tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8568723868137844872024-03-14T07:17:18.418+00:00Many Miles ...StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.comBlogger82125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-21663705216284572082012-10-18T11:21:00.000+01:002012-10-18T11:22:43.885+01:00What is really happening?With the news yesterday that Rick Everitt has been sacked, it becomes less and less transparent as to what is happening behind the scenes at Charlton. <br />
<br />
Rick's statement can be found at <a href="http://forum.charltonlife.com/discussion/50413/varney-kavanagh-and-everitt-page-13-note-from-rick-everitt/p13"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>Charlton Life</strong></span></a>.<br />
<br />
With Steve Kavanagh and Peter Varney already gone, we have lost a number of 'real' Charlton fans that worked within the club.<br />
<br />
Is this good or bad? I tend to believe it is not positive purely because I do not ... yet ... understand the rationale behind this.<br />
<br />
It is not unknown for new owners to arrive at a company and completely clear the decks ... the problem is that there do not appear to be any replacements. There are so many rumours floating about regarding the identity of our owners, and the fact that there has apparently been some kind of falling out and that new financial sources are being sought. As with 99.99% of people I have no idea what is true or not.<br />
<br />
What I do know ... at least common-sense would seem to indicate ... is that whoever currently owns our club will wish to recoup some money ... therefore it is in their best interests to keep the club going as a viable concern, and push us as high in the league as we can get to attract a good price. <br />
<br />
Or perhaps I am being too optimistic, and basically they will get out at any price to remove us from their portfolio, leaving us in a possibly worse position than we have been for some time .. and we have already been down a long way!<br />
<br />
Whatever the truth and the potential outcome, I strongly recommend that you join the newly created Charlton Supporters Trust which can be found <a href="http://www.castrust.org/"><span style="color: #990000;"><strong>here</strong></span></a>.<br />
<br />
Whether or not it succeeds is a total unknown but it must be better than sitting back doing nothing and hoping for the best.<br />
<br />
In the meantime I look forward to the possible re-emergence of Voice of the Valley ... and subsequently a new book from Rick.<br />
<br />
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COYR and a packed house on Saturday.<br />
<br />
<br />StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-44196492632618789322011-12-01T14:09:00.001+00:002011-12-01T14:49:53.993+00:00What are the chances of promotion?So many great Charlton blogs around that I keep forgetting I have one of my own ... which means that once again it has been sorely neglected.<br />
<br />
But looking at Division One tables from the last few years prompted me to post again. Even with our great start, what are the real chances of promotion based on the last seven years records?<br />
<br />
The answers are not only very revealing ... they are also quite intriguing. Yes, it can still all go wrong ... hard for us to wipe out the memories of the last few years ... but statistically it's looking extremely positive.<br />
<br />
First of all, looking at the number of points that have been required over the last seven years in order to achieve promotion in 2nd spot ... and just to make things interesting, how many games the 2nd place team could afford to lose.<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 580px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 3364; mso-width-source: userset; width: 69pt;" width="92"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 10422; mso-width-source: userset; width: 214pt;" width="285"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 7424; mso-width-source: userset; width: 152pt;" width="203"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0.5pt solid windowtext; height: 15pt; width: 69pt;" width="92"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Season</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext black; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 214pt;" width="285"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Points for
automatic promotion (2nd place)</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext black; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 152pt;" width="203"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2nd place -
number of defeats</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2010-2011</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">92</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">10</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2009-2010</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">86</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">10</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2008-2009</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">89</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">9</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2007-2008</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">82</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">8</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2006-2007</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">85</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">11</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2005-2006</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">79</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">11</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">2004-2005</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">86</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl67" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">12</span></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
So using this table as the base, it means that an average of 86 points has been required to achieve promotion in 2nd place, whilst experiencing an average of 10 defeats throughout the season.<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 445px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 13677; mso-width-source: userset; width: 281pt;" width="374"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 2596; mso-width-source: userset; width: 53pt;" width="71"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0.5pt solid windowtext; height: 15pt; width: 281pt;" width="374"><div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Average
points required for 2nd place</span></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext black; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 53pt;" width="71"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">86</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Average
defeats for 2nd place</span></td>
<td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext black; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="font-family: Calibri;">10</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Looking at Charlton as of today, after 19 games and one defeat, we would appear to be in an incredibly strong position:<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 505px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 15872; mso-width-source: userset; width: 326pt;" width="434"></col>
<col style="mso-width-alt: 2596; mso-width-source: userset; width: 53pt;" width="71"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0.5pt solid windowtext; height: 15pt; width: 326pt;" width="434"><strong><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">Current
CAFC points after 19 games</span></strong></td>
<td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 53pt;" width="71"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">46</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl67" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: left;">
<strong><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">Current CAFC
defeats after 19 games</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl68" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: rgb(31, 73, 125) windowtext windowtext rgb(31, 73, 125); border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: Calibri;">1</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">Target points
for remaining 27 games to achieve 2nd place</span></strong></td>
<td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext red; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">40</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">Number of
remaining games we can afford to lose</span></strong></td>
<td class="xl66" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext red; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">9</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
So ... apparently 40 points to be obtained ... obviously many different permutations for this to be achieved ....<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 645px;">
<colgroup><col span="3" style="mso-width-alt: 7862; mso-width-source: userset; width: 161pt;" width="215"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0.5pt solid windowtext; height: 15pt; width: 161pt;" width="215"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">13 wins</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext black; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 161pt;" width="215"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">11 wins</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: windowtext windowtext windowtext black; border-style: solid solid solid none; border-width: 0.5pt 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px; width: 161pt;" width="215"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9 wins</span></em></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">1 draw</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext black; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">7 draws</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext black; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">13 draws</span></em></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">13 defeats</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext black; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">9 defeats</span></em></td>
<td class="xl65" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: black windowtext windowtext black; border-style: none solid solid none; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt 0px;"><em><span style="font-family: Calibri;">5 defeats</span></em></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
.... but applying the seven season statistic that a team can lose 10 games, then the below is probably the closest we can get to foretelling how the season should pan out in order for us to go up:<br />
<br />
<table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 434px;">
