on. I haven’t seen any of the pre-season games, but
Tom Soares (who should really be playing in a higher league), Shaun Harrad and
Richard Hinds all interest me."</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Bury to finish in the top half of the table, available at 7/4 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Cheltenham Town</u></span></h2>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Craig Braham-Barrett (Loan, LB), Ashley Vincent (ST), Terry Gornell (ST), Matt
Richards (CM), Jamie Cureton (ST), Troy Brown (CB), Ed Williams & Joe Hanks
(Academy CMs).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Darren Carter, Bagasan Graham, Harry Hooman, Darryl Duffy, Kaid Mohamed, Marlon
Pack.</span></div>
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQnb4Jy185JYSJlMM-kJc1yf8am8EKghgmr9iaRcAG-mDdI9sv8X9DKFMSlF_SkjKgdKb8t6rzW7FaCU92qVARup2j2evDxmxhTwJhlN1mrFw6R-7DPFL1hVSKpViy9t6GaS5AXWeI1GSH/s1600/Cheltenham+Town+Badge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQnb4Jy185JYSJlMM-kJc1yf8am8EKghgmr9iaRcAG-mDdI9sv8X9DKFMSlF_SkjKgdKb8t6rzW7FaCU92qVARup2j2evDxmxhTwJhlN1mrFw6R-7DPFL1hVSKpViy9t6GaS5AXWeI1GSH/s320/Cheltenham+Town+Badge.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Cheltenham
have cemented themselves as one of the most consistent outfits in the league in
recent years. Under the continued stewardship of entrepreneurial manager Mark
Yeats, the Robins have reached and ultimately failed in the play-offs in each
of the last two seasons. Despite the media furore surrounding Marlon Pack’s
departure, he wasn't at his best last season and as such may not be as big a
loss as some are making out. Four very good players have arrived at Whaddon
Road, in particular forward Jamie Cureton and attacking midfielder Ashley
Vincent who scored five and assisted seven as Port Vale cruised to promotion
last season. It may be tougher this time around, but expect the Gloucestershire
outfit to make the play-offs once more come May.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@MaxiHobbs: <i>"</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Expectations amongst
supporters are high. After two near misses and double play-off heartbreak fans
are expecting a promotion challenge. With some impressive signings over the summer, including Jamie Cureton and midfielder Matt Richards, we've every
reason to believe this could be our year."</i></span></span></div>
<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;"><br /></i>
<i style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jamie Cureton to be top goalscorer, available at 20/1 with PaddyPower.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Chesterfield</u></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Matty Brown (CM), Ritchie Humphreys (CM/CB), Eoin Doyle (ST), Jimmy Ryan (CM),
Gary Roberts (LW), Aaron Chapman (GK), Sam Morsy (RM), Ian Evatt (DF), Ryan Edwards (Loan CB), Jamie Devitt (RM). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out</b>:
Richard O’Donnell, Jonathan Wafalu, Craig Clay, Scott Boden, Richard Brindley,
Jacob Hazel (Loan), Neal Trotman, Danny Whitaker, Jack Waddle, Mark Randall,
Jack Lester.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One of two
sides that are expected to do very well this season, Chesterfield have
recruited admirably during the summer break. The signing of former Blackpool
defender Ian Evatt in particular shows their clout, whilst winger Gary Roberts
is undoubtedly one of the purchases of the window. But with just three
recognised forwards on their books, the onus will fall on Marc Richards to
lead the line. Paul Cook and Leam Richardson have linked up once more after
their respective managerial spells at Accrington and will be looking to take
the Spireites out of the division they escaped from three years ago. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@ashleybillyeald: <i>"On paper we have the strongest team in the league, but the
game isn't played on paper so it’ll be interesting to see how the new signings work
together. I think we have a good chance of securing automatic promotion even if
we don’t win the league. Our one to watch is Gary Roberts, he’s a good
attacking winger with bundles of skill and he’s not afraid to take players on, he’s
just the sort of man we've been looking for. Jimmy Ryan however is definitely
the strongest link in the middle of park and he’ll cause teams a lot of
problems."</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Chesterfield to win the league, available at 9/1 with UniBet.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Dagenham & Redbridge</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Afolabi Obafemi (ST), Jack Connors (Academy LB), Rhys Murphy (ST), Brian Saah
(CB). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Sam Williams, Kevin Maher, Dominic Green, Ben Strevens, Andrew Burns, Duran
Reynolds, Jonathan Fortune.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyMJ0-ZYtoPmbm4v2Fn7hiXwJPwn64e-41rWE04FrxtnxAO8nOyPNgLo5nxTwh3bWG0EcNmem03HfrbIFhvZ46e9R98KiXJb_u7OZr6WA6Bqm47TTxzty_SjclxHnHGg_ZB6GGBciRR7T/s1600/Wayne+Burnett,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Manager.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglyMJ0-ZYtoPmbm4v2Fn7hiXwJPwn64e-41rWE04FrxtnxAO8nOyPNgLo5nxTwh3bWG0EcNmem03HfrbIFhvZ46e9R98KiXJb_u7OZr6WA6Bqm47TTxzty_SjclxHnHGg_ZB6GGBciRR7T/s320/Wayne+Burnett,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Manager.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers new manager, Wayne Burnett<br />
<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s out of
the frying pan and into the fire for Wayne Burnett who will begin his first
full campaign as Dagenham & Redbridge boss next Saturday away at Fleetwood
Town. Taking over from long serving manager John Still last March, Burnett
oversaw just two victories as Daggers avoided relegation by just five goals
over London rivals Barnet. If they’re to survive again this term, their home
record of just two wins since January must be significantly improved.
Goalscoring has been another key issue since Dwight Gayle's departure, but
Daggers fans will be hoping former Arsenal striker Rhys Murphy puts an end to
that problem. If those two issues aren't addressed, it’s going to be a fourth
consecutive season of fighting the drop for Daggers fans.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@LeeWilsonDRFC:<i> "</i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 17px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>It looks like being a tough year for the Daggers. After narrowly avoiding relegation the previous season, a lack of a goalscorer looks like being our undoing once again. Although youngsters Rhys Murphy and Abi Obafemi have looked good in patches, whether they offer consistent goals is another thing. However, young left back Jack Connors has impressed in pre season whilst new centre back Brian Saah adds real competition to the back line. Nevertheless, it looks like being another battle against the drop for the Daggers this season."</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Dagenham & Redbridge to finish bottom, available at 7/1 with BetVictor.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Exeter City </u></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Sam Parkin (ST), Doug Bergqvist (CB).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Doug Bergqvist (Loan), Steve Tully, Jamie Cureton, Rhys Evans, Mark Molesley,
Kevin Amankwaah, Guillem Bauza, Elliott Frear.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Exeter are
usually one of the sides that are always round about the promotion places. They
proved that last term until an end of season collapse saw them miss out on the
play-offs by five points. This season however could be more of a struggle. With
several key players forced into exodus due to a lack of funding at St James
Park, the Grecians are a markedly weaker side. The biggest loss will
undoubtedly be 21 goal hit-man Jamie Cureton, who’s upped sticks in favour of a
move east to Cheltenham Town. With a squad of just 22 at the time of writing,
the West Country outfit will be increasingly reliant on youth prospects such as
Jake Gosling and as a result will find a play-off push a lot harder this time
around.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@ecfc32:<b> </b><i>"</i></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>I
think we've got the potential to do well, but like last season we’ll end up
just missing out on the play-offs. Our one to watch is 19 year old winger Jake
Gosling. He’s got so much going for him at the moment and I think he could be
our, ‘next big thing!’</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Exeter to be the top Devon club, available at 2/1 with StanJames.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Fleetwood Town</u></span></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Steven Schumacher (CM), Stephen Jordan (LB), Mark Roberts (CB), Jeff Hughes
(LM), Stewart Murdoch (DM), Matty Blair (CM), Loam Hogan (CB), Antoni Sarcevic (AM), Ryan
Cresswell (CB) Richard Wright & Jake Parker (Academy CMs).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:
</b>Chris Maxwell, Shaun Beeley & Alex Titchiner (Loans), Rob Atkinson, Danny Rose, Ritchie
Allen, Kieran Charnock, Mozzi Gyorio, Andy Mangan, Barry Nicholson, Danny Rowe,
Jamie McGuire, Jean-Michel Fontaine, Liam Wynn, Jamie Milligan, Anthony Barry,
Youl Mawene. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhllyFr4POQffR7oLiir5WulMapMpfx70hlZgRB5YS2U_bkTJki-psHclhALrE5Rb0IRlGT5C4XC7BgXtVpAXm0WP7l2ppwm4KSZzFLHus8EICKPxEtdVkOZifZZe2TkIMPNXRD06iwrD/s1600/Schumacher.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOhllyFr4POQffR7oLiir5WulMapMpfx70hlZgRB5YS2U_bkTJki-psHclhALrE5Rb0IRlGT5C4XC7BgXtVpAXm0WP7l2ppwm4KSZzFLHus8EICKPxEtdVkOZifZZe2TkIMPNXRD06iwrD/s200/Schumacher.jpg" width="175" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schumacher puts Fleetwood<br />
in pole position.<br />
www.buryfc.co.uk<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If the
league was positioned by financial clout and who teams have signed on paper,
along with one or two others Fleetwood would runaway with automatic promotion.
But it’s not, as former manager Mickey Mellon found out last season. The Cod
have recruited well over the summer to strengthen their promotion credentials,
the signing of Steven Schumacher from Bury being the standout. With David Ball,
Jamille Matt and Jon Parkin already at Highbury to accompany the new arrivals,
we can expect Graham Alexander’s men to mount a serious promotion challenge
this time around.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Sam_Heaney: <i>"</i></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
think we will be up near the top this season. The season will be considered a
disappointment if we fail to make the play-offs at the very least. We have
signed some terrific players and have looked good in pre-season, with two
comfortable wins against League One opposition. Make sure to look out for
midfielder Antoni Sarcevic, Steven Schumacher and David Ball."</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Fleetwood to gain promotion, available at 7/4 with SportingBet.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Hartlepool United</u></span></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Jack Compton (LW), Nialle Rodney (ST), Christian Burgess (Loan CB), Brad Walker (Academy CM).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:
</b>Ritchie Humphreys, Evan Horwood, Nathan Luscombe, Paul Johnson, Nathan Buddle,
Colin Nish, Adam McHugh.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-PoyQPL9CtIeSjtQeSAApcrBp3hhkHWv9j3ccKWo3agaYxSCf9uFJjrJE5Ohju1HjSLBOTDBntW18YknRPNhB-J0ruWtJAHfYZyLwKGdtoF-lq5GkFrTP3nGCLFxv5rETquq7ghEkHBr/s1600/600full-jeff-stelling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ-PoyQPL9CtIeSjtQeSAApcrBp3hhkHWv9j3ccKWo3agaYxSCf9uFJjrJE5Ohju1HjSLBOTDBntW18YknRPNhB-J0ruWtJAHfYZyLwKGdtoF-lq5GkFrTP3nGCLFxv5rETquq7ghEkHBr/s200/600full-jeff-stelling.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Do it for Jeff, lads.<br />
www.hotukdeals.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s been
something of a disappointing summer for Hartlepool with only winger Jack
Compton and unproven striker Nialle Rodney joining the club. That compared with seven outgoings, including captain
Ritchie Humphreys, signals a year of stabilisation in League Two under new
manager Colin Cooper. Their main problem will be goalscoring, with no prolific
centre forward on the books at Victoria Park. With a largely solid defence and
midfield and consistent goalkeeper Scott Flinders to call upon, the forward
position could be a sticking point if Stelling’s boys are to advance further up
the League Two ladder.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Forbesie10: <i><span style="color: #444444;">"</span></i></span><span style="background-color: white;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Many fans will disagree with me and will expect promotion, but after the
calamity of last season and the board's refusal of a much needed clear out, I
think our first priority is to steady the ship and make sure we don't turn this
season into another struggling one. I will be extremely satisfied with a top 10
finish! How do you solve a problem like Steve Howard? Last season he was the
big signing who turned into being an embarrassing flop and publicly stated he
did not want to play for us. After failing to get rid of him, he has been
handed the number 9 shirt and told to lead from the front! A frightening
thought indeed! Look out for Luke James, a very promising youngster who has yet
to really show his true potential! League 2 should be more his level! And not
forgetting Jack Baldwin, another excellent young midfielder/defender who has a
bright future ahead of him! One of the few players last season to consistently
perform at a high level. Well above League 2 standard</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">."</span></i></span><br />
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Hartlepool to finish in the bottom half, available at 7/4 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Mansfield Town</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Jamie McGuire (CM), Keiran Murtagh (LM), Martin Riley (CB), Ian Deakin (GK),
Paul Black (LB), John McCombe (CB), Sam Clucas (LM).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Gary Roberts (Loan), Jamie Hand, Stuart Redmond, Matt Green, Jamie Tolley, Nick
Wright, Andy Owens, Paul Bolland, Luke Jones, Exodus Geohaghan, Andy Todd.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
rampaging to the Conference title last season with a winning run that at one
stage stood at 12 on the bounce, Mansfield will be looking to reassert
themselves in League Two after a five year absence. Teams that end the
season well in the Conference tend to start brightly in the league and that
should be the case here, with the Stags looking at a mid-table position by the
end of September. Transfer wise they've not been very vocal. Impressive forward
Matt Green who scored 40 times for the Stags has departed as expected, and as
yet no replacement has been found. Therefore Jake Speight will likely
start as the central striker with new signing Sam Clucas pulling the creative
strings in midfield. I think it could be more difficult for Mansfield than some
think, and as such will put them down as scrapping against relegation for the
majority of the season. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@92_jackrich: <i>"</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">After steam rolling to the Blue Square
Bet Premier Title last season after an unbelievable run of results after<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span class="yshortcuts">Christmas, Mansfield</span><span class="apple-converted-space"> are
finally back in the Football League. In our first season back I see us
sustaining a respectable mid table finish due to our usual poor starts to
seasons under Paul Cox; however with a good start and a good festive period we
could attain a top half finish.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> <span style="background-color: white;">Our one to watch is Sam Clucas, signed from Hereford he has been on fire
in Pre Season, he’s a young lad with bags of ability<span class="apple-converted-space">."</span></span></span></span></i></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Mansfield to finish in the bottom half, available at 4/5 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Morecambe</u></span></h2>
<div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Mark Hughes (CB), Marcus Marshall (RW), Tony Diagne (LB), Jack Sampson (ST),
Alex Kenyon (LW), Aaron McGowan (Academy CM), Will Bell (Academy CB).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Jordan Burrow, Dan Parkinson, Gary McDonald, Chris Holroyd, Will Haining, Jamie
Short, Lewis Alessandra, Danny Carlton.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EdKPDQ6yHtFKziAac41OsvgErjMR9PdA3qibQrh6PrUXEv0i5WeUwXGJsyqko206BeO6J1CYLOVfLK0WJJ65KLpf5fn1v_bUQ3NtKpefPJwXky17lYCNWksoQvVbaiKSdsjaFekm3pwJ/s1600/Redshaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1EdKPDQ6yHtFKziAac41OsvgErjMR9PdA3qibQrh6PrUXEv0i5WeUwXGJsyqko206BeO6J1CYLOVfLK0WJJ65KLpf5fn1v_bUQ3NtKpefPJwXky17lYCNWksoQvVbaiKSdsjaFekm3pwJ/s320/Redshaw.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Redshaw will be a big blow.<br />
www.bbc.co.uk<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Morecambe
are an intriguing side. Despite losing several key players over the summer,
they've recruited fairly well bringing in the solid Tony Diagne and Marcus
Marshall who is experienced at this level. The big blow for them however is
that talismanic centre forward Jack Redshaw has been ruled out for five months
of the 2013/2014 campaign after sustaining an injury during pre-season. His 17
goals last season helped the Shrimps finish comfortably in mid-table, in his
absence the Lancastrian outfit will be relying even more on star player Kevin
Ellison. My instincts tell me that Jim Bentley’s side will ultimately be fine,
but not without a struggle early on in the season. </span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@AdamLordLM :<i> "Bookmakers are taking their usual dim view of Morecambe's chances
in League 2 this season. Boss Jim Bentley has however recruited well on a
reduced budget bringing in a younger crop of players to replace some of the
club's higher earners. The Shrimps have been dealt a major blow on the eve of
the season however with the news that star front man Jack Redshaw will be out
for up to five months after having hip surgery. Kevin Ellison will be looked
upon to fill some of the void left by last season's top scorer with the Globe
Arena faithful also hoping goalscoring midfielder Andy Fleming can fulfil his
potential in style."</i></span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Morecambe to finish in the top half, available at 6/1 with SkyBet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Newport County</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Jamie Stephens (GK), Harry Worley (CB), Adam Chapman (CB), Chris Zebroski (ST),
James Bittner (Loan GK), Ryan Jackson (RB). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:
</b>Jake Harris, Joe Perry, Jake Thomson, Ben Swallow, Michael Boateng, Scott
Donnelly, Alan Julian, Rhys Griffiths. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzdBA-ylPJrSIW7PKCvOz1XUiPt9bM1FPylB0ABPYUcEE-SGPa1Cikyrnp6jHxZ03sygo_A6kAmLOavXtdkXuK_27D4su0oVoWn7VTcA43Lm1sAGw24hFojP77LiCq8faVTMvDLp4fNUz/s1600/Edinburgh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="191" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRzdBA-ylPJrSIW7PKCvOz1XUiPt9bM1FPylB0ABPYUcEE-SGPa1Cikyrnp6jHxZ03sygo_A6kAmLOavXtdkXuK_27D4su0oVoWn7VTcA43Lm1sAGw24hFojP77LiCq8faVTMvDLp4fNUz/s200/Edinburgh.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Justin Edinburgh<br />
www.southwalesargus.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After 25
years in exile, the Exiles are, well, back (albeit in a new form). May’s 2-0
play-off final victory capped a remarkable rise for Newport and put the cherry
on top of an astonishing year for Welsh football. But now they’re here, they’ll
want to stay and in the process avoid being the first club ever to be relegated
immediately after promotion from the Conference. Even with a largely experienced
squad, I have my doubts over whether they will succeed in that aim. One thing
is for sure however and that is with highly rated manager Justin Edinburgh in
charge they’ll be targeting a mid table finish if they can avoid relegation.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@Lauralizbethh:<i> "I think Newport will do well in League Two in the coming season. Many
seem to underestimate County and assume we’ll struggle, but in my opinion we
have a strong enough squad and ambitious management to ensure we do more than
just stay up. Our player to look out for is without a doubt, former Wimbledon
midfielder Chris Jolley. Expect Aaron O’Connor and Andy Sandell to shine as
well."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Newport to be relegated, available at 7/1 with BetVictor.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Northampton Town</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In: </b>Darren
Carter (CM), Ian Morris (LM), Matt Duke (GK), JJ Hooper (ST), Gary Deegan (MF),
Kevin Amankwaah (DF), Ivan Toney & Ben Heath (Academy). </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Ben Harding, Jake Robinson, Luke Guttridge, Nana Ofori-Twumasi, Adebayo
Akinfenwa, Paul Turnbull, Louis Moult, John Jackson, Lewis Wilson, Clarke
Carlisle.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipP_2H2eeupD65w_8noslqM3ChCoAVr0ylVDoAJkVjtpc7qti9DvaQeZgxeJp34UvwpiXcZnsLg38ZiMuznDsAoWE7GInfns2xQzuIEjmTLGrJiPeASqHbxfJNF2HcSU6sMEYQpHPLwbv2/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Fans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipP_2H2eeupD65w_8noslqM3ChCoAVr0ylVDoAJkVjtpc7qti9DvaQeZgxeJp34UvwpiXcZnsLg38ZiMuznDsAoWE7GInfns2xQzuIEjmTLGrJiPeASqHbxfJNF2HcSU6sMEYQpHPLwbv2/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Fans.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sixfields away stand</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another side
that will aim to be in and around the play-off picture come the end of the
season are Northampton Town. After their near miss in the play-offs last
season, Aidy Boothroyd has admitted his side are short of goals following the
departure of fans favourite Bayo Akinfenwa. With their direct style, Cobblers
fans will be hoping to continue their fantastic home record of last season
which saw them pick up 17 victories at Sixfields. Kevin Amankwaah has recently
joined to shore up the defence following Clarke Carlisle’s retirement, whilst
