FabSwingers.com forum: January 2026 Football Thread

By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

As always, looking forward to seeing what everyone's up to over next few weeks.

Watford's form under our only living F.A. Cup Final manager is starting look worryingly good. (I genuinely don't want us to go back up ! Not yet). Birmingham at The Vic to start the New Year.

Aiming for Harrow v. Hayes on Saturday, but the temperatures hovering around zero next few days might prevent that. If that's the case, I'll head to Hemel or Slough (both clubs having 3G pitches).

Fulham v. Liverpool is 3pm on Sunday....thus allowing me to take in QPR v. Sheffield Wednesday at noon, (who doesn't love a double header ?).

Where's everyone else headed over next few days ?

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By *ude redMan
26 weeks ago

crewe

Barnet on Sunday with Crewe, I did go to Newport on Monday and it was the worst performance Crewe have produced in about 10 years.

Hope you get to a game

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By *ib.Man
26 weeks ago

Hampshire

Heading to relegation at full speed (COYI).

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By *ie n MashCouple
26 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Heading to relegation at full speed (COYI).

We’ll have a better idea by this time next week ⚒

Wolves away on Saturday, Forest at home Tuesday, then (weather allowing) Aylesbury United at Stotfold the following Saturday, QPR at home on the Sunday and AFC Wimbledon with the u21s on the Monday.

I don’t like January, so try to fill it up as much as possible.

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By *jslookingforfunMan
26 weeks ago

liverpool

Well my club finally got sold yesterday so I’m just looking forward to some investment and going back to watch them

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By *ie n MashCouple
26 weeks ago

Back in Malice

And Happy New Year to you all (even our regular Millwall fan 🥰).

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By *ookie46Woman
26 weeks ago

Deepest darkest Peru

Sunderland at home to Man City this evening. Thermals at the ready

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By *abioMan
26 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

Maresca gone.. what a shame… Chelsea have only spent half a billion quid going backwards

Couldn’t happen to a nicer club!

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

"Maresca gone.. what a shame… Chelsea have only spent half a billion quid going backwards

Couldn’t happen to a nicer club! "

Lol, we'll look at our trophy cabinet and soon cheer up.🤣

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By *angled up in twoCouple
26 weeks ago

West Mids

"As always, looking forward to seeing what everyone's up to over next few weeks.

Watford's form under our only living F.A. Cup Final manager is starting look worryingly good. (I genuinely don't want us to go back up ! Not yet). Birmingham at The Vic to start the New Year.

Aiming for Harrow v. Hayes on Saturday, but the temperatures hovering around zero next few days might prevent that. If that's the case, I'll head to Hemel or Slough (both clubs having 3G pitches).

Fulham v. Liverpool is 3pm on Sunday....thus allowing me to take in QPR v. Sheffield Wednesday at noon, (who doesn't love a double header ?).

Where's everyone else headed over next few days ?"

While I wish you no harm and a pleasant new year, I do hope your football team is somewhat ruffed up and demoralised come 5pm today.

We're up against it with injuries and suspensions aplenty but hopefully we can repeat our win over you just a month ago.

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By *ikeC81Man
26 weeks ago

harrow

No games till Brighton at home in the cup. Not doing that scummy lot from Yorkshire on Sunday.

Looking forward to the World Cup

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By *issMeKate2Woman
26 weeks ago

near the river medway

We went to Maidstone United v Dover at the Gallagher. We won 1-0

As we sponsor a player we were invited to watch a training session, meet and greet and selfies and photos. Really inspiring chat from George Elokobi Our manager and ex wolves olayer

I wasn’t at the away game at Hornchurch but we displaced top of table leaders. Hard fought game and looked like an excellent match.

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By *ib.Man
26 weeks ago

Hampshire

"Heading to relegation at full speed (COYI).

We’ll have a better idea by this time next week ⚒

Wolves away on Saturday, Forest at home Tuesday, then (weather allowing) Aylesbury United at Stotfold the following Saturday, QPR at home on the Sunday and AFC Wimbledon with the u21s on the Monday.

I don’t like January, so try to fill it up as much as possible."

I'm kind of hoping Nuno manages to get a few decent signings to bolster us a bit, but I'm a bit resigned to going down.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well, this is all getting rather worrying.

Quality performance by Watford, and superb finishing by Tom Ince. Didn't see that coming at 3pm !

Will they keep it up - who knows ? Next two league games are away at Hull & home to Millwall. Here's the dilemma. For a club like Watford do you suffer one season higher up, having the shit kicked out of you every week but with the financial rewards that go with it ?

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By *kphooey43Man
26 weeks ago

Barnet

Palace are 1:0 up at the mo vs Fulham (they beat Watford in the Championship playoffs in 2013 to go up to the Premier League, happy days OP). If we win we will be 11 points from safety (glass half full type here!)

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Palace won't go down. Burnley haven't enough quality to survive (or manager with the talent to adapt) & it's not even worth talking about Wolves

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Sunderland at home to Man City this evening. Thermals at the ready "

It was fresh enough at Watford this afternoon. Keep warm sweetie x

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

PS - nice to see fresh faces with different clubs chipping in. Keep 'em coming xx

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Got the Dundee derby on sat. Think my team Utd will take the 3 points.

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By *ilverfox 101Man
26 weeks ago

Cumbria

Will be off to watch my team Carlisle v wealdstone on Saturday, not sure they will enjoy the long trip north or the freezing cold weather are having up here, so hoping we can beat them comfortably..but before that trying to enjoy Liverpool Leeds, but premiership football isn't as exciting as it used to be.