<colgroup><col style="mso-width-alt: 15872; mso-width-source: userset; width: 326pt;" width="434"></col>
</colgroup><tbody>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;">
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border: 0.5pt solid windowtext; height: 15pt; width: 326pt;" width="434"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">12 wins</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">5 draws</span></strong></div>
</td><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
</tr>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<tr height="20" style="height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<td class="xl65" height="20" style="background-color: transparent; border-color: red windowtext windowtext; border-style: none solid solid; border-width: 0px 0.5pt 0.5pt; height: 15pt;"><div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><span style="color: red; font-family: Calibri;">10 defeats</span></strong></div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Based on our existing form, this should be eminently achievable ... but of course all sorts of things could happen between now and May ... injuries, suspensions, other teams having incredible runs of form, etc. <br />
<br />
However, what is very apparent is that this is now completely in our own hands ... 12 wins from the remaining 27 games, when we have already won 14 times in 19 games ... I don't need to expand any further to be honest.<br />
<br />
Is this our year? Well, I rarely bet but before this season started I laid out a reasonable amount at the bookies backing Charlton for automatic promotion and it's certainly looking like the team had the same confidence that I had by taking this division by storm.<br />
<br />
Whatever happens, I can safely say that we finally have our Charlton back after so many seasons of misery ... this team is committed to the cause, more than capable, and backed by one of the most promising managers in the league ... not forgetting of course the Mysterons in the background supporting us financially. <br />
<br />
Onwards and upwards as they say ... <span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>COYR</strong></span>.<br />
<br />StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-80864500334024360932011-08-08T11:58:00.001+01:002011-08-08T13:00:40.926+01:00A Promising StartVery promising indeed. Despite the optimism that had been generated over the close season, the bottom line is that none of us actually knew if we had just a squad of players, or a team that could play together. In fact a trawl of the Bournemouth message boards and forums on Friday revealed that they believed they were playing us at exactly the right time, i.e. before our squad had time to gel.<br />
<br />
Oh how wrong we all were. Astonishing to reflect that this was the first real competitive match for this team together ... although in retrospect I now believe that the Millwall game was a good idea due to the competitive nature in which it was played ... certainly helped 'blood' the team. <br />
<br />
Bournemouth played some very attractive football at times, and knew how to pass ... but in the end it was to no avail. The statistics state that Bournemouth had 61% of possession ... not sure that I accept this, but it's of no consequence anyway. It's what you do with the ball when you have it that matters. It has been said elsewhere ... in particular by the Bournemouth manager ... that the score flattered us. To be honest, having watched the highlights, we could have had more. BWP would definitely have scored on another day, and the shot by Wiggins was a scorcher ... pity he didn't score as the abuse he received from the Bournemouth fans was a joke ... nice to hear the Charlton faithful cheer every time this happened. <br />
<br />
Another pleasing aspect was the size of the crowd ... third year in division 3, a lot of people still on holiday, and we broke 16,000 ... most of the teams in our division ... and a few in the division above ... will be happy to do that just once this season. And with season ticket numbers virtually matching last season, it's fair to say that our core crowd base has increased significantly over the years.<br />
<br />
And with performances like this, it can only go up. Fair enough, it's just one game, but you can only beat the opposition in front of you. Furthermore this will send warning signals throughout our division... everyone knew we had spent well ... now they know we can also play. Chris Powell's attempt last season to play an attractive passing, attacking game, was never going to succeed with the squad we had ... with this one, the signs are positive.<br />
<br />
There is a hunger in the team that we have not witnessed for some time ... passion and the will to get the ball ... incidentally perfectly exemplified by Dale Stephens, my man of the match. <br />
<br />
The players all know that no-one's place is guaranteed ... we have some very good players who didn't feature in the squad, let alone appear on the bench. Plus most are young and feel they have something to prove. You only have to read the interview with Dale Stephens in the programme, or listen to the Charlton Live interview with Danny Green to know how much this team wants to succeed ... and just as importantly, how highly they rate each other. Already we can see the camaraderie and the evidence that they are a team and not a set of individuals.<br />
<br />
I'm not going to get carried away with the result ... with 45 games to go that would make no sense. But my initial pre-season optimism has received a boost and it's only fair to assume that this team should get better the more they play together. The defence looks tight, and has the ability to close down attacking runs, despite a few wobbles Robbie looked fairly assured in goal ... and I was as surprised as anybody that he started ... the forwards are already developing a good partnership, and the midfield looks like it has goals galore in it. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow night will be very interesting ... how will we fare against a decent Championship side? I'm not at all bothered about a cup run ... the league comes first and promotion is the only prize I want ... but it can have the significant advantage of boosting confidence especially if you manage to beat a team from a higher division. <br />
<br />
Saturday will be the more important game ... Notts County achieved a three nil away win which has to be applauded ... so it will be a good chance to see how we measure up against such a team.<br />
<br />
Rating individual players from Saturday seems a little unfair ... although I'm still going to do it ... because it really was a team performance which, bearing in mnd it was their first league game together, deserves an overall 8/10. In normal circumstances I'd have given 7/10, but the occasion raises the rating.<br />
<br />
So on to the players themselves:<br />
<br />
Elliot - had a good game. Not called upon too much in the first half, but covered well when needed to in the 2nd half. There were a couple of times when I was nervous, but you can't complain about a clean sheet. 7/10<br />
Solly - seemed a little nervy in the first half, and I was a little uncomfortable about his play. But came into his own in the 2nd half, in particular interacting very well with Wagstaff ... these two look very good together down the right wing. 7/10<br />
Morrison - like the look of him ... strong and intimidating. Not afraid to get stuck in and a powerful tackler. 7/10<br />
Taylor - combined well with Morrison, and I can see these two being a good combination. Good skill and not afraid to bring the ball forward. 7/10<br />
Wiggins - showed a little nervous reation to the Bournemouth abuse at the beginning, but rose to the occasion with a stunning long distance effort that the keeper had to work to save. The best is yet to come, and he is a good counter-balance to Morrison and Taylor. 6.5/10<br />
Wagstaff - apparently he only played because Green was suspended ... don't know how true that is, but if so, then Scott took advantage, topped up by what may be a contender for goal of the season. Superbly controlled volley. Deserves to keep his place and has already given Powell a slight selection headache. 7.5/10<br />
Stephens - seemed to be everywhere ... totally committed, skilful, energetic ... my man of the match. Annoyingly, I mentioned to my son before the match that Stephens would score the first goal ... aaargh 14 to 1 and I didn't back up my words with money. 8/10<br />
Hollands - looks good ... definitely strengthened the midfield ... Racon / Semedo - who they ? ... very comfortable on the ball and worked well with the other midfielders. 7.5/10<br />
Jackson - good start for our captain. I feel very confident with him in the team, and he took his penalty well. 7.5/10<br />
BWP - very lively and involved himself in the game far more than last season. He is becoming more than just a goal-scorer and had a hand in two of the goals. Could easily have scored himself, and rather unfortunate not to do so. 7.5/10<br />
Hayes - wasn't sure about him at the Welling game, but I have a different view now. Strong, attacking, self-assured, and enthusiastic. He will definitely get a few goals this season. 7/10<br />
Subs:<br />
Benson - not on for long, but still made an impression. Very happy he stayed with us. 6/10<br />
Pritchard - OK, you can't say much based on a few minutes but we may have unearthed a diamond here ... looking forward to seeing much more of him. 6.5/10<br />
Doherty - surprised he is still with us, but totally unfair to judge him on a couple of minutes. n/a<br />
<br />
As for Chris Powell ... hiding away in the tunnel ;-) ... he chose the team and sorted out the tactics. It worked ... and he did a great interview afterwards. 8.5/10<br />
<br />
The crowd were in fairly good voice and I do enjoy watching 'bouncy-bouncy' in the Covered End.<br />
<br />
A final word for the officials ... can they please return again as I thought they were way better than most of the dross we get at this level.<br />
<br />
COYRStoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-57988861224672673392011-08-02T11:05:00.000+01:002011-08-02T11:05:25.337+01:002011 / 2012A new season ... so probably not a bad time to start blogging again ... didn't realised how long it had been! <br />
<br />
It has certainly been a very eventful time at the Valley since last season finished in May with a dismal mid-table final position. Did we expect anything else? Well, probably. Now we are at our 3rd year in Division Three, it's very clear that the club ... and the bulk of the supporters ... made the mistake of believing we were far too good for this level and would get promotion if not the first time, then definitely at the 2nd attempt. Many clubs, of an equal size to us ... and bigger ... have made that mistake over the last few years.<br />
<br />