favoured personnel Chris Hackett and Kelvin Langmead remain. With a lot more
depth of quality in the league this season, I can see a mid table finish for
the Cobblers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Tejay94: <i>"<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">The aim for Aidy
Boothroyd this season will naturally be to secure promotion. Cobblers fans will
be optimistic of a good season following a good pre-season in which a decent
Leicester City side were beaten, although the general consensus is that the
squad remains light at this stage<span style="font-size: 9pt;">.</span></span>It remains to be seen whether Bayo
Akinfenwa and his goals can be replaced as no 'recognised' striker has been
brought in, only JJ Hooper, formerly of Darlington and Workington has boosted
the attacking options.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>If
we’re to go one further this season we’ll have to do much better on the road, we
had one of the worst away records last season which cost us dear.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>Promotion will be far from a
formality for the Cobblers this season, but it can definitely be achieved."</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Northampton to make the play-offs, available at 7/2 with Ladbrokes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Oxford United</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Tom Newey (LB), Josh Ruffels (CM), Johnny Mullins (CB), Asa Hall (RM), Danny Rose (RM), Jonathan Meades (LB), David
Hunt (CM), Dave Kitson (ST), Josh Shama (RW), Callum O’Dowda (Academy LM),
David Lynn (Academy LB), Sam Long (Academy CB).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Justin Richards, Damien Batt, Harry Worley, Jon Paul-Pittman, Peter Leven,
Michael Duberry, Adam Chapman, Wayne Brown, Luke McCormick, Toni Capaldi, Simon
Heslop, Tom Craddock, Josh Parker, Liam Davis, Luke O’Brien.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another side
that have bought well in the close season are Oxford United. Chris Wilder, League
Two’s second longest serving manager has acted to replace Tom Craddock up front by
bringing in former Premier League striker Dave Kitson. Star midfielder Peter
Leven is an undoubted loss amongst a major overhaul of the U’s squad, yet
Wilder’s men retain a strong midfield ahead of the new season. The long term
goal for Oxford remains to gain promotion to League One and with some fans
having doubts over the managers credentials, Wilder will be even more
determined this season to lead the U’s out of the basement division. With such
a small squad though, any potential long term injuries could blight their
campaign. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica;"><b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What the fan says: </span></b></span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@OllieWilliams33:<i> "I think what all Oxford fans want this season is promotion, or at the
very least the play offs having failed to achieve this feat in the last couple
of seasons. The summer signings of forward, Dave Kitson who has Premier League experience
and Johnny Mullins along with Jake Wright will form one of the best centre-back
pairings in the league in my opinion. We have strengthened significantly enough
at both ends of the field to be in and around the automatic promotion picture
at the end of the season."</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>James Constable to be League Two top goalscorer, available at 33/1 with PaddyPower.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Plymouth Argyle</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Romuald Boco (RM/ST), Luke McCormick (GK), Lewis Alessandra (ST), Dominic
Blizzard (CM), Marvin Morgan (ST), Reuben Reid (Loan ST), Andre Blackman (LB),Tyler
Harvey (Academy ST), Ben Purrington (Academy LB).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:
</b>Rene Gilmartin, Ollie Chenoweth, Warren Feeney, Jared Sims, Onismor Bhasera,
Jamie Lowry, Anthony Charles, Paris Cowan-Hall.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURmzDKskiQEnbSbud_HwXEFKRi0lEEf-ryhutXBA9mu4Gd4qMaBZGl2mupzEQ3J8kkdIgh4c-jZ1d9i-HwUS688i1lE3c0r8vRrKdCiW_CxN3zwpZC5oy2r9leTi2j3gnpy59SeJiSszB/s1600/Forza+Verdi+Flag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgURmzDKskiQEnbSbud_HwXEFKRi0lEEf-ryhutXBA9mu4Gd4qMaBZGl2mupzEQ3J8kkdIgh4c-jZ1d9i-HwUS688i1lE3c0r8vRrKdCiW_CxN3zwpZC5oy2r9leTi2j3gnpy59SeJiSszB/s320/Forza+Verdi+Flag.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Green Army</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After years
of struggle at the wrong end of the table, Argyle can finally contemplate a
season where it doesn't all go wrong. Like so many clubs, the green army
narrowly avoided relegation last term following the arrival of new manager John
Sheridan. With his appointment came renewed optimism and that same optimism has
translated into the new season with Plymouth fans hoping for a possible
play-off push. They've done well over the summer, signing experienced League
Two players like prolific forward Marvin Morgan, whilst shedding their
deadweight. Despite all of this, I think it may be a year too early for Argyle
who will just miss out on a play-off spot come May.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@DaveWeeks16: <i><span style="line-height: 115%;"> "</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;">I think we'll do ok
this season, a lot better than the past few anyway. Flirting with play-offs is
the best we can hope for.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"> Our man to watch is <span style="background-color: white;">Conor Hourihane (our captain) he’s only 22 but continues to grow
stronger, I think he'll do well in midfield, moreover he’ll be able to advance
forward more now following the signing of Dominic Blizzard. Marvin Morgan could
also do well for us; he’s tall and has experience of this league. Meanwhile
Luke McCormick in goal will certainly bring us more clean sheets, in my
opinion."</span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Plymouth to finish as the best placed Devon club, 7/1 at ToteSport.</span></span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="background-color: white;"><u>Portsmouth</u></span></span></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Patrick Agyemang (ST), Ricky Holmes (ST), John Sullivan (GK), Sonny Bradley
(LB), Tom Craddock (ST), Andy Barcham (LW), Danny East (CB), Joe Devera (CB),
Bradley Tarduck (RW), Simon Ferry (MF), Ryan Bird (ST), Liam Triggs (Academy RB), Josh Warren
(Academy CB), George Branford (Academy CM).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Alex Grant, Simon Eastwood, Elliot Wheeler, Gabor Gyepes, John Akinde, Liam
Walker, Dan Thompson, Sam Sodje, George Colson. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The biggest
club with arguably the biggest fanbase, the majority expect Portsmouth to make
a comfortable return to League One by the end of this season. Having signed the
cream of the League Two crop over the summer it’s hard to disagree with them
really. Guy Whittingham has pulled a real rabbit out of the hat by coaxing
Simon Ferry into signing, whilst Tom Craddock will be expecting to continue his
good goalscoring form from his Oxford days. With their ability to sign players
on longer deals, Pompey should have more cohesion, familiarity and experience
this season which will ensure them of a play-off place at the very least if not
automatic promotion. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #282828; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">@FrattonFaithful</span></span><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">:<i> "</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22px;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>After a dire few seasons that comprised two relegations and two administrations, the Pompey Supporters' Trust now own the club and there is a sense of optimism around Fratton Park. The fans are happy with the manager and most of the squad that finished last season with a flourish has been retained. Jed Wallace is the one to watch after he shone in League One last season and the front two of Patrick Agyemang and David Connolly should cause many League Two defences some problems. With so many new signings it might take the team some time to gel so automatic promotion may be out of the question and we'll have to settle for the play-offs, which would still be a good achievement after the last few years."</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Portsmouth to win the league, available at 5/1 with Coral.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Rochdale AFC</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b> Robbie Thomson (GK), Javan Vidal (RB), Jack O’Connell (Loan CB), Matt Done (LW), Bastien Hery (DM), Scott Hogan (RM),
Ashley Eastham (CB), Olly Lancashire (CB), Peter Vincenti (ST), Matthew Lund
(CM), Robbie Thomson (GK), Allen, Logan, Tanser, O’Conner (Academy).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Bobby Grant, Terry Gornell, Jason Kennedy, Dele Adebola, Craig Curran, Luke
Watson, Andy Haworth, Kevin McIntyre, Matthew Pearson, Matty Edwards, Sam
Minihan, Ashley Grimes, Ritchie Jones, Neil Byrne, Phil Edwards.</span></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXeJxxquZujbsz29-cy_N89Fn2iU52xysvJ6EobobBkKgMvptoh6DcuB21x9mf3W5QksFVocqo0qN4SVXj-pI8qXJiWgDHpEQR1u1YndI39p3OTinA2ulOVZ9B-yW7yytY150w-wT2dKb/s1600/Kieth+Hill.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFXeJxxquZujbsz29-cy_N89Fn2iU52xysvJ6EobobBkKgMvptoh6DcuB21x9mf3W5QksFVocqo0qN4SVXj-pI8qXJiWgDHpEQR1u1YndI39p3OTinA2ulOVZ9B-yW7yytY150w-wT2dKb/s1600/Kieth+Hill.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hill<br />
www.express.co.uk</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After last
season’s disappointing campaign, overshadowed by John Coleman’s sacking and Bobby
Grant’s alleged racist remarks directed at Gavin Hoyte, Rochdale will be
looking forward to a more straight forward season this time around. With Keith
Hill serving his second <strike>sentence</strike>, tenure as Dale boss, supporters of the
Spotland outfit can hope for a more upwardly mobile season than last term. With
a solid defence to call upon, Dale’s main problem is likely to be goalscoring
with several key forward players departing the club over the summer break.
Despite all of that, youngster Joe Bunney who scored on his debut in April
could make a breakthrough as Dale aim for the play-off spots.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@deanothedalefan: <i>"</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Quietly confident is
the best way to describe the mood at Spotland going into the new season. We've
got a crop of young exciting players that have bags of potential and the
general consensus within the fanbase is that top 7 is a real possibility.
Personally, I think we’ll just miss out on the play-offs, but we’ll be hard to
beat and the fans will be behind Keith Hill all the way with his history at
Dale. The players in the attacking midfield positions will be key for us –
Matty Done and Ian Henderson are very dangerous at this level."</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Rochdale to make the play-offs, available at 7-2 with Ladbrokes.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Scunthorpe United</u></span></h2>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Dean Burton (ST), Sean McAllister (CM), Etienne Esajas (LW), Matt Sparrow (RW),
Andy Welsh (LM), Andy Dawson (LB), Luke Waterfall (CB), Terry Hawkridge (MF),
Chris Iwelumo (ST), Sam Winnall (ST), Jamie Wootton, Luke Hornsey, George
Grayson, Hakeeb Adelakun (Academy).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Josh Walker, Akpo Sodje, Mark Duffy, Tom Newey, Callum Kennedy, Robbie Gibbons,
Damien Mozika, Andy Barcham, Karl Hawley, Jimmy Ryan, Paul Reid, Mike Grella.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recently
relegated from League One, Scunthorpe can perhaps be considered the dark horses
for promotion from League Two. Manager Brian Laws has moved well in the
transfer market, signing up experienced pros like Andy Dawson and Chris Iwelumo
to compliment creative players such as Etienne Esajas formerly of Sheffield
Wednesday and youngster Connor Jennings. After years of struggle both on and
off the pitch, it should be a calmer season at Glanford Park this time around
with the play-offs looking like a distinct probability. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@AidanMcCartney: <i>"<span style="line-height: 115%;">With ten summer arrivals at Glanford Park Laws has led
a reunion of sorts as the Iron try to bounce back to League One at the first
attempt. Midfielder Matt Sparrow has returned after three seasons away while
defender Andy Dawson has re-joined nearly 10 years on following a hugely
successful spell with Hull City. Experienced front-men Chris Iwelumo and Deon
Burton have been recruited as Laws puts together a workable mix of youth and
experience. Play-offs look to be a realistic aim for the side if we can unearth
a proper goalscorer and sort out our problematic home form.</span><span style="color: #454545; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="line-height: 115%;">Our
one to watch is Terry Hawkridge, a 23 year old summer signing from Gainsborough
Trinity. Big things are expected in North Lincolnshire for the winger as we
look to replace the creativity of Mark Duffy."</span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Scunthorpe to gain promotion, available at 4/1 with BetVictor.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><u>Southend United</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b>
Ben Coker (LM), Will Atkinson (LM), John White (LB), Mitchell Pinnock ( Academy
LW), Ryan Auger (Academy RM).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Ryan Cresswell (CB), Alex Woodyard (CM), Mickey Spillane (CB/CM), Elliot Benyon
(ST), Gavin Tomlin (ST), Bilel Mohsni (CB/ST), John Spicer (CM), Neil Harris
(ST), Sean Clohessy (RB), Jack Paxman (LM), Graham Coughlan (CB).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsCq2Dam9BajHKsnhSo7W0e2jGllNjw7j_r4RYlgi9teUjiP6FdS_M9dWzSbuaf7tj1xhYJqpNZYBZcyKN6mAjjK1WeLGFi3nwS-TiGpJiRM224EkUit3YUDKTQP2PQJxEBSSFP7K_xJu/s1600/Rn+Martin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwsCq2Dam9BajHKsnhSo7W0e2jGllNjw7j_r4RYlgi9teUjiP6FdS_M9dWzSbuaf7tj1xhYJqpNZYBZcyKN6mAjjK1WeLGFi3nwS-TiGpJiRM224EkUit3YUDKTQP2PQJxEBSSFP7K_xJu/s1600/Rn+Martin.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Ron (No, not that one)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unpaid tax
bills, winding up orders and a manager trying to prove his worth: welcome to
League Two’s most eventful club. Unfortunately for Southend fans though, this
season could well be one to forget. With several key players jumping ship, the
Shrimpers face a long walk off a short pier. With two Colchester cast-offs and
an unreliable Bradford winger, you can’t even say the Essex outfit have bought
well as yet. With automatic promotion out of the question, the play-offs are
the best Southend can hope for this season – and even that’s pushing it. With
kingpin Ron Martin the amiable puppet master at Roots Hall and Kim-Jong Brown
on the touchline, the bubble may well burst on the Essex coast this season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@CJPhillips1982: <i>"</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>At the moment Southend have
11 fit senior players which means they’ll need to strengthen the squad hugely
if they’re to finish any higher than mid-table. Player wise Barry Corr is the
one to watch. He scored 12 goals in 19 starts last season and is now back to
full fitness."</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Southend to finish in the bottom half, available at 11/10 with SkyBet.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Torquay United</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:</b> Krystian Pearace (CB), Ben Harding (CM), Courtney Cameron (LM), Jordan Chappell (ST), Dale Tonge (RB),
Elliott Benyon (ST).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Brian Saah, Rene Howe, Craig Easton, Daniel Leadbitter, Lloyd Macklin, Karl
Baker, Ian Morris, Joe Oastler, Danny Stevens, Saul Haplin, Ryan Jarvis.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It’s the
start of another new chapter at Plainmoor following the departure of Martin
Ling with former Bury boss Alan Knill taking his place in the dugout. And that
brings with it a level of intrigue as to where the Gulls will go from here.
Under Knill, Torquay experienced a mixed end to the season, but ultimately it
all came together in good time to allow the seasiders to escape the clutches of
relegation. I'm afraid to say it could well be another slog at the bottom for
Knill's men. After losing key forward Rene Howe and solid centre half Brian
Saah, a lot of responsibility will fall onto the shoulders of former star
Elliot Benyon to ensure the Gulls don’t slip into those relegation places once
more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@JohnCadigan: <i>"</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A new season and another new manager at Plainmoor after last
season’s debacle, but there’s reason for optimism under Alan Knill. The signing
of young wingers Jordan Chapell and Courtney Cameron, and creative midfielder
Ben Harding indicates a more exciting style than we experienced under Martin
Ling. As well as that, the re-signing of fans favourite Elliot Benyon as well
as former Notts County defender Krystian Pearce, has got the fans going. If we
can add a another striker or two to the squad, and can pick up from where we
left off at the end of last season, a top half finish with some positive,
attacking football would represent a job well done for most Gulls fans."</span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>Torquay to be relegated, available at 8/1 with StanJames.</span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Wycombe Wanderers</u></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Steven Craig (ST), Tommy Fletcher (CB), Jon-Paul Pittman (ST), Charlie Horlock
(GK), Paris Cowan-Hall (ST), Nick Arnold (Loan RB).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:
</b>Grant Basey, Olly Taylor, Dave Winfield, Dennis Oli, Georges Ehui, Joel Grant,
Gareth Ainsworth, Emanuel Ighorae Jessy Kewley-Graham (Loan).</span></div>
</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiB3GUw7LXJE32J2T8CDpTAv_6uGFLH3YcR2KAjgngyei0zeiXWpimRvlh2dScIsqMHAJRcINiQwIRXCiXmFN21g4MWGqv6jrkeka93Ise0PfK4yfa_OVU-GbgAsAQmftAWCrQhwviSSqV/s1600/Wycombe+Away+Kit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiB3GUw7LXJE32J2T8CDpTAv_6uGFLH3YcR2KAjgngyei0zeiXWpimRvlh2dScIsqMHAJRcINiQwIRXCiXmFN21g4MWGqv6jrkeka93Ise0PfK4yfa_OVU-GbgAsAQmftAWCrQhwviSSqV/s320/Wycombe+Away+Kit.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wycombe have borrowed Barcelona's away kit<br />
ahead of the new campaign<br />
www.footballkitnews.com<br />
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<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look under
‘average’ in the dictionary and you’ll find Wycombe Wanderers. With a distinct
lack of transfer activity the chairboys have been left with largely the same
squad that finished 15<span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span> last season. Joel Grant has departed for
Yeovil but other than that they haven’t really lost any key figures. Jon-Paul
Pittman has been brought in for his second spell with the club and should link
up well with tricky winger Sam Wood to provide a potent attacking threat for
the Buckinghamshire outfit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@Alky007:<b> </b><i>"</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>This season is one that
many Wycombe fans are looking forward to. The first full season of "Rock
and Roll Football" under Gareth Ainsworth promises much. Despite the loss
of last year’s top scorer Joel Grant and captain Dave Winfield, there are still
grounds for optimism within the camp. A lot will be expected from Dean Morgan
up front and the youngsters such as Ingram, Stewart, Dunne, Hause, Scowen and
McClure should all get chances to shine. There’s no reason why the play offs
shouldn't be a realistic target."</i></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Best Bet: </b>Wycombe to make the play-offs, available at 7/2 with Ladbrokes. </span></span></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>York City</u></span></span></h2>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players In:
</b>Ben Davies (Loan DF), Chris Kettings (Loan GK), Richard Cresswell (ST), Lewis
Montrose (CM), Ryan Bowman (ST), Wes Fletcher (ST), Craig Clay (CB), Ryan
Jarvis (ST), Sander Puri (RM), Mike Atkinson (Academy RB), Chris Dickinson
(Academy ST). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Players Out:</b>
Jason Walker, Jamie Reed, Chris Doig, Matty Blair, David McDaid, Patrick
McLaughlin, Michael Potts, Scott Kerr, Jameel Ible, Jon Challinor, Lee Bullock. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having
narrowly avoided relegation in their first season back in League Two, York City
will be looking to push on up the league under the stewardship of Nigel
Worthington. The Minstermen are another side to have recruited relatively well,
bringing in Estonian international midfielder Sander Puri from St Mirren and
powerful midfielder Lewis Montrose from Gillingham. They both suit
Worthington’s style of play which will have undoubtedly been drilled into the
players over the summer. If they can maintain their sturdy away form and improve
on their woeful home record at Bootham Crescent last season, a play-off push is
on the cards. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>What the fan says: </b>@lawtonjoe: <span style="background-color: white;">"</span><i><span style="background-color: white;">Four wins in the last six games of last season
meant York avoided suffering the ignominy of being the first ever club to be
relegated back to the Conference immediately after being promoted.</span> After last season's unwanted close shave, hopes are
high at Bootham Crescent that they can improve on the 17th position they
finished in 2013, with even a spot in the play-offs a faint aspiration. Going
unbeaten in pre-season against four Championship sides bodes well and manager
Nigel Worthington's contacts within the Football League means that when
injuries and suspensions inevitably arise, he will be well equipped to bring in
temporary faces, very often a problem for League 2 teams. <span style="background-color: white;">One York player to keep an eye on is new signing Sander Puri.
The 25 year old is an Estonian international with 52 senior caps to his name.
