The 92 club: You’ve got to be able to do better than that!

[binny]

Thanks northlondonBoro and -Xenon-, glad you're enjoying it

104. The Lamb Ground, Tamworth (Attendance: 1744)

16 February 2005 – English Conference National: Tamworth vs Scarborough

Tamworth is most famous for two pigs that escaped the slaughterhouse, but over the last few years their football side has slowly improved, and they are now an established Conference National side. They currently lie just outside the playoff places, and with a few good results, they might just sneak in. Scarborough are a few places below, and look set for a season of mid-table mediocrity.

I had expected the home side to take the game to their visitors, but it was Scarborough who made the early running and had the better chances in the early part of the game. With twenty-one minutes gone Paul Rodden scored past an unsighted Tamworth goalkeeper to put Scarborough into the lead. It wasn’t what Ryan Price, the Tamworth keeper, wanted on his 500th career league appearance.

Tamworth did push forward after going behind, but they couldn’t get anything on target. That changed in first half injury time when a long punt forward rebounded off the crossbar, and Tristram Whitman tapped in to equalise with his tenth strike of the season.

Tamworth now had the wind in their sails, and they pushed Scarborough back into their half. Midway through the second half young Chris Swift got in to put Tamworth into the lead with his debut goal, and five minutes later Swift scored his second of the evening with a lovely free kick that had the Scarborough keeper rooted to his spot.

There wasn’t much action after that as Tamworth closed out the game, and their playoff hopes are still alive.

Games watched: 104

Total mileage: 29729

Total number of goals witnessed: 314 [+27] (3.02 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.24 per game)

[binny]

105. Ewood Park, Blackburn (Attendance: 29556)

19 February 2005 – English FA Cup, Fifth Round: Blackburn vs Arsenal

Blackburn have not been having the best of season’s in the Premiership, but such is the effect of the FA Cup that they’ll still expect to give leaders Arsenal a tough time. From a personal point of view, I hope that they don’t.

The Gunners showed their intent from the start, and within the first minute they had already missed a chance. But up the other end went Blackburn, and with less than three minutes on the clock Francisco Javier De Pedro put the home side ahead with a free kick from 25 yards out that was deflected on it’s way to goal.

Arsenal didn’t lie down though, and they continued to push forward, and now with more urgency. There were a few chances for the league leaders, and after being behind for sixteen minutes, Dennis Bergkamp fired into the far corner to equalise with just his fifth goal of the season.

Arsenal were in the ascendancy for the remainder of the first half without ever really threatening, but it was still a good cup-tie up to half time. The quality of the football diminished after half time, and both sides had one or two chances to win it.

Neither could take the chances that came their way though, and the two sides will replay in a week and a half.

Games watched: 105

Total mileage: 30123

Total number of goals witnessed: 316 [+27] (3.01 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.24 per game)

[binny]

106. Borough Sports Ground, Sutton (Attendance: 435)

22 February 2005 – English Conference South: Sutton United vs Hayes

I’m starting to understand why the Conference North sides includes sides from as far south as Birmingham, as there are so many clubs from the London area and the South Coast in the Conference South. This is another London derby, with South London hosting West London. Both sides are a few places above the relegation zone, and the points today will do both sides the world of good.

Sutton started very well, and put Hayes under pressure right from the start. Six minutes into the game right-back Nixon Ajoge struck a 30-yard free kick into the net, with the Hayes goalkeeper rooted to his spot. Hayes were unable to get out of their half in the first half as Sutton continued to push forward. The Hayes goalkeeper was rarely troubled though, although it must be said that Sutton game very close.

Just before the break Andrew Martin doubled the lead for Sutton, and things continued in the same vein in the second half. A lovely header from Stuart Booth on the hour scored a third goal for Sutton and it was no less than they deserved.

Hayes just didn’t know how to reply to the Sutton onslaught, and as the game ground to a close Sutton took it easy, and settled for a very comfortable 3-0 win that gave them a bit of breathing space above the relegation zone.

Games watched: 106

Total mileage: 30171

Total number of goals witnessed: 319 [+27] (3.01 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.24 per game)

[binny]

107. Anfield, Liverpool (Attendance: 45332)

23 February 2005 – European Champions Cup, Knockout Round, First Leg: Liverpool vs Inter (Italy)

It’s still only February, and already we’re back in European action. Liverpool are the only side who qualified for Europe last whom I haven’t seen at home, but they’re up against a very good side in Inter. And just to prove how good they are, they, along with Barcelona, knocked the moneybags of Chelsea out of the Champions Cup in the group stages.

Inter set their stall out in typically Italian fashion; soaking up the pressure and breaking with pace whenever possible. Liverpool created a few early opportunities, but they didn’t really test Francesco Toldo. On the other hand, Inter had relatively few chances, but Chris Kirkland was called into action twice to deny Adriano before Obafemi Martins scored with a 30-yard swerving strike after just seventeen minutes.

Liverpool were still in control of the game, but Inter were happy to let them come onto them. Liverpool’s finishing though let them down, and Toldo was still not called into action.

The second half saw more of the same. But as the game progressed and Liverpool pushed forward, so Inter were able to break with increasing frequency and cause problems for their hosts. The speed of Adriano was particularly troubling for the Liverpool back line, and with four minutes to go the Brazilian superkid doubled the lead for the Italians.

Liverpool should have probably tried to limit the damage for the last few minutes, but they didn’t and left themselves open at the back again. In injury time Adriano grabbed his second of the night, and Christian Vieri had the ball in the net for a fourth, only for it to be ruled out for offside.

Liverpool will rue their missed opportunities, and I really can’t see Inter conceding three in Milan.

Games watched: 107

Total mileage: 30551

Total number of goals witnessed: 322 [+27] (3.01 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.23 per game)

[Tyrone the Magazine]

Great stuff

[binny]

Thanks Tyrone

108. Christie Park, Morecambe (Attendance: 1099)

26 February 2005 – English FA Trophy, Fifth Round: Morecambe vs Accrington Stanley

Morecambe are chasing hard for a playoff place in the Conference National, and I suppose that Accrington will also think that they have an outside chance of making the top five come the end of the season. But that race is suspended for today’s game as both sides look to make the last eight of the FA Trophy.

The Shrimps made a decent start, and put Stanley under the cosh right from the start. Clear-cut chances though were at a premium, and Accrington slowly started to get into the game. Morecambe though still had the upper hand, and four minutes before half time Mark Thomson shot through a crowded box to put the home side ahead at the break.

And in the first minute of the second half Morecambe attacked, and Sean O’Connor doubled the lead. That seemed to knock the stuffing out of Accrington, and five minutes later O’Connor grabbed his second of the afternoon with his 15th strike of the season.

