Stanley Denied First Win By Defiant Dons

Venue: Kingsmeadow
Attendance: 4585 (106 away)
Result: AFC Wimbledon 1-1 Accrington Stanley
Goalscorers: Bennett (86), Odejayi (17)

On Saturday 12th October, with Crawley's trip to Bristol City postponed, I took the short trip to AFC Wimbledon as they took on Accrington Stanley in League Two. Stanley were looking for their first win of the season, while the Dons were hoping to make it five wins from their six games at Kingsmeadow. 

Jumping on a train from Horsham, via Clapham, I arrived at Norbiton Station at around 1pm and made the short walk to Kingsmeadow with a contingent of Dons fans, with the help of Alice of course (I'll put that in or she'll kill me). I soaked up some pre match atmosphere before heading into the ground.
Kingsmeadow has seen major improvements since my last visit to Kingston Upon Thames; the once compact terrace behind the goal has been transformed into a smart looking all seated structure, known as the Nongshim Stand. I decided to stand with the away fans for this game, in the far terrace in the corner. 

Kingsmeadow's Nongshim Stand

I asked some Accrington fans their views on the game to come, and their season so far. The Guilfoyle family said "it's been a disappointing start to the season and we've had a few injuries." I asked them what they thought about James Beattie's role at the club; "He's the right man for the job. There's been a lot going on behind the scenes and he just needs time to adapt. I predict a 2-1 win for Stanley today!" When asked about their prospects for the season they said "we'd hope for midtable, but 22nd will do!"

Accrington Stanley lined up as follows:
BETTINELLI, HUNT, ALDRED, ATKINSON, NAYLOR, MINGOIA, JOYCE, MURPHY, RICHARDSON, CATON & ODEJAYI.
Wimbledon lined up as follows:
WORNER, FULLER, KENNEDY, BENNETT, S MOORE, SMITH, MIDSON, L MOORE, PELL, PORTER & WESTON.

Match Action

The teams emerged from the tunnel in their traditional home colours - The Wombles in blue and yellow, with Stanley in red and white. The ref blew his whistle to indicate the start of the game, and immediately the game burst into life. Just two minutes had gone when Jack Midson forced a save from Stanley stopper Marcus Bettinelli. I'm not overreacting when I say that that is the only mentionable piece of action in the first half as far as AFC Wimbledon are concerned, Stanley dominating throughout the opening period. Within the first fifteen minutes of the match, Accrington had already seen three chances saved by Wimbledon keeper Worner, before Tom Aldred's header was caught. The early pressure finally paid off , Lee Naylor's inswinging corner finding the head of Kayode Odejayi who leapt highest to open the scoring and send the loyal Accrington faithful into jubilation. Just ten minutes later, Accrington had the chance to double their lead after a mix up in the AFC allowed Peter Murphy to clear the goalkeeper and chip towards goal, but Michael Richardson out-stretched leg failed to connect.
The turning point in the game came in stoppage time at the end of the half when a small scuffle, or handbags as you might call it, led to goalscorer Odejayi being dismissed.

Stanley celebrating opening the scoring

With Accrington leading at half time, there was no doubt that AFC Wimbledon would come out fighting in the second half. Straight from the off, the Wombles dominated the game, however a succession of corners led to nothing and Stanley could count themselves lucky as Jack Midson heading just wide. 
A stunning double save from Marcus Bettinelli to deny Midson and them Luke Moore again left Wimbledon cursing their luck. The pressure continued, and in the 86th minutes, Alan Bennett headed home a pinpoint cross to rescue a point for the Dons. Moments earlier, Michael Richardson missed the chance to win the game for Stanley, his long range strike going narrowly wide. 
In stoppage time, Wimbledon could have dramatically won the game but a fine defensive display meant that the game finished level. No doubt Wimbledon will be the happier of the two sides. 

The End For Hinckley? Or Just The Beginning?

Liquidation. A word among football fans that is feared. Liquidation means their football club ceases to exist. For one Leicestershire town today, liquidation became a reality. After 114 proud years, Hinckley had lost its football club. The cash-strapped Knitters had been wound up by the High Court. Saturday's 3-0 defeat at Chesham United was the final match in a turbulent existence of Hinckley, and the DeMontfort Stadium will lie empty for the unforeseeable future. With financial constraints prompting the demise of many football clubs, we beg the question; What's going wrong?

The Knitters have taken their last breath...for now.

                                         

No doubt this article may cause a few disagreements. As a supporter of Crawley Town I have come under fire numerous times due to our alleged 'bank rolling' but personally, the situation of liquidation is very real. I could well have been supporting an 'AFC Crawley' or some kind of equivalent. My beloved Red Devils, not long ago, were just minutes from insolvency. In 2006, the club's debts had spiralled out of control, in excess of £1.8 million, at the hands of the crooked Majeeds. A rescue package from the late Bruce Winfield, who pumped hundreds of thousands into his boyhood club, had saved the Reds. Again, in 2010, the end looked very likely, with complications arising through payment to HMRC. The future for Crawley Town looked bleak. This latest setback meant that the Red Devils could have taken its last breath. The case was later dismissed by the High Court, however no more risks were to be taken; the council agreeing to lease the Broadfield Stadium to the club to ensure the long term sustainability of Crawley Town Football Club. 