He is an attacking winger comfortable with both feet and is certainly someone
for the Minstermen faithful to get excited about."</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i style="font-weight: bold;">Murphy's Best Bet: </i>York City to make the play-offs, available at 6/1 with Ladbrokes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So there we have it folks, the most in depth and detailed look through of each of the 24 teams competing in League Two in the coming season. Thank you to all of the supporters that have taken part and good luck to all for the rest of the season. Make sure you read my future blogs when we play your team and that you follow me on Twitter using the handle @NickMurphyDRFC. Thank you all for reading and I'll speak to you again soon.</span></div>
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-69104892809870687642013-07-23T12:31:00.000+01:002013-07-23T12:31:11.372+01:00Daggers 1-2 Crystal Palace, Where Eagles Dare.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XGSbRIb0zxzSubA1Jl4Ue3Nrkj2C2A64S69gIuP1GC-A_YXsR8q7Up19_QSSWrhy0LFwL9Z5e1uzuiKcPWZkucK21aZ2t44673_I_yuy7eE59vYH8uxbz1UIPAqE77rvbUOnhZ09B-cy/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC+vs+Crystal+Palace+FC.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9XGSbRIb0zxzSubA1Jl4Ue3Nrkj2C2A64S69gIuP1GC-A_YXsR8q7Up19_QSSWrhy0LFwL9Z5e1uzuiKcPWZkucK21aZ2t44673_I_yuy7eE59vYH8uxbz1UIPAqE77rvbUOnhZ09B-cy/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+FC+vs+Crystal+Palace+FC.PNG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That's it, it's all over for
Daggers. We've lost another pre-season game, this time against Premier League
opposition and relegation looms. Except that isn't the case. Dagenham &
Redbridge held their own superbly against a strong Crystal Palace side featuring
Dwight Gayle, Kevin Phillips and Stephen Dobbie yesterday afternoon. Despite a
late resurgence, the two goal lead Palace asserted was unassailable for Daggers
who could only muster a late consolation via a Medy Elito penalty. Nonetheless
it was a positive performance from the hosts who can take a lot from the game.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the new season soon to be upon us, I have to tell you I'm not that
confident. Why I'm not so sure. It's more of a gut feeling. But hopefully the
three month break will have instilled something new into the player’s that
changes my belief. In all honesty it's just nice to get back into the old
routine. Into the clubhouse and through the turnstiles just in time for
kick-off. Football is back.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers started brightly, Jake Reed in particular looking good down the flanks
with new signing Obafemi providing the forwards touch in the middle. Palace
though weren't to be outdone and through Stephen Dobbie they carried a real
threat. Despite the even start, it was the visitors that fashioned the first
opportunity of the afternoon. The ball was fed through to trialist Atdhe Nuhui
who rounded the 'keeper before seeing his shot cleared off the line by Daggers
trialist Brian Saah. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpykzb8Y21H-VuJaFbZmWRM5u83E7hrsuV_7vS9rko0ittI4HiUkQuKRaR6FRGidxLbon1cLn1PzDXeotKQZUgf7Q9cKOTy_lePhqa_iQnjvhwAQXLwXOU-iOCHyk-LqI1NECRl_fK2WG/s1600/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpykzb8Y21H-VuJaFbZmWRM5u83E7hrsuV_7vS9rko0ittI4HiUkQuKRaR6FRGidxLbon1cLn1PzDXeotKQZUgf7Q9cKOTy_lePhqa_iQnjvhwAQXLwXOU-iOCHyk-LqI1NECRl_fK2WG/s320/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="172" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The pace of the game soon decreased which is to be expected in pre-season. But
the decibel level was increased fifteen minutes in when Jake Reed had
penalty appeals for a foul by Danny Gabbidon waved away. It may be pre-season,
but the crowd didn't care. The sun continued to make intermittent appearances
as Daggers pushed forward in search of the first goal. First new signing
Obafemi fired wide before Luke Howell sliced one wide of the post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The best chance of the half however, fell to Palace. After a scramble in the area
the ball dropped to veteran Kevin Phillips who could only skew his effort over
from close range. That miss sparked Palace into life and only good defensive
work from Jack Conners and smart goalkeeping from Chris Lewington kept the
Eagles at bay. Despite his best efforts to thwart Stephen Dobbie, Lewington
could do nothing on 35 minutes when the unmarked Nuhiu slotted home into the
corner of the net for a 1-0 lead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With that, Daggers were resurgent and kicked on in search of an equaliser. Medy
Elito was playing down the middle and as such looked like more of a threat. It
was he and Luke Howell that interchanged just before half time to force Julian
Speroni into a terrific diving stop. Brian Saah then came close from a corner
before Obafemi should have done better after being threaded through one on one by Ogogo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the first half coming to a close, it became apparent that there would be
no Daggerettes to entertain us during the half time break...oh no.... Also,
apparently we've served shepherd’s pie for years, yet I was not made aware of
this? As the teams re-emerged for the second half in the blazing sunshine,
there was inevitably a flurry of substitutions. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2DGpTP7HVdUj1KIVWhZn3uryL8RpcVBvCgvBgmfz21YUnl-riBJiebZr10VBcKcAeIGEbXzMF1_1JS-x3iDo23VoUK3huzk2kdS3G7fLX7mpkNnuoR47X7RkO4af9o_dZQWmHWKQbKQ6/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Crystal+Palace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv2DGpTP7HVdUj1KIVWhZn3uryL8RpcVBvCgvBgmfz21YUnl-riBJiebZr10VBcKcAeIGEbXzMF1_1JS-x3iDo23VoUK3huzk2kdS3G7fLX7mpkNnuoR47X7RkO4af9o_dZQWmHWKQbKQ6/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Crystal+Palace.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Palace started the second half with a completely changed side which read as,
Fitzsimons, Ramage, Moxey, Inniss, Taylor, Garvan, Grandin, Boateng, Sow,
Wilbrahimovic and one, Dwight Gayle. That Gayle fella eh? Sure we've heard of
him before. Daggers meanwhile replaced the impressive Jake Reed with trialist
Zavon Hines who took to the wing like a duck to water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The second half started evenly, although Gavin Hoyte was forced into a block
early on to deny substitute Sow. Daggers looked inventive down the wings, with
Hines in particular showing his intrepid nature. Even with the more positive
attacking outlook, it was Palace who doubled their lead soon after the break.
Obafemi brought down Quade Taylor just inside the box which gave Owen Garvan
the chance to extend the scoreline. And he did just that to make it 2-0. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Dwight Gayle was denied the chance to take the penalty by Garvan, and as such clearly
wanted a goal of his own. Minutes after the penalty he nearly got it but for
another brilliant save from the outstanding Chris Lewington. Then came another
flurry of changes, with Sean Shields, Lloyd Macklin, Femi and Billy Bingham all
introduced. They replaced Gavin Hoyte, Luke Howell, Afolabi Obafemi and Jack
Conners. Femi replacing Femi certainly got a chuckle from me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UA5JTuSB0KOmc5IZ-USaiQS7sXIfDzZ5nA0gbGzX1hqzum0byculz_oIQgDlAawAhnNCc7S-8TzTbTBaeheqYNvFDORikr0BxHs9UQXtdyl4TosA_eFhhZloEPVsdhDvIjh8nhJnyLMD/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9UA5JTuSB0KOmc5IZ-USaiQS7sXIfDzZ5nA0gbGzX1hqzum0byculz_oIQgDlAawAhnNCc7S-8TzTbTBaeheqYNvFDORikr0BxHs9UQXtdyl4TosA_eFhhZloEPVsdhDvIjh8nhJnyLMD/s1600/Medy+Elito.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Zavon Hines proved to be the brightest spark in the Daggers attacking play
after his introduction at the break. And with just over 60 minutes gone, his
dazzling run down the left hand side brought a penalty when Quade Taylor, who
won the penalty down the other end, bundled Hines over. I say
"bundled", if this was a competitive game, Palace would have been
furious with the award. Nevertheless Elito continued his 100% record from the
spot, narrowly sending the ball beyond Fitzsimons to make it 2-1. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers then introduced another
contingent of players, with Jordan Seabright, Ian Gayle & Brian Woodall
coming on for Chris Lewington, Scott Doe & Rhys Murphy. Despite Ian Gayle's
introduction, it was his namesake Dwight that continued to cause problems for
the Daggers defence. His movement and skill opened up space to get a shot away
that Seabright held onto well to ensure the hosts remained in the
contest. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even with the deficit remaining
at one, Daggers were unable to find a way back into the match. Despite late
pressure, several corners and a dangerous free-kick, the Palace defence
remained sturdy to ensure an inaugural pre-season victory ahead of their
Premier League campaign. On the whole a good test for both sides, and on the
balance of play probably the correct result.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In the wake of the game I have to
admit I was anticipating a hard slog of a season, with my gut feeling sending
us spiralling towards the Conference. I hate to judge on friendly games, but by
the 90th minute my opinion had changed somewhat. I became quietly optimistic,
cautiously impressed and dangerously happy. We zipped the ball around well,
created space and caused problems for the Palace defence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We looked encouraging, even if it is pre-season. We certainly passed the ball more confidently than I've seen in
some time; it looks as though Burnett is succeeding in instilling his
philosophy into the players. And that's something that is vital. If we want to
succeed, they have to buy in to what he's trying to sell. As do we. At the
moment I think we're all on board. It may be pre-season but the early signs are
encouraging.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMyF_nrHpAXmWpHe-eYlhWDoz2YqU2GSUk3fh7AYRJZ-fhpB2P74ye53MZCxO_jb0esxW5cG9HaoAq24z5NbBMIsKpEUIgu2hDmVeI8UIOfmJWKCM02J6tVG_nG7FblGIyJ0gbMxD3pZk/s1600/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoMyF_nrHpAXmWpHe-eYlhWDoz2YqU2GSUk3fh7AYRJZ-fhpB2P74ye53MZCxO_jb0esxW5cG9HaoAq24z5NbBMIsKpEUIgu2hDmVeI8UIOfmJWKCM02J6tVG_nG7FblGIyJ0gbMxD3pZk/s320/Chris+Lewington+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lewington</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Individually we also look as
though we've improved. Chris Lewington turned in a terrific performance between
the sticks and his replacement Jordan Seabright fared just as well. Brian Saah
and Scott Doe were solid whilst the inexperienced Jack Conners played years
beyond his level to show a possible challenge to Femi this season. Gavin Hoyte
and Abu Ogogo were as confident as ever, whilst even Medy looked positive
through the middle. A position where many have wanted him for quite some time.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Going forward we lacked bite, but
hopefully that'll be rectified soon. Afolabi Obafemi worked himself into good
positions and Jake Reed gave it 110% as we all know he can. Rhys Murphy looked
good whilst Sean Shields looked exciting when introduced. The real star however
was Zavon Hines. His trickery, pace and flair lit up the wings and he proved a
real menace to both full backs when introduced. Providing he doesn't turn out
to be a pre-season Tomlin, I'd be absolutely over the moon if we sign him.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for Palace, a far from vintage
performance but that doesn't matter, it's pre-season after all! Nuhiu looks
like a smart acquisition if possible, whilst Dwight Gayle looks like
he's worth every penny the Eagles have spent on him. A few more editions
including Campana who signed last week and I think they'll make a real fist of
staying up in the Prem this season. With Speroni in the sticks, they've got a
real fighting chance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's not long to go now for us,
only two more weeks and the league season starts once more at Fleetwood Town.
Next up however is another home friendly on Tuesday night, this time against
Charlton Athletic. Kick-off is at 19:45 and I hope to see you all there!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember, you can follow my musings
on Twitter at @NickMurphyDRFC. Or if you're a Palace fan you can read my Blog on Dwight Gayle by clicking <a href="http://thedaggersscale.blogspot.co.uk/2013/07/dwight-gayle-from-stansted-to-selhurst.html">here</a>.</span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-16906145509738266812013-07-03T23:30:00.001+01:002013-07-03T23:30:27.430+01:00Dwight Gayle, From Stansted to Selhurst.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What a difference a year makes.
Twelve months ago a young and inexperienced forward was returning from a loan
spell at Bishops Stortford to join up with the Dagenham & Redbridge squad
for pre season training. Fast forward a year and that same striker has joined
Premier League new boys Crystal Palace, something that seemed inexplicable
twelve months ago. From Stansted to Selhurst Park, it's fair to say Dwight
Gayle's career has really taken off. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Just under a year ago, I wrote an
article on Dwight stating his qualities and just how far I thought he could go.
But to complete such a remarkable rise in such a short space of time has
confounded even I. His rise has been notable. After being released as a kid
from Arsenal for being too short, Gayle soon joined Stansted where he scored an
astonishing 57 goals in a single season. This prompted interest from several
league clubs. First to act however were Dagenham & Redbridge. With a rich
history of bringing through rough unpolished gems, this would prove to be the
perfect place for Dwight to begin his professional career.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Unfortunately due
to budgetary constraints at the Daggers, Gayle was forced to spend
his first season out on loan at Blue Square North outfit, Bishops Stortford.
Scoring 29 goals in 42 league games, Gayle continued to impress, prompting
calls from the assistant manager at Stortford that Gayle could possibly eclipse
the feats of Steve Morison. Scoring a hat-trick in his final game, a 4-0 win
over Eastwood Town, Gayle returned to Essex as Stortford's record goalscorer,
netting 42 times in total throughout the season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The bar was now set for Gayle,
with the only question being whether he could transfer his non-league form into
the Football League. Having played best in a 4-3-3 formation out on loan,
Daggers adhered to what suited Dwight best and true to form he shone. His pace
and trickery caused problems for opposition defences from the word go, leaving
established centre halves on the spot as he breezed past to cement himself as
one of the divisions most dangerous attackers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">He became the focal point of the
Daggers attack. His quick feet and ability to draw defenders in created
valuable space for others to pick away at defences. His shrewdness in the box
meant players were forced to tackle him, bringing penalties and ultimately
goals. He is best described as a talisman. And when you have that sort of
player in your team, you're onto a winner. In 18 appearances for the lower mid
table outfit, he scored 7 goals - which isn't a bad return.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A lot of credit has to go to John
Still and his scouting team for picking Dwight out. Where others were sniffing
around him, John and the team acted and it proved pivotal. Despite Stilly no
longer being with the club, this could yet prove to be the most shrewd piece of
business we've ever done. He nurtured Gayle in his time here and hopefully the
pint-sized forward will always remember his first Football League club, because
we'll always remember him. It's testament to John that his setup has found one
of the best young talents in English football.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In late November, Gayle was in
demand. Interest from several clubs higher in the pyramid was rumoured to have
materialised, but Peterborough United were the only ones to show significant
and prolonged interest. There's a long history of deals between the two clubs,
so it came as no surprise when Gayle signed on loan with a view to a permanent
move. And in-keeping with his previous three clubs, he proved an instant hit.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Scoring in six consecutive games
soon after his move, Gayle helped lift Peterborough away from the relegation
zone. One performance in particular at runaway league leaders Cardiff where
Posh won 2-1 summed Gayle up. His intrepidness, skill and pace was
showcased on an unprecedented scale. At the unbeaten home of the champions
elect, Gayle tore them apart. He showed no disdain for who they were.
No pity, just malice, leaving the Bluebirds in awe of his striking
capabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite a lull in goalscoring form during the first two months of 2013, Gayle
remained key as Posh continued their fight against relegation. He returned to
notoriety however in March. A 16 minute hat-trick in the first half at Ewood
Park against Blackburn catapulted Gayle into the limelight once more. People
were now beginning to stand up and take note of the former Essex Senior League
striker as his stock continued to rise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
His talismanic displays continued. When he wasn't scoring, he was providing
constant problems for opposition defences. In total he scored 13 goals in 28
appearances for the London Road outfit, but even that wasn't enough to keep
them up. Ironically it was his foul on Jonathan Williams of Crystal Palace that
led to the goal that ultimately sent Posh down to League One and catapulted the
Eagles up into the Play Offs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
It's weird how coincidences like that work in football. But it's even weirder
to think that this time last season we were all speculating on a player that
had scored 99 goals in the non-league. No-one thought he'd end up in the
Premier League 12 months on. And no-one thought that he'd be worth a solid £6
million, the figure being quoted by<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The
Peterborough Telegraph<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>last Friday
afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But whatever the price, it shouldn't be a burden on Gayle. He's been fantastic
for the past three years and a move to the Premier League will only enhance his
credentials. With main striker Glenn Murray out for the best part of seven
months for Palace, the stage is set for Gayle to showcase his extraordinary
array of talents. With his quick pace and predatory instincts, he reminds me
and others I've spoken to of a young Jermaine Defoe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
His rise is more than that though. His rise shows that there are some fantastic
gems hidden in the non-league. And that the big boys don't always get it right.
Released from Arsenal as a junior, Gayle could turn up at the Gunners next
season and show Arsene Wenger what he's been missing for the past few years.
Players like Gayle show that you don't need to go abroad for talent. If you
search hard enough, you'll find someone just as hungry with bundles more
potential in the lower reaches of English football.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
There's no question he'll have to up his game in the Premier League. But I have
no doubt that he'll manage to do that and then some. He's fearless, young and
raring to take a hold of a chance that at one stage seemed a million miles
away. But more than that, he's an all round striker. He has pace and trickery,
complimented by the strength which isn't always evident in the smaller calibre
of player. But most of all he has determination, and that will take him far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For my club it means much more
than that. We now have a significant amount of money that will act to keep the
club afloat. It ensures that we don’t <i>have
</i>to sell another one of our players to keep the wolves from the door. But
also, it gives us the pride of saying we produced that player. We can say we’ve
seen him score goals for <i>our </i>club,
and that’s a wonderful thing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Having conquered the non-league and the Football League, it's just the Premier
League and the International stage to go now for Gayle. If his development
continues at such a rapid rate, he could confound us all. It was a pleasure
watching Gayle in his short time at Victoria Road, and I sincerely hope he goes
on and has a wonderful career in the game. Ironically enough we will see him
again in a pre-season game against Palace at Victoria Road next month. I can’t
wait for that and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this talented
young forward.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-54815622907104955222013-06-28T19:53:00.002+01:002013-06-28T19:53:36.624+01:00British Grand Prix Betting Preview<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After a three week break,
Formula One returns this weekend with the teams heading to Silverstone for the
British Grand Prix. With eight of the eleven teams based within two hours of
the famous circuit, it truly is a home race for the majority of those involved.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having won last time out
in Canada, perhaps unsurprisingly it is Red Bull’s Sebastien Vettel who goes
into the weekend as the best priced 2/1 favourite with <b>BetFred</b>. With three race
wins under his belt so far this term, Vettel already has a commanding 36 point
lead at the top of the driver’s Championship over closest placed rival,
Fernando Alonso. The Spaniard is the second favourite to take the spoils at
11/4 following his two previous victories at Silverstone in 2006 and 2011.
Having announced his retirement on Thursday morning, Mark Webber will also be
looking to win the British Grand Prix for the third and final time as an F1
driver. The Australian has won two of the last three races here and sits at a
lengthy 10/1 with<b> SportingBet </b>to pick up his first win of the 2013 campaign. </span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">British hopes however,
lie solely with Mercedes ace Lewis Hamilton. With Jenson Button’s faltering
McLaren a lowly 66/1 and Paul Di Resta at an unlikely 100/1, it falls to
Hamilton to carry the flag for the Brits. And even then Hamilton remains at
fairly generous odds, with <b>StanJames</b> offering a competitive 17/2 for Hamilton
to pick up his first race win of 2013. A better bet may be his Mercedes team
mate, Nico Rosberg who finished third at Silverstone in 2010 and is available
at an enticing 14/1. Kimi Raikkonen who won in Australia is also at 17/2 for
Lotus.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The safety bet of the
weekend however has to be who will take pole position on Saturday afternoon.