Accrington didn’t have a response, although in the last ten minutes or so they should have pulled a goal back to make things interesting. But the Morecambe keeper kept the effort out, and The Shrimps move through to the last eight of the competition.

Games watched: 108

Total mileage: 31007

Total number of goals witnessed: 325 [+27] (3.01 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

Summary – February 2005

Days: 28

Grounds visited: 13

3 at English Premiership

1 at English Championship

1 at English League One

1 at English League Two

4 at English Conference National

1 at English Conference South

1 at Scottish Premier League

1 at Scottish First Division

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 122865 (40955 per game)

English Championship: 35614 (35614 per game)

English League One: 5375 (5375 per game)

English League Two: 3729 (3729 per game)

English Conference National: 8267 (2067 per game)

English Conference South: 435 (435 per game)

Scottish Premier League: 10424 (10424 per game)

Scottish First Division: 13053 (13053 per game)

Overall record so far

Days: 213

Grounds visited: 108

16 at English Premiership

11 at English Championship

10 at English League One

11 at English League Two

8 at English Conference National

12 at English Conference North

12 at English Conference South

11 at Scottish Premier League

5 at Scottish First Division

5 at Scottish Second Division

7 at Scottish Third Division

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 556107 (34757 per game)

English Championship: 228278 (20753 per game)

English League One: 109236 (10924 per game)

English League Two: 54767 (4979 per game)

English Conference National: 16115 (2014 per game)

English Conference North: 4987 (416 per game)

English Conference South: 14228 (1186 per game)

Scottish Premier League: 208417 (18947 per game)

Scottish First Division: 24106 (4821 per game)

Scottish Second Division: 7267 (1453 per game)

Scottish Third Division: 8036 (1148 per game)

[binny]

109. St. George’s Lane, Worcester (Attendance: 1699)

2 March 2005 – English FA Trophy, Fifth Round Replay: Worcester vs Carlisle

Having held Conference National leaders to a 2-2 draw at the weekend, Worcester, still in the hunt for a Conference North playoff place, have a second bite at the cherry tonight, and I’m here to see how they get on.

I’ve said it before, and I still stand by it – that the higher division side will always be fancied in the replay, and they will invariably progress. And Carlisle set out to do that. They had the more frequent and better chances of the first half, but Worcester were by no means under pressure for the entire 45 minutes; and they had a number of chances for themselves. It was an exciting and attacking game of football, but the game lacked that crucial quality – a goal.

The second half started off in similar fashion, and the first fifteen minutes saw chances go begging at both ends. But there was still no score, and with all the effort from both sides going into the first hour of the match, the last thirty minutes saw both sides ease up; eager not to lose it without enough time to reply.

Come the ninety minutes it was still goalless, and so an extra thirty minutes was commissioned to see if we could get a winner. Carlisle put in a burst in the first period, and three minutes before the swap-over, Nigerian international defender Efe Sodje found himself in loads of space in the box following a free kick, and with Worcester have a rare lapse of concentration, he walloped the ball into an empty net.

Worcester did try gallantly in the second extra period, but their fitness was hampering their effort, and come the final whistle, Carlisle were just relieved to have overcome a very slippery banana skin that they very nearly fell over from.

Games watched: 109

Total mileage: 31231

Total number of goals witnessed: 326 [+27] (2.99 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

110. Broadfield Stadium, Crawley (Attendance: 1418)

5 March 2005 – English Conference National: Crawley vs Woking

Crawley are only two places above the relegation zone at the bottom of the division, but they do have a little bit of a gap in terms of points. Woking are mid-table, and are unlikely to do anything of significance this season.

There was a chance at either end in the opening ten minutes, but then Crawley conceded a penalty and former Arsenal midfielder Ian Selley put Woking ahead from the penalty spot. Crawley did well to get back into the match, but they couldn’t really threaten the goal. At the other end Woking looked more dangerous, but they couldn’t add to their lead, and it was still one-nil at the break.

The early part of the second half was nothing to really shout home about, although Woking had their chances to double their lead. They eventually did so midway through the half when they caught Crawley on the break and Bas Savage got the final touch.

Crawley pulled one back through Matt Rees four minutes from time, but in injury time Chris Sharpling scored a third for the visitors to wrap up the points and do nothing for Crawley’s relegation worries.

Games watched: 110

Total mileage: 31277

Total number of goals witnessed: 330 [+27] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

111. Fratton Park, Portsmouth (Attendance: 20272)

6 March 2005 – English Premiership: Portsmouth vs Crystal Palace

Pompey are having a good season, and they will be hoping for a burst towards the end of the season to perhaps sneak a European spot. Palace’s concerns are far more immediate; they continue to struggle against the drop and need all of the points that they can get.

Portsmouth did just about everything in the first half – except for scoring. They had chance after chance, but more often than not they missed the target and Kiraly was hardly troubled. Palace threatened briefly, usually through the lively Nicola Ventola, but they were defending for the majority of the game.

Things continued in much the same vein as the second half got under way, but eight minutes into the period Crystal Palace conceded a penalty. It was no surprise to see David Unsworth step up to take the spot-kick, and as he normally does, smashed the ball in to put his side ahead.

Pompey’s forward moves continued, although, to their credit, Crystal Palace did make more of an effort as the game wore on to find an equaliser. With Portsmouth unable to make any of their other efforts count, Palace still had hope. But they also failed to make that final pass or shot, and Portsmouth will be relieved to have won despite missing so many chances.

Games watched: 111

Total mileage: 31427

Total number of goals witnessed: 331 [+27] (2.98 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

112. The County Ground, Swindon (Attendance: 15724)

8 March 2005 – English LDV Vans Trophy, Southern Section, Semi Final, Second Leg: Swindon vs Northampton

This tie is finely poised, with League Two side Northampton having won 3-1 against their League One opponents during the first leg. Swindon lined up with an attacking 4-3-3 formation, and it was clear that they needed to attack from the start.

And that’s what they did. Northampton were clearly expecting it, and they defended well, although Swindon were mostly guilty for missing chances that came their way in the early part of the game. The competition was now at the stage where both sides could envisage a great day out in the Final and a chance of silverware, so Swindon didn’t let up the pressure.

The breakthrough came just before the half hour mark when Swindon’s Brazilian captain Stefani Miglioranzi scored a screamer from 25 yards out, and suddenly the comeback was on. Northampton did have the odd chance on the break, but on the whole they were defending, and doing it well; keeping the score at one-nil come half time.

Swindon continued their crusade into the second half, and ten minutes in Rory Fallon doubled the lead for the home side. The goal levelled up the aggregate scores, but crucially, Swindon had the away goal that would see them through with this scoreline.

Northampton knew that, and they now had to change their tactics to try and get a goal back. But they found Swindon difficult to break down, and the game suffered as it moved through the second period.

