Reviving the Legend *repost*

I have reluctantly decided to repost this story, which I originally first posted on 14/3/07. While I greatly appreciate all the feedback that I've got in the original thread, and would like to press on with the story, I don't think it's fair that anyone who wants to read back over previous pages should have to put up with the mess that the board changes have created. I'll try to get it done as quickly as possible.

Unfortunately, adapting the tables to the new software is taking a long time. It helps to have this in full screen and scroll a little to the right if you're reading posts with tables, especially if you have a smallish monitor.

Background

Five years is a long time. This time five years ago, I was about to start my first year of a Law degree. I was a big fan of CM 00/01, and, needing to fill in a bit of time over my holidays, I started a story based on my game with 3rd Division glamour club Rushden. While my early writing seems crude in retrospect, I was blessed with loyal and patient readers. That little time filler grew into a 150,000 word odyssey and made the Hall of Fame. My two subsequent stories covered my continued journey at Rushden (70,000 words) and another tale of my time at Italian side Ancona (this time a CM 03/04 story, resulting in 200,000 words and the Story of the Year award).

Disappointed at the CM4 engine (I dare say half of those 200,000 words were spent complaining about bugs), overwhelmed by studies and worried that I would not be able to match the success of my previous works, I quietly withdrew from the CMS scene.

Time passed. I finished my degree, and picked up a great job. Though I was impressed by the FM 07 demo, regular casual work left me little time for playing, so I didn't purchase the game. Now, with an ongoing illness that prevents me from working full-time and less casual work available than last year, I've finally picked up FM07, and I'm in the mood for another story. I can't promise the same epic length of my previous stories, in case more work becomes available or the game simply doesn't work out, but I'll damn well give it a good shot.

The only question remains – which team to build the story around? I have never followed soccer much in the real world; only as much as I needed for playing purposes. 2005 and early 2006 featured a series of drought-breaking wins – England won the Ashes, Australia made the World Cup, Sydney won the AFL Premiership, there were two baseball sides that were champions after years of failures... I considered “Breaking the Drought” as a story topic about six months ago, but since I didn't have time to write, I couldn't get started on a story and the moment passed. I thought about playing in a league I wasn't familiar with, but attempts at the MLS and Spain on the demo just bored me. In desperation, I tried to look at the current state of the few teams I was familiar with for some inspiration.

Ancona appears to have disappeared off the face of the planet. Rushden, meanwhile, has lost everyone's favourite shoemaking chairman, Max Griggs; superstar Andy Burgess (see my original Rushden stories); a heck of a lot of money and even a place in the league system. That's quite a drop for the one-time glamour club of the lower leagues.

It's time to put things right. Time to revive the legend.

As an aside, I will note in hindsight that I have been working full-time for 7 months and have kept working on this story, and Burgess is back at Rushden, so at least there have been some improvements since then!

REPOSTING COMPLETE - 20/8/08

Ah, nothing like a bit of melodrama to kick off a story! For those who have been with me on my previous journeys, welcome back. Hopefully you will find in this story the elements that kept you reading those. For those who are new to my writing, thank you for giving me a chance. As noted, I've only just picked up the game, so forgive me if I feel my way through the early stages of this. I'm also not writing much further ahead of my playing, so apologies if there are delays between updates. Without further ado, let's get stuck into it...

Game Settings

Game Version: 7.0.2

Database: 7.0.2 Official

Leagues: England (Conference North/South, Playable)

U.S.A. (MLS, View Only)

Spain (LIGA BBVA, Playable)

France (First League, View Only)

Italy(Serie B, Playable)

Germany(First Division, View Only)

Australia (A-League, Playable)

Brazil(First Division, View Only)

Scotland (First Division, Playable)

I set a start date of June to give me plenty of time to get a feel for the club before the season kicked off. I'll give a quick overview of my first impressions the side as it looks at the moment, then give an idea of how I will go about handling them on the park once I've had a chance to play a few friendlies and possibly make a couple of signings.