With Sebastien Vettel and Nico Rosberg sharing six of the seven poles so far
this season, they’re prime candidates for the front row at Silverstone. Rosberg
is available at 11/4 with multiple bookmakers whilst Vettel remains favourite,
with <b>Boylesports</b> offering 21/10 for the German to clinch his second pole in a
row. What could prove crucial once qualifying has finished however is that only
once in the last five years has the pole sitter gone on to win at the famous
old track.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The other key market is
the general outlook of who will finish on the podium. Aside from the obvious
three or four, Nico Rosberg is touted at 3/1 with <b>BetVictor</b>, whilst teammate
Lewis Hamilton who has finished 3<sup>rd</sup> on three occasions so far in
2013 is available at 15/8. Where outsiders are concerned, despite plenty of
value there is little chance any speculation will result in accumulation. Brit
Paul Di Resta who has finished outside the points just once this season is on
offer at 10/1 to make his first podium finish in F1, whilst Sauber’s Esteban Gutierrez
who finished 2<sup>nd</sup> in Spain is the main outside challenger at an
extortionate 500/1.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Whatever the outcome,
with the weather looking fine for the remainder of the weekend, the British
Grand Prix should prove to be as scintillating a spectacle as ever.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Murphy's Value Bet:</i> Winning Car,
Ferrari, 12/1 <b>(888sport)</b></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-19332396710685592062013-06-18T15:53:00.000+01:002013-06-18T15:53:03.680+01:00Daggers Top 10 Games, 2012/2013 Season.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the release of the fixtures for the upcoming League Two campaign out tomorrow, <i>The Daggers Scale </i>looks back on some of the fondest matches from this season. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham &
Redbridge 5-0 Rotherham United<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHTLbShJHneEMAF55Y6QWNslrdGKO-CWgeHg7xfNyUg7vtzNuxqUcyRmqcntx2uYFPR7r5OdqCNrP9NSekVxDft-A3w0e5GrZrE8bkBf3jzKtANmV6hrXiu7uBudUrW1x9iwFCzKY7sw7/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+5-0+Rotherham+United.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnHTLbShJHneEMAF55Y6QWNslrdGKO-CWgeHg7xfNyUg7vtzNuxqUcyRmqcntx2uYFPR7r5OdqCNrP9NSekVxDft-A3w0e5GrZrE8bkBf3jzKtANmV6hrXiu7uBudUrW1x9iwFCzKY7sw7/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+5-0+Rotherham+United.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Perhaps the most poignant result since the club joined the
Football League, November’s 5-0 demolition of promotion chasing Rotherham
United was a significant one. With Bostongate hate figure Steve Evans in
charge, the victory meant so much more than just the three points. First half
goals from Dwight Gayle and Luke Howell set the scene before Howell added a
third early in the second half. Medy Elito then made it four before Dwight Gayle
capped a superb display in injury time by slotting home the fifth to jubilant
cries from the Sieve. It was a result beyond all belief, all comprehension and
most of all, it felt like a degree of closure to the Bostongate events just
over 10 years previous.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Accrington Stanley 0-2
Dagenham & Redbridge</span></b></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBN1PHWKw33rM5X-myslN92RyZT_w6B7BQ46suqKm6sA2ckSUTFV9pQ7RfmkylM8BLqZSYRxy8hTTAkP0exHqOG0og2PC3jLYlY2sb16BeihGxD7WjJrfe54bAG4icsybKuz_UihbYQGG/s1600/Hyndburn-20130105-00368.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggBN1PHWKw33rM5X-myslN92RyZT_w6B7BQ46suqKm6sA2ckSUTFV9pQ7RfmkylM8BLqZSYRxy8hTTAkP0exHqOG0og2PC3jLYlY2sb16BeihGxD7WjJrfe54bAG4icsybKuz_UihbYQGG/s320/Hyndburn-20130105-00368.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Spectacular it wasn’t, but consistent it was. That’s the
verdict following Daggers’ first win of 2013 away at the Crown Ground,
Accrington. In front of the lowest crowd of the Football League Season, Daggers
turned in the perfect away performance to take the three points. The visitors
dominated throughout and went ahead mid-way through the first half when Matt
Saunders glanced home Medy Elito’s pin-point cross. The second half provided
more of the same with Daggers sealing the win on 52 minutes when Luke Howell’s
precision drive flew past Cameron Belford to send the 37 travelling Daggers
fans home happy into the cold Lancastrian night. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham &
Redbridge 4-3 Bradford City<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An important win, but an entertaining one as well. For too
many seasons now Daggers had become something of a stick in the mud at home, no
exciting performances like the Daggers of old. But within 30 minutes here the
hosts raced into a two goal lead through Billy Bingham and Mickey Spillane. The
majority thought the game was over when Luke Wilkinson headed home early in the
second half. But a sterling second half fightback from Bradford reduced the
deficit to 3-2, with abject defending from the Victoria Road outfit to blame.
The two goal parity was soon restored though, when Dwight Gayle broke free from
a Bradford corner before beating his man and executing a superb finish past the
opposition ‘keeper to make it 4-2. Alan Connell jangled nerves by making it
4-3, but ultimately Daggers hung on for the win to continue their impressive
run of form against Bradford City.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rotherham United 1-2 Dagenham & Redbridge<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ecN8grwchzLjYAZ3WOjAu1LyBEdcsZZjCL8-WcU1_nH6BOltmj9wI0O2JTaFwJ1pClV8Geo4oKB4dGKLpnDBfMGH-TMpy1anZG8n2vrU8_PJkR7UVdKVJOHcp4OxX-JzFWHnsq-UXhLl/s1600/Rotherham+United+1-2+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-ecN8grwchzLjYAZ3WOjAu1LyBEdcsZZjCL8-WcU1_nH6BOltmj9wI0O2JTaFwJ1pClV8Geo4oKB4dGKLpnDBfMGH-TMpy1anZG8n2vrU8_PJkR7UVdKVJOHcp4OxX-JzFWHnsq-UXhLl/s320/Rotherham+United+1-2+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Nobody was expecting three points in the reverse fixture against Rotherham United at the gleaming New York Stadium. Daggers had not won in their last four whilst the Millers were six unbeaten and sat 4<sup>th</sup> in the league table following a 4-0 dismantling of Oxford. With little expectation, Daggers looked confident in their defending and restricted Rotherham to any clear cut opportunities in the first half. </span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The second half introduction of Billy Bingham swung the game in the visitors favour, and with 60 minutes played Daggers were handed a significant advantage. Medy Elito was brought down when through on goal which meant Kari Arnason saw red as Elito dispatched the resulting spot kick. Despite Claude Davis’ quickfire equaliser, a well worked free kick late on allowed Luke Wilkinson a strike on goal which he dually converted to give Daggers an unexpected 2-1 victory. With the Evans factor again a major cause for enjoyment for Daggers fans, it was a significant and perhaps even better victory than the one which had come at Victoria Road 4 months earlier.</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Port Vale 1-1 Dagenham & Redbridge<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This one won’t go down as a classic, but at the start of the season this was an intensely valuable point. Daggers had one just the once whilst Port Vale sat 2<sup>nd</sup> in the league, yet it was the Essex club who looked the more confident throughout. Medy Elito had earlier hit the post before Luke Howell opened the scoring with the aid of a mistake from Vale goalkeeper Chris Neal. Unfortunately it didn’t last long as Myrie-Williams equalised three minutes later, but nonetheless in the context of things it was a big point and one the Daggers fans can look back fondly over.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Exeter City 0-1
Dagenham & Redbridge<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMUT00wjCWg1KOClQBMn6pGgVsvNlxeNrOkovCjhoaimL7FqTsGEWGaI32eSN61_q0yfJEZh7hZsUBr9DtfnYn8F9KH7ckYW3IlcOXIXKrt_tyoR1FzaKNRmrT_U_aSZGu2j5aXMWHRT8/s1600/Exeter-20130406-00456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisMUT00wjCWg1KOClQBMn6pGgVsvNlxeNrOkovCjhoaimL7FqTsGEWGaI32eSN61_q0yfJEZh7hZsUBr9DtfnYn8F9KH7ckYW3IlcOXIXKrt_tyoR1FzaKNRmrT_U_aSZGu2j5aXMWHRT8/s320/Exeter-20130406-00456.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When you look back at the final day, the context of this
victory could not be more important. Without these thoroughly unexpected three
points, Daggers would have been relegated at the expense of Barnet. But that
didn’t happen, which means we can enjoy this match even more. In a sun coated
day down in Devon, it was the visitors who were beaming after another perfect
away performance under Wayne Burnett. An early headed goal from Luke Wilkinson
put the Daggers 1-0 up and from there, we never looked back. We looked solid at
the back against what little pressure Exeter exerted, whilst Kevin Maher
marshalled the midfield the superbly. The final 85 minutes were both nervous
and relaxing at the same time, in the sense we knew what it meant but we were
never really troubled. The 3 points went back to Essex as Daggers won at St
James Park for only the second time in their history.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham &
Redbridge 1-1 Burton Albion<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite Burton’s lofty position in the table at the time of the
match, I haven’t picked this match for the point we gained. I picked it for the
second half performance and in particular the performance of one Josh Scott.
The first half was uninspiring, lackadaisical and almost what we had come to
expect from Daggers at Victoria Road, with the visitors taking the lead midway
through the first half. But with the introduction of Louis Dennis for the intolerable
Medy Elito, things soon changed. It was almost as if a new lease of life had
been unleashed. Daggers looked fresh with intent and calmer on the ball. And it
showed straight away as Josh Scott picked up the ball, rounded several players
and executed an unstoppable shot past Stuart Tomlinson to gift Daggers an
equaliser. From that moment on the hosts were the better side and can be
considered unlucky not to have gone on to win the game. The performance in the
second half provided such a contrast to that of the first that it was almost
embarrassing. And that’s something we have to amend if we are to improve next
season.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> <b>Chesterfield 1-2 Dagenham & Redbridge<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers generally have a decent record against the Spireites
and so it proved again here, with the visitors dominating proceedings and
recording a deserved first away win of the season. With no defeats at
Saltergate, we were looking to continue our unbeaten record at Chesterfield’s
new home, The B2Net stadium. After a positive start, it took Daggers 42 minutes
to take the lead, with Sam Williams firing home a superb opener for his second
goal of the season. The frontman was upstaging newly signed Chesterfield star
Luis Boa Morte who was suffering with a miserable day at the office. Even with
Jack Lester’s equaliser after the break, Daggers and in particular Sam Williams
could not to be outdone. The perma-tanned forward was given the ball on the
edge of the box before turning and unleashing an unstoppable strike beyond
Richard O’Donnell and into the roof of the net. From then on in, the visitors
controlled the match and deservedly went home with their first away win of the
season. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Dagenham &
Redbridge 1-0 Cheltenham Town<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKxt1kLtSV-9K-RDPIaj0B3kYnmkh0vpspIegUEvAA8Q-T9zXpolXHR2RiOrqdNNMxmWyclgT5Mhas068eQagp6dfLRh1wnG5sYmusSLPI753UbmfrvxuDmrAiyrdGxwOfgHzMrHfJNlQ/s1600/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKxt1kLtSV-9K-RDPIaj0B3kYnmkh0vpspIegUEvAA8Q-T9zXpolXHR2RiOrqdNNMxmWyclgT5Mhas068eQagp6dfLRh1wnG5sYmusSLPI753UbmfrvxuDmrAiyrdGxwOfgHzMrHfJNlQ/s320/Luke+Howell,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="172" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This game wasn’t particularly enthralling or entertaining, but
it was solid and perhaps more importantly the final 3 points John Still ever
received as Dagenham & Redbridge manager. In the build up, the visitors
were considered the favourites. Being in good form and having never lost
against the Daggers, there was good evidence to suggest they were worthy
favourites. But from the off they were second best. Daggers looked hungrier,
more determined and more resilient, grinding out an important win in the
process. Luke Howell’s second half strike proved to be decisive, not even
former Dagger Paul Benson could find a breakthrough for the visitors as the
home defence stood firm. Cheltenham were defeated for the first time and John
Still recorded his last ever victory.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Oxford United 2-3
Dagenham & Redbridge<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Like a lot of the teams in League Two, Daggers never seem to
do well against Oxford. With no wins in our previous five meetings with the
U’s, we had good reason to be doubtful. But on this particular Tuesday night at
the Kassam, something clicked and the visitors rode to an impressive victory.
The wheels were set in motion late in the first half, with Sam Williams heading
the visitors in front from close range. Luke Howell then doubled the lead on 50
minutes before Tom Craddock pulled one back 10 minutes later. With Premier
League scouts in the crowd, Daggers Luke Wilkinson was out to impress. And he
could not have done any better by turning in an immaculate defensive
performance, capped off with a powerful header on 62 minutes to restore the two
goal lead and make it 3-1 to the visitors. It didn’t end there though, with Tom
Craddock pouncing on Femi’s poor backpass to make it 3-2 before Kevin Maher was
sent off to swing the tide further into Oxford’s favour. Despite the man
disadvantage, Daggers held on to the lead to break their winless run against
the U’s.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From these 10 games I have picked out, a clear pattern has
emerged. Only four of the ten fixtures took place at Victoria Road, with
Daggers seemingly more confident away from home than at home during this
campaign. There was no such thing as, “Home Comforts”, with Daggers picking up
just seven home wins compared to an impressive six away from home. The message
for next season is clear; we have to improve on our home form whilst
maintaining our consistent if unspectacular away form. If we can do that, we’ll
be fine. </span></div>
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-78102117989020435452013-05-14T16:09:00.003+01:002013-05-14T16:09:46.366+01:00Wigan And The FA Cup - A Match Made In Heaven.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The FA Cup. The competition that
has in recent seasons, dwindled with regards to support and general interest
amongst the general footballing community. So perhaps it was fitting that this
seemingly unfashionable competition, was won by what can be described as a
seemingly unfashionable club in Wigan Athletic. It rekindled memories of FA Cup
campaigns past and the glory of the oldest competition in the world, restoring
it to its former self.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
In recent years it has been disregarded by the FA. Kick off times have been
varied to factor in corporate sponsors, TV audiences and the far superior
Champions League Final at Wembley. Fans have been alienated by the ticketing
policy and the simple lack of consideration by the authorities towards them.
But amongst all of that, it's terrific that Wigan, little old Wigan, has
reminded us of what the FA Cup is all about.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite
the kick off time, Saturday's match brought supporters back to a time when
English football was dominated by rich owners and foreign investors. A club at
the heart of the community, a club that remains grounded - a club that made the
FA Cup feel pure again. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
If you ask supporters, they still care about the grand old competition very
much. Especially lower league supporters. It gives them the opportunity to
dream, the opportunity to go on an adventure and the opportunity to go on a
once-in-a-lifetime rollercoaster ride against teams far mightier than their
own. Crawley Town, Brentford and Macclesfield as well as all Conference clubs
will vouch for that.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So
it's even more refreshing that this year's winners know what that feels like.
To taste victory in the way that they did is an amalgamation of 81 years of
planning, toil and hard work. They've been to the depths of non-league; they
know what it's like for the majority of the clubs in Britain. And that's what
makes it even more special. Not only that but it provides a template for lower
league clubs, something to aspire and look up to in the future which is perhaps
a poignant part of Wigan's winning legacy.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It
is perhaps even more fitting that Wigan's win should come in a year when
sponsors<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Budweiser<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>nearly tore the heart out of the
competition completely. In the earlier rounds, they made a mockery of the cup,
allowing former stars to ply their trade for Wembley FC in the preliminary
rounds. Whilst it may be terrific for Wembley, it provided an unfair advantage
against other clubs and what's more, almost made the cup a brand to be bought
and sold as a product of promotion.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wigan
have turned<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>Budweiser's<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>theory on its head. You don't need
world class players to do well, you need grit, determination and belief -
something that the megastars of Manchester City lacked on Saturday evening.
They looked disinterested as if it was just another medal for the trophy
cabinet, which is why Wigan won. They wanted it more, they have that extra
incentive to do it and to prove the doubters wrong - and for that I admire
them. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What
makes it even better is that the goal was a mirror of Lawrie Sanchez's of
Wimbledon against Liverpool in 1988. And similarly to that header, Ben Watson's
flick has equal significance now. It gave the town something to cheer about, it
gave football something to cheer about - a real success story that proves
rewards can come to those who wait. And that budgeting correctly does in fact
bring rewards, and they taste all the more sweet when they do come. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This
success in particular gives a spark of inspiration to those in a similar
position to what Wigan were, all those years ago. There's nothing to counter
the suggestion that with the right management and a small degree of investment,
teams in the third division and below can't emulate the Latics' feat. And with
Wigan's 1-0 victory, teams will firmly believe that such a feat
is achievable.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
a sense I suppose you could say it was the Shabby Chic team that defeated the
Shabby Sheikh himself. Wigan, the most unfashionable team in the land defeating
the side that cruelly took promotion to the second division away from them 14
years previous. Not only is it a fantastic achievement for Wigan, but it's
a fantastic achievement for football and for the FA Cup.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember, you can follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.</span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-74807665131233981182013-04-29T19:52:00.001+01:002013-04-30T22:45:33.600+01:00Daggers 0-1 York City, Survival Saturday. <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwuJOT480ILCjpLdQDMXL4NHhv068TtNZNkjiTUy7mWlz6IGz9yh6rS0XZ0f-pzk96HoqrV0Vv2v4yd0ZoC8_pGma2C2NyqM-wM_LaUrl-QzTEugmD4X_weGVocTMrH8pRLr1o3bD8Fp-/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York+City.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSwuJOT480ILCjpLdQDMXL4NHhv068TtNZNkjiTUy7mWlz6IGz9yh6rS0XZ0f-pzk96HoqrV0Vv2v4yd0ZoC8_pGma2C2NyqM-wM_LaUrl-QzTEugmD4X_weGVocTMrH8pRLr1o3bD8Fp-/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+York+City.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And so after 45 games, it came
down to a single 90 minutes. Aldershot Town, AFC Wimbledon, Barnet, Plymouth
Argyle, Torquay United, York City and of course, Dagenham & Redbridge were
all still in the mix come 15:00 Saturday afternoon. It would be 90 minutes of
agony, 90 minutes of anxiousness and maybe, just maybe 90 minutes
of ecstasy. But overall it would be an experience and one that no
supporter of the above mentioned clubs will ever forget.</span><br />
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In
the clubhouse before the match there was a mix of optimism and pessimism as you
may expect. With so many permutations, the situation was almost impossible to
predict. A win, a draw or a defeat could have seen us safe dependent on other
results. The two crucial games beside our own were AFC Wimbledon vs Fleetwood
and Northampton vs Barnet. The Wombles had to win such was there inferior goal
difference, whilst a draw would do for Barnet providing Daggers were defeated
at home to York.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BQF434v8Bia4KBEJtoE7EJJvjNaHcScmGg3fWGdMlKwDYC2Ve_FDDnIe3BX8cuwEUDY3tVmtOzESpbQfjMmf07W0TxVL-p8IwWnXTYxEagxVmde94TPgH6vQEKFuPchY3nK7yB61Oenk/s1600/Bury+Road+Terrace,+Dagenham+&+Redbrudge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9BQF434v8Bia4KBEJtoE7EJJvjNaHcScmGg3fWGdMlKwDYC2Ve_FDDnIe3BX8cuwEUDY3tVmtOzESpbQfjMmf07W0TxVL-p8IwWnXTYxEagxVmde94TPgH6vQEKFuPchY3nK7yB61Oenk/s320/Bury+Road+Terrace,+Dagenham+&+Redbrudge.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
a quick cider we waded through the packed hall back into the light of the
outside before heading through the turnstiles. It's a very unusual sight seeing
queues outside the turnstiles, but a welcome one nonetheless. After heading
through it was clear we would have a bumper attendance, with 20 minutes until
kick off there was little room to manoeuvre in the Sieve, whilst the Bury Road
End was packed to the non-existent rafters. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At
the other end the Traditional Builders Stand was full to the brim with 1200
passionate York fans roaring on their team to survival. Only an extreme set of
results would see the Minstermen relegated and as such the travelling
supporters were in a vibrant and cheerful mood. With several upbeat songs
playing over the tannoy, the teams were soon announced.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright,
Ogogo, Doe, Wilkinson, Femi, Elito, Maher, Howell, Bingham, Ogogo, Scott,
Woodall.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington, Fortune, Saunders,
Reed, Strevens, Shariff, Hoyte.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne
Burnett continued with his chop and change philosophy by making three changes
from the side that was so callously defeated last weekend at Aldershot. Jordan
Seabright returned in place of the not fully fit Chris Lewington, whilst Medy
Elito and Brian Woodall were restored to the side in place of Matt Saunders and
Jake Reed. It meant that the ideal strike partnership of Brian Woodall and Josh
Scott would get a chance to flourish in the most important game in Daggers
history.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>York City:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Ingham,
Oyebanjo, Smith, McGurk, Parslow, O'Connell, Blair, Platt, Reed, Walker, Chambers.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Jameson, Fyfield, Challinor,
McLaughlin, Allen, Reed, Coulson.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the atmosphere and tension building, the teams emerged from the tunnel to be
greeted by 3800 passionate supporters. Daggers fans had heeded the call to,
"Pack the Vic" and as such one of the best atmospheres in quite some
time was created in the Sieve. The players applauded the three sides of the
ground for the final time this season before getting set up for York City to
kick the game off.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHbvGbRZasu2vwtupKY_vLo6HLmBaU-tG3O7Ka5F_2bhQ-M_0j5rfRo8u43yD6VzIYAaJ3MBgbrKNqwcW-iyo3F9-2rW0xzjUivwHsCOk5rXhvNFXEIliaWTnaplzp9cJitlxwI15u4Pq/s1600/Dagenham+%2526+Redbridge+vs+York.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUHbvGbRZasu2vwtupKY_vLo6HLmBaU-tG3O7Ka5F_2bhQ-M_0j5rfRo8u43yD6VzIYAaJ3MBgbrKNqwcW-iyo3F9-2rW0xzjUivwHsCOk5rXhvNFXEIliaWTnaplzp9cJitlxwI15u4Pq/s320/Dagenham+%2526+Redbridge+vs+York.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the clock at 15:02, the most important game in Dagenham & Redbridge's short
history had begun. Almost instantly phones were being checked to find out the
scores from around the grounds. The match at Victoria Road started slowly, with
only the linesman's offside flag prevented York from taking an early lead
through Ashley Chambers. Daggers soon claimed dominance and looked threatening
on the break, only the covering York defender denying Josh Scott a clear run
through on goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">News
then came through from Spotland that Plymouth defender Max Blanchard had seen
red, something that could potentially help Daggers if Dale could take the lead.