Six minutes from time Brian Howard seemingly confirmed Swindon’s place in the Final with a third for the home side, but with three minutes left on the clock, Marc Richards ghosted through to pull a goal back for Northampton to level things up both on aggregate and away goals.

I was getting ready for an extra thirty minutes of football, but apparently the rules of the competition was that the tie was to go straight to penalties. The first six kicks were all flawless, but then Reeves missed for Northampton to give the home side the upper hand. The next two were put away, and Swindon could have won it through Heywood. His effort though was saved, and we were into sudden death. Northampton scored theirs, but Miglioranzi’s effort hit the bar to send the visitors through 5-4 on penalties to a Final against fellow League Two opponents Darlington.

Games watched: 112

Total mileage: 31513

Total number of goals witnessed: 335 [+36] (2.99 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

113. Wetherby Road, Harrogate (Attendance: 965)

9 March 2005 – English Conference North: Harrogate Town vs Runcorn

Harrogate have had a good season, and currently occupy a play-off place. They’ll have to go some to win the division and automatic promotion, and the same would have to be said of Runcorn and their bid to make the play-offs.

Harrogate started strongly, and put Runcorn under pressure right from the start. The pressure told fifteen minutes in when the visitors conceded a penalty, and Paul Shepherd had the home side ahead.

It was only a matter of time before Harrogate added a second, and it came after an excellent move ended with Ramon Calliste putting the ball into the net. Danny Howe added a third in first half injury time, and Runcorn looked a beaten side.

It was to get worse for the visitors early in the second half when Mark Bernard scored a free kick that deflected in off Calliste, and it was only because Harrogate couldn’t be bothered to get any more that Runcorn weren’t on the end of an even heavier beating.

Games watched: 113

Total mileage: 31904

Total number of goals witnessed: 339 [+36] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 25 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

114. Goodison Park, Liverpool (Attendance: 40224)

12 March 2005 – English FA Cup, Sixth Round: Everton vs Manchester City

We’re getting towards the interesting end of the FA Cup, and both Premiership sides will be hoping to take an extra step to a major piece of silverware. It should be a good game as both sides have some good attacking players.

Everton made a fast start, and that could have been predicted given that they were the home side. A bit of desperate defending though by City kept the efforts out, and slowly City started to make their own moves forward. The visitors were only able to get forward on the break in the early part of the match, and that’s how they took the lead. A quick break upfield saw the ball played across goal to Shaun Wright-Phillips, and the right-winger tapped the ball into an unguarded net.

Everton had to be sharper where it really counted, but they weren’t, although they did continue to make chances. They did though manage to get an equaliser on the stroke of half time, Leon Osman climbing to meet a corner kick with a header.

City managed to create more frequent chances in the second half, and on the whole, they were looking the more potent in front of goal. Everton did have their chances as well, but both sides were defending well. It was a good tie without ever threatening to find a winner, and five minutes from time Steve Watson was given his marching orders. Everton survived a tense last five minutes, and will take the tie to a reply in Manchester.

Games watched: 114

Total mileage: 32095

Total number of goals witnessed: 341 [+36] (2.99 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

115. Deepdale, Preston (Attendance: 13222)

13 March 2005 – English Championship: Preston vs West Ham

North End are struggling at the wrong end of the Championship, and are only just above the relegation zone. But with The Hammers, who include defender Malky Mackay for his 400th career league appearance, only a few places above them, Preston will have earmarked this game as one from which they must take points.

Despite what had seemed obvious to me, the Preston back line were completely asleep in the early minutes, and three minutes in Bobby Zamora had the visitors ahead. West Ham did look good during the rest of the first half as Preston found the going tough, but they did well at the back, and kept the score down to one-nil at half time.

Preston were much refreshed as the second half began, and eight minutes after the restart Paul McKenna equalised. And just three minutes later North End had turned the game around completely as Richard Creswell found the bottom corner.

West Ham fought back after that, and on 63 Zamora restored parity with his tenth strike of the season. Chances fell at both ends as the game wore on, but there was no further scoring, and it was a result that neither side could be particularly happy about in terms of their predicament.

Games watched: 115

Total mileage: 32326

Total number of goals witnessed: 345 [+36] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

116. The Abbey Stadium, Cambridge (Attendance: 2103)

16 March 2005 – English League Two: Cambridge United vs Darlington

Cambridge are only just above the relegation zone at the bottom of the Football League, although they do have a bit of a points cushion above the drop zone. They will though be hoping to get a decent result against a mid-table Darlington side.

The University town side started the game well, and put Darlington under pressure in the early stages. They couldn’t though find the finishing touches, and The Quakers started to show their menace on the break.

It was a good, exciting game that just lacked a goal, but Cambridge got as close to one as is possible when Darlington somehow scrambled an effort off the line as the first half drew to a close.

Darlington were looking more potent after the break, but it was still the home side who were taking the game to their opponents. But a lack of proficiency in front of goal kept the game goalless, until seventeen minutes from time when Darlington broke to take the lead through Alun Armstrong.

Cambridge rattled the bar in their bid to find an equaliser, but five minutes from time a terrible goalkeeping mistake allowed Armstrong in to put the game beyond Cambridge’s reach. And three minutes later Armstrong capitalised on another poor goalkeeping moment to wrap up his hatrick and the three points for Darlington.

Games watched: 116

Total mileage: 32444

Total number of goals witnessed: 348 [+36] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

116. The Abbey Stadium, Cambridge (Attendance: 2103)

16 March 2005 – English League Two: Cambridge United vs Darlington

Cambridge are only just above the relegation zone at the bottom of the Football League, although they do have a bit of a points cushion above the drop zone. They will though be hoping to get a decent result against a mid-table Darlington side.

The University town side started the game well, and put Darlington under pressure in the early stages. They couldn’t though find the finishing touches, and The Quakers started to show their menace on the break.

It was a good, exciting game that just lacked a goal, but Cambridge got as close to one as is possible when Darlington somehow scrambled an effort off the line as the first half drew to a close.

Darlington were looking more potent after the break, but it was still the home side who were taking the game to their opponents. But a lack of proficiency in front of goal kept the game goalless, until seventeen minutes from time when Darlington broke to take the lead through Alun Armstrong.

Cambridge rattled the bar in their bid to find an equaliser, but five minutes from time a terrible goalkeeping mistake allowed Armstrong in to put the game beyond Cambridge’s reach. And three minutes later Armstrong capitalised on another poor goalkeeping moment to wrap up his hatrick and the three points for Darlington.

Games watched: 116

Total mileage: 32444

Total number of goals witnessed: 348 [+36] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

117. The Dripping Pan, Lewes (Attendance: 758)

19 March 2005 – English FA Trophy, Sixth Round: Lewes vs Stevenage

Lewes are flying high in second place in the Conference South, but their opponents today, Stevenage, are second in the Conference National and pushing for a spot in the Football League. It promises to be a cracking game, with both sides full of confidence at the moment.