This is not an easy division from which to escape if you have the mentality that all you have to do is turn up and the other teams will automatically acknowledge that Charlton rightfully belong in a higher division and will allow us to return back there. It's always simple in retrospect, but there is no doubt that as well as having a reasonable squad and manager, you also need the right mind-set. If you want promotion, then get out there and work for it ... be a team not a set of individuals ... and fight to be competitive. Again, retrospect is easy, but it's obvious now that we had too much 'dead wood' ... as long as they were paid, nothing much else mattered. <br />
<br />
So ... what's changed? Almost everything to be honest. We have a manager who will be starting his first full season, new board members also about to experience their first full season, and a very new squad on the playing field. <br />
<br />
According to the latest on <a href="http://forum.charltonlife.com/discussion/42417/confirmed-summer-sales-and-signings-updated-1-august#Item_6">Charlton Life</a>, we now have 31 players on professional contract, 15 of which are new, with 15 having been sold or released, a pretty hefty turn-around. <br />
<br />
Most of the new players are on the young side and have been given 2-3 year contracts ... definitely a positive sign that we are looking to move ahead with a solid base and squad. <br />
<br />
As for the new owners ... everything we hear is good and appears to suggest that we have an exciting future. OK, it may all be illusory and if we don't achieve promotion within 2 years, we may be unceremoniously dumped. But at least they've given us the possibility of another couple of years ... which may not have been the case otherwise.<br />
<br />
There is concern about the ownership ... naturally when 'the truth' is hidden, it is a valid reason for concern. But I'm going to ride with it for the moment. If they get us back to the top as we all want, stay one further season then take the money and run ... well, who can blame them? And you never know, they may decide they like it and stay longer. We still have a club and a team to follow ... my son can still attend games with me ... and in a few years, hopefully my grandson will also join us. That's good enough for me at the moment.<br />
<br />
So how will we do this season? As always, I am optimistic ... but perhaps this time, I have good reason to be so. With the current infrastructure, 'hungry' players in the squad, healthy season ticket sales (wonderful to see), and the sun currently shining ... it's easy to predict a top-six finish.<br />
<br />
But I've decided to invest some money with Paddy Power and expect us to be automatically promoted.<br />
<br />
COYRStoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-10923785378537702102010-05-15T09:55:00.000+01:002010-05-15T09:56:26.445+01:00Playoffs Part 1 of (hopefully) 3Would have preferred a draw but will take 2-1. Defensively we were rather shaky but still went into half-time goalless. Was difficult to get a real atmosphere going without a roof and many songs were being sung in tandem although my wife told me that Charlton could be heard on tv.<br /><br />Swindon played some good football and eventually the goals came for them but the turning point was Deon's excellently well taken goal ... suddenly Swindon stopped playing footbll and started to hoof the ball everywhere. This is obviously the other side of Swindon and the reason whey they only finished 5th ... good team but when the pressure gets to them they play a completely different, more ineffective, style of football. We were very unlucky with Nicky's attempt and the game could have been so different if that had gone in. Swindon did finally revert to a good playing style and were unlucky not to score near the end ... I couldn't see the incident properly but my wife tells me it went off the post.<br /><br />The big plus for me is that listening to the Swindon fans outside the ground after the game, they feel that they have done it ... very confident and sure they will get to Wembley. Good, let them feel that way and hopefully the complacency will spread through the club. Danny Wilson has played the 'underdog' game very well and kept their feet on the ground ... maybe this will undo them.<br /><br />I beleve we have enough to turn this around at the Valley ... but am so bloody nervous that the next 60 hours are not going to be much fun.<br /><br />COYR ... BELIEVEStoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-85989926599948825432010-03-13T19:47:00.002+00:002010-03-13T19:49:53.494+00:00No bottleFirst half, fairly evenly matched although we didn't really have a clear cut chance, but possibly more possession ... then conceded a very poor goal.<br /><br />Second half ... nothing ... virtually every time the fans come out in force for Charlton, they let us down ... badly.<br /><br />So depressing.<br /><br /><br /><br />Oh bolox!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-88450050028472747372010-03-07T09:44:00.013+00:002010-03-07T10:14:05.707+00:00We wonWe won ... but apart from the first 10 minutes there was not much else to say. After the 2nd goal went in I turned and said to my son, perhaps we can at last put some pressure on the teams around us and really go for it in this game and show them how up for it we are. He just smiled and replied that I should remember who I am watching ... unfortunately he was proved right.<br /><br />Why can't we kill off other teams? There were even times during the 2nd half when we could have paid heavily for not scoring a third goal ... admittedly we should have had a penalty in the first half, but it's astonishing how we fail to take advantage of our possession. Wayward kicks towards the goal ... which are far from being on target ... make a mockery of the fact that these guys are professional footballers. Mooney, Bailey, Burton, Sam, Sodje et al were guilty of some awful shots.<br /><br />We won ... so I am happy ... but definitely frustrated. We will need to step up a gear next week at the New Den. Stockport are one of the weakest ... if not the weakest ... teams I have seen all season and that will not be the case next week. Millwall have players that fight for results, and our players will need to be the same. I have no doubt that we can, as has been evident in some games this season, and must admit that I am thoroughly looking forward to the game.<br /><br />Results definitely went our way in general yesterday with Huddersfield and Swindon losing. Brentford taking a point at Leeds was massive and it was just a pity that they could not hold on to their lead ... but we are catching Leeds and the home game against them may yet prove to be pivotal.<br /><br />Elliott - one very nervous moment when he dropped the ball, and he and Llera were definitely at odds both blaming each other for the incident.<br />Richardson - competent, but sometimes played the ball too far and lost it.<br />Jackson - good game and linked up well with Reid ... hope the injury is not too bad and he is ok for Millwall.<br />Llera - strong in defence, but a few errors.<br />Dailly -excellent game, getting back to being Mr. Consistent.<br />Sam - not his best game and rightfully taken off, drifted in far too much.<br />Racon - at times he was great, and others he was woeful. Will the real Therry Racon please stand up.<br />Bailey - fairly good game, cut off a few attacks, but not at his best.<br />Reid - man of the match, he is so strong and effective, breaking up attacks from opposition and then leading our own.<br />Mooney - Still proving to be lightweight, but there are instances when you know he can produce something.<br />Sodje - scored for the 3rd consecutive game so I should be positive ... but I still feel his overall game should improve ... but what the heck, if he scores again next week, who cares ;-)<br />Solly - ok, nothing special, but he is being played out of position so I should be generous.<br />Wagstaff - was hoping for something special when he came on but he can't do it every time.<br />Burton - worried Stockport at times.<br /><br />Mark Kinsella had it right in his press interview: "We got lucky with the first and got a good second goal, but it was all about winning the game. We started brightly and got the goals but they upped their game. It would have been nice to get a couple more but it wasn't to be. There will be ups and downs between now and the end of the season, we've got to make sure there are more ups than downs. Winning when you're not at your best is the sign of a good team.”<br /><br />And Millwall is now sold out, 2,500 tickets. Well done Charlton ... cannot wait to be at the New Den on Saturday.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-61132527833615867412010-02-21T10:16:00.025+00:002010-02-21T11:16:51.065+00:00Red Dread<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pREiGFz1sgY/S4EJzBB-M7I/AAAAAAAAACQ/E6wLE4U6uts/s1600-h/2010_01310077.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440640596894954418" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_pREiGFz1sgY/S4EJzBB-M7I/AAAAAAAAACQ/E6wLE4U6uts/s320/2010_01310077.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Due to a number of overseas business trips in Asia and Europe plus a 2 week holiday, I have not managed to get to the Valley for a few weeks ... and during that time we drew four times, lost once, and dropped out of automatic promotion for the first time ... a fact that filled a lot of Charlton fans with dread ... which prompted me to include a picture that I took of the wonderful Red Dread catamaran whilst on holiday. </div><br /><div>But never fear... I returned yesterday and we won ;-)</div><div> </div><div> </div><div> </div><div>Having read a number of web reports on recent games and seeing the Bristol game on TV, it would appear that this was a big improvement on our latest form.</div><div> </div><div>It certainly wasn't perfect ... and at two nil up when we should have been full of confidence and cruising to a win ... the team was still nervy, which definitely got through to the supporters. </div><div> </div><div>Showing the latest results on the scoreboard near to the end of the game was a masterstroke on this occasion as ... for once ... the results were all more or less going our way and the Covered End responded appropriately.</div><div> </div><div>And whilst I remember, the Covered End produced one of the funniest chants I have heard for a long time after one of the Yeovil players went down poleaxed by the ball and didn't get up for ages prior to looking down his shorts to see if everything was still there ... 'One ball, you've only got one ball ...'. OK, perhaps you had to be there and it certainly wasn't funny for the Yeovil player but it made me laugh.