Back at Victoria Road and the hosts came close once more soon after, with Brian
Woodall heading Medy Elito's whipped delivery wide of the post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Chances
soon began to be few and far between, with both sides entangled in a battle in
the middle of the park. Femi looked to be at his peak and but for an
exaggerated touch would have been through into the box. As the game reached its
quarter mark, it became more stretched allowing for opportunities for both
sides. Luke Howell's free kick was dealt with well by the York defence before
up the other end Ashley Chambers' driven delivery evaded everyone, including
the York front line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZMoOwIxvRXe35hyphenhyphenXSL0bBPB48FZQq6TqZw4O08L5zidlONRU7kkDwiEnwPLOjRxmXXXoGfN-Lq6XgikNI_AoabX-dayv7Z_uOG7sz5E60KyHnbdDOhyphenhyphenva4Wo4LJnXxDCTaiPeSvPfn-Vc/s1600/Billy+Bingham.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZMoOwIxvRXe35hyphenhyphenXSL0bBPB48FZQq6TqZw4O08L5zidlONRU7kkDwiEnwPLOjRxmXXXoGfN-Lq6XgikNI_AoabX-dayv7Z_uOG7sz5E60KyHnbdDOhyphenhyphenva4Wo4LJnXxDCTaiPeSvPfn-Vc/s320/Billy+Bingham.JPG" width="101" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bingham</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Meanwhile
at Plainmoor, luck seemed to be in Daggers' favour as Bristol Rovers took the
lead against Torquay United. With current results that would see Wayne
Burnett's side up one place above the Gulls in the League Two table. Dagenham
continued to look the more dangerous as the half wore on with Billy Bingham's
goal-bound strike superbly blocked by David McGurk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the first half coming to an end, there was a final chance for Daggers after
Matty Blair fouled Medy Elito just outside the area. Brian Woodall was the sole
man over the ball and his dipping strike bounced agonisingly off the post
before going out for a goal kick. Cries of "ooh's" and
"aah's" could be heard from supporters in the Sieve who thought the
sweetly struck strike was in. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That
was the final action of a tense first half and it was a scoreline that coupled
with other results, would have seen Daggers safe. With the only goal at the
bottom of the table coming for Bristol Rovers against Torquay, it was
essentially, "as you were" in the search for survival. Nevertheless
it remained tense around Victoria Road with both sets of supporters knowing a
single goal could change the whole complexion at the bottom of the
table. That was coupled with anxiety and anger that the Barnet game had kicked
off five minutes late for the second weekend running.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
the Daggerettes had finished their routine, the teams re-emerged onto the
pitch. Daggers would be facing the Bury Road End whilst York would be firing
towards their own fans in the Traditional Builders Stand. The second half began
in much the same style as how the first had ended, with Daggers on the front
foot. Luke Wilkinson's tame header was gathered well by Ingham before the
Scotsman had to be at his best to deny Woodall's 25 yard effort minutes later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPq4nScoO8k6-jSrn4HHAht-KFEIrSOuYoUYD0yXU1IvQoXmJgSGSXY7B3ePiHrejffpUPjr7Xtswo8xArQN8jIXrwgaM0QEQtJXMAOhb8dqxeXC1Q16u9aQ4waUpFGC3Nfzm7zZn3Fa_s/s1600/Brian+Woodall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPq4nScoO8k6-jSrn4HHAht-KFEIrSOuYoUYD0yXU1IvQoXmJgSGSXY7B3ePiHrejffpUPjr7Xtswo8xArQN8jIXrwgaM0QEQtJXMAOhb8dqxeXC1Q16u9aQ4waUpFGC3Nfzm7zZn3Fa_s/s320/Brian+Woodall.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From
the resulting corner Woodall had the best chance of the game so far to put the
hosts in front. With the ball bobbling in the box, it fell perfectly for the
former Gresley man on the turn but he snatched at his shot, sending the ball
wildly over the bar and out for a goal kick - much to the frustration of
Daggers fans. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then
in similar fashion to last weekend's defeat, the Daggers allowed their
opponents more time and space on the ball to pressure the defence. That was
coupled with potentially disastrous news from Kingesmeadow, where
Gary Alexander had given AFC Wimbledon the lead. Agony soon turned into relief
minutes later when it emerged that Fleetwood had found a quick equaliser
through Andy Mangan. Meanwhile at Plainmoor the score was now 2-2 which would
ensure safety for Torquay United.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Back
at Victoria Road and York were becoming gradually more dominant. The Daggers
midfield seemed to lack urgency and where everything clicked in the first half,
it seemed far too disjointed now.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAX_tc1X5e518PcJXcroOzED1hA5prKzctb8-DuxPX8xyDrfxNP9oqJYDxQv1n_wcAl0yHBef-epwjqvCCN46EbSzkc20MqFcBD9QOjkeyxa1wa7G1J6J_jRQq6jKjsUxSYmmeIuHdxm0/s1600/York+City+Fans+at+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDAX_tc1X5e518PcJXcroOzED1hA5prKzctb8-DuxPX8xyDrfxNP9oqJYDxQv1n_wcAl0yHBef-epwjqvCCN46EbSzkc20MqFcBD9QOjkeyxa1wa7G1J6J_jRQq6jKjsUxSYmmeIuHdxm0/s320/York+City+Fans+at+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">York City Fans<br />
(@SamBrownAFC)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But
with 68 minutes gone, Chris Smith put Football League survival on a knife edge.
Michael Ingham's punted free kick found Smith in the box who after taking a
second to steady himself slotted the ball through the legs of Jordan Seabright
to the delight of the 1159 travelling supporters. The Traditional Builders
stand roared whilst the Sieve stood silent, if ever there was a contrast to be
made - that was it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
seconds of staring blankly into the distance, several supporters shouted cries
of encouragement as the Sieve got back on their feet to reunite and cheer on
the team. That's what a relegation battle does to you; it releases emotion that
wouldn't otherwise be there in other games this season. As it stood we were
still safe, but only just.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then
came the news that we'd all been dreading. AFC Wimbledon had re-taken the lead
through Jack Midson which meant Daggers slipped even closer to the relegation zone. People looked despairingly at their phones, hoping
it was a mistake - but it wasn't. In a similar fashion to Aldershot last
weekend, the atmosphere turned eerie. We all feared a situation like this, and
now our hopes rested on Northampton finding a goal against Barnet.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
a result of Barnet kicking off late which I was rather dubious about, it
distorted the relegation picture. Amongst cries of happiness in the Sieve we
soon learned that Northampton had taken the lead at Sixfields which meant we
moved out of the relegation zone at the expense of Bees. Jubilation followed,
although with a slender one goal lead we were all aware that the picture could
soon change.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
volume was soon cranked up a notch with the introduction of Jake Reed for Medy
Elito as Daggers pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Cheers erupted once
more as news came through that Northampton had doubled their lead against Barnet.
It meant that for Daggers to go down, Barnet would have to find two goals
against one of the meanest home defences in League Two.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers
continued to push forward and looked at their most threatening through Brian
Woodall. First the rejuvenated frontman had his effort blocked before
Billy Bingham's narrow drive was deflected wide for a corner following
Woodall's pin point pass. With the game reaching its climax, even the players
began to show nerves, with Billy Bingham asking one supporter for the score at
Sixfields. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
time running out at all of the grounds, Rochdale took the lead against Plymouth
to leave Pilgrims fans on edge. Torquay were now 3-2 up as well which virtually
guaranteed Alan Knill's side safety. With all the scores coming in it was even
more frustrating that Daggers were unable to find an equaliser. The hosts were
limited to long range efforts and really failed to exploit the wings enough,
especially down the left where Femi had looked so dangerous in the first half.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBEBz0cW4p2hu-NvsTgIIzOjDvDwga4JVRbNwDdnuxLa8EMoHmRsOAbjqHyi2S8yE_woXNBbaYUndAgzBJ6X7XkthobSQz8y4Paex2HvWAn6lBhKeTAcX79qYngfy7T7ZvUu8BOucF9y2/s1600/Woodall+Puts+Wide.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXBEBz0cW4p2hu-NvsTgIIzOjDvDwga4JVRbNwDdnuxLa8EMoHmRsOAbjqHyi2S8yE_woXNBbaYUndAgzBJ6X7XkthobSQz8y4Paex2HvWAn6lBhKeTAcX79qYngfy7T7ZvUu8BOucF9y2/s320/Woodall+Puts+Wide.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Woodall's Effort Was Saved By Ingham</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
clock ticked over and we went into injury time for the final time this season.
With three minutes on the board, Daggers fans let out an almighty roar to drive
the team forward. And it nearly worked. First the ball fell to Howell whose
rocket shot was somehow palmed away by Ingham before the 'keeper got up to deny
Brian Woodall's half volley on the follow up. It was spectacular stuff from
Ingham who had cemented his man of the match award.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It
was now corner after failed corner for the hosts who were unable to find an
equaliser. The referee soon blew his whistle to the triumphant cheers of the
York fans. But Daggers were left in purgatory - a state of not knowing. Even
with Northampton's two goal lead, with Barnet you just never know. The most
nervous five minutes of our lives ensued, with tension building, the first
scream and the first cheer came through. We had done it. We had survived on the
final day. Barnet were relegated into the Conference amidst manic celebrations
in the Sieve.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A
sense of relief swept around the supporters that remained in the ground. If you
listened close enough, you could probably even hear the cheers from the
dressing room. What's more is we had done it by just five goals - which is
ridiculous. For relegation to be decided by five goals is unbelievably cruel,
moreover it shows the importance of having a goalscorer for the first part of
the season when we were at our best.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
players soon came back out to do their customary lap of the pitch, with Wayne
Burnett high-fiving supporters and praising them for their support. When the
team were near the dugouts and surrounded by the stewards, the club made the
unusual step of allowing fans onto the pitch. It allowed for that community
club atmosphere as the 500 or so remaining fans descended towards the other
side of the pitch where the player of the season presentation was taking place.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMrjUqEK7manv1pKDmzwtO6D3PXC3COzScmaSn6RcX4au-kPYYtPZl6IPw09J9-8ATWFh2DomSMu6xG6WqwpHFZgEDWIfW4aChJ_STdbR4fMXIUzRPVnDx39GKRTEzkPQrkrX6Bc_Qk2k/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+End+Of+Season+Presentation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHMrjUqEK7manv1pKDmzwtO6D3PXC3COzScmaSn6RcX4au-kPYYtPZl6IPw09J9-8ATWFh2DomSMu6xG6WqwpHFZgEDWIfW4aChJ_STdbR4fMXIUzRPVnDx39GKRTEzkPQrkrX6Bc_Qk2k/s400/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+End+Of+Season+Presentation.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne
Burnett's speech was then cut short as the microphone decided to stop working.
Still, it was a nice touch from the club to allow supporters onto the pitch. No
one tried to tear down the goalposts, although several attempted to re-enact
goals from years gone by. With the Great Escape playing, we headed out of the
turnstiles for the last time this season...and straight into the
clubhouse. Well, what else are you going to do? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the upstairs bar understandably packed, we headed down to the hall to celebrate
before the supporter’s club player of the season presentation. Unfortunately, I
didn't make it that far. Drinking eight ciders when you've only had breakfast
is not a healthy combination, and as a result I may have been slightly (very)
drunk. I woke up back home this morning though, which was a result of sorts.
Still, it was a terrific day and a terrific evening.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Upon
reflection, I think it's fair to say we were rather lucky to stay up, by five
goals - I really can't emphasise that enough. We desperately need our home form
to improve next season, but we've got the best part of three months to improve
on that. Not only that, but hopefully Wayne Burnett gets the job on a full time
basis. Aside from being a top bloke off the pitch, he has the belief to
"transform" us into a easier on the eye side for some of our
supporters. You can't truly judge a manager on a squad they've inherited and
two months work. The slate is now wiped clean and we begin again in August with
fresh ideas, a new permanent manager and renewed optimism.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
for York, I'm glad they stayed up. Despite it being a more Northern league next
year, they have fantastic supporters and a great ground which I'm looking
forward to going back to next </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZZzuw_WDB15FS6joLwl2CVwRmREL0OGxq9LosJYHwzNRxO0IoaWkHnBd6vYrD3NZQRtaSotmyn8JFgd3iG9inqYbdSqJc7XkKK9WeC55TfkA7HwkoAhCKQ0WOSysxv2rKLsHPUiYqI7U/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+On+The+Pitch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCZZzuw_WDB15FS6joLwl2CVwRmREL0OGxq9LosJYHwzNRxO0IoaWkHnBd6vYrD3NZQRtaSotmyn8JFgd3iG9inqYbdSqJc7XkKK9WeC55TfkA7HwkoAhCKQ0WOSysxv2rKLsHPUiYqI7U/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+On+The+Pitch.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">season. From what I heard yesterday their
supporters were friendly at the end of the game as well, so best of luck to
them over the Summer and into next season!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
us there are some positives to take despite our finishing position. Several
players have really shone this season, most notably Luke Howell and Luke Wilkinson
amongst others. And again, surprisingly enough our defence has been a strong
point this year. In only five games have we lost by two or more goals, but we
desperately need to improve when we go behind. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
for one cannot wait to report on our first game back and hopefully unlike a lot
I've done this season, we start with a win. There will be several specials over
the Summer including a player review, a season review and hopefully an
interview with one or two connected with the club. Until my next post, enjoy
yourself and never stop looking at that League Two table - because it's truly
something to behold.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Remember
you can follow my Summer musings on Twitter by following, @NickMurphyDRFC.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-10344029046706274252013-04-23T19:40:00.000+01:002013-04-23T19:40:00.752+01:00Aldershot Town 1-0 Daggers, It's No Laughing Matter.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xdgrBZJmo-ayx4AHVBaz6OZXwdClZi5F0TUpAwJh8PHGIP3-UZ81VyIQO5T6xM4_DZswbccI1mYzpsldVNVAUJE9B1E1lRzKzGyWckJw7F3RzifGeEfV72AE7dH70BhBMLSCVqShvdW6/s1600/Aldershot+Town+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8xdgrBZJmo-ayx4AHVBaz6OZXwdClZi5F0TUpAwJh8PHGIP3-UZ81VyIQO5T6xM4_DZswbccI1mYzpsldVNVAUJE9B1E1lRzKzGyWckJw7F3RzifGeEfV72AE7dH70BhBMLSCVqShvdW6/s320/Aldershot+Town+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So
then, who thought it would come down to this? Dagenham & Redbridge face a
relegation shoot out at Victoria Road next week with York City following an underwhelming
1-0 defeat at all but relegated Aldershot on Saturday. The loss leaves Daggers
one point above the relegation zone with just Barnet and AFC Wimbledon below
them. Seven teams remain in the relegation mix going into the final day, where
literally anything could happen.</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There
was a weird sense of optimism in the air before the match. The feeling that not
only could we stay up ourselves with a win or even a draw, but we could send
someone down. I've seen us send someone up before, but relegating someone would
be a new experience. Recent form suggested a draw with both sides on fairly
torrid runs, whilst the head to head record pointed towards a favourable result
for Daggers who hadn't lost at The Rec since 2008. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
journey to Aldershot was uneventful. After meeting at Chadwell Heath we headed
to Waterloo for 12:00 via Liverpool Street and Bank. Upon arrival at Waterloo,
we boarded our train for the final away game of the season, arriving at
Aldershot shortly after 13:00. We then heard a fantastic description of
ourselves as, "shifty" by the police and that we had to have,
"an eye kept on us." Our record of zero criminal offences in 17 years
clearly backs this statement up. I mean really, do we look like the type of
people who would go to football to cause trouble?</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
that brief conversation with the rozzers, we found a local beer garden and
settled for a cider before the match. With the spring sun blazing down on us and
with the clock approaching 14:30, we made an exit and went towards the famous
Aldershot away end. After surviving the </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2LVkAFkz6yFWsGgnuEUpHoHOe2PjF64NDU6wgYMabccsQsxNGS6jSMTqheuoS3VddOuOLOrGE44sb3V9pg0lzin-UHQX2srwxVioTJqYr9eJrL-T1NIrpSDISeTgOqd3zdFbFF1w-htL/s1600/Aldershot+Town+Away+End.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2LVkAFkz6yFWsGgnuEUpHoHOe2PjF64NDU6wgYMabccsQsxNGS6jSMTqheuoS3VddOuOLOrGE44sb3V9pg0lzin-UHQX2srwxVioTJqYr9eJrL-T1NIrpSDISeTgOqd3zdFbFF1w-htL/s320/Aldershot+Town+Away+End.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">notoriously steep hill and battling our
way through the forest, we arrived at the WWII like turnstiles. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Having
paid just £5 we headed through to the stadium which was largely unchanged from
last year. That and the food was still an absolute rip-off at £3.50 for a
rather small burger and a very crusty bun. Still, when there's nothing else to
eat what else are you going to do? After feeling sharp pains following the
handing over of the money, we advanced through the doorway and into the
silo-like away end.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
stadium has just one change from last season, with the addition of a new 300
under cover seated stand at the opposite end which raises the capacity to 7300.
The small old main stand remains, with two terraced areas beside it - one for
away fans and one for home supporters. </span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6wiPGIhYoRueDjtIKsKiiA83-Oloemf1eNuhaKucExHAh85rBt25F6sF-fBu22LyDvZLZeEId1iQtYk6R83ARoLQoifmlIoPb83YBHxOl6ozdzxBbK3lWXoA7z3BvZYmmsO0TLygo-OpM/s1600/Recreation+Ground,+Aldershot+Town.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6wiPGIhYoRueDjtIKsKiiA83-Oloemf1eNuhaKucExHAh85rBt25F6sF-fBu22LyDvZLZeEId1iQtYk6R83ARoLQoifmlIoPb83YBHxOl6ozdzxBbK3lWXoA7z3BvZYmmsO0TLygo-OpM/s320/Recreation+Ground,+Aldershot+Town.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Opposite that is the new main stand
which continues to be overshadowed by the massive building behind it.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
best part of the stadium though, both for character and atmosphere remains the
4000+ capacity East Bank. Housing both home and away
supporters separated by two barriers, it allows for good banter
between fans and for songs to be exchanged. Its curved roof ensures an echoing
atmosphere, whilst the playing action remains obscured by several poles, such
is the age and design of the stand itself. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We
soon began to watch our forwards warm up and from that; we concluded that we
had no chance of winning the match. Thankfully our faith was(n't) restored when
the team news was announced over the muffled tannoy system.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Aldershot
Town:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Young, Herd, Tonkin, Brown, Vincenti,
Bradley, Stanley, Hall, Rose, Rankine, Reid.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Warner, Lancashire, Berqvrst,
Risser, Cadogan, McCallum, Goulding. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Dagenham
& Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Lewington, Femi, Doe, Wilkinson, Ogogo,
Saunders, Bingham, Maher, Howell, Ogogo, Scott, Reed.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Fortune, Hoyte, Elito,
Shariff, Dennis, Woodall.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne
Burnett continued his chop and change philosophy by making three changes from
last Saturday's narrow defeat to Oxford United. Chris Lewington, Josh Scott and
Billy Bingham were all restored to the side in place of Jordan Seabright, Medy
Elito and Toni Silva. Brian Woodall had been recalled from a loan spell at
Bishops Stortford and found himself named among the 18 for the first time in
over a month. </span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the tension around the ground building, a succession of fast paced songs got
the blood flowing before the Aldershot cheerleaders ruined everything. They
didn't do anything particularly wrong; I'm just not a great lover of cheerleaders
at football. As soon as they completed their rhythmic walking, the
teams emerged from the tunnel to enthusiastic applause from all sides of the
ground.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfnHwGbom10Fqnt0f0RwPXEE51lLcawdX66lmpRODe3Vu8St5qaMHKFaoJ92tH6n9bM84-og-LbwRDBlEbMz1mTpALgaK3n8whNaSXgGKw39kxefjHdX0XkuJemJRQIimpANQn1N5aVhr/s1600/The+Rec,+Aldershot+Town.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQfnHwGbom10Fqnt0f0RwPXEE51lLcawdX66lmpRODe3Vu8St5qaMHKFaoJ92tH6n9bM84-og-LbwRDBlEbMz1mTpALgaK3n8whNaSXgGKw39kxefjHdX0XkuJemJRQIimpANQn1N5aVhr/s320/The+Rec,+Aldershot+Town.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Both
sets of supporters knew how much this game meant. Both sets of players knew
what this game meant. This was do or die for Aldershot in particular who needed
a win to stand any chance of remaining in the Football League. For the final
away game this season, the pre match pleasantries were completed, the teams
lined up and the referee signalled the beginning of the match.</span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the anxiousness surrounding the game, it came as no surprise when both sides
began tentatively. The first chance fell to Kevin Maher after good build up play;
however the experienced midfielder could only blast over from 20 yards. That
initial shot sparked the match into life, with Asa Hall seeing his strike
blocked before Josh Scott dragged his effort wide of the post following a
clever turn. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After that burst of excitement, the game resumed into a more low key affair, with
neither side able to assert any dominance. The Shots were looking tricky down
the right, whilst Daggers were seemingly struggling at the back, allowing the
Aldershot attackers far too much time on the ball. With the half threatening to
peter out, Josh Scott and then Craig Stanley fired over with limp efforts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Aldershot continued to look the more threatening and on 35 minutes really
should have taken the lead. Broadway's Danny Rose shot down the left before
whipping a pin-point ball onto the head of Michael Rankine who somehow glanced
his free header wide of the post. Despite Chris Lewington remaining untested in
the Daggers goal, it was evident that the hosts were coming closer to finding
the opening goal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-6K9bAfHAwHOQD3Tb9f_nVH9zUheOG3_43z0Fg7jDMxt72MVGUXPspsg2v5U99Elg-X5MwKSZE8YkbQFyvSKw1lLxtUcexDOMaPJp7J3YrpdWVzPj9QAb-hJCYZ6I8XcfIAstsDNhAiP/s1600/Aldershot+Town+Away+Terrace,+Recreation+Ground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV-6K9bAfHAwHOQD3Tb9f_nVH9zUheOG3_43z0Fg7jDMxt72MVGUXPspsg2v5U99Elg-X5MwKSZE8YkbQFyvSKw1lLxtUcexDOMaPJp7J3YrpdWVzPj9QAb-hJCYZ6I8XcfIAstsDNhAiP/s320/Aldershot+Town+Away+Terrace,+Recreation+Ground.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers fans in the away terrace at half time.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As has become common away from home, Daggers looked threatening on the
breakaway. On 45 minutes that vital quality shone through. The visitors broke
down the left with Luke Wilkinson winning the ball and advancing into the box
before teeing up Josh Scott whose initial shot was palmed back into the danger
zone by Jamie Young. The rebound fell to Jake Reed who laid the ball off to
Josh Scottt once more, and after taking a second to steady himself, Scott was
denied by the bar to the anguish of Daggers fans in the East Bank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The referee soon blew for half time with both Aldershot and Daggers fans on
tenterhooks. The scoreline remained at 0-0 with the Daggers ending the half on
top. At the moment, that would have been enough to see the visitors safe for
next season, whilst the Shots would have found themselves relegated. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
second half began with a bang, and unfortunately it was at Daggers expense. The
Shots opened with more urgency, more passion and more desire and as a result
looked far more threatening. And despite that, it was Daggers who should have
opened the scoring on 50 minutes. Luke Wilkinson's defensive clearance released
Jake Reed down the left, who after losing control of the ball inside the box
could only prod a tame effort at Jamie Young who saved well before the danger
was cleared away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And that one piece of play just about sums everything up. So near yet so far.