Stevenage looked determined not to be the victims of an upset, and they set out to put Lewes under pressure from the start. Lewes though defended well and restricted Stevenage to mostly long-range efforts that went high and wide. Lewes were also able to foray forward themselves, but their shooting was also way off-target.

It took a screamer to open the scoring, and it was Stevenage’s Anthony Elding who hit an unstoppable 25-yard effort into the net on 24 minutes to put the Conference National ahead. Eight minutes later Elding doubled the lead with a similar effort, and Stevenage appeared to be cruising.

But with five minutes to go before half time Lewes got back into the game through Marc Whiteman, and they were suddenly back into the game.

Chances came and went at both ends in a frantic second half, but both goalkeepers and sets of defences were playing out of their skins as Lewes kept themselves in the game, and Stevenage kept their slender lead. As the game wore on things got more desperate for the home side, but despite being unable to rescue a replay, they can hold their heads up high after running Stevenage very close.

Games watched: 117

Total mileage: 32572

Total number of goals witnessed: 351 [+36] (3.00 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[come on ye pars!]

I started reading this and noticed that you visited East End, Dunfermline's groung. But, we have never played that team you say Sileks(or something) and also the Dunfermline scorers at Tannadice are wrong for Dunfermline.

[hufctigers]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by come on ye pars!:

I started reading this and noticed that you visited East End, Dunfermline's groung. But, we have never played that team you say Sileks(or something) and also the Dunfermline scorers at Tannadice are wrong for Dunfermline. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think you may not have gripped the concept of this story

[come on ye pars!]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by hufctigers:

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by come on ye pars!:

I started reading this and noticed that you visited East End, Dunfermline's groung. But, we have never played that team you say Sileks(or something) and also the Dunfermline scorers at Tannadice are wrong for Dunfermline. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think you may not have gripped the concept of this story </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

What is the concept of this story then?

[Mike Rogerson]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by come on ye pars!:

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by hufctigers:

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by come on ye pars!:

I started reading this and noticed that you visited East End, Dunfermline's groung. But, we have never played that team you say Sileks(or something) and also the Dunfermline scorers at Tannadice are wrong for Dunfermline. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I think you may not have gripped the concept of this story </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

What is the concept of this story then? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Well, that it's based on a football game called Football Manager 2005 for a start. So the fact that Dunfermline have never played Sileks is a complete irrelevancy. That would also account for "the wrong scorers" being named for the Tannadice game. It's all fictional. The name of this forum is FM(ie Football Manager) Stories, which I'd have thought was pretty much as self-explanatory as things get, to be honest.

Just as an aside, this gets my vote for Best Thread. I love it. If I get any more excited I may well have to demand that binny has my babies. KUTGW

[binny]

Mike - I wasn't aware that two males could have babies together

118. Stonebridge Road, Northfleet (Attendance: 2059)

23 March 2005 – English Conference National: Gravesend vs Barnet

This is a crucial game for both sides, as a win would put either side in the playoff places at this crucial stage of the season. Fleet have the slight upper hand, but The Bees should provide some decent opposition.

Indeed, it was Barnet who came out of the blocks quickest, and they set about the Gravesend goal with intent. Chances though were not all that great, but Barnet were still looking likely. Seventeen minutes in Barnet were awarded a penalty, but Giuliano Grazioli sent his spot-kick straight at the goalkeeper, and Gravesend breathed a huge sigh of relief.

Gravesend were buoyed by their good fortune and started to push Barnet back and create their own chances. But they could do nothing about Grazioli’s 25-yard strike that put the visitors ahead after 28 minutes.

Things were much tighter after the break, and there was some desperate defending at both ends as both sides were desperate not to concede. Strikers were getting frustrated, but still forging chances, but in the end there were no further goals, and Barnet squeezed themselves into the playoff places.

Games watched: 118

Total mileage: 32642

Total number of goals witnessed: 352 [+36] (2.98 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

119. Boundary Park, Oldham (Attendance: 5533)

28 March 2005 – English League One: Oldham vs Walsall

This is a real relegation battle. Walsall currently occupy the last relegation spot, whilst Oldham are only just a few places above the drop zone. Both sides will be desperate for a win as a result.

Oldham had already hit the bar before Colin Heath swept the ball home after just five minutes as Oldham poured forward. Walsall did threaten occasionally on the break, but it was Oldham who were looking the more likely to add to their score.

With half an hour gone Rodney Jack did get a second for the home side, and on the stroke of half time Jack scored a third and Oldham were in total control.

With the result effectively confirmed, the second half was bound to disappoint, and the football suffered for the last forty-five minutes. Walsall did have a chance or two to pull a goal back, and Oldham had the occasional opportunity to further extend their lead. In the end though the second half was scoreless, and Oldham eased their relegation worries.

Games watched: 119

Total mileage: 33002

Total number of goals witnessed: 355 [+36] (2.98 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

Summary – March 2005

Days: 31

Grounds visited: 11

2 at English Premiership

1 at English Championship

2 at English League One

1 at English League Two

2 at English Conference National

2 at English Conference North

1 at English Conference South

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 60496 (30248 per game)

English Championship: 13222 (13222 per game)

English League One: 21257 (10629 per game)

English League Two: 2103 (2103 per game)

English Conference National: 3477 (1739 per game)

English Conference North: 2664 (1332 per game)

English Conference South: 758 (758 per game)

Overall record so far

Days: 244

Grounds visited: 119

18 at English Premiership

12 at English Championship

12 at English League One

12 at English League Two

10 at English Conference National

14 at English Conference North

13 at English Conference South

11 at Scottish Premier League

5 at Scottish First Division

5 at Scottish Second Division

7 at Scottish Third Division

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 616603 (34256 per game)

English Championship: 241500 (20125 per game)

English League One: 130493 (10874 per game)

English League Two: 56870 (4739 per game)

English Conference National: 19592 (1959 per game)

English Conference North: 7651 (547 per game)

English Conference South: 14986 (1153 per game)

Scottish Premier League: 208417 (18947 per game)

Scottish First Division: 24106 (4821 per game)

Scottish Second Division: 7267 (1453 per game)

Scottish Third Division: 8036 (1148 per game)

[binny]

120. The Northolme, Gainsborough (Attendance: 310)

2 April 2005 – English Conference North: Gainsborough vs Altrincham

Gainsborough have been struggling at the foot of the division all season, but they’ve picked up their form recently, and are given themselves a fighting chance of staying up. They’ll be hoping to get something out of today’s match as well against an Altrincham side without much to play for.

Trinity got just the start that they needed as Chris Timons fired in through a crowded box to give the home side the lead. Altrincham, without a lot to play for towards the end of the season, did try to get back into the game, and it was only some great defending, good goalkeeping and a lack of luck that failed to see them find an equaliser.

