A narrow win over Doncaster in Yorkshire was followed by another 1-0 victory over Leyton Orient. Then came the most highly anticipated game since Crawley's fairytale at Old Trafford. (Since it's Christmas, why not copy the Pogues, eh?). Portsmouth at home, on Sky Sports. Really? My Crawley, playing Portsmouth? Nope, not a cup game, it really was a League One fixture. Oh, how the mighty fall. It finished 3-0 to the Hampshire outfit, but let's just say it was 12 v 9, as the referee's performance was not one which favoured the Reds. Josh Simpson was sent off for a second yellow, although it appeared Izale McLeod had used simulation. Hope Akpan was sent off for a second bookable offence for a foul on the same player, once again debatable.
The Red Devils' form dipped in November and December, resulting in just one win in 9. That win coming against Stevenage at the Lamex Stadium after Dannie Bulman's long range shot took a huge deflection and dipped into the Boro' net, causing ecstasy in the away end.The Reds dropped down to 10th. Boxing day brought the return fixture against Portsmouth and 600 Crawley fans travelled to Fratton Park expecting a tough game. Again, the realisation set in. Crawley? At Fratton Park? Billy Clarke's tap in midway through the second half won the game for Crawley, sending them back up to 8th in the table.
So, what do I expect from my team in the next 23 games? If you ask any Crawley fan, staying up would be a priority. With no current danger of a relegation fight the most optimistic supporter would believe we could make the play offs, a view shared by myself. With Richie Barker already admitting there will be activity in the January transfer window, there is every reason to be cheerful (even if you did go to Bournemouth yesterday. Lads, if you're reading this, I feel for you.) For me, a mid table finish would delight me. Consolidating ourselves in League One is key, and maybe a play off push would be a bonus.
