Cod Almighty | Diary

Don’t give up, great things take time

17 January 2023

Trentside Diary writes: Well that was the opposite of a jolly Saturday wasn't it? I was one of the lucky ones, listening at home having not made the trek down south. Respect to those who did and bigger respect if you stayed to the bitter end. I admit we wimped out and took the dog for a walk when we went three-nil down, managing not to take my frustration out on him, tempting as it might have been.

We came back to the expected meltdown on social media. I won't rehash what Miss Guest Diary wrote yesterday other than to say I agree wholeheartedly. There were a few who managed to have respectful discussions but there are always some who descend into abuse and vitriol towards players, manager, owners and other fans. Happy-clapper? No, I just think there is no excuse for abusing other human beings doing their job, however poor at it you might think they are. Perhaps we don't deserve nice things.

Unfortunately you will have to put your moans at the Fans' Forum on hold as it's been put back whilst the club focus on the FA Cup game that weekend. It will now take place on Thursday 9th February. I'm pleased that it will be broadcast on Mariners TV as we can still follow it without having to make the journey over.

You only have to look down the A180 to see how quickly a once apparently successful club can fall in just about every way imaginable: leagues, finance, potential. Often due to financial shenanigans of owners who like the "prestige" of owning a football club. You have to wonder how flimsy the ownership tests must be and why controls are so lightweight that clubs are able to go from a reasonably sound footing to close to folding in such a relatively short time.

It's definitely time for some serious regulation to reduce the chances of this happening. Whilst businesses fold all the time, a football club is more than any old company. The Football League has reported the lasting impact that clubs have on their communities. Pity they don't put more effort into making sure they are well run. We're lucky to have owners that believe in and are committed to club being a force for good locally.

Jordan Maguire-Drew, thank you. That goal in the play-off final will live with Town fans forever. This season maybe hasn't progressed as we would have all hoped but what a memory. Looks like he will be signing for Yeovil if they manage to agree terms. Good luck for the future, other than against Town obviously.

Tonight we will find out who our FA Cup fourth round opposition will be; Wigan Athletic or Luton Town. Travel and football wise Wigan would probably be the best result for Town but either should be a good day out. UTM!