Jake Reed really should have done better, but when you're relying on a young,
inexperienced striker you get what you pay for. He looks like a goal threat,
but his ball control is very poor. On numerous occasions he's been in
one-on-one, only for his control to let him down and squander a fantastic
goal-scoring opportunity. Would we be made to rue that miss? Of course we
would. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Little over five minutes later a ball from the right by Craig Stanley was
bundled home by Michael Rankine, despite the best efforts of Chris Lewington
and Abu Ogogo on the line. Thankfully a pole restricted my view somewhat so I
couldn't see the anguished faces of our two players. The</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgrQG1KidQgVKuuCx9C2Nnx1NygHiIpkDAvj6ZX_5C4e4c7vFleNze5MEsyFH9IAqVqlw3EqItEnqvZiDo6N4laRB94-LL9EkqNywQYq4gfUwJC21j1c5vf9rJL8JIC4fVClGRlx5m40P/s1600/Chris+Lewington.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCgrQG1KidQgVKuuCx9C2Nnx1NygHiIpkDAvj6ZX_5C4e4c7vFleNze5MEsyFH9IAqVqlw3EqItEnqvZiDo6N4laRB94-LL9EkqNywQYq4gfUwJC21j1c5vf9rJL8JIC4fVClGRlx5m40P/s320/Chris+Lewington.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> silence in the away
end was eerie as the Aldershot players and fans alike celebrated what could
have been the most important goal of their season.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And with that, Wayne Burnett sprung into action, making a double change with 30
minutes remaining. The midfield duo of Kevin Maher and Billy Bingham were
replaced by Medy Elito and Mo Shariff, someone described them as, 'wingers',
apparently. Even with the change the Shots continued to press for a second,
with Craig Reid seeing his shot deflected narrowly behind for a corner.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the constant pressure of the hosts, it was evident Daggers needed someone
to transform their fortunes up front. Brian Woodall who had been hibernating in
Bishops Stortford came on for the flagging Jake Reed who despite his nuisance
value, failed to make his presence felt up front. Almost immediately, Daggers
looked more dangerous going forward. Medy Elito received the ball on the left
before advancing into the box and diverting his shot wide from close range.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
little over 20 minutes remaining, the decision to bring on Brian Woodall nearly
provided instant dividends. Mo Shariff beat his man on the right before
crossing for the tightly marked Woodall who leaped above his man, only to see
his powerful header palmed away for a corner by the acrobatic Jamie Young. Even
with that effort, Daggers failed to kick on, allowing Aldershot back into the
game. Kieron Cadogan passed up two good opportunities as the game approached
its climax.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The Aldershot defence submerged deeper and deeper into its own half as we entered
the final 10 minutes of the match. Daggers were now bombing down the left hand
side through Femi, Medy Elito and even Josh Scott. Unfortunately, despite the
"best" efforts of our wingers, they once again lacked the final ball.
In the one case where Elito did find his man, Matt Saunders failed to pull the
trigger early enough and was eventually crowded out in the area as a result.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The barrage continued as 90 minutes approached, yet Daggers looked destined to
fail. We were bombarding the left hand side without any real reward, our
wingers simply failed to deliver that crucial final ball. Once again Saunders
was played the ball inside the box, but this time instead of opting to shoot
when he had time and space, he passed to no-one with the ball rolling out for a
goal kick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
I have to admit, the final 3 minutes of the game are a bit of a blur, what I
can say though is that I've never shouted as much at a game than as I did in
that 3 minute period. The frustration of several Matt Saunders corners failing
to beat the first man was too much to bear. And when one did beat the first
man, Scott Doe's effort was blocked on the line as the Shots clung on for dear
life. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The ball was soon punted up field where Luke Wilkinson and Abu Ogogo made a
hash of getting it back into the Aldershot penalty area. The hosts closed the
game out and amongst a chorus of cheers from the opposite side of the East Bank;
the referee blew his whistle to signal full time. Daggers fans exasperated at
their sides performance; stood silent. It was eerie. A sense of knowing what we
had done. There were hands on heads and a number of people staring into the
distance whilst the rest left immediately, cursing our abject performance.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Scores from around the grounds only helped to compound the misery. AFC
Wimbledon had comeback from 2-0 down to pick up a point at Gillingham; whilst
Torquay, York and Accrington had all won. Our saving grace was that Barnet
remained at 0-0 with Wycombe. A scoreline that soon changed as we made our way
back to the station, my face drained of expression upon seeing Barnet 1-0
ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Back at the station and hope remained, hope remained that Wycombe might ruin
Barnet's Underhill party and find that equaliser. News then came through of a
penalty...to Wycombe. You knew, you just knew, on today of all days, Graham
Stack would be the hero and ensure a 1-0 Barnet win. And so he did, denying
Joel Grant from the spot to drive the final stake into Daggers hearts in what
was a most dismal Saturday afternoon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
It's amazing really. It's amazing how football has that weird habit of helping
you back up when you're down and then swiftly kicking you in the bo**ocks when
you're at your weakest. That phrase seems to sum up Daggers at the moment. And
unless we equal or better AFC Wimbledon or Barnet's result next weekend, we
could be down for good.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But Saturday's performance just defined the season. We've been poor as a
collective, not as individuals. The defence looked shaky, the midfield lost their
passing ability once more and going forward we were just abysmal. The decision
making and our touch in the final third completely deserted us, it bordered on
laughable. Well, it was either laugh or cry. I chose the former although should
we be relegated next week, it'll revert to the latter.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Jake Reed may well be a promising youngster, but we cannot start him next
weekend. We desperately need someone who knows where the back of the net is and
who can provide a sterner test for opposition defenders. Brian Woodall and Josh
Scott fit the bill perfectly so hopefully Reed makes way for Woodall to make a
crucial start. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
To be quite honest, I can't suggest anything else - only that we all unite next
week no matter what qualms you have with anyone in the ground or any of the
players. As a club we need to be fully behind the XI on the field and roar them
on to safety. It's not an over-exaggeration to say this could well be the
biggest game in the history of Dagenham & Redbridge Football Club. And as
such, we need everyone at Victoria Road to create a positive atmosphere. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don’t feel as though I
need to tell you, but that match next week takes place at Victoria Road against
York City. Bring anyone along you can, bring old Daggers, new Daggers, anyone
that’s a Dagger. We need the support and we need it now. If you’re on Twitter,
try to expand our support by tweeting, #PackTheVic. Remember, you can follow
myself on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.</span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div align="left" class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Hopefully this time next
week we’ll be safe, but if we’re not – we only have ourselves to blame. Have a
good, if nervous week chaps and hopefully I’ll be bringing good tidings come
17:00 Saturday afternoon. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qwQ5QoJoGINxINAeOtQ5xzWbL-fYKqPSpgx8NsIFy5V_o4WslnmPWQ8DUVqHxO6_XZUznH9rltgqhpNxYeoA-xMZ462XCfqFaWrENrtrBYnDShvpRfQJ2iGDMm3hMUH9NhUVRV36TmHK/s1600/%23PackTheVic.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9qwQ5QoJoGINxINAeOtQ5xzWbL-fYKqPSpgx8NsIFy5V_o4WslnmPWQ8DUVqHxO6_XZUznH9rltgqhpNxYeoA-xMZ462XCfqFaWrENrtrBYnDShvpRfQJ2iGDMm3hMUH9NhUVRV36TmHK/s400/%23PackTheVic.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">**Disclaimer** I do not claim to be any good at Photoshop.</span></div>
</div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-2233367032288762892013-04-14T20:40:00.002+01:002013-04-14T20:40:43.428+01:00Daggers 0-1 Oxford United, Potter Casts Spell Over Daggers.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhjwlGlq3pcyF7dweWBChIUXpw6mpGWU0wkbtio7v_dav6zXj2eBZUZVlaJDzJxMDxgFifuAbeqHI4D2bLtJNVg5LsNoSWSMrO3rYKRqcbG2tDtWOpg3YE1wZ7maE1kNjgp-NxRDqzj_j/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Oxford+United.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhjwlGlq3pcyF7dweWBChIUXpw6mpGWU0wkbtio7v_dav6zXj2eBZUZVlaJDzJxMDxgFifuAbeqHI4D2bLtJNVg5LsNoSWSMrO3rYKRqcbG2tDtWOpg3YE1wZ7maE1kNjgp-NxRDqzj_j/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Oxford+United.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Football's a funny old game,
isn't it? This time last week some of us thought that we were out of the
relegation scrap. Fast forward to 17:00 Saturday and some firmly believe we're
back in the mire following another disappointing home defeat, this time to mid
table Oxford United. Whatever the case, it's undoubtedly tight at the bottom of
the table and you wouldn't bet against it going down to the final day at home
to York City. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before all of the pessimism and angst though, came slightly less pessimism and
angst. We never seem to do well at home to Oxford; in fact we'd lost our
previous three home games against them 1-0. That coupled with our torrid home
form since New Year left many with little optimism ahead of this clash. The one
branch of hope however, was that we did win last weekend and looked very solid
at the back in the process, a trait very much needed on home soil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Upon arrival, Victoria Road looked very sparse - the overcast conditions
seemingly putting some supporters off. Those that were there though, were
treated to team news that probably did little to wet their appetite.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright,
Femi, Doe, Wilkinson, Ogogo, Elito, Howell, Maher, Saunders, Silva, Reed.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Miles, Hoyte, Fortune, Shariff,
Bingham, Strevens, Dennis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett made the uncharacteristic decision of naming an unchanged side
for the visit of Oxford United. Jordan Seabright remained in goal for his
second full appearance, whilst Jake Reed continued in the sole forward
position. The midfield included the experienced Kevin Maher and Barnsley winger
Toni Silva who had shown flashes of what he's capable of in his last three
appearances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Oxford United:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Crocombe,
Batt, Duberry, Wright, Whing, O'Brien, Parker, David, Davies, Smalley, Potter.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>McCormick, Raynes, Long, Heslop,
Rigg, Roberts, O'Dowda.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With supporters in the Bury Road End looking decidedly wet, the teams emerged
from the tunnel to begin the 90 minutes of anxiousness. After the pre match
pleasantries the action began. Oxford started on the front foot, forcing
Seabright to gather a number of early crosses inside the box. The 'keeper was
called into action again minutes later, coming out to gather Crocombe's long
punt up field that had evaded centre half Scott Doe.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopOG9Xcd8lwbuj8ZL2glw65U95J1jBx5FKZu-mW9zfIRVVj3Zarg45GfItPxxiWlhDveugECbh6nVVv4o5fPpRVLUGBcz7NEDeK_3aw4aDbmdjhBNZZ-JyYHapogiGddB5dyXkhqSxYr0/s1600/Daggers+vs+Oxford.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiopOG9Xcd8lwbuj8ZL2glw65U95J1jBx5FKZu-mW9zfIRVVj3Zarg45GfItPxxiWlhDveugECbh6nVVv4o5fPpRVLUGBcz7NEDeK_3aw4aDbmdjhBNZZ-JyYHapogiGddB5dyXkhqSxYr0/s320/Daggers+vs+Oxford.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite the early Oxford pressure, it was Daggers who mustered the first shot
of the afternoon. Luke Wilkinson driving forward before firing his speculative
30 yard effort high over the crossbar. The game soon livened up with
opportunities presenting themselves for both sides. First Luke Howell spurned a
good chance by slicing wide of the post, whilst Liam Davis saw his 30 yard free
kick comfortably saved by Seabright. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Jake Reed who had looked so lively last weekend was the next player to throw
away a golden chance. The forward darted inside the box on the right hand side
before dragging his shot across goal and wide of the post. It showed good
invention from the youngster, but also a level of inexperience and naivety that
seemingly haunts the whole squad when it comes to home performances.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Up until 40 minutes neither side really looked like breaking the deadlock.
Daggers failed to make the advantage count on the breakaway and Andy Whing's
header for the visitors went narrowly wide for Oxford. Five minutes before half
time though, and the U's took advantage of some sloppy defending to take the
lead. Smalley's cross found Alfie Potter who got a fortune deflection off of
the heel of Femi before unleashing an unstoppable volley past Seabright and
into the back of the net.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Cue groans in the Sieve as that same old familiar home story resurfaced once
more. This time though it was perhaps harsh that we had fallen behind.
Regardless of that, the visitors were ahead and that's how it remained as the
two teams headed in for half time. Comically there was some booing in the
Sieve. The hilarity doesn't come from the reason for booing, just for the level
of booing. It was the most pathetic boo I've ever heard, if you're going to
bemoan the team at least do it with some conviction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94z2o2Fi0EfLUXP5QoPy_MKbyogE60oEgZJZYrqGGEVmxqIqWHBUDBlv4zmWsTy3A-GXjUTKDsxwEUHcUaDJC71oQ06g2cku_ak-MczjfS_HOpRf5h2pggY-rpjsn1j8vDFn78Wka7Ay7/s1600/Silva.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg94z2o2Fi0EfLUXP5QoPy_MKbyogE60oEgZJZYrqGGEVmxqIqWHBUDBlv4zmWsTy3A-GXjUTKDsxwEUHcUaDJC71oQ06g2cku_ak-MczjfS_HOpRf5h2pggY-rpjsn1j8vDFn78Wka7Ay7/s320/Silva.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silva<br />www.photoshelter.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The most frustrating thing about the first half was the performance of Toni
Silva. The on loan winger had received the majority of possession down the
left, but had failed to do anything with it. He drove at defenders a number of
times before making the wrong decision and giving the ball away. We need him to
do what he did against us when playing for Northampton last season, but so far
he hasn't shown that kind of form. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Into the second half and Wayne Burnett made his customary half time change.
Matt Saunders who had been ineffectual was replaced by promising young winger
Louis Dennis. Despite the change it was the U's who opened the brighter. Deane
Smalley directed his shot wide of the post whilst former Daggers winger Josh
Parker wasted a good opportunity by firing over from 20 yards out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
just the one goal advantage, Oxford always looked vulnerable and a succession
of Daggers corners nearly brought an equaliser. Louis Dennis' set piece to the
back post was met by Luke Wilkinson who forced Crocombe to tip his powerful
header wide of the post. Minutes later Dennis was the key man once again,
forcing Crocombe into a smart stop from a free kick designed to catch the
inexperienced 'keeper out at his near post. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Then
came a flurry of substitutions with Mo Shariff replacing the
frustrated Toni Silva and Simon Heslop coming on for Josh Parker. Within
seconds of his entrance, Shariff made the desired impact. The on loan winger
picked up the ball before firing a shot that was deflected wide for a corner as
Daggers looked to crank up the pressure. Unfortunately the corner itself didn't
have the intended effect, Dennis' delivery gathered easily by Crocombe. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
Daggers pushing for an equaliser, it was Oxford who should have doubled their
lead on 64 minutes. Alfie Potter drove down the right before squaring the ball
for substitute Sean Rigg at the back post who somehow contrived to miss the
goal completely and put his tap in wide of the post. It was a massive let off
for Daggers and the supporters knew it.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even
with the pace of Shariff and energy of Reed, the hosts failed to assert any
authority in the final quarter of the match. In fact it says as much that the
biggest threat going forward was Luke Wilkinson, the centre half seeing another
speculative effort skim wide of the mark from long range. He was soon under
pressure at the other end, making a good defensive clearance to spare Jordan
Seabright's blushes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PgmgNvEpPk9gh8W-RH2-sQIlLfGN60jQ-2QUH7USANn7tojNa7nQDG0nid8pUrTbjZe7xVcuLRAugBw9IUVsvKAu7hM19YL6WfT8a3JXmDOxnZOCPgMd5E1BHnUuSBnLtlX1ENtucH_g/s1600/Ben+Strevens,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4PgmgNvEpPk9gh8W-RH2-sQIlLfGN60jQ-2QUH7USANn7tojNa7nQDG0nid8pUrTbjZe7xVcuLRAugBw9IUVsvKAu7hM19YL6WfT8a3JXmDOxnZOCPgMd5E1BHnUuSBnLtlX1ENtucH_g/s320/Ben+Strevens,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Strevs</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wayne
Burnett then rolled the dice for the final time, replacing the ailing Medy
Elito with Ben Strevens. It saw the Daggers go with three up front thanks to
Dennis' more central role since his introduction. Then, seeing as the
performance wasn't raising any smiles, one of the ballboy's took it into his
own hands to raise a grin in the Sieve. Upon retrieving a loose ball, the
academy youngster slipped on the sodden turf to a chorus of,
"Wahey's", from around the ground.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That
was about the highlight as the match petered out. Daggers never really looked
like finding an equaliser and were deservedly beaten. The final chance fell to
Mo Shariff who blasted over from well inside the box after latching on to an
earlier deflected shot. It just about summed the hosts up. There was a real
lack of urgency once again and where last week everything went like clockwork,
this week nothing went to plan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One
of the big mistakes was playing Jake Reed up front on his own. Of course that's
easy to say in hindsight. Personally I think at home we need to play with two
forwards, preferably one that's more of a handful compared to Reed. He's a good
young player don't get me wrong, but he stood little chance against the hulking
Michael Duberry at centre half. He was fighting a lost cause for 90 minutes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After
last weekend’s excellent display, the midfielders seemed lost. Kevin Maher and
Luke Howell were unspectacular whilst Matt Saunders really failed to excite.
