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Feb 8

FA clowns

Tonight’s news says that the majority of pundits feel that the FA was right on their stance to deal with Fabio Capello in the way they did. I’ll not get into the John Terry racist allegation – as I would be commenting without an appreciation of evidence for or against (though of course, any form of racism is wrong).

The reason I suggest ‘clowning’ is in response to a question of whether it is the FA’s right to decide on removing a Captain (before his trial concludes) and without any consultation with the Manager.  In my mind, the answer is no and if anyone did so in any other walk of life wouldn’t there be a case for constructive dismissal.  The definition is: “If you resign from your job because of your employer’s behaviour, it may be considered to be constructive dismissal.”  Doesn’t Fabio have a legal background – could this be his next step?  I’ve not heard anyone else predict that this could be the following episode in this debacle.

The usual suspects come out of the woodwork to air their opinions.  Brian Barwick, yawn yawn.  England players tweet their gratitude to the Italian – some possibly eyeing up future transfers if he were to remain in the game and pop up elsewhere? A replacement suggested for this top coaching position is Guus Hiddink. What?  Do I think the Turkish FA would give a glowing reference – I think not.

I think it’s a Harry Redknapp appointment – though personally I might be inclined to shortlist Martin O’Neill on capability.  But maybe to satisfy the FA the puppet pictured would be an ideal choice?

Jan 31

Barcode fans

Clever use of technology but not nice!  Have to applaud the innovatory concept of using a QR code to brandish insults at the opposition’s fans though.  This is exactly what happened when Karsiyaka taunted arch rivals Gozteppe. 

At the risk of offending, the message was akin to the referee’s parenthood being questioned, with a translation by me, of one set of supporters being the offspring of a prostitute.  Other football blog sites suggest a close alternative interpretation.

I have been involved in the use of QR codes but for sensible, non-inflammatory marketing tactics.  

But this has given me an idea?  Which club over here will mimic the use of QR codes first?

How do we stop it exploding into abusive communications – guess every steward needs a smartphone with scanning app!

Jan 25

TVR

‘Thames Valley’ Rumpus.  It only seems like yesterday that Robert Maxwell (deceased) announced plans to merge Oxford and Reading to establish a new club, Thames Valley Royals. I witnessed the furore when a former Director purchased the domain ‘Manstock’ in a potential relocation of County.  It’s rare to witness the positivity expressed by fans of combining two rivals.  It has been said could Stockport and Oldham form a potential ‘giant’?

Thames Valley Sports Investment has now appeared and an alleged 26 years’ old  ‘billionaire’ Russian has just agreed a heads of agreement to acquire Reading FC.

The rumour mill is going into overdrive with suggestions that the outgoing owner will sell but retain some income and commercial activities.  Deja vu Mr Kennedy (Stockport) or Mr Wood (Bury)?

We talk about ‘fit and proper’ and more besides but if the authorities had any teeth there would be much diligence needing to be undertaken prior to any such move that ‘smells’ not quite right to an outsider.

Jan 15

County Charity Cycle

‘Port to ‘Port by Bike

On Saturday 17th March 2012, Stockport County supporters are getting on their bikes for the “County Charity Cycle” to raise money for good causes.  The bike ride will follow a route from Stockport County FC’s stadium at Edgeley Park to Southport FC’s ground at Haig Avenue, ahead of the fixture between both teams in the Blue Square Premier League.  Co-ordinated by County fans, Russ Johnson, David Roe and Adrian Stores; and Amanda Brown from St Ann’s Hospice, the event will raise money for St Ann’s Hospice and Stockport County Supporters’ Co-operative.

Catering for leisurely, fun cyclists and more seasoned riders, the ride is open to all who want to join in.  Anyone wishing to take part should be 16 years of age or over.  Cost of entry is £15 and all riders gain free entry into the match, courtesy of Southport Football Club. Southport’s Director and Commercial Manager, Haydn Preece, comments: “Of course we will give free entry for those cycling as fundraisers on the day”. The selected route covers a total of 46.7 miles, and is flat.

The generous sponsors assisting the County Charity Cycle include Bullocks and P Fahey & Sons (who will return the cyclists and their bikes respectively to Stockport), Parfetts, Life Leisure and Decathlon. County’s Commercial Manager, Rob Clare said “I think a cycle ride to Southport sounds like a good idea and St Ann’s Hospice would appreciate some extra support”. He has agreed to cycle himself.  The leading fundraisers from males and females will receive a special, limited edition “26 – Cycling” 3 piece kit from the Olympic Range of clothing kindly donated by Adidas.  More details are available at: www.countysupporterscoop.co.uk 

St Ann’s Hospice provides care and support to people with life-limiting illnesses, their families and carers. All its services are free of charge and it has to raise £16,000 each day to provide these.  St Ann’s Hospice cares and helps around 3,000 patients (over the age of 16) every year affected by cancer and non-cancer life limiting illnesses. The Hospice provides care on three sites and in people’s own homes, working in partnership with acute hospitals, primary care trusts, community services and voluntary organisations. St Ann’s Hospice celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2011. St Ann’s Hospice is the adopted Charity of Stockport County Football Club in 2012-2013.

Stockport County Supporters Co-operative is the democratic and representative voice of the supporters of Stockport County Football Club, with objectives to strengthen the bonds between the Club and the community which it serves.  It is organising a variety of community initiatives and shows that supporters are working to preserve the Club, which it sees as a vital asset of the community of Stockport, for future generations.

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