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By *uckMe12FreeMan
26 weeks ago

(User no longer on site)

Toffee here, great result against Forest a few days ago. With injuries and AFCON players, I didn't see that result coming. Brentford on Sunday, 3pm k.o on Sky. I'm looking to get up to their new stadium this season. Has anyone been there yet?

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Great to see Norwich win, and Oxford, Blackburn and Portsmouth lose.

Slowly we are crawling out of the relegation zone.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Toffee here, great result against Forest a few days ago. With injuries and AFCON players, I didn't see that result coming. Brentford on Sunday, 3pm k.o on Sky. I'm looking to get up to their new stadium this season. Has anyone been there yet? "

It's quirky, but good enough for what they need. They made excellent & imaginative use of a not particularly big brown field site

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By *om and JennieCouple
26 weeks ago

Chams or Socials

Nearly home after an away trip to Stevenage - happy with a draw!! At Home Park on Sunday against Burton Albion then Wolves v Shrewsbury in the FA Cup with our dads on 10th. T is a trooper for coming as he’s really not a footie fan 💚

J x

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By *ie n MashCouple
26 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Nearly home after an away trip to Stevenage - happy with a draw!! At Home Park on Sunday against Burton Albion then Wolves v Shrewsbury in the FA Cup with our dads on 10th. T is a trooper for coming as he’s really not a footie fan 💚

J x"

Impressive effort from you both. Pie can sympathise with T, as she occasionally gets dragged to obscure places to watch games.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Christ, offerings from the Prem Lge so bad tonight it gets shoved on BBC2.

Not only that, but is replaced by that tedious unfunny Irish crap into the bargain 😆

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By *ormagenericlblokeMan
26 weeks ago

Hertfordshire

Boring start to the year

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By *ookie46Woman
26 weeks ago

Deepest darkest Peru

"Sunderland at home to Man City this evening. Thermals at the ready

It was fresh enough at Watford this afternoon. Keep warm sweetie x"

That point was worth freezing half to death 😁

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By *hamallamadingdongMan
26 weeks ago

London

Is anyone watching the Afcon? Curious to know what everyone else thinks about it. There's coverage on channel 4 and on their YouTube channel.

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By *ookie46Woman
26 weeks ago

Deepest darkest Peru

"Is anyone watching the Afcon? Curious to know what everyone else thinks about it. There's coverage on channel 4 and on their YouTube channel."

Yeah I’ve watched some games and enjoyed them as we have a few players there plus my little favourite Noah Sadiki

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By *hamallamadingdongMan
26 weeks ago

London

"Is anyone watching the Afcon? Curious to know what everyone else thinks about it. There's coverage on channel 4 and on their YouTube channel.

Yeah I’ve watched some games and enjoyed them as we have a few players there plus my little favourite Noah Sadiki "

I've watched a few too. Some really good players who could be available this transfer window. I'm surprised there isn't more attention on it.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Waiting on a midday pitch inspection on Harrow v. Hayes.

Hemel Hempstead v. Dagenham & Redbridge on "stand-by" if it falls.

If you're heading (or attempting to) put anywhere today, safe travels, enjoy your game

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

As expected Harrow-Hayes hasn't survived, so it's off to Hemel Hempstead v Dagenham instead

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

I went for a long bath and have just seen Wolves winning 3-0! Please tell me i did see that 🤣

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By *ie n MashCouple
26 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"I went for a long bath and have just seen Wolves winning 3-0! Please tell me i did see that 🤣"

Not only did they win 3-0, they thoroughly deserved it and could have scored more. Areola was one of WHU’s better players today.

Fairly confident this fixture will be competed again next season. Even more confident it won’t be in the Premiership.

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By *owmanytimesMan
26 weeks ago

derby

"I went for a long bath and have just seen Wolves winning 3-0! Please tell me i did see that 🤣

Not only did they win 3-0, they thoroughly deserved it and could have scored more. Areola was one of WHU’s better players today.

Fairly confident this fixture will be competed again next season. Even more confident it won’t be in the Premiership."

Wolves are now 28/1 to stay up, could be worth a few quid

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Traditional New Year Old Firm derby.

First Half Celtic 1-0 in front, how it wasn’t 4 or 5 is unbelievable. Excellent goalkeeping from Jack Butland and poor finishing from Celtic

Second Half and what a difference

Yousseff Chermiti double and then Mikey Moore finish and Rangers win 3-1

Back in August when we were lying 10th in the league watching Hearts and Celtic disappear on the horizon. Sacked Russell Martin and the board

Today we sit second equal with Celtic 6 points behind Hearts.

2026 looks like warming up for Rangers

All down to Danny Rohl

Bring on the January window

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By *luebell888Woman
26 weeks ago

Glasgowish

"Traditional New Year Old Firm derby.

First Half Celtic 1-0 in front, how it wasn’t 4 or 5 is unbelievable. Excellent goalkeeping from Jack Butland and poor finishing from Celtic

Second Half and what a difference

Yousseff Chermiti double and then Mikey Moore finish and Rangers win 3-1

Back in August when we were lying 10th in the league watching Hearts and Celtic disappear on the horizon. Sacked Russell Martin and the board

Today we sit second equal with Celtic 6 points behind Hearts.

2026 looks like warming up for Rangers

All down to Danny Rohl

Bring on the January window "

Motherwell doing well and looking likely to overtake Celtic if your manager remains.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

I'm not going to add anything to that.

Shockingly bad game at Hemel. Key moments in first half totalled Dagenham forcing one decent save from the keeper

Key moments in second half totalled a swift Hemel mobe providing the game's only redeeming feature.