SEASON OVERVIEW 06/07

The Club

Home Ground: Nene Park, Irthlingborough (capacity 6441, 4641 seated)

Rivals: Kettering & Northampton (fierce); Peterborough, Oxford, Luton

Reputation: Local

Estimated Value: ₤575K

Balance ₤100K

Transfer Budget: ₤10K

Media Prediction: 6th

Board Expectation: Challenge for Title

Fan Expectation: Challenge for Title

Staff

Chairman: Keith Cousins

Assistant Manager: John Dreyer

Coaches: Will Weedon (Senior); Tony Godden (GK); Paul Driver (Youth)

Physios: Phil Ward, Simon Parsell

Scout: Aaron Mason

The Squad

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name             | No.     | Squad Status | Cnt     | Weekly wage | Expires   | Value   | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Scott Tynan      | 20      | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2007 | £10K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Paul Watson      | 3       | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £10K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Glenn Wilson     | 2       | First Team   | F/T     | £350        | 30.6.2008 | £5K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Jon Ashton       | 4       | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £16K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Wayne Hatswell   | 6       | First Team   | F/T     | £600        | 30.6.2007 | £7K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Mark Albrighton  | 25      | Backup       | F/T     | £475        | 31.5.2007 | £12K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Tom Bonner       | 19      | Rotation     | F/T     | £200        | 30.6.2007 | £1K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Jason Goodliffe  | 16      | Backup       | F/T     | £600        | 30.6.2007 | £6K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Chris Hope       | 5       | Key Player   | F/T     | £800        | 30.6.2008 | £12K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | David Perpetuini | 28      | Backup       | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2007 | £7K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Michael Bostwick | 32      | First Team   | F/T     | £350        | 30.6.2008 | £6K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Dave Savage      | 7       | First Team   | F/T     | £800        | 30.6.2007 | £12K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Gary Mills       | 17      | First Team   | F/T     | £400        | 30.6.2007 | £14K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Tom Shaw         | 18      | Backup       | F/T     | £200        | 30.6.2007 | £6K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Tyrone Berry     | 15      | First Team   | F/T     | £400        | 30.6.2007 | £6K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Marcus Kelly     | 11      | First Team   | F/T     | £400        | 30.6.2008 | £14K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Jamie Cook       | 30      | Backup       | N/C     | £250        | 8.9.2006  | -       | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Dino Maamria     | 10      | Rotation     | F/T     | £400        | 30.6.2008 | £2K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Chris Beardsley  | 29      | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £14K    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Leo Fortune-West | -       | First Team   | F/T     | £1,800      | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Simeon Jackson   | 12      | Backup       | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2008 | £8K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Michael Rankine  | 8       | First Team   | F/T     | £400        | 30.6.2007 | £7K     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Wage Budget: £10,440

Total Weekly Wages at 10/6/06: £10,544

Senior Players: 23

U-18 Players: 16

Player [Pos, Nationality, Height, Age] – Rushden Seasons, Rushden League Games, Rushden League Goals

Goalkeepers

Scott Tynan [GK, ENG, 22] – 1, 14, 0

Tynan is our most important player at this point. Not because he is the best player in the team, though he is one of the better ones, but because he is the only goalkeeper in the squad aged over 17. That is a heck of a lot of responsibility to place on one player, and I will look to rectify the situation. He is nonetheless a solid and capable keeper at this level, and I am satisfied with him as the first choice.

Defenders

Mark Albrighton [D C, ENG, 185cm, 30] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan from Boston Utd

Our only on-loan player, and an unimpressive one. He looks to be a solid worker, but lacks pace and skill. We aren't too bad at the back, so I may look to return him early.

Jon Ashton [D RC/DM, ENG, 188cm, 23] – 0, 0, 0

Tall, but otherwise unremarkable apart from his tight marking. He should be decent enough at this level to play a regular role at the back, but don't expect anything special.

Tom Bonner [D C, SCO, 183cm, 18] – 0, 0, 0

Clearly not ready for first team football, Bonner shows some hint of ability but is unlikely to get a run at this point.

Jason Goodliffe [D C, ENG, 183cm, 32] – 0, 0, 0

Looking as much like a bouncer as a footballer, Goodliffe has spent his entire career in the Conference. He is tough but not especially aggressive and very slow. A rotational option at best.

Wayne Hatswell [D LC, ENG, 186cm, 31] – 1, 17, 1

Notable for his shock of white hair, Hatswell is a natural leader and a solid choice for centre back due to aerial ability.