As Hinckley faces its first day without a football club, for the supporters, no doubt, it is not the end. There are clear example today of how the fans have risen their teams from the ashes to form a phoenix club. Hinckley United are not alone. As fans on some outfits will tell you, this is just the beginning of a new chapter....

AFC Wimbledon are a fine example of moral victory for fans. With the FA allowing Wimbledon FC's moved to Milton Keynes, the original Crazy Gang who were bereft at the loss of their club formed their own side from scratch, and started from the bottom in the Combined Counties League. As Wimbledon FC lost its identity, and became Milton Keynes Dons, AFC Wimbledon were born. Fan's took ownership of their club, holding trials on Wimbledon Common, selecting a strong line up and found a new home at Kingsmeadow. The Dons have enjoyed a rapid rise up the leagues, achieving 9 promotions in 11 years, and now find themselves one league below their controversial incarnation MK Dons, in League Two. They have a tight knit fan base and most importantly, are fan owned. A return to Plough Lane, the original home of Wimbledon FC looks likely for AFC Wimbledon. A moral victory for fans who had their club ripped away. The love a football fan has for their club, whatever league, whichever country, will never die, The passion will never die. As AFC Wimbledon fans have shown, the end is not the end. The end is NEVER the end.

AFC Wimbledon Supporters have enjoyed the rapid rise of their side.

For the supporters Darlington FC the story is not dissimilar. Their club may not have been moved 70 miles up the M1, but they too lost their club. Darlington FC were at the heart of the Durham town. The club played at Feethams, an 8500 capacity ground in the centre of Darlington before their infamous and controversial chairman George Reynolds moved the Quakers to the Arena (it's had several names!) on the outskirts of the town. This sparked the downfall of Darlington FC. An unfeasible, unsustainable, 25'000 seater white elephant eventually cost Darlo' their existence. With the club averaging between 1500 and 2000 supporters since its grand opening, the costs to run the stadium became too much. Relegation to the Conference led to crowds dwindling further, and soon financial trouble hit the Quakers. On 21st June 2012, Darlington FC ceased to exist. Out of the ashes rises Darlington 1883....

Darlington 1883 celebrate a key goal in their promotion campaign

....Saturday 18th August 2012. Darlington 1883 play their first game in the Northern League at Heritage Park, Bishop Auckland against the club they groundshare with. Darlington 1883 3-1 Bishop Auckland. They may find themselves in the lower echelons of non-league football, but yet again, the fans win. 

Chester City, Rushden & Diamonds, Aldershot and Telford United. Just a few clubs to have risen again and who are all the better for it. While Rushden & Diamonds (Or AFC as they are now known) may be an amateur side in the Northamptonshire Youth League, they are a club, and a club which without the fans would never exist. Chester FC are just one tier away from the comfortable surroundings of the Football League, and are enjoying a mixed season in the Conference. They may not be doing too well in the league but their fans have a club. Aldershot may be in more financial trouble, but their fans have a club. My point is, these fans have a club. 

I myself am unsure of the main point of this article. It seems I have been rambling on about other club's success and how they've started again but that was far from my intention. If you take anything from this article, take away the concept of fan ownership just think...If that was your club, what would you do? Hinckley United, you are far from gone. You will be back someday. It may take years, but you'll be back. Through many a defeat, that in itself is a victory. 

Last Gasp Leigh Seals Wolves Win

Venue: Molineux 
Attendance: 17406 (246 away) 
Result: Wolves 2-1 Crawley
Goalscorers: Sigurdarson (7), Griffiths (90+4), Clarke (90+1 pen) 

On Friday 23rd August, at 7.45pm, Wolverhampton Wanderers faced Crawley Town in a SkyBet League One fixture. Undoubtedly, it was a fixture that wouldn't look out of place in the FA Cup. 246 proud members of the Red Army headed up the M25, M40, M42 and M5 to Wolverhampton hoping their club could seal what would be a famous victory. 

The game started with continuous waves of Wolves pressure from the off, with Sigurdarson and Doyle both spurning chances, before the former latched onto the latter's pinpoint cross to head in the first goal of the evening after 7 minutes. Wolves continued the pressure before Crawley's Joe Walsh created the Reds' first effort of the game, dragging his shot wide from six yards out, unmarked with the goal gaping. Undeterred by that miss, gallant Crawley continued to battle against a much stronger, superior Wolves side. The impressive Nicky Adams forced Carl Ikeme into a save before Gary Alexander dragged his shot just wide of the mark. 

Away fans' view

Three years ago, Crawley Town were in the Conference while Wolverhampton Wanderers sat top of the Premier League after beating Manchester United 2-1 at Molineux. Wolves' rapid decline and Crawley's meteoric rise began to show as the Reds took control in the second half, Ikeme once again saving from Billy Clarke and Adams. The towering surroundings of Molineux proved no stumbling block for the Red Devils, although Wanderers were unlucky not to have doubled their goal advantage when a lone Sigurdarson was put through, but the striker just missed the ball. As the visitors took control yet again they became a burden on the Wolves back line, the nifty Adams causing all the problems. 