</div><div> </div><div>I haven't seen the match stats but have to assume that we had the higher percentage of possession ... in fact there were times when we managed to revert to the tight passing game that was so evident earlier in the season and caused so many teams problems. </div><div> </div><div>I said to my son before the game that Reid would be playing and I was convinced he would score ... pity I didn't extend that to having a bet ... what a great goal and I hope it encourages more Charlton players to have a go from outside the area ... it can be a sign of confidence when players are willing to shoot from long distance (although some of Nicky's attempts would have been more appropriate on a rugby pitch) so more of the same please.</div><div> </div><div>Reid looks like he will be a good player for us, strong, pacy, and not short of some skill. Ditto for debutant Johnnie Jackson ... you would have thought that he had played for this team a number of times so easily did he slot in. A good loan deal by Parky.</div><div> </div><div>Racon has concerned me for a while, and has not put in the performances we saw at the start of the season ... but yesterday was a return to form, highlighted by a masterly quick turn from a throw-in that led directly to Mooney's goal. Perhaps Therry's first goal on Monday did him even more good than we realised.</div><div> </div><div>And before going on to individual comments I must specifically mention Robbie ... at least three great saves in the first half and more good effort in the 2nd half ... if an early goal had gone in this could have been a very different game, so well done Robbie.</div><div> </div><div>Elliot - very important saves and seems to be very confident these days.</div><div>Richardson - can be a threatening force when supporting runs up the wing.</div><div>Jackson - impressive debut, and could be very important to the team until Kelly returns.</div><div>Llera - always gives everything, and had a good game.</div><div>Dailly - not back to the form he displayed before injury when he was Mr. Consistent, but I'd rather be with him than without.</div><div>Sam - I felt that the commentators at the Bristol game were over-the-top about his display on Monday, but today better warranted the praise. Not scared to get stuck in but he does seem to tire late in the game.</div><div>Bailey - he would be the first to admit this was not one of his best displays, but still did enough to worry Yeovil.</div><div>Racon - a welcome return to form, and could have been my man of the match.</div><div>Reid - my first live sighting of Reid and I am impressed ... so sorry Therry, on reflection Kyel Reid wins man of the match.</div><div>Mooney - impressed that he was back after a nasty knock on Monday, did excellently with the goal and worked very hard, but I still have a small concern that he is too lightweight at times when it matters.</div><div>Burton - a better performance and wins a lot in the air. Have to assume that his hernia means he is not 100% but we cannot afford to let him have the op until season end.</div><div>Subs:</div><div>Wagstaff - lively as always, but not the immediate impact he has had in the past.<br />Semedo - made a good impression in only a short time on the pitch.</div><div> </div><div>Parky made all the right noises after the game stating that it was a good day for us, and that the intention was to get our performance levels back, forget about everyone else and concentrate on what we needed to do. He admitted that in the last few weeks, we've been giving the ball away cheaply and been constantly under pressure. </div><div> </div><div>So on to Tuesday ... good to know we have another game so soon. The Brighton team has been quite an enigma since Poyet took over ... some wonderful results countered by a lot of poor games. They may still be at the bottom part of the table but as yesterday showed, do not relax around this team ... they have the capability to spring surprises.</div><div> </div><div>And then Southend on Friday ... I can't go but my son will be there with the other 2k+ Charlton fans. I have good memories of Friday nights at Southend in the past so hope we can continue to pick up points. The table could look very different next weekend if all goes the way we would like.</div><div> </div><div>Then with what we would hope would be a relatively comfortable 3 points against Stockport at home the following week (ok, it's never comfortable for us but you know what I mean), it's on to the game I have been looking forward to all season, Millwall at the New Den. I got my tickets as soon as they came out, and it will be my son's first visit to Millwall ... we should have a reasonable presence at the game and I hope Charlton fans remember this is our only true derby and attend in numbers.</div><div> </div><div>C'mon you Reds!</div><div> </div><div>Just noticed on the official site ... apparently when we play Gillingham at home next month, it will be the first time in 30 years! How times have changed ... when I was younger we played them far more frequently!</div>StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-89787275118166628602009-12-27T10:18:00.019+00:002009-12-28T11:27:58.893+00:00Top class defendingWell, I didn't expect the score-board to again be filled up like lights on a Christmas tree this week, but that's exactly what we got. Two points from two home games in the last week is not what we wanted ... but in the circumstances I am more than happy.<br /><br />I have never seen the Valley erupt so loudly to a goal that only guaranteed us a point at home, especially to such meagre opposition ... but we were all convinced that despite such a valiant rearguard action, we had finally lost our unbeaten home record.<br /><br />But it was not to be ... this team does not give in and there were some heroic performances on the pitch not least by Nicky Bailey and Jose Semedo.<br /><br />And arguably all of our best back four were off the pitch and they still did not collapse under the expected onslaught of the 2nd half. I was extremely concerned when it was apparent that Dailly was injured, but we would not have done any better even with him on the pitch.<br /><br />This was a second half performance that will be remembered for a long time. Determination, passion, and a desire that the two players that were stupidly sent off were not going to provoke our first defeat since March at the Valley.<br /><br />And both Parky ... with a decision to move to an attacking formation despite only having 9 men ... and the crowd ... who were at times louder than we have been since the Premiership ... fully played their part.<br /><br />The draw last week felt like a defeat ... this week it felt like a win ... and it was good to shut up the gloating Swindon fans who seemed to believe they had a world-beating team just because they were winning against nine men.<br /><br />Jose Semedo was superb after being forced to move back into defence ... as good a display, and at times better, than many of our normal defenders have given this season.<br /><br />And Nicky Bailey was enormous ... determined and passionate, he was never going to give in, leading the team with a true captain's display.<br /><br />Shelvey and Llera also deserve a special mention, not just for the goals, but for their overall display.<br /><br />As for the sending-offs, they were both stupid and self-induced. Sodje's second red card in a few weeks was insane ... you just can't make that type of tackle and expect to stay on the pitch ... and it's a four match ban!<br /><br />Deon should have known better than to argue with this referee (see below) for his first yellow, and a streak of madness must have overtaken him when he handled the ball to be sent off.<br /><br />For the first 20 minutes, even when Sodje was off the pitch being patched up, we were all over Swindon, and I had the feeling that once we got going, it could be a big win.<br /><br />But it was not to be due to the circumstances outlined above ... and I cannot let this posting end without mentioning the absolutely abysmal display by the referee. We have seen some poor displays by referees this season, but this has to be amongst the worse. He made so many mistakes, I lost count ... and relied continuously on the linesman by the West Stand to pick up decisions he had missed. And how Swindon only got their first booking in the last few minutes, and that only for dissent, I have no idea.<br /><br />Elliot - some wonderful saves, did everything we could have asked of him.<br />Omozusi - a capable display, but I expected more after his display last week.<br />Basey - brave and committed, another good performance following on from last week.<br />S Sodje - stupid tackle, out now for 4 games, whatever his excuse it's not good enough.<br />Llera - excellent display rounded off by a very coolly taken goal.<br />Spring - could have scored, some great passing movements<br />Semedo - superb in defence, we definitely missed him in midfield, but one of the main reasons we did not lose.<br />Shelvey - you could see he was happy to be back and determined to show why he should be back in the team. I told my son he would score, and happily he did.<br />Bailey - what a game, my man of the match. He does not give in, a true captain.<br />A Sodje - ran out of steam in the end, and not always as effectual as I would like, but a constant thorn in the side of Swindon.<br />Burton - Deon, Deon, Deon why did you do that? I am not going to criticise him, he's had a great season - just don't do it again!<br />Wagstaff - nothing outstanding, but he didn't let us down.<br />McKenzie - still not fully fit in my mind, his best ... I hope .. is yet to come.<br />Dickson - personally I'm not happy he was on the field, but circumstances demand.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-43526315961684640932009-12-20T08:33:00.019+00:002009-12-20T09:45:41.572+00:00A real derbyWell ... what can you say about that?!? It was my son's first Charlton Millwall game and it had everything except the final result ... red card, a plethora of yellow cards, an over-officious referee who loved talking, two penalties, a packed away end ... ohhh, and 8 goals.<br /><br />The threat by Millwall to bring a 'tsunami' of fans and overwhelm Charlton did not, as most of us expected, materialise. There were pockets of Millwall fans in the home areas, but to be honest not that many, and probably less than we had at Gillingham ... so well done to Charlton for sorting this out.<br /><br />The pitch has taken quite a battering in recent weeks but all credit to Paddy Powell and his team, it stood up well.<br /><br />Both the Mizzen and Knox families received a well deserved reception before the game and it is appreciated that both clubs, and sponsors, supported the initiative.<br /><br />The match itself was fairly dramatic and certainly took an early turn for the worse when the Spanners went two ahead. For most of the 1st half, our defence and midfield did not look like they were functioning very effectively. Perhaps the occasion got to them?<br /><br />Then ... a penalty to Charlton! And I am not convinced it was a penalty ... in any event, I doubt Mooney would have scored.<br /><br />And then ... another penalty!! This time it was cast-iron, and Millwall had a player red-carded.<br /><br />Deon put away both away extremely effectively to get us level again.