Chris Hope [D C, ENG, 185cm, 33] – 0, 0, 0

A veteran of the Championship with Gillingham in recent years, Hope is probably our best pure defender. He is neither skilful nor quick, but can close down an opponent well. A clear choice as captain.

Paul Watson [D RL, ENG, 31] – 0, 0, 0

A veteran of the lower leagues, who was a mainstay at Brighton for many seasons. Watson is strong from set pieces but otherwise unremarkable. He should be solid enough to hold down a side of defence.

Glenn Wilson [D RC, WAL, 186cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

A youth player from Crystal Palace, Wilson is enthusiastic and strong in the air. He has the makings of a quality defender and will certainly be one to keep an eye on.

Midfielders

Tyrone Berry [AM R, ENG, 173cm, 19] – 2, 20, 0

Lightning fast on the right wing, but unfortunately pretty inept with the ball. He might be able to go on some good runs, but I don't think he can do much to finish them off.

Michael Bostwick [D/M C, ENG, 188cm, 18] – 0, 0, 0

Due to our many options at centre back and his reasonable pace, Bostwick is more likely to get a run in the midfield. He has a bit of ability for his age, and will hopefully improve. A good long-range shooter.

Jamie Cook [AM L/ST, ENG, 178cm, 26] – 0, 0, 0

An unimpressive player, lacking pace, height and really anything that would make him much of a threat. Can't see him having much of a role, and he may well be released when his contract ends in 3 months.

Marcus Kelly [AM L, ENG, 170cm, 20] – 3, 60, 3

A good runner, but lacking a bit in ball skills. Probably a better option than Berry for a wing, and should get a regular go.

Dino Maamria [AM/F C, TUN, 183cm, 35] – 0, 0, 0

Definitely has the best name in the squad, and looks to be a solid player. Quite strong and able to both score and set up goals. Indeed, he's been a regular scorer at this level, but given our lack of good passers, he may play in the midfield a bit. He's extremely aggressive, and has been known to upset opponents, officials and even fans.

Gary Mills [M C, ENG, 175cm, 25] – 7, 124, 2

Returning to his old club after a brief stint at Crawley, Mills is a hard-working and fairly talented centre who will play a core role in the team.

David Perpetuini [D/WB/M L, ENG, 175cm, 26] – 0, 0, 0

Another former Gillingham player, with average pace and skills. Probably a rotational option.

Dave Savage [M RC, IRE – 5 caps, 0 goals, 188cm, 32] – 1, 32, 2

Mostly a lower league player, despite some time at Millwall, Savage is past his best but retains enough ability and works hard enough to provide a solid midfield option.

Tom Shaw [M C, ENG, 183cm, 19] – 3, 1, 0

Looks about 12 years old, but has been around the club for a while. Shaw is talented for his age with a fondness for dangerous passes, and he could be a pretty good prospect. I will try to give him a bit of a run this season.

Forwards

Chris Beardsley [sT, WAL, 183cm, 22] – 0, 0, 0

A pretty unremarkable mid-size forward, with decent pace and size, and the ability to score on occasion. He's known to wind up opponents, which may earn us a few frees close to goal.

Leo Fortune-West [sT, ENG, 193cm, 35] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan to Stevenage

Rather uselessly on a season-long loan out of the club, the giant striker would be a handy option – though with our lack of quality wingers, he is probably better off at another club for now.

Simeon Jackson [sT, ENG, 178cm, 18] – 3, 16, 5

Not a bad player for his age, with a few games already under his belt. Jackson is determined and shows quite a bit of promise. Definitely better on the run than in the air, which as noted above, is probably better for our side. Will get a go.

Michael Rankine [sT, ENG, 188cm, 21] – 0, 0, 0

A big man, but surprisingly agile. Lacks a bit of class with the ball, but could cause defences some problems at this level.

Lee Tomlin [sT, ENG, 181cm, 17] – 1, 21, 0

Another young player with a surprising number of games under his belt, Tomlin is quick and relatively skilful. He shows definite room for improvement, but could be an option even at this early point in his career.

Overview

Well, there you have it. A heck of a lot of players are new to the club, which means the early days of my management will be even tougher than they would have been at a more settled team.

My immediate priority will be to sign a backup keeper. Tynan looks solid enough as a first choice, but having two 17-year-olds on youth contracts as my only backup for such a crucial position is an unacceptable situation. A loan is a possibility, but with Tynan's contract ending in 2007, a signing may be the safest bet.