Crawley celebrate their famous goal. 

On 90 minutes Jamie Proctor combined with Billy Clarke before the Irishman's sweetly struck strike hit the back of the net via the post. The scenes in the away were jubilant; 246 fans in absolute raptures. Ecstasy. Crawley Town had surely grabbed a last gasp equaliser, to the delight of the visiting fans. 

As a deflated Wolves kicked off they immediately threw everything at the Crawley defence, and a cross from left seemed to hit Kyle McFadzean and a dubious penalty was awarded. Leigh Griffiths struck the ball the left of a diving Paul Jones and had the match for Wolves. From elation to heartbreak in a matter of moments. That's football.  

League One Preview 2013/14

Hello! I'm back, which can only mean one thing...it's that time of the year again. The time when football fans regain their normal lives. Football is back!

This year, League One has got spicier than ever, with the addition of Wolverhampton Wanderers who, not long ago, were a Premier League side, and Bristol City. Ahead of Saturday's big kick off, here's my analysis of the promotion contenders, the relegation candidates, and the team who could spring a few surprises come what May! 

PROMOTION CANDIDATES

"Embarrassing", "calamitous", "worst season in years"; just some of the ways Wolverhampton Wanderers' Championship campaign was described by fans. However, it's not hard to see why Kenny Jackett has swapped life in South London for the West Midlands. There's plenty of positives for the club. Jackett has cut down the squad size and has a flock of talented youngsters - including Scottish ace Leigh Griffiths - to take the men from Molineux forwards in League One. Wolves have a manager who has experience of promotion, and a squad with enough quality to achieve this goal. Title challengers, no doubt. 

For Peterborough United, League One in no unknown territory, having fluctuated between the second and third tier for a number of years. With the experience of getting out of the league, and a passionate manager, 'Boro should be up there come the end of the season. 

Bristol City began preparing for third tier football during April as relegation was confirmed with three games remaining of the season. This extra time to build has allowed City to make numerous changed to the squad. These changed could be key to a promotion challenge. 

Brentford have made plenty of signings and there is no doubt that we shall see the Bees near the top of the table at the end of the season. Where though? That's difficult. They've proven themselves in the play offs, and have been close to automatic promotion before, so its hard to tell. The signings of Will Grigg, Javi Venta, Conor McAleny and Martin Filio prove Brentford's intention of promotion. 

After five consecutive years in the third tier, and having never been any higher, MK Dons will look to finally gain promotion to the Championship. Towards the end of the last campaign, Dons came back strongly from a poor festive period. In contrast to this, Sheffield United fell away towards the end of the last campaign. A change of manager, and numerous signings, however, should give the Blades a shot of a bounce back to the Championship following heartbreak in the last two play off attempts.

RELEGATION BATTLERS

Favourites for relegation this season are Colchester United, who are likely to struggle at the wrong end of the table. A small and inexperienced playing squad could see the downfall of Shrewsbury Town this season. A lack of investment may lead to a return to the fourth tier.

The surprise relegation candidates this season could be the ill-fated Sky Blues, Coventry City. Fans face a 70 mile round-trip for fans next season to watch the Sky Blues as they play 'home' games at Northampton's Sixfields after financial problems forced their eviction from the Ricoh Arena. Along with the destined low crowds*, this could spell trouble for financially stricken Coventry. 

*at time of writing a reported 210 season tickets had been sold. 

Walsall have become victims of their own success after a surge up the table towards the end of last season. This success has led to the departure of highly rated Will Grigg to Brentford and Jamie Paterson to Nottingham Forest, both of whom were key figures for the Saddlers. Failure to replace the gallant strike force may spell relegation. 

A last minute winner at home to Crawley Town saw Oldham Athletic survive on the penultimate day of the 2012/13 season. It has been a season of comings and goings at the Latics, as star striker Matt Smith departed for Leeds United and 7 others released. Jean-Yves M'voto left for Barnsley and Dean Furman opted to join former manager Paul Dickov at Doncaster Rovers. The loss of so many key players could hinder Athletic's chances of survival but young gaffer Lee Johnson may make a few acquisitions before the transfer window shuts. 

A disastrous end to the last campaign saw Tranmere Rovers in freefall. Despite the signing of Ryan Lowe from MK Dons, Rovers are likely to be in the bottom quarter of the table. Of the four promoted sides, Gillingham look the most likely to struggle, with little transfer activity over the summer period leaving manager Martin Allen with a thin squad. 

THE TEAM TO WATCH

My team to watch this season is Bradford City. After a glorious 2012/13 campaign, which saw two Wembley appearances in the Play Off Final and League Cup Final, City return to League One after a six year absence, and are on the crest of a wave. The Bantams have shown intention to be successful with the signing of former Swindon man Raffael De Vita and Watford winger Mark Yeates on Bosman transfers.  Play offs are certainly not out of question for the Yorkshire outfit, made possible by the funds earned from the outstanding cup run of last year. City have also retained fans favourite Gary Jones, James Hanson, and prolific Bermudan striker Nahki Wells, key to City's recent success. The momentum from the previous campaign should provide Bradford with a healthy string of results in the third tier. With ever improving support, the Claret & Amber army could be the ones to surprise a few this season.