1-0 FT, and not worth getting fucking frozen for.

Hopefully tomorrow's double header will provide some proper entertainment

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Absolute result for the Arsenal today

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Yes Motherwell looking fantastic at the moment but, like Hearts can they keep it up until the end of the season

Remember Aberdeen last season 10 wins from 11 games then they imploded

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By *hief Scout OP Man
26 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Jus think....if Rangers had appointed somebody with a clue at the start of the season

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By (user no longer on site)
26 weeks ago

Up the Imps

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By *ie n MashCouple
26 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Up the Imps"

Hope you win promotion and to our first league visit there next season.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Matches 109 & 110.....

You can't knock Sheffield Wednesday & their fans. Despite being as good as relegated before a ball was kicked, they still take thousands everywhere.

QPR were comfortably in control in first half, 1-0 up & should have been more. But they didn't play well in the second, and the too late goals flattered then.

On to The Cottage....

What an amazing end to the game ! Looked like it was going to finish 1-1. Harry Wilson's form has been magnificent recently. There I was thinking "happy with the draw" and the bloody Scousers pinch a stopp

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

....stoppage time lead. "Typical jammy f*&£@#g Scousers'. But no, thankfully Harrison Reed had other thoughts. And you can't Fulham didn't deserve it. Incredible end to a 2-2 draw.

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By (user no longer on site)
25 weeks ago

Anorim collecting his P45...been a bit of a disaster on and off field...

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Post match press conference yesterday.....I thought "You're talking yourself out of your job son".

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By *ouple in LancashireCouple
25 weeks ago

in Lancashire

"Post match press conference yesterday.....I thought "You're talking yourself out of your job son"."

He did yes but I don't think it was off the cuff frustration, probably been in the back of his mind fir a few months that despite what he might have been told before signing that the reality is different..

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

And the clown Celtic hired has gone too.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well, that's probably the relegation spots done & dusted, and it was a little bit harsh on West Ham.

Personally I didn't think either team did enough go earn the win. West Ham shaded the first half, Forest were much improved in the second. Then with four minutes to go and the score at 1-1, enter our dear old friends VAR.

If goalkeepers are going to be penalised when they challenge for a high ball in the area, then they may as well not bother. What the officials need to get hold of (not that there were any examples tonight) is all the holding, jostling, and shirt pulling at corners, start awarding a few penalties there, it'll soon get knocked on the head.

So West Ham now effectively need to win three games just to catch up. Can't see it happening.

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By *sX2Couple
25 weeks ago

New Forest

"Barnet on Sunday with Crewe, I did go to Newport on Monday and it was the worst performance Crewe have produced in about 10 years.

Hope you get to a game

Newport played quite well to be fair. Crewe left a lot to be desired. Newports first win at home in 7 months, and I was also there! Amber Army!

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By *ibroMan
25 weeks ago

essex

Hammers seem to be going down with the Wolves

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By *ie n MashCouple
25 weeks ago

Back in Malice

I cannot remember the last time I left a ground as frustrated as I did last night. Never been a fan of VAR, actively detest it now. What happened to only getting involved in “clear and obvious” errors? A disallowed goal and a penalty given, when seemingly nobody in the ground saw/called for either. Both decisions were correct, it would appear, but were not “clear and obvious”. The one key benefit to relegation is not being subjected to this every week.

We are down, and I can live with that. I love the Championship. The focus for the rest of my season is driving Sullivan and Brady out of the Club. If rumours are true, someone’s past is about to catch up with them and Mr Saville will have a new playmate in Hell.

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By (user no longer on site)
25 weeks ago

West ham are a proper football club, but most fans from other clubs think the hounding out of Davy Moyes, but the supporters was so so stupid and nasty

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By *ibroMan
25 weeks ago

essex

"I cannot remember the last time I left a ground as frustrated as I did last night. Never been a fan of VAR, actively detest it now. What happened to only getting involved in “clear and obvious” errors? A disallowed goal and a penalty given, when seemingly nobody in the ground saw/called for either. Both decisions were correct, it would appear, but were not “clear and obvious”. The one key benefit to relegation is not being subjected to this every week.

Championship is much more exciting every week

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By *ie n MashCouple
25 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"West ham are a proper football club, but most fans from other clubs think the hounding out of Davy Moyes, but the supporters was so so stupid and nasty"

I will always love The Moyesiah, as he gave me some of the greatest nights of my 40+ years following West Ham. Letting him go was one of Sullivan’s biggest mistakes, imo.

I agree that some fans wanted him gone - mainly on social media (and from people who don’t go to games), although there was a growing vocal minority at games calling for his head. David Moyes left us on his own account, as Sullivan tried to bring in a Technical Director above him, which would have reduced his role from Manager to Coach ie less responsibility for player recruitment. Moyes, rightly, rejected this.

I fully understand how people outside WHU think that the fans hounded Moyes out. This is what Sullivan wanted people to think, using his contacts in the msm to perpetuate this falsehood. This covered up his involvement in the decision, and the subsequent fall-out.

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By *hamallamadingdongMan
25 weeks ago

London

Moyes gave us stability, discipline and a clear understanding of where the club is and where we wanted to go. All of that was ruined by upper management and a minority of fans.

There seems to be a lack of patience these days. It takes years to build a strong team, unless you have outrageous money like City and Chelsea.

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By *avenwrexham75TV/TS
25 weeks ago

Wrexham

After a dismal showing at Swansea pre Christmas I feared the worst but since then we (Wrexham) have won four on the bounce.

I'm not getting carried away though, the Championship is a tough league with little separating the majority of clubs...top half finish this season to build on and I will be happy.