I'm leaning towards a 4-3-1-2 formation at this point, given our lack of quality wingers and a big striker. Maamria is seemingly the only option for the attacking midfield role though, so I may have to look for a signing in that position or see if one of the current squad can be shifted there.

The development of young players like Wilson, Shaw, Bostwick, Jackson and Tomlin will be very important for our future. No player is signed beyond 2008, but I will be looking to grab hold of some of these players if they show a bit of promise in the seniors.

A few more staff members would be helpful, as this is an area I place great importance on, and our present staff are rather unimpressive. However, with the wage budget so tight, I doubt I'll have much room for any additions at this point.

This will definitely be a transitional year as I look to firstly get a feel for the current squad, then build it to my tastes. The expectation of a challenge for the title does put a bit of pressure on. I think promotion would be a bad result, as with so many new players already at the club, and only a short time for myself to adapt to it, I don't think we are ready for a higher level. I think a finish of 5th to 10th would be enough to keep the board and fans happy while giving me enough time to build the squad for a run at promotion in my second season.

June-July, 2006

As if to underline the validity of the concerns I expressed earlier, Scott Tynan was put out for the first few weeks of the pre-season with a knee injury. Gary Mills, Jason Goodliffe and Wayne Hatswell also spent the early period with the physio rather than out on the training track.

I immediately went after a number of uncontracted players, offering them trials due to my lack of a quality scout. Being of Australian nationality doesn't help me much, as most of the players I know of are unable to come over without a work permit – and at this level, signing an Australian international is unlikely.

Before any of them could arrive, we had our first friendly, against Sheffield Wednesday. Despite missing the injured players, we picked up a 1-1 draw thanks to a neat exchange from substitute strikers Lee Tomlin and Chris Beardsley. Having made a substantial financial loss already this season, the ₤30K gate receipts were also handy.

I was also able to set up a parent club for Rushden. I was offered the choice of Peterborough United, MK Dons and Leicester, and with both Dons and Leicester geographically close, I went for the Championship side. After all, it would be no good having a parent club in the division above us when we are a chance for promotion. The deal was sealed, with Leicester our new parent club. Not only do we get to host a friendly every season, they will pay us ₤22K a year. Not a huge amount, but hey, at this level, that's an average player's wages for the season.

Better yet, Leicester immediately sent us two players on loan.

Louis Dodds [sT, ENG, 181cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan from Leicester

Though we don't lack strikers, Dodds is a quality addition to the squad. He is well-rounded and looks to have plenty of potential. Doesn't have any first-team experience – hence the loan, I suppose – but should play a bit here. He has a bit of ability as a midfielder, but will probably stick up forward.

Alan Sheehan [D LC, IRE – 1 U21 cap, 0 goals, 181cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan from Leicester

A young player with a few Championship games already, Sheehan looks a great addition to our defence. He is a superb free kick taker – certainly first choice in this side – and has the defensive skills to be a regular at the back.

With the addition of Sheehan, I cancelled Mark Albrighton's loan, since we were paying his wages while he was at the club.

Dino Maamria scored from a deflection in a 1-0 win over Stockport where the new loanees looked quite good. Scott Tynan played his first game in a friendly against Fulham Reserves and conceded three goals, while we did not manage any. We also failed to score against W.B.A., but did reasonably well for a Conference side to only concede two goals, both to Kevin Phillips.

Of the seven players I brought in on trials, I only wound up signing two – partly due to the tight finances, partly because most simply weren't very impressive.

Alex Bryant [GK, ENG, 175cm, 21] – 0, 0, 0

Signed due to my concern over a lack of backup for Tynan, Bryant came through Brighton's youth setup but did not manage a game there. He is certainly nothing remarkable, but is a better option than a 17-year-old. Signed for four years, but on minimal wages.

Daniel Clitnovich [AM C, AUS, 172cm, 24] – 0, 0, 0

A backup for my other concern, attacking midfield. Clitnovich has a Romanian passport, so there are no work permit issues, and he possesses enough ball skill to be a very capable player. Indeed, since Maamria can play in the centre midfield while Clitnovich is a specialist attacking midfielder, I may use him there with Maamria in the middle.