Crawley Town Finish Tenth in Terrific League One Campaign

When I first started writing this blog my first entry highlighted Crawley's first half of the 2012/13 season and I gave my expectations for the rest of the season. That can be found here. 

This blog post will review Town's second half of the season which saw them finish in 10th place. 

The first game of the new year came on New Year's Day at home to Colchester United. Mark Connolly's first Reds goal, along with strikes from Billy Clarke and Nicky Adams saw Crawley start the year with a 3-0 victory - a terrific bounce back from the previous game away at Bournemouth. Reading were the next visitors to the Broadfield Stadium for the FA Cup 3rd Round clash. The full report, which includes my view of Nicky Adams' 14 second goal, can be found here. Defeat at Tranmere was next for the Reds before another away defeat at Scunthorpe was sandwiched between two 1-1 draws at home to Swindon and Doncaster; both were shown on Sky Sports. 

Terrific wins away at Leyton Orient and Bury left some fans filled with belief that Crawley Town - in their first season - would reach the nPower League One Play Offs. In March, Town drew three of their four home games; a stalemate against Notts County, a 1-1 affairs with Carlisle and Stevenage. The Red Devils' first home win since New Years Day came against Crewe with Jamie Proctor scoring both. 

April, the final month of the season. One last push. Come on Crawley, you can do it. 

Of the final seven games, four were away ties for the Reds. A disappointing 3-0 defeat to Shrewsbury opened the month on Bank Holiday Monday before an army of Reds' fans travelled to stadium:mk as Crawley took on MK Dons. A drab 0-0 was the final result. Two 0-0's? In the space of a month? Blimey, times do change! Next was a game which wouldn't have looked out of place in the FA Cup a few years ago. Crawley Town visited Bramall Lane to take on Sheffield United. United themselves were still in the mix for an automatic promotion place. I was unfortunate that I couldn't make this game but the radio was on and I was tuned in at home. What I heard was truly unbelievable. "BILLY CLARKEEE...OH ITS IN! CRAWLEY HAVE THE LEAD!" screamed Reds' Player commentator John Barnett. I must admit, I jumped around the house! Ten minutes later...this happened. "Crawley break again. It's Billy Clarke, he's into the box, across to HAYES! 2-0 TO CRAWLEY!". The 186 away fans were sent into delirium, no doubt. Possibly the greatest victory in Crawley Town's league history?

Poolie Penguins

Next was a home game against Coventry City - another 2-0 victory for the Reds. Coventry and Sheffield United both defeated by tiny 'non league' Crawley? Nothing like ending a season in style, eh?. The final away trip of the season saw the Red Army venture up to Oldham before Reds ended the season with two home game. Mike Jones' first Town goal sealed victory against Preston North End before Hartlepool's penguins invaded Sussex (as well as a couple of nuns!) Already relegated Pools really know how to have a party! A drab game came to life in the second half with four goals. Two fantastic strikes from United's Andy Monkhouse cancelled out Jamie Proctor's opener before Proctor himself scored late on to secure a 2-2 draw. 

So, what a season it has been. I've travelled up and down the country watching my beloved football team with some fantastic people and enjoyed every moment. From Portsmouth to Birkenhead (or Carlisle if you could afford it) I watched my side put on a show and rip up League One. Richie Barker led his men in a memorable season in our League One debut and for that I will be forever grateful. 

Right, I'm signing off for the summer. See you in August, but for now - keep up to date on Twitter!

Smash And Grab (literally) as Oldham Beat Drop

Coaches left the Broadfield at 7.30 for Crawley Town final away game of what has been consolidating, yet enjoyable debut season in League One. Heading up the M1, and the picturesque M62, the coach was abuzz with that end of the season feeling. A win for the Reds would maintain a late play off surge, while a win for the Latics would prolong their stay in League One for another season.

After arriving at three sided Boundary Park I headed over to McDonalds. There was a distinct lack of home fans in the area despite it being 1.45pm. Walking back to stadium I picked up a rather flimsy match day programme and headed into the away end. Upon entering you are struck by the openness of the ground. The away fans were situated in the newer, Rochdale Road End. This was shared with the more vocal of Latics' supporters. Opposite was the 'Chaddy End', the full home end with a rather strange half painted roof. On one side is the old main stand where the benches are located. Opposite is the unused, derelict space.

View of the 'Chaddy End'

So.....onto the game. Oldham knew just a point would keep them in League One for another season and they came out all guns blazing, yet Crawley's defence held firm to reduce the Manchester outfit to minimal chances. A rather lacklustre first half saw very few attempts on goal, Matt Smiths looping header the only notable chance. Oldham stopper Dean Bouzanis blocked Billy Clarke's close range, near post effort. 

