Buckley sacking - Cod Almighty's official statement

Cod Almighty | Article

by Tony Rogers

15 September 2008

This is an act of utter cowardice by the chairman, Councillor John Fenty, pandering to the loudest voices of discontent and the dwindling attendances. The timing is ridiculous - only six games into the season and after the transfer window closed. He didn't even wait for other clubs, in higher divisions, to sack managers and so have a larger pool to dip into.

Town have played poorly just twice this season - Brentford and Chesterfield in the league - and have been plagued in the last two games by some ill fortune and wonder strikes. No-one disagreed with the rebuilding of last season's flimsy defence. Three new players arrived, two of which have been absent for most of the season. The only times when the first-choice (new) defence were available were the creditable draw against Rochdale and impressive victory over Tranmere.

The performances were improving and Alan Buckley's teams always start slowly then suddenly click. There was space this season for the indulgence of patience, and the holding of nerve.  Only six games gone and we were 'only' 16 points above relegation - it's simply a question of perspective. Unfortunately when it comes to Alan Buckley a lot of Grimbarians don't think the glass is half empty, or full, but see no glass at all.

Our strong suspicion is that the chairman will look towards Steve Cotterill, who has previously been sought out for one of our many managerial vacancies this decade. If so, stand by for Sladeian dullness.

This is a terribly sad way for a highly successful association with Grimsby Town to end, much like when Paul Groves' management was terminated. Those two, more than any others in the last twenty years, epitomise the best of Grimsby Town Football Club. They both left without dignity, which reflects badly upon the club, and its supporters.

One warning - you don't know what you've got 'til it's gone. This was the lesson we learned last time Buckley was sacked in 2000. Hopefully we won't have to be relegated twice again to relearn that lesson.