<br /><br />Half-time at 2 apiece was probably fair ... we never really got going.<br /><br />Second half and almost immediately after the re-start, a wonder goal from Nicky Bailey sending the Valley (ok, not the Jimmy Seed Stand) into raptures.<br /><br />Second half Charlton looked a lot better but Millwall never looked like they only had 10 men, proving to be very resilient and leading to their 3rd goal.<br /><br />Incredibly, Charlton then went on to score a 4th, albeit an own goal by the Spanners. When 5 minutes injury time was announced to no great surprise, I must admit that I still thought we would win the game ... but it was not to be.<br /><br />Farcical defending and goal-keeping meant that the Spanners came away with a point, although the way their fans celebrated you would have thought they had been promoted ... and you don't care about us? Of course, you don't ;-)<br /><br />And a word about the Mooney substitution ... I've been one of those supporting Mooney but as far as I am concerned, he can now clear off back to where he came from. Leaving the pitch after substitution, he threw his shirt on the floor, walking away to the tunnel, and then completely ignored the applause of the Covered End ... don't bother coming back Mooney.<br /><br />Elliot - did not command his area as much as I would have liked, and committed some misjudgements, but he was definitely up for this game.<br />Omozusi - contributed a lot to the game and never stopped running, a few errors but did well in such an atmosphere.<br />Basey - excellent game, did not want to let anyone get past him.<br />S Sodje - not at his best, but strong at times. Too many mistakes.<br />Dailly - one of his weaker games, possibly his first. But still did enough to frustrate Millwall at times.<br />Sam - was very concerned after first half that he would be sent off, he was a target for both Millwall and the ref, but did enough for a good display. His booking means he will miss the Swindon game.<br />Spring - not on long enough to contribute.<br />Semedo - no way near as strong as usual ... did the atmosphere affect him?<br />Bailey - strong, committed, and just the sort of player you want in a derby game ... brilliant goal.<br />Wagstaff - had a good game, never scared to get involved and worried Millwall a few times.<br />McKenzie - not on long enough to tell, but had a few good runs.<br />Mooney - see above ... very lightweight today.<br />A Sodje - not as effective as he can be when coming on as sub but was involved.<br />Burton - excellent game and my man of the match.<br /><br />And the fans ... well, Millwall took advantage of the better acoustics in the Jimmy Seed Stand first half, but there were times during the game when they were more like kittens. The Covered End came into it's best during the second half and contributed to a great atmosphere.<br /><br />I love real derby games!<br /><br />Incidentally, I fully agree with Parky's comments about the ref:<br /><br /><em>"I thought the ref was the person who got carried away with the derby frenzy more than anybody,” said Parkinson. "For both teams, there were too many stoppages. Every challenge seemed to result in a free-kick. There were so many decisions which were called wrong. For their third goal, Jose Semedo won the ball cleanly in midfield and he gave them a free-kick. I was disappointed with the ref.”</em>StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-82447137936699278462009-12-18T10:07:00.002+00:002009-12-18T10:11:19.276+00:00Winning in the snowThis is the one ... this is the real derby for Charlton.<br /><br />I've been looking forward to this all season, and it will be the first Charlton Millwall match attended by my son.<br /><br />A few weeks ago I predicted that this would probably be one of the very few games that we would lose ... but you know what? The closer to the game we have got, the more positive I have become ... and it's snowing! For those that remember, what better omen for a 2-0 Charlton win.<br /><br />Let's just hope that Greenwich Health & Safety and the local OB do not get too officious and cancel the game.<br /><br />C'mon you Reds!!!!!!!!!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-76474437726347014722009-12-06T12:15:00.016+00:002009-12-06T12:53:39.747+00:00Any win will doWe won.<br /><br /><br />I was going to leave it there and say no more ... it was the most important issue of the day and if we can win when most of the team has an off-day, then I'm delighted.<br /><br />But it is worth making some comment. This is a game that I am sure we would have lost in the last 3 or 4 seasons ... ok, yes, we are in a lower division but getting a result when it is perhaps not deserved is how many teams end up being promoted. Look at Leeds ... they have had 3 or 4 games this season when even their fans admit a win was not deserved ... but they got it and that is the difference between automatic promotion and playoffs, playoffs and 7th.<br /><br />Southend brought less fans than I expected but based on their home crowds I guess it was reasonable. They were in fairly good voice, although as usual the acoustics of the Jimmy Seed stand do help. Found it a bit ridiculous when they started singing 'Can we sing a song for you' just after the Covered End had been particularly vocal. And I hadn't realised how much they now dislike Nicky Bailey! Is he their Scotty Parker?<br /><br />There were a few quiet spots from both sets of supporters, and once again the Covered End were better in the 2nd half and I am hoping that the reprise of "CAFC - we hate Millwall" gets a repeated airing in 2 weeks, as it is one song that currently appears to reach a high decibel level in the Covered End. Let's just trust that the Charlton fans will turn out for this game in their droves ... it is our real derby not the plasticness of Palaaarse!<br /><br />As for the game yesterday, well perhaps the less said the better. I heard Phil Parkinson on the radio on the way home saying that it was messy and we did not look particularly good, but it was the result that counted ... I couldn't agree more. Not a sumptuous feast of football for the fans, but we all would have taken 3 points before the game whatever the display. There were times when we actually looked like the away side and not even a good one at that.<br /><br />I said to my son before kick-off that I wondered how the lack of Semedo would affect us ... the display was not entirely due to his absence, but I believe it highlights his importance to us in midfield. Our passing game was non-existent, and we have proved many times that when we can get the passing going and keep the ball on the floor, we are as good as, if not better than, anyone in this division.<br /><br />Elliot - not that troubled to be honest despite the possessional superiority that Southend appeared to have. Reacted well when called upon to do so.<br /><br />Richardson - nothing special but it felt good to have him back. I hope the injury is not serious.<br /><br />Basey - good game, totally committed but still a lot to learn. A concern about his lack of pace at times, but I think he brings enough into his game to counterbalance this.<br /><br />Sam Sodje - very strong at times, but not at his best.<br /><br />Dailly - better than most even he did not have one of his best games.<br /><br />Sam - good runs, and did worry Southend at times, but not enough end result.<br /><br />Racon - very worrying attitude in this game, and he showed once again why he has been the midfielder that has not managed to score this season.<br /><br />Bailey - I thought this would be a giant performance against his former team but it was not to be.<br /><br />Wagstaff - never stops running and can be a bit of a thorn in the side of the opposition. Like Basey, he is still learning but deserved his starting spot in the team.<br /><br />Mooney - my mate was explaining to me before the game why he does not rate Mooney, whereas I do. He believes he is too lightweight and knocked off the ball too easily. Why did he choose yesterday to prove my mate right?<br /><br />Burton - if I have a man of the match it is Deon. 10 goals so far and he could definitely be on course for 20 this season if his hernia does not affect him too badly. Always dangerous.<br /><br />Omozusi - I am not convinced yet, but I am beginning to believe that there might be something there.<br /><br />Spring - not as effective as I had hoped he would be, but to be fair, that may be down to the team performance as a whole.<br /><br />Akpo Sodje - did not have a starring cameo this time, but I like having him on the bench as an effective sub.<br /><br /><br />So ... overall not the best, but we are still 2nd and widened the gap with some teams ... apart from Norwich. But they still have to catch us and those ... and their numbers were very high ... among the Charlton 'faithful' who were convinced we would be outside the top six by Christmas ... I just hope you are happy that you have been proved wrong.<br /><br />Stockport next week who I believe are on the back of a 6 or 7 game losing streak - surely it must be the right time to play them!<br /><br />And the week after ... the game I have been waiting for ... Spanners at home. Get those vocal cords well oiled Covered End!!!.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-61974205481849226312009-11-15T09:12:00.017+00:002009-11-15T10:01:12.030+00:00Welcome responseWhat a great day. I hadn't posted on the two cup games, initially because after Northwich I did not find myself with much to say and others had adequately expressed my feelings.<br /><br />Furthermore, many of the message boards and forums were so over the top with ridiculously inane and accusatory comments that I couldn't be bothered to add anything.<br /><br />Then, after the Saints game, the comments became so extreme that an outsider would have thought that the club had ended. There was nothing good to come out of the 2 cup games (apart from the obvious ... allowing us to firmly concentrate on the league) but there was no need for the melodramatic and theatrical posturing that was going on.<br /><br />So we may not all agree that Parky is the right manager ... but what's the point of replacing him now? We have been down the road of a managerial merry-go-round before and see where it got us!<br /><br />Fans that emphasised we were still second are accused of having rose-tinted spectacles, do not have the bottle to complain, and are content in their little 3rd division world.<br /><br />Well that's complete b*llsh*it ... just because some of us did not view last week as the end of the world and that with all the doom and gloom Charlton were finished, does not mean our viewpoint is invalid.<br /><br />And perhaps ... maybe ... the result yesterday went some way to vindicating the team. OK, to those with a glass half-empty perspective, it was just one game ... it always is when we are doing well, but when we are losing (as only occasionally happens this season), it is seen as far more valid.<br /><br />The best comment that I saw on the message boards last week was 'Get a grip' ... one that I fully supported and still do.