Toni Silva was the biggest disappointment. The hype surrounding his arrival has
really failed to materialise on the pitch. He gets into the positions and runs
with the ball well, but he fails to make the right decision at the crucial
moments, often giving the ball away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">One
player who does deserve some credit in an abject performance however, is Scott
Doe. He's been very consistent this season and is somewhat underrated in our
side. Partnered by Luke Wilkinson who has been largely solid for the majority
of the campaign, they've formed a great partnership that
will inevitably be broken up through the Summer months. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
for Oxford, it should really come as no surprise that they picked up three
points yesterday. Nevertheless it was a solid, well drilled performance by
Chris Wilder's men. Both sides failed to shine, but they got the job done -
something that should be admired in this gritty league. It'll be another mid
table finish for the U's who will already looking forward to next seasons
League Two campaign.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Daggers
on the other hand still aren't out of it. Our final two fixtures could not be
against more fatalistic opponents. Next week we travel to Aldershot Town,
before facing York City at home on the final day in what could be the biggest
game of the League Two season. With a five point cushion and the aid of
superior goal difference, you'd like to think that we're fine. But we're not
yet. A point next week however should do the trick. I hope to see as many of
you as possible at The Rec to cheer on the lads to securing Football League
status for another season!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Until
then, have a good if nerve-racking week and remember to follow me on Twitter,
@NickMurphyDRFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-42112396207574001032013-04-08T13:37:00.001+01:002013-04-08T13:37:25.765+01:00Exeter City 0-1 Daggers, A Walk In St James Park.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTeQ65yiaF8TtpTOznZAOtQib6LskVGjQzuodTIMRBqvcqEksB0rc8m9wGp-GLrASnwXYbXT0ue7iF_d8Kk4_ipJaPQxgQSX2Uw164EleZQ_NUfHcXmE9dH2w-BViaxc_Dh714QrFs_pV/s1600/Exeter+City+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizTeQ65yiaF8TtpTOznZAOtQib6LskVGjQzuodTIMRBqvcqEksB0rc8m9wGp-GLrASnwXYbXT0ue7iF_d8Kk4_ipJaPQxgQSX2Uw164EleZQ_NUfHcXmE9dH2w-BViaxc_Dh714QrFs_pV/s320/Exeter+City+vs+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After Easter Monday's 4-2
capitulation at home to Bristol Rovers, no one expected a result quite like
this. On Monday the defending was abysmal, the game plan went out of the window
and the team lacked unity. But on Saturday, we were superb. A united performance
and a solid defence saw Dagenham & Redbridge virtually quash any remaining
relegation fears with a 1-0 win at Exeter City. The victory keeps Daggers in
17th place, but Wayne Burnett's men are now crucially 5 points clear of the
drop zone with just three games remaining.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before all of the jubilation and celebrations though, we were faced with the
grim reading that we'd never won at Exeter. In fact during all of our league
meetings, we'd only ever beaten the Grecians the once. That being a 4-1 home
victory back in our promotion winning season from the Conference. Importantly
though, there's always been goals in this fixture - with both sides scoring in
the last 11 meetings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Then came the arduous trek to Devon which began at 8:45 when we all met up at
Chadwell Heath station. From there we went on to Liverpool Street before
heading to Paddington to catch our South West trains service to Exeter St
Davids. The train journey was uneventful overall, although it was brightened up
by vandalising<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Sun,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></i>newspaper. Well, what else are you
going to do for three and a half hours?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f6fF2TuMIWnRWdwP0YCbXLQoKts3TfpICKw0FAypqBlnoeYc5_IVFLP5XQ2GCpzAxfHFurukzqpVWWZLsooT9q-ppHte8spi4Qa7Nleb_SSzPm0EvpojDevouAJMJD7hPVTs1Kik1jLM/s1600/Exeter+City+Turnstiles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7f6fF2TuMIWnRWdwP0YCbXLQoKts3TfpICKw0FAypqBlnoeYc5_IVFLP5XQ2GCpzAxfHFurukzqpVWWZLsooT9q-ppHte8spi4Qa7Nleb_SSzPm0EvpojDevouAJMJD7hPVTs1Kik1jLM/s320/Exeter+City+Turnstiles.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Home Turnstiles<br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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Upon arrival at Exeter St Davids, we headed through the ticket barriers to buy
our ludicrously priced 70p return train tickets to St James Park station. I
don't know about you, but I'm thoroughly against modern South West Trains.
After shelling out the extortionate prices, we boarded the bus-like carrier for
our six minute journey to the sub-urban station. And after arriving, I have to
admit it was rather pleasant.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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It's most probably the only ground where from the train station; you can see
the home grandstand and a patch of allotments. After a quick walk around the
stadium, we encountered the back of the away stand that had fallen down during
the torrential rain two weeks previous. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL19JGbG9H_tTkstyawvNM5W1hwDvEx7373SyYrPXuNyLW2kRWM2vcKveVk1C6EZ2APZNK60EJ4hlOR7rMCz8ucr7zuibvj93yT12YJIdC-c-CKSJjOU_WNMaJJEUyqNWKHjMA5uK7MwSk/s1600/Exeter+City+Fallen+Down+Away+Stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL19JGbG9H_tTkstyawvNM5W1hwDvEx7373SyYrPXuNyLW2kRWM2vcKveVk1C6EZ2APZNK60EJ4hlOR7rMCz8ucr7zuibvj93yT12YJIdC-c-CKSJjOU_WNMaJJEUyqNWKHjMA5uK7MwSk/s320/Exeter+City+Fallen+Down+Away+Stand.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Away Stand that had fallen down.</td></tr>
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We were soon directed to our destination - the Exeter beer garden behind the
home stand. And in-keeping with the town so far, it was excellent. The local Thatcher’s
Gold Cider was superb and reasonably priced, moreover the home supporters were
extremely inviting and welcoming! After a couple of pints, we headed back
around to the crumbling away terrace and headed through the rustic turnstiles
just before the teams emerged onto the pitch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The ground appears to be a very old fashioned one, which is good. The
grandstand remains intact which seems to be a running feature of clubs in the
South-West, with Plymouth, Bristol Rovers & Cheltenham all having similar
main stands. It adds a rustic, old fashioned feel to the ground which was
welcomed by stadium connoisseurs like me. Opposite that is a large all seated
stand used by home supporters which was largely full up by the time kick off
approached.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRWqvZ99fgp6KGHWnkKEPMlDFzkBX3FysXNWsa00pz0howQ2a9PdUe0PaLuzeH3JIomMXFC3Jesp0Dgr-6Iio5fVRPgRw05pnjSWGg7AMpIzQlRcwIp6u_V-WN0QGcmRQQ0gRKWnZccgs/s1600/Exeter+City+Main+Grandstand,+St+James+Park.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBRWqvZ99fgp6KGHWnkKEPMlDFzkBX3FysXNWsa00pz0howQ2a9PdUe0PaLuzeH3JIomMXFC3Jesp0Dgr-6Iio5fVRPgRw05pnjSWGg7AMpIzQlRcwIp6u_V-WN0QGcmRQQ0gRKWnZccgs/s320/Exeter+City+Main+Grandstand,+St+James+Park.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Exeter City Grandstand</td></tr>
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Our away end as many will know was uncovered, but in the delightful spring sun,
it felt very pleasant. Standing on the cobbled steps having had a few ciders,
it felt as though what football should be like in spring. The terrace stretched
round to beside the grandstand in a similar vain to York's. Although some
visiting supporters opted for the small selection of seats available, the
majority chose to stand in front of the temporary metal fence erected to avoid
away supporters plunging to their death into the main road behind the terrace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Opposite that stands the largest terrace in English football, The Cliff Bastin
Stand. It's more commonly known as, "The Big Bank", and accommodates
just under 4000 supporters under its large roof. For our visit it looked
largely full and we presumed it would be where the majority of the noise would
originate from. Soon after a gaze around our surroundings, the teams emerged to
subdued applause and were announced as follows...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Exeter City:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Krysiak,
Woodman, Bennett, Baldwin, Coles, Amankwaah, Davies, Doherty, D'Ath, Gosling,
O'Flynn.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Evans, Moore-Taylor, Keohane,
Dawson, Molesley, Bauza (Not to be confused with the Mario character),
Chamberlain.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright,
Femi, Doe, Wilkinson, Ogogo, Elito, Howell, Maher, Saunders, Silva, Reed.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Miles, Hoyte, Fortune, Shariff,
Bingham, Strevens, Dennis.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers boss Wayne Burnett rung the changes following Monday's home defeat to
Bristol Rovers, replacing four of the side that started the shambolic defeat.
Goalkeeper Jordan Seabright was handed his full debut in place of Jonathan
Miles, whilst Abu Ogogo reverted to right back which meant Gavin Hoyte dropped
out for Kevin Maher in midfield. Midfielder Matt Saunders returned to the side
in place of Mo Shariff with the younger Jake Reed being preferred up front over
Ben Strevens. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ymGJtyyGfi7WAcTwWpQd0m__863nAJGLulr6frzhcJQ3uALUQVqnKyaBxny4tk8fSh0Q-kFHphKVgKCkyHym61GV0R9U_IJPWXSUC8dEdbGWB8U4h6VILj02VHZyyFtMQ6lgj8cY0yQ2/s1600/Exeter+vs+Dagenham.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_ymGJtyyGfi7WAcTwWpQd0m__863nAJGLulr6frzhcJQ3uALUQVqnKyaBxny4tk8fSh0Q-kFHphKVgKCkyHym61GV0R9U_IJPWXSUC8dEdbGWB8U4h6VILj02VHZyyFtMQ6lgj8cY0yQ2/s320/Exeter+vs+Dagenham.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After a minutes silence for an Exeter volunteer who had sadly passed away
during the week, the referee completed the toss and both sides opted to remain
in their original ends. This meant Daggers would be facing the away terrace in
the first half and the Grecians, "The Big Bank." As soon as the
referee blew his whistle to start the game, we were back at a standstill.
Journeyman midfielder Kevin Amankwaah picked up an injury inside 3 minutes and
was forced off to be replaced by Aaron Dawson. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
When play restarted it was Daggers who began on the front foot, forcing two
corners in the following five minutes. From the second of those corners came
the first goal of the afternoon. Matt Saunders' cross towards the front post
was glanced home by the on-rushing Scott Doe to send the visitors into a
surprise 1-0 lead with just five minutes on the clock. A sense of disbelief
swept round the terrace as the players celebrated joyously in the corner of the
pitch.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6zQ8SFyw8V6FxotcK-f6uVXFFQ1bEidOrKP6MWZSMnqcNUUbWmHDj1NFBRpiuGuxlbW58XPvmX8r3VjIysob4KMIisUBA2axBDxCRFWkaHOAQXKpOuPaTJDfkmoq8ISboN8A89d5GbGx/s1600/Exeter+0-1+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY6zQ8SFyw8V6FxotcK-f6uVXFFQ1bEidOrKP6MWZSMnqcNUUbWmHDj1NFBRpiuGuxlbW58XPvmX8r3VjIysob4KMIisUBA2axBDxCRFWkaHOAQXKpOuPaTJDfkmoq8ISboN8A89d5GbGx/s320/Exeter+0-1+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers Players Celebrate<br />From @Post_Daggers</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With Daggers leading the match, the focus was now on the managers - both of
whom are renowned for their style. Early on in the style stakes and there was
no doubt that Daggers supremo Wayne Burnett had the edge in the contest. With
Paul Tisdale opting for the red chino look; it was Burnett who was sporting the
jumper and blazer combo that receives the plaudits from,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><i>The Daggers Scale. </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><br />
</i>The vibrant manner of the game continued soon after, with Daggers
playing at a good tempo against the Grecians. It was the hosts who came the
closest minutes after the goal, but debutant Seabright was at his best to deny
D'Ath getting to the ball first. Soon after and Daggers nearly doubled their
lead through Luke Wilkinson, but the centre half could only manage to direct
his header over the bar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The match soon quietened down with few opportunities for either forward line to
showcase their abilities. Daggers were looking most threatening down the wings
- something I haven't said much this season. Femi & Medy were combining
well and with just over 20 minutes gone it nearly provided a goal. The latter
of the pair crossed from the left and but for an excellent intervention from a
City defender, Toni Silva would have been left to head into an empty net. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjojrOOrsUFoqET-PdMxGXpM_P8XGww8gXDD0Uqe6X_ZYayKaJcD_vyXqafAff4_7h7pCBXXLGJfUnbN3vVgo26oLOlGFLnKqbMI-HrI2P-gu-y8UvhRej5YP8eIpmthq9Vc5QldFB8Dw/s1600/St+James+Park,+Exeter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjojrOOrsUFoqET-PdMxGXpM_P8XGww8gXDD0Uqe6X_ZYayKaJcD_vyXqafAff4_7h7pCBXXLGJfUnbN3vVgo26oLOlGFLnKqbMI-HrI2P-gu-y8UvhRej5YP8eIpmthq9Vc5QldFB8Dw/s320/St+James+Park,+Exeter.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Supporters Grew Restless</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the defence sharper than ever and the midfield looking calm on the ball,
the visitors remained in control. Exeter rarely threatened, resorting to
hopeful punts from the midfield, which were gathered easily by Jordan
Seabright. The wings continued to provide the ammunition for Daggers, with Toni
Silva being influentia. The on loan Portuguese winger escaped his man before
cutting the ball back for Luke Howell who was eventually crowded out on the
edge of the box. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Paul Tisdale was then forced into another change with Guillem Bauza being
replaced by 19 year old Jake Gosling. The youngster injected some much needed
energy into the home side which allowed the hosts to gather more possession as
Daggers tried to close out the half. Despite the increased possession for the
hosts, it was Daggers who came close once more on 38 minutes. Good play between
Jake Reed and Matt Saunders saw the latter fire his close range shot into the
path of an Exeter defender who cleared the danger to ensure the scoreline
remained at 1-0.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Just as the fourth official signalled for injury time, Daggers won a free kick
inches outside the box. Matt Saunders and Medy Elito (Yes, that's what I was
thinking), stood tenuously over the ball. Saunders, who is the set piece expert,
curled the ball over the wall, only for Artur Krysiak to pull out a magnificent
save to deny the midfielder. From the long punt up field the Grecians nearly
equalised, but Seabright was there once again to prevent D'Ath's cross reaching
its intended target.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsDskszqO-16LCUpH64sChTqvZFbMEV23dgyMXFmdRsvd3Ubauyk0iAuy_s0FRv34qbg2XTHz8iclJ1Z1w06EhaDBFQhnGK_ZTz-QMagfK_dWZTaKKFQjQuTf11Kaac-qJ3vUjZeu4AT3i/s1600/Exeter+0-1+Dagenham+at+Half+Time.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsDskszqO-16LCUpH64sChTqvZFbMEV23dgyMXFmdRsvd3Ubauyk0iAuy_s0FRv34qbg2XTHz8iclJ1Z1w06EhaDBFQhnGK_ZTz-QMagfK_dWZTaKKFQjQuTf11Kaac-qJ3vUjZeu4AT3i/s320/Exeter+0-1+Dagenham+at+Half+Time.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers go in 1-0 ahead at half time.<br />From @Post_Daggers</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
That was the final play of the first half and meant that somehow, Daggers went
in 1-0 ahead at the break. I don't say that because we didn't play well, I say
it because I'm always nervous when we take the lead early on! But we were exemplary throughout
the first half - no one could have any complaints with the scoreline. The
defence was solid, the midfield was assured and Jake Reed was looking like
Strevens in his prime up front. Everything was clicking.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And then came the real defining moment of the day, the Exeter City food.
Instantly the food bar was marked down for not selling Dominoes pizza anymore,
whilst they'd also ran out of hot dogs at half time. That left me with two
sausage rolls, which priced at £1.50 each more than did the job. The toilets
were also of a good standard, even if you had to submerge yourself 10 foot
underground to find them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Slightly later than originally forecast, the two teams emerged back onto the
pitch to begin the second half. The second 45 started a lot slower than the first,
with Toni Silva's booking for a poor challenge the only incident of note.
Exeter were however now looking more prominent down the flanks, especially the
right hand-side where Femi had to be at his best to stop the marauding Aaron
Dawson.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers were soon on the attack once more and Toni Silva's clever footwork
bought a foul from defender Tommy Doherty. Matt Saunders lined up the free
kick, but this time he fired it over the bar and onto the roof of the net. The
game continued to be fought in the midfield, with neither side able to
establish a firm grip in the contest. Then there was the news that dampened an
otherwise good afternoon so far. My horse for the Grand National, Quel Espirit
failed to make it home, let alone win. Next year I'll have to bet on Stacey
Solomon.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As Exeter piled on more pressure, Wayne Burnett made his first change of the
afternoon. Louis Dennis, who has made such a good impression from the bench in
recent weeks, replaced the ailing Toni Silva. The Grecians now had the bit
between their teeth and nearly found an equaliser when Jordan Seabright spilled
a routine cross from the right. The ball fell to Bauza whose seemingly
goalbound strike was blocked by forward John O'Flynn before the linesman put up
his flag for offside. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV8PhcMivD4F0PJ5AUk8cIMlr6ALlmY93B9Sw3g49UyHDNOFnCyrTcS4d9tkKOhJ38vRuccfI_FBuxDtzXf-NabT_At4nUInAcfud_FaNdXN1hO-3KAsdOXa2Dvn97jT2jEkiHBCli3E-/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Supporters.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuV8PhcMivD4F0PJ5AUk8cIMlr6ALlmY93B9Sw3g49UyHDNOFnCyrTcS4d9tkKOhJ38vRuccfI_FBuxDtzXf-NabT_At4nUInAcfud_FaNdXN1hO-3KAsdOXa2Dvn97jT2jEkiHBCli3E-/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+Supporters.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers fans were left on tenterhooks.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The biggest scare of the afternoon for the visitors came with little over 20
minutes to play, with Seabright who had been at fault moments earlier, playing
a pivotal role. Danny Coles met Craig Woodman's powerful whipped free
kick, but somehow Seabright managed to claw the ball away from point blank
range to preserve the lead. Not only was it one of the most important saves of
the season, it was also one of, if not the best save I've seen since I started
supporting the Daggers.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After that scare, D'Ath came close once more as the hosts finally looked like
making their second half possession count. Ben Strevens then came on for Jake
Reed as Daggers looked for experience up front to see out the match. Despite
Scot Bennett's tame header, Exeter rarely threatened in the closing stages.
That earlier 10 minute spell proving to be their most dominant of the match and
even then, they never applied sustained pressure on the Daggers defence.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Jordan Seabright took everything that was thrown at him, looking like a
seasoned professional in the process. Daggers retained possession towards the
end with Louis Dennis looking threatening down the left. Despite skipping past
two players, his cross could only find the Grecians supporters in the terrace
behind the goal. Soon after the goal kick the referee blew his whistle to
signal the end of 94 minutes of play, and 90 minutes of nervousness holding
onto a 1-0 lead.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
We had done it. We had finally won at Exeter City. We had finally put an end to
a five game winless run. We had finally, more or less, secured our place in
League Two for next season. Unless the seven sides below us all simultaneously
pull out a miracle, we are safe. I cannot tell<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZj7ylReAfiM1prlgMacG-Zr50OhyRqYLHzPV0vFUnsk4p-bBUjEhHRI3tCzxceBYSSkHRLqpsKtJQte1Kh0r-6fQnLtBTZBD9jVB-z_hDAxiZ-Vb3Z-lXMJOjqQ_sKd8hj42Syq-CycjC/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZj7ylReAfiM1prlgMacG-Zr50OhyRqYLHzPV0vFUnsk4p-bBUjEhHRI3tCzxceBYSSkHRLqpsKtJQte1Kh0r-6fQnLtBTZBD9jVB-z_hDAxiZ-Vb3Z-lXMJOjqQ_sKd8hj42Syq-CycjC/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daggers Team Huddle</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
you what a relief that final
whistle was. Despite being comfortable for the majority of the game, at 1-0
there's always that nagging concern that we might concede.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
But the team were excellent. We were all of the things we weren't at home to
Bristol Rovers. We had unity, we mixed up our play and most importantly we were
solid at the back. Scott Doe & Luke Wilkinson were both immense, showing
why we rate them so highly. They dealt with everything thrown at them.
Alongside those two was Femi & Abu Ogogo who were both back to their best.