Our final friendly saw not only another loss – 2-0 to Wycombe – but 4-week injuries to midfielders David Perpetuini and Dave Savage. Gary Mills had his first run of the pre-season, but Jason Goodliffe couldn't even make it onto the pitch at all.

We were given odds of 10-1 for the title, which is more indicative of the upper mid-table finish I want.

First XI

I will indeed go with a 4-3-1-2 formation, which I used throughout the pre-season. I'm reasonably satisfied with the squad, particularly having capable backups for every position. I would like a lot more skill in the midfield, particularly some wingers, but for now we'll have to be satisfied with a workmanlike side.

GK: Scott Tynan

RB: Glenn Wilson

LB: Alan Sheehan

CB: Chris Hope

CB: Wayne Hatswell

CM: Dino Maamria

CM: Gary Mills

CM: Dave Savage

AMC: Daniel Clitnovich

CF: Simeon Jackson

CF: Louis Dodds

Sub: Chris Beardsley

Sub: Tom Shaw

Sub: David Perpetuini

Sub: Michael Bostwick

Sub: Paul Watson

Captain: Chris Hope

Penalties: Paul Watson, Dino Maamria, Chris Hope

Free Kicks: (L) Alan Sheehan, Wayne Hatswell; ® Paul Watson, Louis Dodds

Corners: (L) Paul Watson, Alan Sheehan; ® Glenn Wilson, Dave Savage

Throw Ins: (L) Paul Wilson, Michael Rankine; ® Glenn Wilson, Tyrone Berry

Playmaker: Daniel Clitnovich

August, 2006

Southport, Conference, Away

At last, our first real match of the season! We were missing Dave Savage and David Perpetuini from the first team due to injury, and backup defender Jason Goodliffe was suspended. Michael Bostwick came into the middle, but otherwise the First XI was intact. Unfortunately, it took less than three ,inutes for Rushden to concede the first goal of the season through a cross and header. Four more minutes, and an identical goal. 0-2. Tynan managed a save from the third attempt, but only managed to tap it straight to a striker. 0-3 after 35 minutes. A lucky deflection from a Maamria pass into the box gave Mills our first of the season, but it was minimal consolation as we sank to a 1-3 loss. Perhaps the worst part is that no player seemed to perform particularly badly. The defenders were not beaten for headers, suggesting positioning was a problem.

Forest Green, Conference, Home

Scorer Mills and striker Dodds were rested for our home debut. Our attacking midfielders had the crowd on their feet, with Clitnovich scoring from 30 yards in the 8th minute and Maamria hitting one in from the edge of the box after a pass deflected off a defender and caught the keeper off guard. A terrific pass from the left wing from Michael Rankine set up strike partner Simeon Jackson for a spectacular diving header and a 3-0 lead by half time. Forest Green pulled one back soon after the break, but Maamria set Jackson up for his second, and our fourth. Bostwick scored from a deflection to make it 5-1, then was beaten at the other end for a header to give Forest their second. Quite an astonishing start to my time at the club, and I think it's safe to say the defence could use some work.

York, Conference, Away

I hoped to regain some normalcy against York. Ashton and Watson made their first starts of the season at either side of defence, while Hope and Hatswell remained in the middle due to good performances despite our many conceded goals. Hope and Watson did some good work early, and we took the lead when a long ball from Hatswell out of defence found Jackson in space. We looked pretty good at half time, but in the 62, York equalised when a Tynan parry fell to a forward. A long throw into the box two minutes later saw Hope caught behind his opponent, and with a sharp strike, York had the lead. It got worse in the 70th minute, with Clitnovich bringing down an opponent in the area. No mistake from the spot – 1-3. A fourth in injury time completed our second loss.

Weymouth, Conference, Home

With Tynan having conceded nine goals in three games, Alex Bryant got the chance to make his debut in goal. Daniel Clitnovich sent in an early cross for Jackson, and his opponent was so hasty to make a clearance that he put it into his own net. A perfect corner from young Glenn Wilson, returning to the side, gave fellow defender Alan Sheehan a simple header for our second, and Sheehan did it all himself in the 41st with a rocket of a free kick from outside the area. 3-0 is how it remained as we again dominated at Nene Park. Clitnovich was outstanding, and looks to be a fine signing. It was certainly an improvement to not concede a goal, though Bryant had little to do.