Gainsborough rode their luck as much as they could and attacked when they could to get a second. They were much more disciplined in the second half, but the game wasn’t quite as exciting as the game wore on. With eleven minutes to go Neil Allison got an important second with a free kick from just outside the box, and the points seemed to be going to Trinity.

Altrincham did get a goal back in injury time through Rod Thornley, but it was too little, too late.

Games watched: 120

Total mileage: 33148

Total number of goals witnessed: 358 [+36] (2.98 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

121. The Valley, London (Attendance: 27090)

3 April 2005 – English Premiership: Charlton vs Crystal Palace

There are very contrasting reasons for these two London rivals to win today. Charlton led the Premiership at one point this season and are still in the hunt for a Champions League place. Palace on the other hand are still struggling against relegation.

Before the season began, Charlton would not have been touted as potential Champions League challengers. But their teamwork and general play that was on show today showed just why there are up there.

The Addicks created chance after chance as Palace struggled to keep up with the flowing, attacking movement, but yet again Palace were kept in the game by their Hungarian goalkeeper Kiraly. Ten minutes before the break though Charlton were awarded a penalty, and specialist Danny Murphy made no mistake.

The Eagles did have the occasional chance in the second half, but on the whole, Charlton continued to dominate without getting a second goal. The result though never looked in doubt, and in injury time substitute Kevin Kisbie made sure with his tenth strike of the season.

Games watched: 121

Total mileage: 33333

Total number of goals witnessed: 360 [+36] (2.98 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 26 (0.21 per game)

[binny]

122. Reebok Stadium, Bolton (Attendance: 26742)

4 April 2005 – English Premiership: Bolton vs Southampton

Two mid-table sides will battle it out here tonight, and just looking at my list, it looks like this is my last Premiership ground (at least of this season) in my overall quest.

Bolton made all the running in the first half, and to be honest, The Saints hardly threatened at all. At the back though Southampton were solid, and in particular, Antti Niemi was in inspired in goal. But they were not helped when midfielder Paul Telfer saw red and was sent off with still ten minutes to play before half time.

Four minutes before the break though Southampton were finally broken down, and Stelios Giannokopoulos fired in to give Bolton the lead. The home side continued to dominate in the second half, and Southampton were still struggling to get any grip whatsoever on the game.

Bolton’s missed opportunities to wrap the game up kept The Saints in it, but the visitors were poor and Bolton deservedly took all the points.

Games watched: 122

Total mileage: 33713

Total number of goals witnessed: 361 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 27 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

123. The Galpharm Stadium, Huddersfield (Attendance: 5826)

6 April 2005 – English League One: Huddersfield vs Wrexham

This is one of the classic end of season relegation six-pointers, with both sides currently occupying a relegation spot at the foot of the division.

Wrexham had the first chance of the game, but after that it was Huddersfield all the way. The finishing was off the mark though, and the Welsh side were holding on. Ten minutes before the break though Jonathan Worthington headed in to give Huddersfield the lead, and five minutes later they had a great chance to get a second. Rob Edwards though sent his penalty straight at the goalkeeper, and it was still one-nil at the break.

Huddersfield continued to dominate after half time, but somehow they failed to convert chances and possession into further goals. On the hour the home side had Nat Brown sent off, and Wrexham started to use their numerical advantage to show some signs of finding an equaliser. Huddersfield still seemed to be in control though, but they paid for their profligacy in injury time when Alex Smith stole in to equalise and earn Wrexham a point.

Games watched: 123

Total mileage: 34065

Total number of goals witnessed: 363 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

124. Avenue Stadium, Dorchester (Attendance: 329)

9 April 2005 – English Conference South: Dorchester vs Weston-super-Mare

Dorchester are sitting comfortably in mid-table, but with the league season over at the end of April, a win is crucial for Weston-super-Mare who are just outside the playoff places going into the game.

The visitors got off to a great start, as David Gilroy had Weston-super-Mare ahead after just four minutes. The visitors looked likely to get a second as they took the game to Dorchester, and the home side were restricted to long-range efforts on the whole. Poor finishing at either end though kept the scores down, and there was still only one goal in it at half time.

Dorchester were much improved in the second half, and they set about with a clear intent to try and find an equaliser. They found the Weston-super-Mare defence in good form though, and struggled to get much on target. In injury time Weston-super-Mare hit the bar, but despite that unlucky moment, they held on to win the game and climb into the playoff places.

Games watched: 124

Total mileage: 34197

Total number of goals witnessed: 364 [+36] (2.94 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.23 per game)

[binny]

125. Turf Moor, Burnley (Attendance: 22582)

10 April 2005 – English Championship: Burnley vs Wigan

This threatens to be a boring end-of-season tie between two mid-table sides; neither of whom are in danger of relegation, and neither are going to make the playoffs either. There’s only pride left to play for, but I’m hoping that this local derby will see some good football being played.

Wigan started well and looked threatening in the only part of the game. Burnley didn’t seem to know how to break Wigan down, and I couldn’t see them scoring. But just before the half hour mark Neil Mellor picked up the ball and fired Burnley ahead with their first real effort.

The home side, with the goal behind them, now pushed forward, and Wigan were on the back foot. Seven minutes before the break Richard Chaplow headed in a second, and it was no more than Burnley deserved.

Things got even better at the start of the second half when Robbie Blake made it 3-0 within five minutes of the restart, but Gary Teale pulled a goal back for Wigan within two minutes.

Wigan though couldn’t use the goal to spur them on, and midway through the second half Blake bagged his second of the night to restore Burnley’s three-goal lead. Wigan did pull another goal back with ten minutes to play through Matt Jackson, but in injury time Blake wrapped up his hatrick with his 50th league goal for Burnley to wrap up a 5-2 victory for the home side.

Games watched: 125

Total mileage: 34652

Total number of goals witnessed: 371 [+36] (2.97 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

126. Bower Fold, Stalybridge (Attendance: 1201)

16 April 2005 – English Conference North: Stalybridge vs Runcorn

Stalybridge have probably just about done enough to survive the drop, but they will want the points here today to make it mathematically impossible for them to go down. Runcorn also need the points to keep up their outside chance of getting into the playoffs.

Stalybridge controlled the early part of the game without really creating much, and as the first half progressed Runcorn started to show what they were made of. The finishing though from both sides was woeful to say the least, although there was one shot on target in the first period, easily held by the Stalybridge keeper.

Three minutes into the second half Stalybridge were undone at the back as Leon Williams put the ball into an open net after the keeper hadn’t managed to hold onto a stinging effort. The game actually suffered as a result of the goal as Runcorn stifled the home side, and it appeared as if both sides were happy to finish the game as it was.