Unused side

During the second half there was still little separating the two sides, until 56 minutes when a moment of brilliance from Matt Smith gave Athletic the lead. Lee Crofts pin point pass allowed Smith to weave his way through the heart of the Crawley back line and narrowly beat Reds' 'keeper Paul Jones, who got a hand to the shot. Latics' fans erupted and cheers of 'We are staying up' bellowed around Boundary Park. With Oldham one up, and staying up, the atmosphere vastly improved. The game, however, was still tight and chances remained few and far between. Robbie Simpson almost doubled the lead before, in the 76th minute, Boundary Park was silenced by Mark Connolly's close range header into an open goal after a neat bit of trickery down the wing from Nicky Adams. The 156 loyal Crawley fans who made the journey were joyous and were quick to sing towards the rowdy opposition fans across the separation. Oldham stepped up and began to put pressure on the Crawley defence. Josh Simpson's late foul just outside the area on Jose Baxter gave Oldham one final shot at victory. Baxter's curling effort found the head of Jean Yves M'voto who bundled the ball in past a helpless Paul Jones. Boundary Park erupted once again, and unsavoury scenes developed as the goal sparked a pitch invasion by the home fans before the final whistle had even sounded. Oldham has grabbed victory two minutes into added time. 

Unfortunately, a fantastic occasion for the Latics was marred by a minority of supporters who attacked the Crawley Town Supporters' Coach. Two windows were shattered as 'missiles' were thrown towards the coach. Thankfully no one injured, but it left the fans to travel home on a horrific journey that saw them arrive back at base at 12.15am on Sunday. Despite the setback, Boundary Park is a classic football ground and one I will be returning to next season. The majority of Oldham fans were very welcoming and a great bunch. It is a shame that a few let them down. 

Offside! Offside! Offside! Dons Left To Rue As Three Chalked Off

Venue: stadium:mk

Attendance: 7746 (390 away)

Result: MK Dons 0-0 Crawley

Goalscorers: N/A

On Saturday Crawley Town made the journey to stadium:mk, Milton Keynes as they faced MK Dons. Leaving the Broadfield at 11am, we made a quick journey up the M25 and M1. 

Arriving at the ground just before 1 o'clock, the coach parked and you are immediately struck by the sheer size of the stadium. First stop was McDonalds, outside the away end. Despite it's out of town location, stadium:mk has a lot to do around it with a large leisure park and ASDA. After a short stroll around the stadium (quite a long one actually) we came across 'red dot bar'. MK Dons fans were very welcoming of away fans and there was some friendly banter enjoyed between both sets of supporters. A popular subject was that of AFC Wimbledon, the club formed after Wimbledon FC's relocation to Milton Keynes to become MK Dons. As this is a controversial topic I'll leave that there. After leaving red dot we headed to the away end. 

Upon entering the ground there is a large concourse which gave an unobstructed view of the vast 22'000 seater arena. Opposite the away section of the ground is the Cowshed end, home to the more vocal of the home support. On the left of you is east side of the stadium with 'MK Dons' embedded on the seats. The west side of the stadium is home to the dug-outs, executive boxes, and tunnel. We took our seats near the back of the away section on luxury padded seats. This is a first, especially for League One!

East side of stadium:mk

So....onto the match. A surprise addition to the Crawley Town starting line up was out of favour Sergio Torres, making an appearance in Matt Sparrow's absence. There was also the omission of striker Jamie Proctor. 

West side of stadium:mk

The first 20 minutes was dominated by Milton Keynes. After just 5 minutes striker Ryan Lowe scored with a close range header but the offside flag was raised. The goal music, however, came to the delight of the Reds supporters who enjoyed some rather embarrassing 'dad dancing'. Chances came and went for Dons but 'keeper Paul Jones was on fine form as he kept out MK numerous times, notably a world class stop, once again from Lowe. Daniel Powell somehow managed to scuff his shot from four yards out; one for the bloopers DVDs I think. Crawley were a threat on the break; a lot of the game played through Torres. They had a couple of chances in a fairly dull first half, before Ryan Lowe once again had an effort chalked off. The whistle for the break was music to the ears of Crawley Town. 

The second half saw Crawley improve, Billy Clarke lashing a half volley over the Dons bar before the Irishman he drilled a shot narrowly wide. Nicky Adams' long range strike was held well by Dons stopper Ian McLoughlin. Control fell back into the hand of MK Dons as Dean Bowditch and Shaun Williams were denied by formidable Jones in the Town goal. Lowe was denied a goal yet again as the offside flag was raised again following his tight angle shot. A scrappy last 5 minutes saw a goalmouth scramble in the Crawley Town box after a succession of late corners. The Dons pressure came to no avail and they were left ruing missed chances. 

Dons try a shot

Town chief Richie Barker was the happier of the two managers, having this to say. "I think that's probably the first game in about eleven we've not dominated. It's nice we've come away in a different way and picked up a point."

The point leaves MK Dons lying in 10th position while Town move up one place to 12th, three points behind. 

This was a thoroughly enjoyable away day with some great people, but a special mention must go to the MK Dons fans who made us all welcome with some great hospitality. 

Is This The Tightest League Two Season EVER?

Just 15 points separate the 8th spot occupied by Southend United and the bottom; Accrington Stanley propping up the Football League. Incredibly, FIVE teams sit at the bottom all on 40 points*. Could this be the tightest relegation since the Football League's formation? Here, we look at the main candidates, and who could be dragged into the trapdoor as well as discussing their chances of what could be a catastrophic relegation. Relegation awaits two unfortunate sides. This will go down to the wire. 