After following Wrexham for almost forty years I'm just enjoying the good times.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Home from The Cottage

Absolutely delighted

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well, it's F.A. Cup 3rd Round weekend. Used to be one of the most special days of the season, but as we know, the Football Association have systematically fucked the living daylights out of it over the last thirty years.

Anyway, Fulham v. Middlesbrough later today for me. Hoping Fulham go strong, get the tie won, then bring kids on rather than start with them and then chase the game if it stays flat.

As always safe travels to those heading out, at least conditions should be easier

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By *hief Scout OP Man
25 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Have come to conclusion that maybe I SHOULD be a manager.

Start with a mixed team, Fulham struggle. 55 mins, Cairney, Wilson, Jiminez come on - within two mins, Wilson scores, game turns.

Not rocket science, is it ?

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By (user no longer on site)
25 weeks ago

I’m a wolves fan 😢 getting shafted more than anyone on fab this season 🤣

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By *ie n MashCouple
24 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Saturday saw my first visit to Stotfold, to see their local team beat my local team with a 90th minute winner. I did not envy them playing on such a cold afternoon. Kudos to the young Stotfold fans who gave their team some excellent support throughout.

Tonight sees my first visit to the Cherry Red Stadium and the biggest game of the year so far in any competition anywhere in the world (regardless of what anyone else thinks). AFC Wimbledon v WHU u21s in the last 16 of the Vertu Trophy. At last, a game I actually care about ⚒

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By *hief Scout OP Man
24 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Matches are little thin on the ground this week, it looks like Woking v. Macclesfield in the F.A. Trophy on Tuesday evening is my most attractive option. Obviously with their heroics over the weekend it'll be interesting to see how they respond.

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By *ie n MashCouple
24 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Lovely first trip last night to the Cherry Red Stadium, to watch a thoroughly entertaining Vertu Trophy match between two very attack-minded sides. WHU u21s lost 4-2, conceding the 4th with the last kick of the match, having been 3-0 down early in the 2nd half. Great atmosphere, with circa 500 of our lot behind the goal giving excellent support.

Lovely stadium with one of the best fan zones we have seen, and some lovely relics from the old Plough Lane.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
24 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Is the shit statue of Dave Beasant still there ?

I'm in my first blank midweek of the season. I DID have the delayed Woking v. Macclesfield F.A. Trophy tie pencilled on for tonight (apparently Macclesfield had some other game which took precedence on Saturday) but that was washed out, as was the alternative game at Harrow. Just as well really, battling a stinking cold which broke out last week, no doubt contracted watching that shit at Hemel in sub-zero temps the previous Saturday.

So next up it's Watford v. Millwall on Saturday. 12.30 start for this means a possible non league game at 3pm. Brentford U21 at Staines Mon lunchtime, Oxford v. QPR on Tues, Watford v. Portsmouth next Weds so a quiet week (currently on 113 games this season) will do no harm.

Interesting couple draw for West Ham. Tidy little set up (& very friendly club) at Burton Albion, saw Fulham there in 2016-17

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By *ie n MashCouple
24 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Delighted with Burton in the cup. Went there circa 13-14 years ago to see the u21s play a pre-season; one of the very few games that Pie has accompanied me to. This will be the first time we have played them competitively. Pie will NOT be accompanying this time.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
24 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

The weekend is upon us. Who's headed where ?

Watford host Millwall at 12.30pm, hoping to get a non-league game in after as well.

As always, if you're off to a game, safe travels

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By *tsazzMan
24 weeks ago

Manchester

Looking forward to tomorrow. Come on City!🩵

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By *hief Scout OP Man
24 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

So......matches 114 & 115.

Firstly, Watford v. Millwall in the Championship. Now, I see enough of both teams to know exactly how they play. Watford, with a certain cautious but usually effective build up, and Millwall, quick, pacey, and on the counter-attack. So it was no surprise how the game unfolded. Millwall got hold of the match early on and pretty much controlled it from start to finish. Never mind 0-2 at full time, it should have been at least that at half time. The final score flattered Watford and they were beaten by a very good team. Watford simply weren't given an opportunity to settle and play. I can very much envisage Millwall finishing in the top six.

Anyway, I also managed to get over to Harefield for 3pm and their Combined Counties game with Ashford Town.....and a game that finished at just short of twenty to six !!!

Sadly, main incident of first half was a nasty lower left leg injury to the Ashford goalkeeper. Took a heavy challenge which needed lengthy treatment, but eventually he tried to carry on. As he got to his feet you could see he was struggling. Then when tried to receive a pass, his leg just gave way completely and he needed to be stretchered off. Ashford led 0-1 at the break and to compound matters the hosts are a player short, forward sent off for two yellows.

Early in the second half (kicked off at 4.20 !) Ashford added a second. Then, and I swear you couldn't make this up, with around ten minutes to go the floodlights on one side of the ground fused ! It was soon established that it was a quick fix, BUT would need about ten minutes for the system to rest and reset (you know what happens when your fuse box trips at home, you give it a few minutes before flicking it back on). Anyway, all went to plan, lights back on, Ashford added a deserved third goal....and the second half eventually finished an hour and twelve minutes after it started !

So, how was YOUR day 😆 ?