In injury time though Dwane Lee put the result beyond any possible doubt with a second for Runcorn on the break, and they may still be in with a chance of reaching the playoffs.

Games watched: 126

Total mileage: 35010

Total number of goals witnessed: 373 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

127. Sincil Bank, Lincoln (Attendance: 3359)

19 April 2005 – English League Two: Lincoln vs Bristol Rovers

Lincoln have had a terrible season, and have been condemned already to bottom spot and losing their League status for next season. All that is left to play for is pride, and they may be able to restore a little of it against a Bristol Rovers side who will finish in mid-table.

Lincoln clearly wanted to make up for their awful season, and set about attacking the visitors. Eight minutes in they took the lead as Ben Futcher glanced in a header from a free kick. Rovers hardly showed any intent to get back into the game, and midway through the second half on-loan Arsenal midfielder John Spicer doubled the lead for the home side.

Lincoln weren’t playing all that great, but to be honest, they didn’t have to. Six minutes before the break they were awarded a penalty, and Gary Taylor-Fletcher despatched the spot kick with ease to put the home side three-nil up at the break.

The second half descended into a bit of a bore. Rovers couldn’t really be bothered, Lincoln knew they had the game won, and it was no surprise that there were no further goals before the end of the match.

Games watched: 127

Total mileage: 35136

Total number of goals witnessed: 376 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

128. Fir Park, Motherwell (Attendance: 12068)

20 April 2005 – Scottish Premier League: Motherwell vs Dunfermline

I haven’t been to a game in Scotland for a while now, but this is actually my last SPL ground on my visits. Both sides will want to win, and for a similar reason; to ensure a top-six finish ahead of the split after the games at the weekend. Motherwell are just outside the top-six but can move into there with a win tonight, whilst Dunfermline are holding on in there just at the moment.

There was some good attacking football in the opening minutes of the game as chances fell to both sides. Sixteen minutes in ‘Well took the lead as Alex Burns slotted in, but other than that Motherwell’s finishing was a little off target, although they did hit the woodwork as they searched for a second. Dunfermline had fewer chances than their hosts during the game, but their finishing tended to be better, and Motherwell had to scramble a few efforts clear to maintain their lead.

The game continued in similar vein in the second half as Dunfermline pushed for an equaliser and Motherwell tried to get a second. The better play of Dunfermline eventually told with eighteen minutes to play when Thomas Butler finally cut the Motherwell defence apart, and the game ended level to leave Motherwell still just outside of the top-six.

Games watched: 128

Total mileage: 35775

Total number of goals witnessed: 378 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

129. Recreation Ground, Grays (Attendance: 315)

23 April 2005 – English Conference South: Grays vs Bishop’s Stortford

It’s the penultimate weekend of the Conference divisions this weekend, and both Grays and Bishop’s Stortford will be happy with their seasons; comfortably avoiding relegation and cementing their place in the division for next season. I’m hoping for a decent game today.

It didn’t turn out that way though. Both sides seemed to be going through the motions as the season ground towards an end, although I had been expecting some of the players to be playing for their futures. Bishop’s Stortford did create a few chances in an otherwise disappointing first half, and with half an hour gone Ricky Shakes put them ahead.

Grays showed a bit more endeavour in the second half, although they still didn’t really threaten, and the visitors were unlucky to score a second of a few occasions. Going into injury time at the end of the game it was still one-nil, but then Leroy Griffiths finally beat the Bishop’s Stortford defence to rescue a point for Grays.

Games watched: 129

Total mileage: 35849

Total number of goals witnessed: 380 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

130. JJB Stadium, Wigan (Attendance: 17374)

24 April 2005 – English Championship: Wigan vs Stoke

Stoke are in a poor run of form recently, but they are still in the playoff places, and will want a win here to cement the likelihood of making it at the end of the season. Wigan will finish outside the playoff zone, but with a passionate home crowd behind them, should provide a stern test for the visitors.

Stoke started out as would have been expected from them, but John Filan was equal to everything that was thrown at him. Fourteen minutes into the game Wigan broke quickly, and Jason Roberts nodded in from their first real effort.

Apart from the goal though, Wigan were mostly defending as Stoke continued to waste chances, but their pressure finally told just before the break. Roberts turned from hero to villain by handling in the box, and Dave Brammer equalised with aplomb from the penalty spot.

With the goal behind them, Stoke continued to press early on in the second half. Yet again though, their shooting range was off target and Wigan held on. Finally, the home side started to show some attacking fervour, and on 68 Andrejs Rubins restored Wigan’s lead.

Stoke had it all to do again, and they tried their best, even moving to playing three up front. They couldn’t find another equaliser though, and five minutes from time Roberts wrapped up a 3-1 victory for Wigan as his effort squirmed under Steve Simonsen and rolled into the net. The defeat does nothing for Stoke’s playoff hopes.

Games watched: 130

Total mileage: 36217

Total number of goals witnessed: 384 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 28 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

131. Haig Avenue, Southport (Attendance: 346)

30 April 2005 – English Conference North: Southport vs Alfreton

It’s the final day of the season for the Conference divisions, and whilst Southport are safe from any relegation worries that they might have had, Alfreton are desperate for some points today in order to make the playoffs. They currently hold the final spot, but it’s only by goal difference.

If Alfreton needed the points, it didn’t show in the early minutes as Southport scored through Michael Powell with less than three minutes on the clock. But up the other end of the field went Alfreton, and within a few minutes they were back level as a neat free kick move allowed Mitch Ward far too much room to fire in an equaliser.

The ten-minute mark hadn’t been reached by the time the third goal came, and it was Southport’s Lee Malvaney who rose to put the home side ahead. Alfreton knew that they couldn’t afford to lose, and set about searching for an equaliser yet again. They produced enough chances without doing too much in front of the goal itself, and they didn’t help themselves when Carl Bradshaw was sent off with still six minutes to play before half time.

Despite being down to ten men, Alfreton continued to make most of the running in the second half, although Southport did create a few efforts on the break. The football was full of endeavour without much quality, but nine minutes from time Alfreton got a crucial equaliser through Michael Blackwood’s fierce strike.

The visitors had to play the last few minutes with nine men when they had a player taken off injured without any more substitutes available to them, and in the end they had to defend gallantly for the draw. Results elsewhere though went Alfreton’s way, and they held onto their playoff place.