Accrington Stanley are seriously out of form. Just two wins from 16 games have seen Stanley sit bottom of the Football League on goal difference. In recent games they have struggled for goals, despite a 3-2 win over Barnet (more on them later!) which ended a run of 5 without a goal. An astonishing front two of James Beattie and Franny Jeffers look to improve struggling Stanley. From their remaining games, Stanley face league leaders Gillingham and third placed Burton as well as two relegation 'six pointers' against AFC Wimbledon and York City. What are Accrington Stanley's chances of staving off the trapdoor to the Conference? 

Despite being unbeaten in six before two straight defeats, Aldershot sit 23rd after what has, quite frankly, been a horrific season for the Shots. After Dean Holdsworth sacked, Andy Scott took over the reins to aid the Shots' escape from the relegation zone. A defeat on Saturday to AFC Wimbledon showed that luck could be running out. A tough run of games awaits Aldershot: They must visit promotion candidates Port Vale and must host United's Oxford and Southend. Shots' may need to look for results to go their way for the rest of the season if they have any hope of survival.

Season after season Barnet manage the unthinkable. With few games to go they are x points adrift at the foot of the table only to complete an astonishing great escape. On the last day of last season a 2-1 win at Burton saw Barnet survive at the expense of Hereford. Will they do the same again or has Barnet's time finally come? The problem for Edgar Davids' Bees is inconsistency; a win follows a defeat, then two defeats will be followed by two wins. Defeats in vital 'six pointers' away at Plymouth and Accrington have seen the Bees sit 22nd only on goal difference. In their final eight games Barnet host AFC Wimbledon and travel to worryingly off form Torquay, two must win games for the survival prone North Londoners. Underhill has been the source of three points this season and survival hopes are boosted by five home games before the end of the season. Will team spirit prevail again, or will Barnet be hosting Conference fixtures at their new home, the Hive, next season? 

Plymouth Argyle have had it bad over the past few seasons. Relegation has been felt before. The Green Army are used to it. The financial problems are all but gone, and the new owner is taking the club forward. But, they must overcome a new hurdle. A new, young squad that is fighting the drop. The final eight games sees them face five of the top eight as well as York City. Argyle's hopes of survival could rest on results elsewhere. Can John Sheridan save the Argyle?

I should NOT be writing this. Last season Torquay United were beaten to the final automatic promotion spot to Crawley Town before losing in the play offs to Cheltenham Town. This is a stark contrast to this season. This season has been nothing short of a disaster. United are in perilously worrying form - one win in EIGHTEEN. They are yet to play York and Barnet, however. The Devon club's campaign has been plighted by the absence of manager Martin Ling who has been struck down by a serious illness. Never has an absence been missed so much. Alan Knill has been placed in charge to keep Torquay in the Football League; a man who is used to relegation dog-fights. An experienced, minimally changed squad have the ability to survive, but is it too little too 

late for TUFC? 

York City sit 19th on 41 points. One of the favourites to go down at the beginning of the season, City have done exactly as expected: struggle. Gary Mills was sacked a manager just weeks ago and replace by highly experienced Nigel Worthington. Without a win since New Year's Day, York have been dragged closer and closer to the drop zone; goal difference the only thing keeping them out. With Torquay, Accrington AND Plymouth all to play, I believe these three games could decide which two teams will drop down to the Blue Square Conference at the end of the season. Will York make an instant return, or will they survive? 

WHO ELSE?

• AFC Wimbledon sit on 45 points, in 18th place. They are gathering form at the right time to repel themselves away from the trapdoor. Will the boys from Kingston do it?
• Rochdale sit one place ahead on 46 points.
• Dagenham & Redbridge sit 16th on 49 points. 

Will any of these three face the drop? 

*Written on 23/03/13 before that night's fixtures took place. 

Crawley Pull The Brakes On Orient Express

Venue: Matchroom Stadium, Leyton.
Attendance: 3463
Result: Leyton Orient 0-1 Crawley
Goalscorer: Billy Clarke (11)

Crawley look set for a late surge up the table with a 1-0 victory over Leyton 
Orient at the bitterly cold Matchroom Stadium thanks to a wonder strike from Billy Clarke. 

For this game I thought I'd take the train, with it being a fairly local game. I arrived at London Victoria and immediately took the tube to Leyton (via Oxford Circus). Arriving at Leyton tube station you notice the Olympic Park in front of you. A short walk down Leyton high street was a KFC: Lunch! After feeding myself I then continued onto the ground, about 5 minutes further. 

One end of the ground, completely enclosed by the apartment block

Arriving at the ground I bought a programme, which was better than most in the league I've seen. The Matchroom stadium is somewhat odd, with all four corners filled with a block of apartments; one end of the ground completely enclosed behind one block. The away section was one end of the old East Stand which ran along one side of the pitch. The seats were incredibly old and wooden; unsurprising that a majority were broken after Southend's visit in the JPT last week. A supporting pillar impeded the view of the fans which was a disappointment, considering adults were made to pay £25 for the pleasure of sitting behind it. Opposite was the newer, large main stand, which in my opinion is a bit of an eyesore. 'LOFC' read across the seats. Each end had a smaller, single tiered stand.
As the fans filled the ground we saw the return of the drum! A deafening roar cheered the players as they trained pre-match and even Reggie (our beloved mascot) got involved, 'stealing' the drum. Even a smoke bomb was set off as the match kicked off. 

