Cod Almighty | Diary

Diary - Monday 19 July 2004

19 July 2004

Well I told you on Friday that Town needed a 'keeper, and by mid-afternoon we had one. It seems that Russell Slade took a deep breath, imagined his new signing performing every match the way Neville Southall eulogised about him, rather than 'flapping like Clara Bow' as Tony Butcher saw him at Brigg last week, and did it. Of course, there is just the faintest of chances that it wasn't Williams between the sticks in that match, but the other trialist, but don't bank on it, gentle reader. I'll be relieved when I've seen Williams come out decisively and catch a few crosses, to be honest; but apparently he's the best we can afford, he is Welsh, and we've got him. Speaking on Humberside Slade said (and I paraphrase): "Slade was attracted by his experience of promotion and two play-offs with Hartlepool. Slade sought also the opinions of respected goalkeeping coaches Alan Kelly and Mark Prudoe, who spoke favourably of Williams." So another position on the team-sheet filled, for better, for worse, until end of season do us part.

A kickabout of trialists were reportedly released back in to the community over the weekend. Still held in custody, the Official Site tells us, are at least Garrocho, Gaughan, Marcelle and Watson. Still no news on the striker signing situation though, as the mystery man continues to list mulling options as his favourite hobby in the footballing who's who. Meantime the club ponders whether they need to order some XXL sized shirts, and how they could possibly fit both Crane and any of the man-mountains who graced the pitch at the Hawthorns in to the same post-match bath.

Ronnie Bull, is the subject of a friendly email to the diary from Brentford fan, Mike Rice: "Just thought I'd point out that Ronnie Bull played left-back for Brentford against you at the end of last season in your 1-0 win. Haven't seen that nugget of information on the Grimsby sites. He was on loan from Millwall, but manager Martin Allen decided not to offer him a contract. He looked effective for us at this level at full-back under MA; not sure about wing-back in a 3-4-3 formation though. Bottom-line, however, is that Rankin for Bull seems like a better bargain for Brentford. Good luck for the season." Ah, if only Isaiaiaih had had relatives in the area, like Ronnie apparently has. That may have just swung it for us. I'd give my best conker up to have Rankin back for the upcoming season. It's a hundred and oner at least. See yer.