<br /><br />There are Charlton fans out there who seem to thrive when results are bad but disappear into the woodwork when we actually do something positive. I've not been on the boards yet today ... on purpose .. I did not want it to influence my thoughts. Will be interesting to see what is being said in a few minutes. Hopefully there will be some more positivity ... but my guess, as stated above, is that many will still be saying it's only a one-off. Well, it's one game, so what else can it be?<br /><br />After the next 3 weeks ... with four winnable games ... Yeovil and Brighton away, Bristol Rovers and Southend at home ... we will have a very good idea of where we will be going this season. I still firmly believe we will be up there in the top two ... many seem to think we will be out of the play-offs by Christmas ... we will see. My son is going to Yeovil next week, and I must admit that I am quite jealous that I am missing this one ... but circumstances (i.e. an overseas business trip) denied me this game.<br /><br />Anyway, back to yesterday. A sterling display, all the more pleasing as we came back from one down. In my view, an excellent riposte to the spineless 'couldn't care less' attitude of the Vics game.<br /><br />Weather conditions were atrocious, but affected both teams equally, and it was always obvious that high balls could be very threatening if fed into the area. I thought that Franchise FC were one of the better teams that we have seen (oh, how I hate to say that) and for many periods played a very neat passing game. But they are badly let down by their ill-disciplined and continual complaints to the referee, a myriad of niggly fouls, and a tendency to rush the ref en-masse when they feel hard done by. Any coincidence that Incey is their manager?<br /><br />Both our team and our fans seemed to approach this game in the same vein. During the first half hour, we were out-sung, and at least matched on the pitch. In the second half, we were the stronger team and better able to adapt to the conditions, whilst the Covered End just got louder and louder, one of their best 'appearances' this season.<br /><br />As for the team:<br /><br />Ikeme - I'm not convinced about him, but to be fair, I'm not convinced about Randolph either. He needs to take control of his area and start shouting when he is coming for the ball.<br /><br />Richardson - I believe we have missed Fraser, the defence seems stronger when he is on the field. A good display, but hope the injury is not bad.<br /><br />Youga - not his best game, but more than competent at times. Definitely managed to pressure Franchise when he went on runs.<br /><br />Sodje (Sam) - this guy wants to win. I love his attitude and even more so when I read his interview in the program after the game. If you haven't seen it, try to get a copy. A real Charlton man who admits he has had sleepless nights since the Vics game and was desperate to amend the situation. The way he celebrated by dancing around the pitch after the game says it all.<br /><br />Dailly - as always, a solid professional display. 36 years old? Hard to believe ... he still has a couple more seasons in him.<br /><br />Sam - this was better. Seemed a lot fitter today than recent weeks.<br /><br />Semedo - very skillful player, not yet back to his best.<br /><br />Bailey - my man of the match. Got stuck in everywhere, commanded the team, and got results.<br /><br />Racon - good game, but as with Semedo, not back to his best. The pairing need to get back to the the level they had earlier in the season.<br /><br />Burton - excellent, so happy he got a goal before he was substituted. Definitely troubled Franchise FC.<br /><br />Mooney - as he had promised, delivered a strong game, and I am a little concerned that his loan spell expires on 1st December ... I hope we can keep him longer.<br /><br />Subs:<br />Basey - very committed if not always effective, but he tried.<br />McKenzie - looked good and I like the way he 'ghosts' in on the opposition without them expecting it, and grabs the ball. Strong in the tackle.<br />Sodje (Akpo) - if he gives us half as much as his brother, then signs are good.<br /><br /> ... and Parky, well done, good shape to the team, and a sounder, more astute tactical awareness than we saw in the cup games.<br /><br />C'mon you reds !!!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-90688215682736186892009-10-30T15:56:00.002+00:002009-10-30T16:10:58.746+00:00Parky renews contractPhil Parkinson signs one-year <a href="http://www.charlton-athletic.co.uk/newsview.ink?nid=35045"><span style="color:#ff0000;">extension</span> </a>to his contract.<br /><br />Differing views about this around the Interweb, but I see it as a good move.<br /><br />He deserves to be recognised for his work this season having turned a broken demoralised bunch of players into a tight disciplined team.<br /><br />Of course we are not there yet ... and a number of fans would rather wait until we are promoted ... or not, which is their argument.<br /><br />My view is that we should give credit and reward where it is due ... this is good man-management from the board ... and shows that the club believes in his approach.<br /><br />Furthermore it gives a great sign to the players that the board has confidence in the way we are moving forward ... what better way to further improve the self-assurance of the squad?StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-38854390931567402312009-10-29T10:18:00.010+00:002009-10-29T11:13:17.477+00:00We can do itA month since the last post ... doesn't time fly!<br /><br />So what's happened on the pitch since then?<br /><br />Three nil defeat at Colchester ... more goals conceded than expected but I think a lot of us saw this as a potential banana skin game ... and so it proved.<br />Leeds away ... a creditable 0-0 draw ... I certainly would have accepted that before the game started ... which I celebrated in <a href="http://www.floyds-bar.com/index.htm"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Floyds Bar</span> </a>in Vilamoura :-)<br />Barnet ... blimey, we won a cup game and emphatically at that!<br />Oldham ... a nil-nil slog ... I hope not many teams come down to the Valley and play like that!<br />Huddersfield ... 2-1 win in a very hard-fought and enjoyable match ... they are a tough team to beat.<br />1-1 draw at Gillingham ... bearing in mind their home record, not a bad result ... but so annoying with another late goal.<br /><br />So, it's 29th October and we are second ... if given the chance at the start of the season, virtually all of us would have accepted that. We've seen enough already at the top and bottom of the table to realise that we should definitely be in the pay-offs ... whoops typo, should be play-offs but it means the same anyway ... at least, and a top 2 automatic promotion spot is certainly achievable. Actually, I have been surprised how many clubs have stayed close to us in 3rd and 4th spot, with a few not far away down to 8th position.<br /><br />If I have one complaint this season it is the quality of the officials ... but bearing in mind that those at the top are not always the best, it is no great surprise.<br /><br />The cup draw at Northwich Victoria is perfect ... if we have to play in the first round, then this is exactly the type of game that epitomises the FA Cup. A pity that our support will be reduced due to the difficulties of getting up there on a Sunday, but the revenue from ITV will be more than welcome to the cash-stretched Northwichers.<br /><br />Talking of away support, good to see that ours is the <a href="http://www.charltonlife.com/forum/comments.php?DiscussionID=29932&page=1#Item_19"><span style="color:#ff0000;">2nd highest</span> </a>in the division ... must be our highest for years!<br /><br />So, Saturday, and it's on to Carlisle. I expect a win, and I'll go for 3-1 to us, all goals in a lively 2nd half.<br /><br />Mooney to come on just after half-time, score the first goal and give a performance which will allow him to stay in the squad and provide Deon with the chance to have his hernia op.<br /><br />Shelvey on for final 30 minutes assisting Semedo for a goal, wrapped up with a Wagstaff cameo and goal when he comes on for the final 15 minutes in place of a tiring Lloyd Sam.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-71968753179339220612009-09-26T17:35:00.021+01:002009-09-26T18:16:04.850+01:00Not that easyGlad that one is over. We made it far harder than we should have done ... and if Nicky Bailey hadn't made a terrific header off the line after 30 minutes, it may actually have been a different story.<br /><br />A changed squad, but the player that was out was unexpected - Jose Semedo. Still not sure of the reason why, but I hope it is nothing serious ... he is my player of the season so far.<br /><br />Surely it cannot have been solely due to the absence of Semedo, but we played a very different game today ... none of the passing joys that we have seen recently. There were times, especially for the 15 minutes before our 2nd goal, when I had a real concern.<br /><br />Excellent first goal from Bailey ... and just at the right time four minutes before the break ... the half-time lead was justified.<br /><br />Izzy scored only his second goal for us a few minutes before the end of the 2nd half ... which helped me relax at last ... until Exeter scored in stoppage time! It was that type of day, we never looked fully convincing. <br /><br />But ... going into October, we are now one of the only two unbeaten teams in the country. Has that ever happened before in October? I guess that makes it odds-on for a draw next week ... a result that I would definitely accept at this moment.<br /><br />Elliott - apart from one dangerous drop of the ball in his area, no real concerns. In fact, looking back, he was not forced to do too much. Some excellent catches from corners.<br />Richardson - not one of his best games. Defending and distribution were areas for concern today. He will want to forget this game.<br />Youga - improving every game. After a shaky start to the season, he is a different player. Now getting the confidence to take players on and attack. Developing a good partnership with Nicky Bailey.<br />Bailey - my man of the match. The defensive header and goal were already enough, but gave a good captain's performance once again.<br />Llera - passing not as accurate as it has been this season, but overall ok. Did not get his 5th booking.<br />Shelvey - fully committed to the cause. Not as good a display as the last couple of games, but still way above the level of this division. We will see better this season.<br />Racon - not as good without his normal partner, Jose was definitely missed by his midfield. Still a fairly solid performance.<br />Burton - strong player and on another day would have scored.<br />Sam - caused Exeter a lot of concern. Very lively and is definitely maturing into a first-class team player.<br />Spring - pleasing display. I was concerned that he was playing but he did not let us down.