The Matchroom Stadium's Main Stand

So...onto the match. Both sides started the first half brightly. A sweetly struck cross from Mat Sadler found Billy Clarke after 11 minutes who, after overcoming the pressure of an Orient defender, turned and curled the ball in off the post from just inside the area. The 550 Crawley fans who had made the journey rejoiced in the away end. Minutes later Crawley scuppered the chance to extend their lead. Nicky Adams' curling cross found the head of Mike Jones who could only rattle the crossbar. Orient enjoyed a majority of the first half possession yet failed to create and clear-cut openings. Mathieu Baudry's close range header sailed over the bar, and Charlie MacDonald powered into the area but his shot was saved by 'keeper Paul Jones. Billy Clarke pounced on a flick by Baudry but was unlucky to see his effort sail over the bar.

Orient scupper a chance

The second half was a scrappy, entertaining encounter. The first chance fell to the O's and Dean Cox as his 25 yard free kick narrowly deflected wide of the post before Joe Walsh produced a fine block from the same player. Former Crawley striker Shaun Batt, who enjoyed a short loan spell at the Broadfield last season, was brought on midway through the second period. David Mooney headed wide before Walsh once again produced an outstanding block to deny Batt. Paul Jones then saved from point blank range to hinder Scott Cuthbert. On 88 minutes youngster Aiden O'Brien came on for his Crawley Town debut in place of goalscorer Clarke. The Reds were put under more pressure after a succession of late corners by Leyton Orient, but there was brilliant defending yet again from Walsh and Mark Connolly who superbly denied lackluster Orient from snatching a late equaliser. The final whistle sounded and the delighted Reds' fans travelled back home to Sussex knowing their side were up to 11th in the table, overtaking Leyton Orient. 

Crawley now have three games in hand over a majority of League One, and should they take maximum points they could be hopeful of a late play off push. However, it will be a tough ask, with Reds having to travel to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United before two tough home ties against Preston and Carlisle. 

Rovers' Revival Sinks Off-Form Oxford

Oxford v Bristol Rovers: Kassam Stadium, Oxford.
Attendance: 7608
Referee: Mr A Madley

On Saturday I made third visit to the Kassam Stadium, Oxford with my girlfriend Georgia, and avid U's supporter. My two previous visit both finished as a draw; Crawley (1-1, and Tyrone Barnett's wonder goal), and Torquay (a drab 0-0), so I was hopeful that United's fixture against Bristol Rovers would produce a few goals. 2000 Rovers supporters made the relatively short trip to the Kassam hoping that their side would maintain their five game unbeaten run. There was a heavy police presence around the ground before and after the game, this being one of Bristol Rovers closest away game of the season. 

Bristol Rovers fans

Recent events at the Yellow's fans forum during the week brought up some surprising talking points. News that up to ten players were signed in the summer without receiving a medical had angered already fuming fans, and a net loss of £660k left many Oxford fans fearing their play off push this season was all but over. Several injuries have hampered the Oxford squad, leaving results inconsistent, and supporters furious. Attendances are dramatically falling; just 4500 turning up for a mid week fixture against Burton Albion.

Bristol Rovers, however, have had a season of mixed fortune. Up until Christmas they sat in the bottom two of the league and relegation was a real threat. Although, the decision to replace manager Mark McGhee with John Ward has galvanised the Pirates and they have pulled themselves away from the drop zone. 

So, a team in turmoil and off form against an ever improving team. What was the outcome?.....

The first half became rapidly, both sides coming close in the opening minutes. Oxford began to dominate but good chances from James Constable and early substitute Alfie Potter went amiss. After the 20 minutes mark the affair became drab, and would've sent a few to sleep i'm sure. Chances were rare and only a few dubious decisions by the referee were the main talking at half time. 

The second half was where the action began. There was a sign that the 'hairdryer treatment' was used on Rovers at half time, as dominance started to show. Oxford struggled to string simple passes together and soon, the main talking point of the whole game happened. After Ryan Brunt was released, Jake Wright brought him down in the box and a penalty was given. 

View for yourself here. What do you think? Skip to 1.40 for the move. Note that apparently the penalty was my fault! 

                                           

Despite the setback, Oxford continued to press, a few chances failing to hit the back off the net. The game fell back into the tediousness of the first half. The most interesting thing being a few Bristol Rovers fans managing to navigate the segregation and force their way into the home concourse. Police had it all under control however and order was soon restored. 

5 minutes off stoppage time were added and there was still hope of an equaliser from the Yellows. In the fourth minute after a tangle of legs and free kick was given to Bristol Rovers. It was taken quickly and Eliot Richard found himself one on one with U's stopper Luke McCormick. He neatly placed his shot in the bottom corner, ending all hope of a United equaliser and sending the Gas faithful into delirium. The stands emptied rapidly, with hardly a Yellow shirt left in the stands. Oxford fans had given up hope. The match was over, and they believed their season was over. 