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By *ony 2016Man
23 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

The African Nations Cup Final was an interesting watch ,,

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By *ony 2016Man
23 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

This month's football trivia

In the full calendar year just gone ( January to December 2025)

Sheffield United won the same number of League Games at the home of Sheffield Wednesday (Hillsborough) as Sheffield Wednesday did (2)

Wednesday beating Derby 4-2 on 1st January and Middlesbrough 2-1 on 21st April,,,,,, United beating Wednesday 1-0 on 16th March and 3-0 on 23rd November in the steel city derby

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

Arsenal are getting annoying 😒

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By *rafter69Man
23 weeks ago

upminster

Hopefully going Man City vs Galatasaray next week

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By *onin25Man
23 weeks ago

Durham

"Arsenal are getting annoying 😒"

Just getting annoying now?

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By *hief Scout OP Man
23 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Got a "double header" in yesterday.

The Professional Development League is back & running after the Xmas break, so it was Brentford B v. Millwall U21 at Staines in the afternoon. Millwall stronger team in first half, and were 0-1 up at break. Added second early after restart. Rest of the match was dominated by Brentford, but they could only find the net once. Decent game, 1-2 FT.

Then off to Oxford v.QPR. Pffffftt, five words to sum this up - thirty quid down the shitter. Oxford's excuse (well, reality actually) is they don't have the quality to stay up and won't. But QPR played with no guile, flair or ambition to win a match which was there for the taking. Abysmal game.

Anyway, back to The Vic tonight, hopefully Watford will bounce back with a decent result against Portsmouth

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

"Arsenal are getting annoying 😒"

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

We are gonna be unbearable soon 🔴⚪️🔴⚪️

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By *ookie46Woman
23 weeks ago

Deepest darkest Peru

"We are gonna be unbearable soon 🔴⚪️🔴⚪️"

You already are

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By *abioMan
23 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

Great job by the red and white goal scoring dream machine last night.. that victory did 2 things on a practical level

1) we will finish Top of the league stage.. which means that the last 16 round and a potential quarter final, the 2nd legs would be at home

If you are an Arsenal fan, the positions you need to be aware of are the teams that finish 16th and 17th for the last 16 round, and the teams that finish 7th,8th,9th,10th,23rd and 24th for the potential quarter final opponent

2) Also means we can put out the under 7s next week… which means you can save everyone after the United game for the Leeds away game and the league cup 2nd leg

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By *abioMan
23 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"We are gonna be unbearable soon 🔴⚪️🔴⚪️"

Hey we can never be as unbearable as when Liverpool won their league… scouse shirt sprouted out everywhere

Anyway I have promised none of the “trophies” talk from me till march… it knowing it’s the hope that kills you, is the hope that kills you!!!

That and my motto for this year is DFIU! … you can work out what it stands for

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By *hief Scout OP Man
23 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

A slightly better game at Watford last night but not one that will stick in the memory.1-1 draw was about right result

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

"Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

Great job by the red and white goal scoring dream machine last night.. that victory did 2 things on a practical level

1) we will finish Top of the league stage.. which means that the last 16 round and a potential quarter final, the 2nd legs would be at home

2) Also means we can put out the under 7s next week… which means you can save everyone after the United game for the Leeds away game and the league cup 2nd leg "

I’m taking my boots to the stadium just in case they need me. But looking on the ticket exchange I might be the only person in the ground other than the players and coaches

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By (user no longer on site)
23 weeks ago

"We are gonna be unbearable soon 🔴⚪️🔴⚪️

Hey we can never be as unbearable as when Liverpool won their league… scouse shirt sprouted out everywhere

Anyway I have promised none of the “trophies” talk from me till march… it knowing it’s the hope that kills you, is the hope that kills you!!!

That and my motto for this year is DFIU! … you can work out what it stands for

I’m on a mission to do my worst

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By *hief Scout OP Man
23 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Don't F*ck It Up, 😆

Bearing in mind the Goons have practically led the division since August, and have been far & away the best team in the country this season, it would be some "achievement" if they did.

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By *ools and the brainCouple
23 weeks ago

couple, us we him her.

"Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

Great to see Jesus back in action, fingers crossed he can stay fit and if Gyokeres can start living up to his price tag then it could be at just the right time of the season.

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By *ools and the brainCouple
23 weeks ago

couple, us we him her.

"Arsenal are getting annoying 😒"

And why not?

Isn't that the point of being a fan praising them when they are doing well and talking about when they did well when they are doing bad

It's been a long wait for silverware and having to swallow Chelsea, City, Liverpool winning we deserve to be a bit vocal for a while.

The Arsenal

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By *hief Scout OP Man
23 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

The footballing weekend is underway. And on the subject of The Arse, just back from taking in their PL2 v. Burnley at Borehamwood. Free admission, so not turning that down.

After quietish even first half, Arsenal much more in control of second half. Finished 1-0, hut could easily have been three or four.

So, who's heading where over the weekend ? It's the return set from the opening day's fixtures, so off to The Cottage for Fulham v. Brighton for me.

AS ALWAYS, and above else, safe travels - enjoy your game.

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By *ony 2016Man
23 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

Hoping for a game but been fair bit of rain up here so waiting for pitch inspection news ,, will be either Northern Premier or North East Counties League although Scunthorpe got a 530pm kick off so it might be sunny Scunny , , Scunthorpe also pencilled in for next Saturday because it FA Trophy

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By *hief Scout OP Man
23 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

As we all know the game has a nasty habit of kicking you full on in the bollocks on a regular basis.

On a less frequent basis it will pull you over and plant a sloppy unexpected wet smooch right on your lips. Well, today I had one of those.

Fulham played OK for the first twenty minutes or so, wasted a few decent chances - and then Brighton scored. "Seen this one all before" I thought.

Fulham's game was flat until well into the second half, just couldn't see them getting back in - then with twenty minutes to go, a goal out of nothing. And as we edged towards the end of the game my feeling was Fulham hadn't played well, but nicked a point. That'll do nicely.