<br />Dailly - confident and experienced. I've said it before and will say it again - so pleased he is part of our team.<br /><br />McLeod (for Burton) - easily taken goal, but will do his confidence no end of good.<br />Wagstaff (for Racon) - not long enough to make an impression.<br />Sodje (for Shelvey) - strong header away as soon as he got on the pitch, but too brief to provide any comment.<br /><br />Interesting fact, my mate who is one of the chief stewards in the East Stand mentioned before the game that Exeter had brought about 600 fans, 300 of which are actually exiles based in London.<br /><br />And Nicky Bailey scored our 3,000th home goal ... I'm pleased it was him.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-40236101705302106602009-09-22T12:14:00.004+01:002009-09-22T12:21:40.451+01:00Safe for another seasonWell done to the <a href="http://www.cafc.co.uk/newsview.ink?nid=34821"><span style="color:#ff0000;">board</span></a>.<br /><br />..... and you heard it here first ;-)<br /><br />Back in mid-June, my thoughts were '.. even if takeover rumours are true (although personally I think that if anything happens it will be <em>some form of investment rather than full takeover</em>).'<br /><br />Of course it is clear that this is the position because the parties that had been in talks did not bring enough to the table.<br /><br />Once again, the board has shown their wonderful commitment to Charlton Athetic and they can only be applauded for that.<br /><br />And those that have stepped down from the board have been rewarded with VP positions.<br /><br />Thanks enormously to all those involved ... let's hope we now achieve promotion so that their commitment shows some return.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-87256566246323122402009-09-12T17:04:00.009+01:002009-09-13T03:30:28.866+01:00TravestyI so wish I had been there ... sitting in a hotel room listening to that game was not good. Even the commentators were reporting on how bad the set of officials were ... 2 disallowed goals, one dead-cert penalty refused, and 3 yellows. It sounded like he had no control and was incredibly biased ... as were the linesmen.<br /><br />But ... we drew ... and we are still top ... and under the circumstances in which the game was played, i.e. rubbish officials, dirty opposition, and the Pards factor, we came out with a creditable draw.<br /><br />Last season, and the one before, we would have folded in a game like this ... the team has an inner strength that has not been there before.<br /><br />And Parky ... must have been a good half-time talk ... AND he refused to shake Pardew's hand at the end ... good for him!<br /><br />The atmosphere on Charlton Life was red-hot so god knows what it was like at the Valley!<br /><br />I'm glad this game is over ... there were too many underlying feelings for this to be a normal game ... and I am sure it permeated throughout the ground and got to the players as well ... so well done to all of them for keeping us top.<br /><br />And perversely it may not be a bad thing to have dropped a couple of points ... undue pressure grows when trying to keep up a winning run ... and they know they could have won.<br /><br />Well, it's past midnight here so will check some email and get to bed.<br /><br />Oh, and before I forget, if any of you get over to Hong Kong check into the Grand Hyatt and ask for a room overlooking the harbour ... I have a panoramic view of the harbour, Kowloon, and Victoria Peak ... incredible backdrop for my Charlton 'viewing' today.<br /><br />Come on you reds! I'm proud of you!!!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-29808775223076395712009-09-09T11:55:00.003+01:002009-09-09T12:11:53.935+01:00Supporters Trust UpdateThe 2nd meeting will be held next week on 15th September starting at 7.30 pm, venue is the Conservative Club in Charlton Church Lane.<br /><br />I am still not convinced of the validity of this but have an open mind so look forward to hearing the results.<br /><br />Unfortunately I will not be able to attend as I will be in Hong Kong, leaving tomorrow afternoon and not getting back until 19th. It's a great pity as it is always best to hear these things first-hand, so I encourage as many of you as possible to attend and subsequently feed back reports on the various blogs, Charlton Life, etc., to those of us who could not attend.<br /><br />It is extremely important that we get this decision right as it could have potental implications for years to come.<br /><br />..........................................<br /><br />Hopefully my wireless network will work in my hotel in Hong Kong on Saturday night and I can listen to the Saints game on CAFC Player.<br /><br />Logic tells me there is no way we should lose this game but, increasingly, it looks like a potential banana skin the closer we get to it ... that's the trouble with the last few years, it's hard to believe we can actually keep winning!<br /><br />But ultimately both head and heart say we will win, so I'm going for 3-1 to us ... Shelvey to score the first and show us his golf-swing celebration, Burton the second, and Llera with a magnificent headed goal from a corner, Lambert to respond for the Saints at 2-0.<br /><br />I also miss the Norwich game as I only get back that day ... bloody annoying as it is always one of my favourite awaydays. Looks like we will have good support there, and perhaps we can win this time ... my last trip to Carrow Road was on St Georges Day a couple of years ago ... brilliant day out only let down by the team!<br /><br />Come on you Reds!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-54131916701872386802009-09-05T15:21:00.005+01:002009-09-05T15:45:04.142+01:00Six out of six!Well would you believe it! Not the fact that we have won six on the trot but the fact that a team came to the Valley to attack and win.<br /><br />Kudos to Brentford ... they wanted it as much as us and were in our half more in the first half than any other team so far ... and they are not a bad team for this level ... the best we have faced so far.<br /><br />So it was a good test with so many tough games coming up.<br /><br />Whenever the ball was in the air we seemed to be playing their game plan but once it got on the floor, it was again a total Charlton passing game ... perhaps best exemplified by the 2nd great goal.<br /><br />At times our passing was sublime ... and we haven't had much chance to see that for some time!<br /><br />So, six out of six, with plus 12 goal difference and only three conceded ... and I am enjoying every minute!<br /><br />Further good news this morning as Jonjo signed a one-year extension to his contract ... he is now with us (potentially) until 2012 ... good stuff Jonjo!<br /><br />As to player ratings, it was another excellent team display:<br /><br />Elliott - not that much to do but made a superb instinct save in the 2nd half at a crucial time.<br /><br />Richardson - good game again, made some superb crosses from one wing to the other and excellent passes up the line, building a good relationship with Sam.<br /><br />Youga - probably his best game this season, very impressive and strong at times.<br /><br />Dailly - very pleased he plays for us, his experience shows through.<br /><br />Llera - can see him becoming a Charlton legend if he keeps this up and stays long enough. Excellent long-ball passing ability.<br /><br />Sam - going from strength to strength since substituted and Wagstaff scored at the Valley. If he had played all 90 minutes, would have been my man of the match. Fantastic goal after one of the best passing movements of the game.<br /><br />Semedo - wonderful display controlling the midfield, good in attacking and defensive moves. My man of the match.<br /><br />Racon - committed and confident. Important factor in creating what may be the best, or close to the best, midfield outside the Premiership.<br /><br />Shelvey - never stopped running and determined to score today. Unfortunately did not happen but the next goal is coming soon.<br /><br />Bailey - yet again a terrific display, we all knew how important it was that we kept him. Might well be the most important factor in our push for promotion.<br /><br />Burton - I like him better and better each week. Contributes a lot to the team and general gameplay, and got the goal he deserved.<br /><br />Wagstaff - confident and full of running.<br /><br />McLeod - looked good and unfortunate not to have been given a goal.<br /><br />Parkinson - got it right again!<br /><br /><br />So ... on to Pardew next week ... so annoying that I will be in Hong Kong but will ensure that I listen to CAFC Player. Those of you that are going ... make sure you give Pardew plenty of stick ... he may be getting it from the Saints fans too!<br /><br />Oh ... and we got Barnet in the cup ... who knocked out the Spanners in the last round.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-63556026514536681642009-08-29T14:50:00.006+01:002009-08-29T17:04:21.683+01:00Tranmere ... blow by blow14.45: switched on CAFC Player, looking forward to a good, and perhaps historic, game. Five wins in a row at the start of the season ... whichever way you look at it, it seems to be an unlikely proposition for Charlton. And yet ... it actually is possible!<br /><br />Team: Elliot; Richardson, Youga, Dailly, Llera; Sam, Semedo, Racon, Shelvey, Bailey; BurtonSubs: Randolph, Solly, Basey, Spring, Wagstaff, Tuna, McLeod<br /><br />14.55: 40+ members logged-in to Charlton Life with 30 or so guests.<br /><br />14.56: Can hear Oasis playing in the background at Tranmere – why play those tw@ts after their disgraceful behaviour towards fans this weekend.<br /><br />14.59: crowd of approx. 5,500 expected today.<br /><br />15.00: c’mon you reds! ... or blue and black stripes ... commentator mentions it is the smartest away kit in League One.<br /><br />15.01: game started! Valley Floyd Road .......<br /><br />15.03: Charlton fans quite loud, haven’t heard Tranmere yet.<br /><br />15.05: Youga booked.<br /><br />15.07: most possession with Charlton at the moment.<br /><br />15.09: excellent shot by Jonjo met by great save from Tranmere goalie, but looks like it would have been off-side anyway.<br /><br />15.13: first real opportunity, Dailly header just wide!<br /><br />15.14: ooooh, Burton edge of penalty area, just over the top. Stats: 2 shots on target, 1 shot off-target, Tranmere none.<br /><br />15.16: Charlton Life, 60 members on-line plus 40 guests.<br /><br />15.21: according to stats on CAFC Player, Tranmere have had 51% of possession ... not from what I have heard in the commentary ... more like 60% Charlton!<br /><br />15.25: Great headed goal by Sam.<br /><br />15.27: Semedo, what a run ... and a brilliant goal, well done Jose!!! I am so pleased that he scored; I have rated him highly for a long time.<br /><br />15.30: 4 shots on target, 1 off-target, none for Tranmere.<br /><br />15.36: 55% possession, 5 shots on target, 2 off-target, still no Tranmere.