FA Cup 4th Round Round Up

The FA Cup never fails to bring up a few so called 'cupsets', but the weekend of the 26th/27th of January will be fondly remembered for a long time by certain fans....

Dejected Delia Downed As Luton Go Loopy  - Norwich City 0-1 Luton Town

For many Hatters' fans the last decade has been a gloomy tale of relegation, administration and heartbreak. 2008-09 saw the club docked 30 points for financial irregularities and with the penalty too large to overcome, Luton were relegated to the Conference for the first time. 

This seasons FA Cup competition will forever be elicit in the minds of every Luton fan, with the competition starting with a 2-0 victory over Cambridge United before a first round win over Nuneaton in a replay. The second round saw the Hatters face fellow non league side Dorchester. The Bedfordshire outfit came out as 2-1 victors and set up a tantalising tie against Championship side Wolverhampton Wanderers. Alex Lawless' sweet strike sent the Kenilworth Road faithful into raptures as a 1-0 triumph sent Luton into Round 4. 

The rest is history.....

They had been drawn against Premier League side Norwich City at Carrow Road, by far the toughest game of Luton's FA Cup journey so far. 4500 fans filled the away section in Norfolk. The Hatters were holding Norwich at 0-0 as the last ten minutes descended. Suddenly, 'it's Rendellll!' Scott Rendell had written his name into the Luton Town history books. The Bedfordshire side had become the first non-league side to knock out top flight opposition since Sutton United beat Coventry in 1989. 

Celebrations....

So, another non-league side enters Round 5 of the FA Cup. Crawley became the first in nearly two decades during the 2010/11 season, losing to Manchester United 1-0 at Old Trafford. However, Luton will fancy themselves to go one step further after the 5th Round draw saw them tied against Millwall. There is certainly a tasty encounter to be had there. 

They've Don It! - Queens Park Rangers 2-4 Milton Keynes Dons

In their short history, MK Dons have never had much to cheer about in the FA Cup. After two previous ties against the Queens Park Rangers in recent years, Milton Keynes Dons travelled to Loftus Road to take on a side who sat bottom of the Premier League, under new manager Harry Redknapp, and who were struggling to find a victory. Dons form was not up to scratch either though, and a good League One campaign has started to dip.

Potter makes it 4-0....

3200 Dons fans had made the journey to London hoping to see their side pull off a Premier League scalp, and after just four minutes, the Buckinghamshire side took the lead as Armand Traore's scuffed clearance looped into the net. As the game continued MK started to dominate and soon found a second goal through Ryan Lowe just before half time. Two more goals came in the second half from Ryan Harley and Darren Potter and the League One side found them selves 4-0 to the good against the Premier League's basement team. Despite two late strikes by Fabio and Jay Bothroyd, MK Dons held on for a famous upset and progressed through to the next round. 

Latics 'Old On - Oldham Athletic 3-2 Liverpool

Sitting 19th in League One and fans getting on the managers' back. Things look bleak for Oldham Athletic. But, their FA Cup odyssey this season has given their fans something to cheer about. Round 1 saw the Latics overcome non league Kidderminster Harriers 2-0 at Aggborough before and all League One tie against Doncaster saw them come out 3-1 victors. In Round 4, Oldham travelled to the City Ground, Nottingham to play Nottingham Forest. A stunning performance saw the Lancashire side win 3-2 and resigned Alex McLeish to a defeat. 

Wild celebrations for an Oldham goal....

Oldham Athletic drew Liverpool. Sunday 27th January 2013, 16.04pm. 'Matt Smith!' The Latics take an incredible lead against a largely experienced Liverpool side. The fans are sent into delirium. Luis Suarez equalised for 'Pool with a smart finish, but in stoppage time at the end of the first half a crafty move saw Matt Smith tap in to regain Oldham's lead. Fans started to believe. Oldham started the second half just as they finished the first half. Reece Wabara's looping header hit the back of the net and the Latics led 3-1 against the former European Champions. They dominated stages of the game, coming close to a fourth on several occasions. Joe Allen's deflected strike made it 3-2, and hearts were in mouths. Outlandishly, Oldham held on for a famous victory and fans flooded the pitch to celebrate with the players. 


Round Up 

You may be wondering why Brentford haven't been mentioned yet. Well, they did achieve an incredible result at home to Chelsea, but I thought I'd wait until the replay and write a whole post on them. I must commend the Bees though. A strong force in League One, and able to hold Chelsea at 2-2. It's a great time to be a Brentford fan.

Other Results 

Manchester Utd 4-1 Fulham

Bolton 1-2 Everton

Brighton 2-3 Arsenal

Derby 0-3 Blackburn

Huddersfield 1-1 Leicester

Hull 0-1 Barnsley

Macclesfield 0-1 Wigan

Middlesbrough 2-1 Aldershot

Reading 4-0 Sheffield Utd

Stoke 0-1 Manchester City

FA Cup - The Cup Of Dreams.