Games watched: 131

Total mileage: 36417

Total number of goals witnessed: 388 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

Summary – April 2005

Days: 30

Grounds visited: 12

2 at English Premiership

2 at English Championship

1 at English League One

1 at English League Two

3 at English Conference North

2 at English Conference South

1 at Scottish Premier League

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 53832 (26916 per game)

English Championship: 39956 (19978 per game)

English League One: 5826 (5826 per game)

English League Two: 3359 (3359 per game)

English Conference North: 1857 (619 per game)

English Conference South: 644 (322 per game)

Scottish Premier League: 12068 (12068 per game)

Overall record so far

Days: 274

Grounds visited: 131

20 at English Premiership

14 at English Championship

13 at English League One

13 at English League Two

10 at English Conference National

17 at English Conference North

15 at English Conference South

12 at Scottish Premier League

5 at Scottish First Division

5 at Scottish Second Division

7 at Scottish Third Division

Attendances at matches watched:

English Premiership: 670435 (33522 per game)

English Championship: 281456 (20104 per game)

English League One: 136319 (10486 per game)

English League Two: 60229 (4633 per game)

English Conference National: 19592 (1959 per game)

English Conference North: 9508 (559 per game)

English Conference South: 15630 (1042 per game)

Scottish Premier League: 220485 (18374 per game)

Scottish First Division: 24106 (4821 per game)

Scottish Second Division: 7267 (1453 per game)

Scottish Third Division: 8036 (1148 per game)

[binny]

132. Millmoor, Rotherham (Attendance: 9596)

1 May 2005 – English Championship: Rotherham vs Preston

Rotherham’s miserable season will see them prop up the Championship at the end of the season and that is confirmed. Preston may be only one place above them, but they can still just above save themselves, provided that they get at least a draw here today. Even then, it might not be enough for them.

Preston knew exactly what they had to do, and ten minutes in Richard Cresswell took his tally for the season to fifteen to give North End the goal that they craved. Rotherham though wanted to give their fans a half-decent send off, and they started to attack the Preston goal. Seven minutes before the break they deservedly got an equaliser; Simon Johnson getting the final touch before the net bulged.

Preston attacked early in the second half, but after that it was mostly Rotherham again. That being said, even they weren’t very good, and the game disintegrated as a spectacle. The draw keeps Preston’s heads just above water, but only just. They’ll need an amazing sequence on the last weekend to avoid the drop.

Games watched: 132

Total mileage: 36650

Total number of goals witnessed: 390 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

133. The Kingfield Sports Ground, Woking (Attendance: 4618)

5 May 2005 – English Conference National, Playoff Semi Final, First Leg: Woking vs York

These two sides were separated by just goal difference at the end of the league campaign, so this should be a tight affair. I suppose that I would back Woking to win out of the two sides, based purely on home advantage.

And the tie got exactly what it needed inside the first thirty seconds; a goal. Woking attacked straight from the kickoff and Julian Alsop clipped the ball into the net past a somewhat surprised York goalkeeper.

York were immediately stung into action and they produced two good opportunities to get back into the game. Neither was taken though, and with twenty minutes on the clock Ivorian midfielder Raphaël Nadé struck a second for Woking after York had failed to clear from a corner.

Both sides continued to produce good football for the rest of the second half, but the very final touch was missing from both sides, and it was still two-nil at the break.

The deficit was definitely overturnable in the minds of York players, but they still wanted to try and reduce the deficit in this game before the second leg next week. They produced a few decent chances early in the second half, but still couldn’t find the net as their shooting was too often off target.

As York attacked, they left themselves vulnerable at the back, and after a few quick breaks that amounted to nothing, substitute Steven Ferguson grabbed a wonderful third for Woking to give them a great chance of making the final.

Games watched: 133

Total mileage: 36730

Total number of goals witnessed: 393 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.22 per game)

[Readingfanman]

Still not visted the Madjeski i see.

[binny]

All in good time readingfanman - in fact, you'll have to wait until October (per the story)

134. McDiarmid Park, Perth (Attendance: 3870)

7 May 2005 – Scottish First Division: St. Johnstone vs Airdrie United

St. Johnstone still find themselves in danger of being relegated going into the penultimate weekend of action. Airdrie United’s promotion push is over, and so they might not have much to play for today.

St. Johnstone had a few early chances, but ten minutes in and Airdrie United scored with their first real attack of the game; Willie McLaren getting the final touch as the ball ricocheted in off him. They might have got another soon after, but gradually the home side started to get themselves back into the game.

St. Johnstone produced a few good efforts as they looked to ease their relegation worries, and seven minutes before the break they deservedly found an equaliser through Stephen McConalogue.

Airdrie made a fist of it at the start of the second half, but they didn’t really try too hard, and failed to take their opportunities. The home side were more desperate for the three points and it showed in their play as they tried a little too hard to find a winner.

It took a wonderful strike to eventually give St. Johnstone the lead; Peter MacDonald lifting the ball over an Airdrie United goalkeeper who could only watch and stare with admiration. It appeared that it would finish that way, but two minutes into injury time Steven McKeown slotted in an equaliser for the visitors that left the home fans with an anxious week ahead of them.

Games watched: 134

Total mileage: 37140

Total number of goals witnessed: 397 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.22 per game)

[Macca_SAFC]

Good to see you visited Kingfield - local team.

Just the Stadium of Light to look forward to now

[binny]

I'm not planning on visiting Benfica

135. Woodspring Park, Weston-super-Mare (Attendance: 1195)

8 May 2005 – English Conference South, Playoff Semi Final, Second Leg: Weston-super-Mare vs Hornchurch

Hornchurch will be kicking themselves for having thrown away automatic promotion, and they’ve left themselves with the playoffs to contend with. And they’ve got their work cut out today to reach the Conference South playoff final as Weston-super-Mare secured a good 1-1 draw in Essex.

With away goals counting after ninety minutes, it was important for Hornchurch that they pulled that aspect of the tie back. And they did it almost from the start as Simon Wormull got in with just three minutes on the clock.

The home side were a little disappointing, although credit must go to Hornchurch for defending from the front to protect their lead. With Weston-super-Mare pushing forward they did leave themselves vulnerable at the back, and Hornchurch missed a few chances to grab a second.

Weston-super-Mare thought they’d equalised just before the break, but the goal was ruled out for offside. And just to rub salt into the wounds, Hornchurch doubled their lead seven minutes into the second half through Kirk Jackson. That put them 3-1 up on aggregate, and also took them ahead on away goals.

Weston-super-Mare could hardly get anything going as they struggled to break Hornchurch down, and the Essex side eased through to a South Final meeting with Lewes.

Games watched: 135

Total mileage: 37716

Total number of goals witnessed: 399 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.21 per game)

[Macca_SAFC]

Lol, our one is nicer!

[binny]

136. Underhill, London (Attendance: 4452)

9 May 2005 – English Conference National, Playoff Semi Final, Second Leg: Barnet vs Carlisle

This is the nearest club in my travels, and I managed to get in a good long sleep ahead of the game tonight. Barnet only just scraped into the playoffs, but they’ve hit form at just the right time, and won 4-2 up in Cumbria.