<br /><br /><br />15.40: Charlton Life; 74 members and 44 guests ... getting more and more popular as the game goes on!<br /><br />15.42: Bailey cross, just behind Racon, pity, could have been another.<br /><br />15.45: Charlton have totally bossed this game from start to finish according to commentator.<br /><br />15.46: Tranmere finally have their first real chance on goal, but saved easily by Elliott.<br /><br />15.49: half-time, well done Charlton, lots of boos from the home crowd.<br /><br />16.05: 2nd half starts.<br /><br />16.09: Lloyd Sam, another header, great goal!<br /><br />16.10: commentator, ‘game is as good as over’.<br /><br />16.15: 61% possession, 7 shots on target, 2 off-target, versus Tranmere stats of 2 and 1.<br /><br />16.16: away fans very loud, stand up if you love Charlton!<br /><br />16.20: Kevin Lisbie equalises for Colchester against Leeds, brilliant.<br /><br />16.22: Charlton Life 81 members and 44 guests<br /><br />16.28: Nicky Bailey, 4th goal, wonderful.<br /><br />16.29: the best start to our season of all time is going to happen!<br /><br />16.36: Semedo off, Spring on ... well done Jose.<br /><br />16.38: Tranmere opportunity, over the bar.<br /><br />16.43: Tuna on for Jonjo.<br /><br />16.46: 59% possession, 8 shots on target, 3 off-target, Tranmere 3 and 2. Fairly comprehensive.<br /><br />16.51: 3 minutes added time.<br /><br />16.53: yessssssssssssss, full-time, 4-0, a new record start to the season, bloody amazing!!!<br /><br />Come on Charlton, what a great season.<br /><br />I am so looking foward to the Brentford game next week.<br /><br />And on the Pardew-watch ... Saints drew ... only 22 points ahead of them ;-)StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-12012880186338409102009-08-22T17:52:00.003+01:002009-08-22T18:22:24.880+01:004 out of 4When did that last happen, winning first 4 games of the season? Will check it out later but for the moment I am relishing being TOP OF THE LEAGUE!<br /><br />Once again, we played a team that is not at our level, and to be honest we were not as convincing as we should have been ... but the fact is that you still have to win the games ... and we did.<br /><br />Just listened to the Parky interview on Radio London ... I am definitely warming to him ... again an honest and open interview ... and let's not forget the inspired substitution.<br /><br />He is aware that we did not have the greatest of performances but puts that down to a run of early games in a short time ... not getting involved in the 'takeover' but emphasises that squad is weak in depth but we will do our best to get through it if nothing materialises before the end of the transfer window.<br /><br />Followed by an interview with Robbie Elliott, totally overjoyed that the team he supports is top and that he is playing for us and kept a clean sheet.<br /><br />Great attendance figures again, especially as Walsall away support was so woeful.<br /><br />Overall we know we can do better, and there are times when despite being so much on top, the team gets nervous ... and yet at other times our passing game is superb and other teams cannot touch us.<br /><br />Elliot - No real problems, competent display.<br />Richardson - I like Richardson and he pulled out the stops again but I have concern with his clearances and passes which never seem at all targeted.<br />Youga - got stuck in, had some good moments, but I am still unsure about him.<br />Dailly - not sure if he can last a season and play every game but I certainly hope so. Valuable experienced player.<br />Llera - in the end I awarded him my man of the match over Burton. Well taken goal, excellent defending, totally determined to stop anything getting through, and a powerful presence for our corners.<br />Sam - some good crosses once again, and some speedy runs, but made sense for him to be subbed.<br />Semedo - always have been a great fan of Semedo and that definitely has not changed, very important part of our team, and often undervalued.<br />Racon - another excellent game contributing so much.<br />Shelvey - runs his socks off, he's everywhere and massively determined to win every game.<br />Bailey - excellent captain's performance ... again!<br />Burton - could easily have given him man of the match, he gets better every game in overall contribution, only thing missing was the ball in the net.<br />Wagstaff - totally full of confidence, converted a great goal that may not have happened if Lloyd were still on the pitch. Nice to know we have him in reserve.<br /><br />Ohh, and Palaaarse lost, the Spanners only drew last night ... and we are 20 points above pardew :-)StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-39119393217587464422009-08-19T06:21:00.001+01:002009-08-19T06:31:32.621+01:00The joy of textI am so jealous of those who were able to go last night ... it's just not the same receiving text messages whilst having dinner in Frankfurt!<br /><br />But the excitement still managed to get down the mobile network as an abridged version of the texts shows below:<br /><br />Son: They scored :-)<br />Me: Crap!<br />Son: SHEELVEY YES<br />Me: Yesss, jonjooooo!<br />Son: BURTOOON, 2-1<br />Me: Brilliant!<br />Son: We won!!!<br />Me:Yesss, I cannot wait until saturday, what a season already!<br />Wife: Yessss. Also Welling won 3-2, but Ambrose scored 2 for Palace and they won, sh*t!<br />Me: Marvellissimo!<br />Son: Burton motm, Racon close second. Dailly also quality.<br />Me: I love this division, my 3rd time in div 3 and there are always good moments.<br />Me: Burton may possibly be special at this level, but we need a bigger squad to be sure.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-8484212708139011152009-08-16T09:52:00.007+01:002009-08-16T10:41:14.597+01:00Oh what fun it is to see ...Didn't make it up there and all credit to those who went ... they got what they deserved.<br /><br />I followed the game on CAFC <a href="http://www.cafctv.co.uk/page/player/Home"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Player</span> </a>- worked very well although I lost commentary for the first few minutes of 2nd half and had to log in again. Overall it is worth having.<br /><br />And it is great to also contribute to the match threads on <a href="http://www.charltonlife.com/forum/"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Charlton Life</span></a> ... often get a very different perspective with the comments made ... some by people actually at the game.<br /><br />Sounded like we were scarcely troubled in the first half and I must admit that my mind returned to Wycombe when we became too casual and let them back in the game. Thankfully that did not happen at Hartlepool, either because we did not relax so much, or Hartlepool are a weaker team.<br /><br />Based on the radio commentary, our key players were Jonjo (mentioned as a pivotal influence), Bailey, Burton, and Elliott late in the 2nd half (again) ... but to be fair, none of the team sounded too bad ... possibly Youga receiving a few negative comments.<br /><br />The "Two Little Boys" anthem before the game was very surreal but the crowd obviously enjoy it.<br /><br />So on to Brisbane Road (or whatever it's called these days) on Tuesday ... with almost 2,800 tickets having gone by Saturday night, it looks like a 3,000 sell-out ... and I won't be there!!!<br /><br />I have to go back to Germany tomorrow and won't be back until Wednesday night ... bloody work! At least my son will make it ... and it is his first trip to Orient.<br /><br />To those who are going, make a lot of noise and back the Addicks ... I know it is far too early to tell, but this has the makings of a exciting season.<br /><br />... and regarding the takeover ... what takeover?<br /><br /><br />Good review from <a href="http://drinkingduringthegame.blogspot.com/2009/08/hartlepool-unite-0-v-charlton-athletic.html"><span style="color:#ff0000;">one</span> </a>(Drinking during the Game) who was there. Also <a href="http://www.doctorkish.com/cgi-bin/clinic/display.pl?month=200908&date=20090815&time=2243"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Dr K</span></a>ish and <a href="http://charlton.blogspot.com/2009_08_01_archive.html#1501076257641863583"><span style="color:#ff0000;">Inspector Sands</span></a>.StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-856872386813784487.post-62328944315674357482009-08-08T18:20:00.005+01:002009-08-08T18:39:40.113+01:00Almost a nightmareAaaaargh, just wrote a review and the PC died on me and lost the lot ... try again!<br /><br />Well, we almost threw it away again ... a game which we completely dominated until the last 15 minutes or so ... a game in which we should have been at least two clear at the end of the first half ... and at least three clear by the end based on possession ... yet we became too complacent and casual allowing Wycombe back and giving them the confidence to actually think they could get a result in a game that was never going their way.<br /><br />But ... and it's a big but ... we won! And on the track record of the last couple of years, that has to be seen as a plus.<br /><br />My reviews:<br />Paul Elliott - not bothered much in the first half, made some poor choices in the 2nd half but salvaged everything with a brilliant save.<br />Frazer Richardson - fairly confident display, looks like we may have a good signing here.<br />Kelly Youga - forced into a few errors, not his best display, but also made some very good tackles and clearances.<br />Nicky Bailey - excellent game, fully deserved goal, and an ideal passionate captain.<br />Miguel Llera - looked good in the first half, took a good goal, and then let himself down with a poor performance late on - looks very nervous under pressure especially with through balls.<br />Jose Semedo - fairly good performance, we will see a lot better this season.<br />Jonjo Shelvey - lots of passion, good corners, wanted even more of the ball and got a little frustrated.<br />Therry Racon - fairly quiet, but nothing to complain about.<br />Deon Burton - reasonable, but we should be expecting more from him.<br />Lloyd Sam - excellent crossing, good runs, my man of the match.<br />Christian Dailly - brings some much needed experience, well taken goal, could be invaluable later in the season if he lasts out.<br /><br />Subs:<br />Andy Gray - should have scored, disappointing.<br />Izale McLeod - spirited, but little end result.<br /><br />Crowd were good and the Covered End sounded loud from my new seat at the back of the East Stand - good attendance figure.<br />The ref had virtually nothing to do in the first half, yet played like a park ref in the 2nd half - totally rubbish ... Wycombe player takes a free kick and passes to himself? ... Bailey booked for what? Was the ref actually replaced - radio after the game seemed to think so?<br /><br />Anyway, we won ... that's all that matters ... we will face tougher opposition but of the 3 clubs that came down, we had the best start! Onwards and ... hopefully ... upwards!StoneMusehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03427052519724042523noreply@blogger.com2