Abu in particular, back in his more natural position, shone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The midfield was more assured on Saturday. They controlled the ball well and
were able to pass the ball to eachother, something that seemed impossible last
Monday. The presence of Kevin Maher was evident. His experience helped calm a
young side and as such his contribution was somewhat underrated. To state the
obvious he's an important player when you win, but he's almost used a scapegoat
when we lose. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The rest of the team were consistent if not spectacular. Matt Saunders slotted
back in well whilst Luke Howell put in another performance that should see him
on his way to player of the season. Toni Silva once again looked like a
creative spark, whilst even Medy showed what he was capable of. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Jake Reed also deserves a lot of credit. Considering it was his first start in
a number of months, he equipped himself well and almost looks like Strevs in
his prime. With more game time and the right coaching, he could be a potential
star. As for Jordan Seabright; what a save. That's all you can say really. You
won't see many better than that this season. He played well throughout and on
his full debut, did well to deal with any possible nerves he may have had.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAWWhQ_58eSk4_EyAtCOu0sbG6to_WGudl3n4gM-P6Phq-Fy-2rAqSgPhdCqoIx3HTeo_xWf7FY4Y2MTppgQgRCAvSgvXw4fXpOa5NGLfoOALJS_YAYetOvDiPwbUTw2BUOMuX_yleprk/s1600/The+Big+Bank,+St+James+Park,+Exeter+City.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdAWWhQ_58eSk4_EyAtCOu0sbG6to_WGudl3n4gM-P6Phq-Fy-2rAqSgPhdCqoIx3HTeo_xWf7FY4Y2MTppgQgRCAvSgvXw4fXpOa5NGLfoOALJS_YAYetOvDiPwbUTw2BUOMuX_yleprk/s320/The+Big+Bank,+St+James+Park,+Exeter+City.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Big Bank were left disappointed.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
As for Exeter, you can see why they have the second worst home record in the
top half. They lacked any cutting edge and bar a 10 minute spell, rarely
threatened. The defence was relatively sound, but without a talisman like
Cureton up front you wonder if they'll be able to retain their Play Off place.
They need to bounce back from three straight defeats if they're to fend off the
challenge of Bradford.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After a brief detour into the local Wetherspoons at Exeter St David, we headed
home - joined by a clutch of Shrewsbury Town & Welling United fans who were
a fantastic laugh. With everyone in good spirits, the songs were flying and the
passengers at Clapham Junction were given a standing ovation. And who knew
Jermaine Grandison had such a cult following? A fantastic match, a fantastic journey
and a fantastic result. The perfect away day.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Next up for us is Oxford United at home on Saturday when we can mathematically
secure our safety for next season. After that comes a trip to Aldershot and a
home match against York on the final day - both of whom currently reside in the
relegation zone.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Remember you can follow me on Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2057771372262842865.post-39866096026567046512013-04-02T15:45:00.001+01:002013-04-02T15:45:54.169+01:00Daggers 2-4 Bristol Rovers, Gas Mark Four.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNqiwxLiQYNx0s-UtDljmFKF7NcW4s_W8Jjp6lEBTWEqXxnreceH7cVkiyoUc8PCWEyi3VzgBPUz_fOIyeKzrX4uf-ITnbt2Q2xFEmrTUlsmzHq6-YEETdmPlk034BCezDtEFaHA-D785/s1600/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Bristol+Rovers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNqiwxLiQYNx0s-UtDljmFKF7NcW4s_W8Jjp6lEBTWEqXxnreceH7cVkiyoUc8PCWEyi3VzgBPUz_fOIyeKzrX4uf-ITnbt2Q2xFEmrTUlsmzHq6-YEETdmPlk034BCezDtEFaHA-D785/s320/Dagenham+&+Redbridge+vs+Bristol+Rovers.JPG" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you were ever in any doubt
that Dagenham & Redbridge would be involved in a relegation fight this
season, remove that doubt now. After sitting comfortably on 37 points at the
end of January and being just six points off the Play Off's, Daggers now find themselves
3 points above the drop zone after picking up 11 points from the last 12 games.
Following Easter Monday's 4-2 home defeat to mid table Bristol Rovers, Daggers
fans have to ask the question over where the points are coming from in order to
retain our Football League status.</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before all of the negativity and doubt, there was in fact an air of positivity
around Victoria Road. Daggers have a good recent record against Rovers, having
won their last two including a 1-0 victory at the Memorial Stadium in December.
On current form however, the visitors were the undoubted favourites. Wayne
Burnett has overseen a single win as Daggers boss since taking over from John
Still, whilst Rovers had picked up 13 points from their last 18 available.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
A defeat would leave Daggers in a precarious position above the drop zone
depending on the results of other teams. But with the way the teams down the
bottom had been performing recently, you just knew a defeat here would really
drag the hosts back down into a dogfight. As I entered Victoria Road, the
optimism appeared to be evident with several familiar characters confident of a
good result. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
After the terrific Maximo Park had finished blaring over the PA system, the
teams were announced as follows...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Dagenham & Redbridge:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Miles,
Femi, Wilkinson, Doe, Hoyte, Sharif, Ogogo, Howell, Hoyte, Elito, Strevens.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Seabright, Maher, Gracco, Bingham,
Saunders, Dennis, Reed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Wayne Burnett chose to make a single change to the side that took a valuable
point from Underhill on Good Friday. Mo Sharif, who made such an impact when
introduced on Friday, came in for the under-performing Matt Saunders in the
midfield. Louis Dennis was restored to the bench, meanwhile Jonathan Miles
continued in goal over Jordan Seabright.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
<b>Bristol Rovers:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>Gough,
Smith, Woodards, Parks, Broghammer, Brown, McChrystal, O'Toole, Harrison,
Brunt, Tounkara.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><b>Subs:<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></b>McDonald, Lockyer, Paterson,
Norburn, Clarke, Richard, Hitchcock. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
John Ward opted to make two changes from Friday's disappointing 0-0 draw at
home to relegation threatened York City. Joe Anyinsah was replaced in midfield
by Fabian Broghammer, whilst up front Oumare Tounkara made his full debut in
place of Eliot Richards who dropped to the bench. Goalkeeper Conor Gough was
also thrust into the fray just before kick-off following an injury picked up by
first choice Steve Mildenhall. In a quirky turn of events this was to be only
Gough's second appearance for the club, the first coming on the final day of
last season in a 4-0 defeat at Victoria Road.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Thanks to the, "Kids for a Quid" promotion, the ground began to fill
up fast in both ends. Bristol Rovers fans had made a fantastic effort and
commandeered just over a third of the Traditional Builders Stand. Considering
they have next to nothing to play for, it really was brilliant support. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqYGJgH6k8plohHh_Ti0as_PgYoGeoIlWhDT68xjRA9NyBpWXnRiaC4t5wHx1jGJ89jnRKeL4_afOtcuar4uTmGwLg5oENFEcplas75eMtzk5YKC7_6EbXzqP_b3V6k6JxZ-Z0qtVchTy/s1600/Daggers+At+Home.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigqYGJgH6k8plohHh_Ti0as_PgYoGeoIlWhDT68xjRA9NyBpWXnRiaC4t5wHx1jGJ89jnRKeL4_afOtcuar4uTmGwLg5oENFEcplas75eMtzk5YKC7_6EbXzqP_b3V6k6JxZ-Z0qtVchTy/s320/Daggers+At+Home.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Soon enough the teams emerged from the tunnel, led out by none other than
everyone's favourite referee, Stuart Attwell. And yes, I still won't forget
that stonewall penalty that he failed to award us at Valley Parade four years
ago. But enough of that. The teams completed their pre match huddles, lined up,
and Mr Attwell blew his whistle to signal the beginning of the match.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Within five minutes of the kick off, Rovers found themselves a goal up. A loose
ball in the box was pounced upon by John Joe O'Toole who calmly fired it past
Jonathan Miles and into the back of the net for a 1-0 lead. Despite there only
being 5 minutes gone, Rovers deserved their lead following a sloppy start from
Daggers. O'Toole, making his last appearance for the club before returning to
Colchester was looking a handful along with big centre forward, Oumare
Tounkara.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Before Daggers had a chance to re-group, another mistake allowed Bristol Rovers
in to make it 2-0. This time there was a mix up between the usually solid Luke
Wilkinson and on loan goalkeeper Jonathan Miles. With the ball going back to
goal, Wilkinson didn't get enough purchase on the header which allowed Tounkara
to sneak in and round Miles before Scott Doe could get to the goal line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
By this point the hosts were all over the shop and only the post prevented the
masterful Tounkara from doubling his tally and sending Rovers 3-0 up within 15
minutes. Even against Southend & Port Vale earlier in the season Daggers
hadn't played this badly. There was a lack of unity and organisation in the
side, with players unable to find a team mate positioned just five yards away.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisneg5D2kISH_zLedlwr769glFAapkbxDuKC8nje0Lg9Al8Rk18iAdlUAKk0bf5DZnqqnL6x-bnHr8NzgCLWHaVCP2BJJ2_XYm1oqjL914q5ffkK4GlOc6m4LCuTbup_1_R5vFYJtIj4fR/s1600/Woodards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisneg5D2kISH_zLedlwr769glFAapkbxDuKC8nje0Lg9Al8Rk18iAdlUAKk0bf5DZnqqnL6x-bnHr8NzgCLWHaVCP2BJJ2_XYm1oqjL914q5ffkK4GlOc6m4LCuTbup_1_R5vFYJtIj4fR/s320/Woodards.jpg" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Danny Woodards<br />www.lifesagas-bristolrovers.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Despite the awful start, the hosts did manage a shot of their own with 17
minutes played. The talismanic Sharif played a delightful ball through to
Strevens, who despite beating his man could only fire his shot into the arms of
a grateful Gough. Daggers would rue that miss three minutes later with Bristol
Rovers making it 3-0, Danny Woodards executing the perfect finish following an
excellent team move. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The frantic nature of the match continued as we swept past the quarter mark of
the afternoon. Gavin Hoyte's pin point cross in from the right was met by Ben
Strevens whose header was saved before being bundled home by Medy Elito at the
back post. Somehow, Daggers were back in this game. Somehow, the idea of taking
a point from a game we were almost dead and buried in seemed realistic. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Even with a goal back, Daggers failed to kick on. Half hearted strikes from
Luke Wilkinson & Medy Elito failed to get the blood stirring as Rovers sat
comfortably on their two goal cushion. Toni Silva was looking like the hosts
most creative player and even then he failed to deliver any crosses into the
box. His intricate footwork however was winning applause, even if is misplaced
passes were not.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Daggers did end the half on the front foot, forcing a corner following good
play down the left between Femi & Ogogo. Unsurprisingly the corner came to
nothing as four minutes flashed up on the fourth official's board. With the
half coming to an end, Toni Silva just about summed up the hosts performance.
After darting through two Bristol Rovers players, the on loan winger advanced
forward before slicing his speculative effort wide of the mark for a goal kick.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
And with that, Stuart Attwell blew his whistle for half time to a chorus of
boos and jeers from the Sieve. The paying customers clearly weren't happy. In
fact the club could face action from Ofcom for not advertising the game as 18+
following some of the horror show defending in the opening 45 minutes. It
simply wasn't good enough. The team appeared to lack cohesion and were failing with
the basics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With Wayne Burnett looking to freshen things up and provide a greater attacking
influence, the Interim manager made two substitutions at half time. Somewhat
surprisingly Toni Silva, who had looked like our biggest attacking threat was
withdrawn. He was replaced by Louis Dennis who made such a positive impact when
introduced at home to Burton two weeks ago. In the other change, Jake Reed was
brought on for Medy Elito, whilst Rovers replaced Lee Brown with Jim Paterson.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
With the double change brought renewed optimism. Within minutes Louis Dennis
was justifying his selection by darting down the right and forcing a corner.
Despite that early threat from Dennis, Daggers looked more like scoring on 53
minutes when Jake Reed was fouled on the edge of the area. Mo Sharif stepped
over the ball and his curling strike went into the side
netting, deceiving Daggers fans into thinking he'd reduced the
scoreline to 3-2. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
Femi was now looking like his former self again as well. The mercurial left
back broke down the right following a Rovers corner before making the wrong
decision and blasting a shot over the bar. Had he looked to his right he would
have seen Sharif on the overlap which in hindsight would have been the better
option to take. After a flurry of corners, John Joe O'Toole then tested the
home supporters' nerves by heading over from just inside the box.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnOPfRW6_y1WFs0f68zuGYd__AGjru5jFsL8qlKhvYUtiw_WDJ9WTOhuCiyjA_1OWXXozS0Ut-zQm_e_Hly2cxqk9gzxmOmWReLNn1IuHmaYwcignS2SdXeWnvk_eDZBW5acaM6gjlJbJ/s1600/Abu+Ogogo,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcnOPfRW6_y1WFs0f68zuGYd__AGjru5jFsL8qlKhvYUtiw_WDJ9WTOhuCiyjA_1OWXXozS0Ut-zQm_e_Hly2cxqk9gzxmOmWReLNn1IuHmaYwcignS2SdXeWnvk_eDZBW5acaM6gjlJbJ/s320/Abu+Ogogo,+Dagenham+&+Redbridge.jpg" width="159" /></a><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />
The game was now becoming increasingly end to end, with Broghammer forcing a
smart save out of Miles before another Femi strike whistled over the crossbar.
Abu Ogogo was then gifted the ball on the edge of the box and instead of trying
his luck, decided to pass inside which meant the momentum was lost once more.
It bemuses me how our players fail to make the correct and most obvious
decision at the most critical of times. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Any
chance Daggers had of a potential comeback was soon distinguished on 70 minutes
thanks to a howler from Jonathan Miles. The on loan goalkeeper went out to take
a routine free kick on the left, but got it horribly wrong - with his weak kick
falling into the path of Brunt. The midfielder knocked it on for Tounkara, who
with his first touch fired home a precise finish into the furthest corner of
the net to send Rovers 4-1 up at Victoria Road. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A
whole host of home supporters were now heading for the exits, but they were
coaxed back in just two minutes later when Jake Reed reduced the deficit.
Good interchange between Femi and Sharif saw the former drill a low cross into
the box which was flicked on by Strevens into the path of Reed, who tapped home
his first goal for the club. With little under 20 minutes remaining, surely
Daggers couldn't mount an unlikely comeback?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the wind in their sails, the hosts had their visitors rattled. And on 74
minutes, Daggers were unlucky not to make it 4-3. A terrific cross field ball
by Strevens found the onrushing Reed who after beating his marker saw his low
strike rebound onto the crossbar following a terrific stop from Gough. The
danger wasn't over yet though for Rovers and only Ryan Brunt's defensive
pressure prevented Sharif from turning home the rebound. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Despite
those five minutes of pressure following the second goal, Daggers failed to
kick. The momentum was lost and Rovers retained the majority of the possession,
frustrating the home fans in the process. In truth it was a dominant display
from John Ward's men and it could have been made better had it not been for
Miles' terrific point blank save from Tounkara with just five minutes
remaining. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVLQUcJZTZsgTgtcx1nN5tvCJDp-F8L_dS_sSg_WJWiQpj6dIZjOLq2XI9unMf8n5wZoL3-KuU_R2HZtbKSqCYLTTG9nj0eyJoCkubPE2B0OAtyu8-aTGZZeJalph9n-rmj9sRJtk3mQ6x/s1600/Gracco.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVLQUcJZTZsgTgtcx1nN5tvCJDp-F8L_dS_sSg_WJWiQpj6dIZjOLq2XI9unMf8n5wZoL3-KuU_R2HZtbKSqCYLTTG9nj0eyJoCkubPE2B0OAtyu8-aTGZZeJalph9n-rmj9sRJtk3mQ6x/s320/Gracco.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gracco, pre beard (There was such a time)<br />www.claudiodevito.files.wordpress.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
time continued to tick away as the clock approached 90 minutes. And with that,
Wayne Burnett went for his final throw of the dice. Gavin Hoyte who had been
struggling for the previous ten minutes was replaced by, Gianluca Gracco for
his Daggers debut. Without even playing a game the Italian has become a cult
figure at Victoria Road thanks to his foreign name and mesmeric beard. He was
however, unable to become an instant hero with Femi's ball into the box being
cleared away up-field by the sturdy Rovers back-line.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Even
with three minutes of additional time, Daggers were unable to find another goal
and ultimately crashed to a deserved 4-2 home defeat. It leaves Burnett's side
just three points above the drop zone with four games left to play. To say it's
nervy times at Victoria Road would be an understatement. With crucial fixtures
against Exeter, Oxford, Aldershot and perhaps most importantly York on the
final day, it could go down to the wire.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">To
be quite honest, we deserve to be where we are. Monday's showing was abysmal.
It follows up a succession of below par home performances for Burnett who is
yet to win at Victoria Road. And that's what has cost us since the turn of the
year. We've picked up 9 points away from home and only 8 points on home turf.
That form simply isn't good enough. What's even more distressing is that our
home form was our rock in the early part of the season, but since defeats to
Port Vale & Southend, it's gone treacherously downhill. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">And
to be even more brutally honest, I think we've done well to take 17 points from
2013. In very few games can I remember us dominating from start to finish -
Accrington away is the only one that sticks out in my mind. We desperately need
to pick up victories at home to Oxford who have nothing to play for and York,
who are in the same situation as us.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
for Saturday's performance, where do we start? The abysmal defending, the lack
of unity, or the inability to pass the ball to eachother from five yards away?
I know we've always been a more direct side, but surely we can pass the ball
two or three yards to a team mate. Too many times that was lacking yesterday
and too many times it nearly cost us - especially when we were in a good
position going forward.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
for Jonathan Miles, I feel sorry for the lad. He's been thrown in at the deep
end in a sense and it showed yesterday. His kicking was not up to scratch and
the part he played in the fourth goal bordered on farcical. In the
nicest possible way, I hope Seabright's given the chance to make his debut for
Saturday's trip to Exeter. He equipped himself well against Bournemouth earlier
in the season, so hopefully he's ready for his full debut.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The
rest of the team were also poor. The defence had a really bad day at the
office. Luke Wilkinson's uncharacteristic mistake was horrific and towards the
end of the match, it looked as though he was carrying a knock. I can't have any
complaints over Scott Doe, but Femi was once again uninspiring. What I'd also
like to see is Abu return to right back with Hoyte dropping out and Bingham
slotting into the midfield for the trip to the Grecians. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We
desperately need a consistent goalscorer as well. Hopefully Jake Reed can kick
on from his first senior goal, he's certainly looked a lot more like scoring in
recent weeks, so maybe he'll get his chance next weekend. One thing is for
sure, we need Josh Scott back. Either him, or Brian Woodall needs to be
urgently recalled from a loan spell at Bishop's Stortford. We simply cannot
rely on Gracco who is unproven on the bench in case of an emergency.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I
was also very surprised when Toni Silva was withdrawn at half time. Unless he
was carrying a knock, I fail to see the logic in that one. He looked like our
most creative player once more and will be key in the run in. Sharif was
frustrating. On the ball he looks like a terrific player, even if his decision
making is a little AWOL. But off it, he looks lost and is often found
wandering - something that needs to be improved upon if he's to make a bigger
impact.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy6tTVs_L5Y6JEK2cpNi5FhmIkEGrmZB0zu4j55kxJrH8lYdc3e9HcSObtzppNOJ8egeGB9Oow6g7N2q3ECr-hO5VtxoEZ9VuhL-pLe7gbMUHDd3ZvRIob1OUAmWt2ATSVysztcVMSD1F/s1600/Oumare.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxy6tTVs_L5Y6JEK2cpNi5FhmIkEGrmZB0zu4j55kxJrH8lYdc3e9HcSObtzppNOJ8egeGB9Oow6g7N2q3ECr-hO5VtxoEZ9VuhL-pLe7gbMUHDd3ZvRIob1OUAmWt2ATSVysztcVMSD1F/s1600/Oumare.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tounkara dominated<br />www.skysports.com<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As
for our visitors, it was a completely deserved three points. They capitalised
on our shambolic mistakes and looked clinical all afternoon. Tounkara in
particular was a handful and looks like someone who can score a hatful of goals
given the right service. John Joe O'Toole was also sublime in the middle of the
park, showing the qualities which saw him so highly rated as a youngster at
Watford all those years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With
the right acquisitions in the summer, I can definitely see Rovers mounting a
Play Off push next season. With John Ward at the helm and the dedicated
Gasheads, there's no reason why they can't make a return to League One. One
thing I do ask however is that you beat any of our relegation rivals from now
until the end of the season!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As for us, we do have one thing in our favour despite this demoralising defeat. Apart from August, we've always found a win in every month. Should we be able to do that in April, we'll more than likely stay up. And at the moment, that's the main thing I'm clutching onto instead of falling into a state of despair!</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Next
up for us is Exeter City at the weekend, a ground we have historically never
won on. How nice would it be to get that inaugural victory when we need it
most? I'll be there, so hopefully I can report back on the win that ensures our
place in League Two next season! Until then, you can follow my musings on
Twitter, @NickMurphyDRFC.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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NickMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294269143012382991noreply@blogger.com2