Injury time. Free kick. Up he steps - yet again. Harry f'kn Wilson !!!

* * *

I (heartbreakingly 😆) note that Scunthorpe did a job on Forest Green. Excellent stuff. FGR USED to be a cracking little club, I first went there with Hayes as long ago as 1997. Don't like them being used as a political vehicle by this hippy bloke (don't expect a meat pie or a sausage roll if you're peckish). And don't even get me STARTED on that w@nker manager of theirs. Third rate player and a tenth rate pundit, absolutely f'kn despise him.

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By *ony 2016Man
22 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

"As we all know the game has a nasty habit of kicking you full on in the bollocks on a regular basis.

On a less frequent basis it will pull you over and plant a sloppy unexpected wet smooch right on your lips. Well, today I had one of those.

Fulham played OK for the first twenty minutes or so, wasted a few decent chances - and then Brighton scored. "Seen this one all before" I thought.

Injury time. Free kick. Up he steps - yet again. Harry f'kn Wilson !!!

* * *

Didn't make the Scunny game hopefully there next week for The Trophy , I actually prefer cup games to League games , ,, went to Grimsby Borough V Dunston in Northern Premier East , enjoyed it Dunston did most ( nearly all )of the attacking but Grimsby Borough defended well and could have got a point , , saw your Bessie mate at Gainsborough last season when he was still Macclesfield boss and to be fair he was brilliant before the game chatting to fans of both teams and really good with the mascots having a shoot in with them , he does love the pantomime villain routine though ,, which he is obviously very good at ,,

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

A few EFL games floating around this week. Anyone headed anywhere ?

Wycombe v. Wigan for me this evening.

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By *ie n MashCouple
22 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Just got back to the hotel after seeing our U21s beat Boston 2-1 in a cracking National League Cup q/f. A game high on quality and technical expertise.

Boreham Wood, Tamworth or Truro await in the semi final draw tomorrow

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

New ground now isn't it ? Went to York Street with Hayes a couple of times, 2000-01 & 2001-02.

The main action at Adams Park tonight was in first two mins, Wigan defender pulled Wycombe player over in box, penalty converted and home team in control for most of game. Added deserved second with just under 20 mins to go, a routine 2-0 win. I guess we're getting towards time of season when just getting results overrides pretty football.

121 games down & counting !

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By *ony 2016Man
22 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

"Just got back to the hotel after seeing our U21s beat Boston 2-1 in a cracking National League Cup q/f. A game high on quality and technical expertise.

Boreham Wood, Tamworth or Truro await in the semi final draw tomorrow"

I wondered if you had travelled up to deepest darkest Lincolnshire when I saw the result, would any of those 3 be a new ground , if so , hope you get them ,, Saw Boston last year in FA Cup , cracking game 2-2 Boston equaliser last kick of game ( actually last header of game) ,,then Gainsborough won replay , talking to a Boston fan he said they gone up season before but were finding it tough but since then they pulled away from bottom with a good run and doing well this season, so a good win , I was hoping for a game tonight but the wet stuff from the sky stopped that , but managed to see a game on YouTube Sheffield United Under 21 V Bournemouth Under 21 (1-2) in quarter final,, good game

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By *rSuave88Man
22 weeks ago

Mirfield

[Removed by poster at 28/01/26 00:43:30]

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By *rSuave88Man
22 weeks ago

Mirfield

We all saw the absolute worldie from Ryan Ledson for Huddersfield Vs Luton this evening right?! 🫨

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By (user no longer on site)
22 weeks ago

For the first time in 40 years we have a 3 way tie for the title.

Hearts are still on top and we still await the implosion. Without Shankland and Devlin they are stuttering, a good draw at the weekend was helped by 10 man Celtic who huffed and puffed across the finish line. New owners with a 10 year plan have come good earlier than planned. I still don’t think they will be there with 15 more games to go.

Celtic are on their 3rd manager this year after Brendan Rodgers walked away for the second time. Whatever is going on at board level is having an effect on the park. Rodgers just did the same as he did before, as did Lennon and Postecoglou. January window and suddenly there is competition and the board once again will not release funding for players.

Across the city Rangers are also under new owners who fucked up with Russell Martin who left them 13 points off the top, out of the League Cup a struggling in Europe.

In came Danny Rohl and suddenly Rangers are flying, they have clawed back the points and now sit between Hearts and Celtic but have scored more points since Rohl’s arrival than any other club in the league.

The right acquisitions this week and the title could be in reaching distance for them.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Makes you wonder what might have happened had Rangers appointed a proper manager in the first place.

Will history repeat itself ? 1986....2006....2026 - is the Hearts' 20 year bottle cycle going to strike again ? Be superb to see someone different with it.

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By *vmarisaTV/TS
22 weeks ago

Motherwell

Celtic have self inflicted themselves in to a weakened position but they have a talismanic interim manager who just might pull it off or get fed up with the board and decide he is not a shield for their inadequacies. Rangers were self inflicted and on a spiral to disaster, but they now have a plan and the structure in place with a good young manager who could also provide a title or cup or both, recruitment also seems to be better. Hearts are in the middle of an analytical process and unfortunately for them have lost key players to injury at a crucial point in the season, but they might just have enough to win the league. The three horse race and also the improvements seen in Motherwell, St Mirren, Dundee utd, Falkirk and probably Hibs is the best sign that the level of Scottish football is on the rise. Long may this continue. Mx 😈

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By *abioMan
22 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

Great job by the red and white goal scoring dream machine last night.. that victory did 2 things on a practical level

1) we will finish Top of the league stage.. which means that the last 16 round and a potential quarter final, the 2nd legs would be at home

2) Also means we can put out the under 7s next week… which means you can save everyone after the United game for the Leeds away game and the league cup 2nd leg

I’m taking my boots to the stadium just in case they need me. But looking on the ticket exchange I might be the only person in the ground other than the players and coaches

Did you get a pair of boots?