Barnet came out with the intent to wrap up the game as soon as possible, but soon Carlisle started to get into their groove. Neither side though were showing much ruthlessness in front of goal, but ten minutes before the break The Bees took the lead through Sean Higgins, and the tie was effectively over.

It was a strange atmosphere in the second half. The fans were happy as their side was heading towards the final, but the action on the pitch was a little tawdry. Midway through the second period Giuliano Grazioli nabbed a second for Barnet, and The Bees were on their way to a Final meeting with Woking in just under a fortnight.

Games watched: 136

Total mileage: 37726

Total number of goals witnessed: 401 [+36] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 29 (0.21 per game)

[binny]

137. Strathclyde Homes Stadium, Dumbarton (Attendance: 530)

14 May 2005 – Scottish Second Division: Dumbarton vs Forfar

Dumbarton’s ground is situated at the bottom of a large, picturesque rock, but the level of football has seen them also sink to rock bottom of the league going into the final weekend. That being said though, they still have a chance of avoiding the drop, but they really must beat a mid-table Forfar side.

Dumbarton were clearly nervous early on in the game, and Forfar could sense that in them. Eight minutes in Forfar took the lead through Jay Stein, and they could have had more as they pushed Dumbarton back for a large swathe of the first half. Slowly Dumbarton got a grip on the game, but they were restricted to long-range efforts in their bid to find an equaliser. It didn’t come, but they were still relieved to only be a goal down at half time.

That changed within the first minute of the second half as Paul Shields got in to double Forfar’s lead. Dumbarton now had to push forward at all costs, and within six minutes they were right back into the game from the penalty spot. Paul Ronald got the goal to reduce the deficit back to one. With the wind in their sails Dumbarton pushed forward, and just three minutes later Eddie Annand managed to get the ball through a crowded box to equalise.

Dumbarton seemed to have put in all their available effort into getting those two goals back, and couldn’t seem to push forward in an attempt to win the game. Forfar didn’t fancy finishing the season by losing to a team seemingly destined for relegation, and as the game moved towards a close, they pummelled the Dumbarton goal with efforts that couldn’t quite be finished off.

With five minutes to go Dumbarton’s Derek Allan was sent off, and although the draw moved them up a place, it wasn’t enough to save them from the drop.

Games watched: 137

Total mileage: 38532

Total number of goals witnessed: 405 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 30 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

138. Griffin Park, London (Attendance: 12645)

15 May 2005 – English League One, Playoff Semi Final, First Leg: Brentford vs Bristol City

It’s another relatively short trip for me as West London beckons for the playoffs in League One. These are often the most nail-biting games of the season as promotion is so close, yet also so far. Both Brentford and Bristol City will want to get a decent result to set themselves up nicely for the second leg later on in the week.

The home side knew that they had to make their advantage count, and with five minutes gone Isaiah Rankin scored after a swift move from The Bees. But City were by no means out of it, and they set about trying to get an equaliser. They created plenty of chances to get that goal, but found the Brentford goalkeeper and backline in fine form to keep them out.

Soon the game swung again, and as the game headed towards half time Brentford started to take the initiative again. And in injury time they got an important second goal; Eddie Hutchinson firing in after some neat set-piece play.

Brentford had the confidence to continue to attack early in the second half, and with an hour gone Rankin hit a third goal for the home side. The emphasis now was ensuring that they didn’t concede an away goal, and although Bristol City tried, they couldn’t do it. They’ll have to score early on back in Bristol to have any chance of making the final, but Brentford do seem to have the upper hand with a 3-0 lead.

Games watched: 138

Total mileage: 38558

Total number of goals witnessed: 408 [+36] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 30 (0.22 per game)

[binny]

139. Britannia Stadium, Stoke-on-Trent (Attendance: 28188)

18 May 2005 – English Championship, Playoff Semi Final, Second Leg: Stoke vs Reading

I saw Stoke trying to throw away a playoff place a few weeks ago, but they did manage to hold out and keep their promotion hopes alive. Reading won 2-1 in the first leg, but Stoke are by no means out of it.

The early part of the game was a little disappointing as neither side wanted to concede an early goal, but it was Stoke who did make more of the running. Reading though hardly showed anything in terms of going forward, and soon were having to defend some incessant Stoke pressure.

Nothing seemed to be happening for the home side though, but with four minutes to go before the break much-maligned striker Ade Akinbiyi scored on the turn to take the lead on the night, and also on away goals in the tie. Two minutes later Akinbiyi hit a second, and Stoke were now in command.

The second half wasn’t much of a spectacle, but Akinbiyi should have wrapped the tie up on 68 minutes. His shot though just went wide of the post. It was only in the dying moments that Reading started to show any urgency, but it worked as Stoke conceded an injury time penalty that Dave Kitson put away to take the game into extra time.

Legs were tiring for both sides after a long, hard season, and extra time didn’t see too much goalmouth action. So, no further goals took the game into a penalty shootout to decide who would make the final. Stoke’s hopes were dashed when Clarke sent his penalty into the arms of the Reading keeper, and Reading kept the pressure up by putting all of their efforts away.

Stoke didn’t miss any others either, but Rifat hit the winning penalty for Reading to send them through 5-3 on penalties.

Games watched: 139

Total mileage: 38695

Total number of goals witnessed: 411 [+44] (2.96 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 30 (0.22 per game)

[bjorn]

This is a superb story, and also a nice original idea. Very well written Binny, keep it up

[binny]

Thanks bjorn. Glad you're enjoying

140. Roots Hall, Southend-on-Sea (Attendance: 12331)

19 May 2005 – English League Two, Playoff Semi Final, Second Leg: Southend vs Rushden

Following yesterday’s game, this also promises to be an exciting tie as Rushden take a 2-1 lead into the lead. Southend will still fancy their chances though with only a one-goal deficit to overturn.

In contrast to yesterday’s game, it was Rushden who had the early chances as they looked to equal Southend’s away goal. It didn’t come though, and soon Southend started to push forward. The pressure wasn’t great, but by pushing bodies forward they caused havoc in the Rushden box. Eight minutes before the break veteran defender Spencer Prior headed Southend into the lead on the night, and of course also on away goals.

Southend started the second half trying to get a second, but Rushden kept them at bay, and looked to hit them on the break to get the crucial next goal. And with seventeen minutes to go Southend were eventually caught out as prolific striker Craig Dove put away a chance to level things up on the night for Rushden.

But just like last night, a penalty was awarded late on to the side behind in the tie. This time though Southend’s Kevin Maher hit the spot-kick straight into the arms of the Rushden goalkeeper, and despite late pressure, Rushden held on to progress 3-2 on aggregate to a final meeting with Yeovil.

Games watched: 140

Total mileage: 38925

Total number of goals witnessed: 413 [+44] (2.95 per game)

Sending offs witnessed: 30 (0.21 per game)