Mikel called me to see if I was available.. I had to unfortunately tell him I’d retired

Anyway.. 18 champions league games today all at the same time! I love the final day!

I am just going to watch the goals channel on discovery + tonight

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

As someone who can remember Aberdeen & Dundee United scaring the shit out of the Old Firm (not to mention being successful in Europe), some variety in the Scottish game is long overdue.

(As always, good to see some fresh contributors on the thread - much appreciated 👍)

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By (user no longer on site)
22 weeks ago

Aside from Hearts only Motherwell have threatened the status quo this season but neither have the capital or player pool to stop the Old Firm going into the business end of the season

Just read Leicester are interested in Derek McInnes for managers job.

That would throw a spanner in the works at Hearts. Doubtful Derek is not Brendan Rodgers

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By *tr8ty7Man
22 weeks ago

Coventry

Our wheels have come off. Come on super Frank Lampard, sort it out!

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By *fterHoursTemptingTwosomeCouple
22 weeks ago

lincs

Hey! Mrs here! Just jumping on

Arsenal fans, gutted at the weekend result. Was Arsenal really shit or was it just united playing well again, interim manager theory?! Who knows

Anyone else Arsenal? At least we’re doing something right in the champs league, will be watching tonight.

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By *ony 2016Man
22 weeks ago

lincs /Hudd & Derby cinema

"Away in Milan with the Arsenal and what a night

Great job by the red and white goal scoring dream machine last night.. that victory did 2 things on a practical level

1) we will finish Top of the league stage.. which means that the last 16 round and a potential quarter final, the 2nd legs would be at home

2) Also means we can put out the under 7s next week… which means you can save everyone after the United game for the Leeds away game and the league cup 2nd leg

I’m taking my boots to the stadium just in case they need me. But looking on the ticket exchange I might be the only person in the ground other than the players and coaches

Did you get a pair of boots?

Mikel called me to see if I was available.. I had to unfortunately tell him I’d retired

Anyway.. 18 champions league games today all at the same time! I love the final day!

I am just going to watch the goals channel on discovery + tonight

I will be doing same but on BBC Red Button ,, been a big cup draw tonight ,,

Barnsley U21 V Worsborogh Bridge ,,,

Worksop V Rossington Main

Sheffield & Hallamshire Cup

The 4th oldest cup competition in The world

Began in 1876 ,, only beaten by FA Cup 1871 , Scottish Cup 1874:and Birmingham Senior Cup 1876

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By (user no longer on site)
22 weeks ago

Should be sitting in front of the telly watching Champions League games

Instead I’m sitting in a cold, wet Glasgow evening watching my 14yr old grandson going through his paces in a training session

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Great to see more new posts on here. Don't forget I'll start a new page for February at the weekend to keep everything nice & fresh.

Have to admit had my doubts a couple of years ago when UEFA revamped the major competitions. But compared to the old sterile group format which could be done & dusted after five (or even four) games, this is bloody brilliant !

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By *ie n MashCouple
22 weeks ago

Back in Malice

"Should be sitting in front of the telly watching Champions League games

Instead I’m sitting in a cold, wet Glasgow evening watching my 14yr old grandson going through his paces in a training session "

Good man! Can’t wait for my grandson to start playing, so I can relive those miserable Sunday mornings on cold, wet, muddy sidelines. No better football to watch than your own 👏👍

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By *hamallamadingdongMan
22 weeks ago

London

"Should be sitting in front of the telly watching Champions League games

Instead I’m sitting in a cold, wet Glasgow evening watching my 14yr old grandson going through his paces in a training session

Good man! Can’t wait for my grandson to start playing, so I can relive those miserable Sunday mornings on cold, wet, muddy sidelines. No better football to watch than your own 👏👍"

Those are the real fans. 🙌🏾 Football has changed so much over the past 20 years or so.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Here's a question for you.

Have you had your hands on/or been photographed with any major trophies ? Down the years I've had my paws on the following.....

European Cup/CL trophy.

UEFA Cup/Europa League.

F.A. Cup.

Football League Championship trophy.

Milk Cup (the 1985/1986 version)

Scottish F.A. Cup.

F.A. Charity Shield.

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By *abioMan
22 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

Right.. if you are an Arsenal fan… I think this is the route to a semi final

Champions league last 16 opponent… winner of Leverkusen vs Dortmund

Potential Last 8 opponent .. winner of sporting vs inter/bodo … or winner of Man City vs Real Madrid/benfica

Shoot me if I am wrong.. lol

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By *abioMan
22 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"Right.. if you are an Arsenal fan… I think this is the route to a semi final

Champions league last 16 opponent… winner of Leverkusen vs Dortmund

Potential Last 8 opponent .. winner of sporting vs inter/bodo … or winner of Man City vs Real Madrid/benfica

Shoot me if I am wrong.. lol"

Also…. Look out for the spectacular last minute goalie header in the benfica real game tonight … it’s a corker!!!

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By *tr8ty7Man
22 weeks ago

Coventry

"Here's a question for you.

Have you had your hands on/or been photographed with any major trophies ? Down the years I've had my paws on the following.....

European Cup/CL trophy.

UEFA Cup/Europa League.

F.A. Cup.

Football League Championship trophy.

Milk Cup (the 1985/1986 version)

Scottish F.A. Cup.

F.A. Charity Shield."

Yes the fa cup 1987. With my dad, after the victory parade

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By *ie n MashCouple
22 weeks ago

Back in Malice

Had my hands on the Jules Rimet trophy in 1966, then some bastard dog disturbed us as we were about to smelt it down. Heard the owner shout “Pickles, come go here boy”, which made us dump the trophy and run home.

Possibly a true story, that.

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By *abioMan
22 weeks ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

"Right.. if you are an Arsenal fan… I think this is the route to a semi final

Champions league last 16 opponent… winner of Leverkusen vs Dortmund

Potential Last 8 opponent .. winner of sporting vs inter/bodo … or winner of Man City vs Real Madrid/benfica

Shoot me if I am wrong.. lol"

I knew Id get it wrong..

Last 16 opponents….one of Atalanta/leverkusen/ Dortmund/ Olympiacos

Last 8… winner of sporting or Man City vs Real Madrid/inter/bodo/benfica

Make sense in my head.. lol

Chelsea last 16 opponents will be one of PSG, Newcastle, Monaco or qarabag

Liverpool and Tottenhams last 16 opponents will be one of juventus/ atletico Madrid/ Brugge/ galatasary

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

"Had my hands on the Jules Rimet trophy in 1966, then some bastard dog disturbed us as we were about to smelt it down. Heard the owner shout “Pickles, come go here boy”, which made us dump the trophy and run home.

Possibly a true story, that

😆

Dickhead !

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

The Scottish Cup is believed to be the oldest major football trophy still in existence.

The original 1873 trophy is presented to the winners after the Final, but is now in quite a delicate state so straight after goes back in the museum at Hampden Park, with a modern replica going home with the winners.

Makes me chuckle when commentators refer to the F.A. Cup (ie the Cup itself) as "the famous old trophy". The one which is presented now is only twelve years old. The 1911 version of the trophy was retired after Tottenham won it in 1991, and Liverpool were presented with its replacement the following year. That was then itself replaced with a thicker heavier replica in 2014. Such a shame too that the old traditional boxed medals were replaced by bits of tat on a ribbon from 2021 onwards. The old style winners medal had changed little since the 1890's, while the runners-up medals (I NEVER refer to them as "losers medals" it's a highly disrespectful term - for some players it can represent the pinnacle of their career) were previously revamped after the war. Speaking of which, in 1946 the Derby and Charlton players received bronze medals at the Final. The F.A. then issued gold medals when it was in better supply.

Finally, a spot of trivia for you....

Between 1970 and 1974, there was actually a 3rd/4th place play off between the losing semi-final teams (and you think there are some pointless games now ???), with pewter tankards being awarded to the players.

In both 1971 and 1972 Arsenal knocked Stoke out in the semi-final. In 1971 Stoke then beat Everton in the 3rd place game, but in the following year lost to Birmingham (which was also the first F.A. Cup tie settled on penalties, the game finishing goalless).

In the Stoke team for both play-offs was a certain Jimmy Greenhoff. In 1977 he would be credited with Manchester United's winning goal, and two years later just before injury finished him, he was in the United that lost to Arsenal. Thus, he is the ONLY player with a full set of winners medal, runners-up medal, 3rd place tankard, and 4th place tankard. (Four other players - Alex Stepney, Bobby Charlton, Jim McCalliog and Alan Sunderland have 3rd place tankards alongside winners & runners-up medals, but Greenhoff is the sole player with all four). Have that one on me for your pub quizzes !

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By (user no longer on site)
22 weeks ago

"Should be sitting in front of the telly watching Champions League games

Instead I’m sitting in a cold, wet Glasgow evening watching my 14yr old grandson going through his paces in a training session

Good man! Can’t wait for my grandson to start playing, so I can relive those miserable Sunday mornings on cold, wet, muddy sidelines. No better football to watch than your own 👏👍

Those are the real fans. 🙌🏾 Football has changed so much over the past 20 years or so."

Yes we are up on Sunday morning as he has a league match.

He has been playing since he was 4 years old

Through every level from 5’s to 7’s up to 3 seasons ago he started full 11 a side on full size parks.

2 seasons ago we had him training at the Rangers Academy and he played with their 2012 team against Belfast Rangers Academy.

He was meant to travel to Dubai with Rangers to compete in a prestige tournament however he had signed with another club who play in a Sunday league which clashes with his training times at Rangers.

Now he has to decide whether to stick with his club and get regular football or train at the Academy once a week and maybe play half a dozen friendlies

Considering his club sit at the top of the league in the Glasgow District 2012 League

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

The weekend's football began with a trip to Stevenage this evening - Spurs U21 v. Everton U21. Difficult first half with a sharp cold wind and swirling drizzle.

A far better second half, mainly thanks to the rain easing and the wind dropping off. Two very well taken goals by the visitors, 0-2 FT.

Watford v. Swansea for me on Saturday. As always, safe travels to those heading out for a game.

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By *hief Scout OP Man
22 weeks ago

Middx/Herts borders-ish or thereabouts !

Well if anyone connected to Watford was deluded enough to think there might be a play-off push brewing then the last three home games will have put them right.

Comprehensively outplayed by Millwall, limped to a draw with Portsmouth, and a total shitshow against Swansea this afternoon. Dreadful beyond belief.

Anyway.....as we close January, I have been to 123 matches to date this season. These have produced 62 home wins, 23 draws, and 38 away wins, with the goals being 195 home, 155 away.

Thanks to everyone who has chipped in over the last few weeks. February page open.

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