Stevenage, Conference, Away

Dodds and Mills again needed a rest, which raises questions over their fitness. Stevenage dominated the first half, scoring in the 15th after Hope was rounded far too easily. We lost striker Simeon Jackson to a broken wrist and were lucky not to concede a second goal – only saved by a belated offside call. We never really had a chance at an equaliser, and lost our third straight away game.

Quite a mixed month. We won both our home games comfortably but lost all three away matches. Alan Sheehan has looked particularly good at the back, and his two-goal performance against Weymouth was impressive. Tom Shaw and Daniel Clitnovich have been very solid in the middle, while Simeon Jackson is our leading scorer. Unfortunately, he will be out for the next month with a broken wrist.

The major concern is certainly at the back. We conceded seven goals in our first two away games. It's hard to pinpoint a specific weakness at this point. The central defenders, particularly Hope, were rounded easily a few times, while others were also caught out of position from crosses. It was obvious our bigger defenders like Hope lacked pace, but if I go for smaller options, do i then open us up for more goals? At this point, I'll leave things as they are for at least a few more games. Goalkeeping is also an issue. I thought Tynan would be a capable keeper at this level, but I've already been forced to go to his backup. Bryant will get a few more games as I try to pinpoint just where our problems are.

It's only early days, and I'm reasonably pleased to at least have a couple of wins on the board. We're certainly capable of scoring, and look to have a few talented individuals.

September, 2006

Crawley, Conference, Home

Dave Savage and Jason Goodliffe came in for their first games of the season against strugglers Crawley. Goodliffe was slow to mark a charging striker to give them the lead in the 16th, and then was beaten for a header to leave us 0-2 down after 25. I replaced him with Tom Bonner mid-way through the half, but the damage was already done – a big deficit to a side we were expected to hammer. I blasted the team at half-time, but we barely managed a shot in the second half. A disgraceful performance. Tyrone Berry complained to the media about his lack of games in the first team, but I have more important things to worry about. I released Jamie Cook at the end of his contact after two mediocre senior games. Michael Rankine joined fellow striker Simeon Jackson on the sidelines with a back strain, leaving us two strikers down for the month.

Stafford, Conference, Away

Jason Goodliffe was dumped after his dismal showing last game, while Tynan returned in the goal. We looked fairly solid in the first half, with Maamria and Mills particularly good in the middle, but didn't have a goal to show for it. Dodds forced a save in the second half, but neither side really looked like scoring. Wilson and Hope were strong at the back for Rushden.

Tamworth, Conference, Home

The first half of this game was incredibly frustrating. Beardsley and Shaw had shots comfortably saved, while Mills put the ball over the bar no less than three times. A long, floating pass into the Tamworth box saw Chris Hope beaten to the ball by an opponent yet again, and they scored from their first chance. Perpetuini came on for his first run of the season in the second half and set up Maamria for a shot, but it was held by the keeper.

Woking, Conference, Home

I put Bonner and Bostwick in the centre back positions Bostwick did manage to get to the ball first when it was passed into the box in the 27th, but only succeeded in tapping it straight to a striker for a simple finish. Again we failed to score – five games in a row without a single goal. TO make matters worse, Chris Beardsley went off with broken ribs, leaving us with three strikers on the sidelines.

Kidderminster, Conference, Home

A televised game, exposing a woefully out-of-sorts Rushden to a large audience. Bostwick was forced into the midfield, with Maamria joining Dodds as a striker, but Bonner kept his place at the back. It took just three minutes for our drought to be broken, with a Clitnovich shot parried directly to Gary Mills. For once, he kept the shot down. Two minutes later, another bit of luck. A free kick from Alan Sheehan found Shaw in the area, and his shot was deflected in for an own goal. A penalty from Maamria in the 20th, and at last we looked to have three points on the board.

Oxford, Conference, Away

With such dismal away form so far, I hoped our performance against Kidderminster would carry over to some extent. In the 7th minute, Paul Watson sent a long throw into the box. The ball was hastily cleared by a defender, but Tom Bonner intercepted and passed the ball back into the danger area. Louis Dodds was on the receiving end, and chipped the keeper perfectly for his first goal for Rushden. We were lucky to hold onto the lead with Tynan punching a free kick over the bar and Watson clearing the ball off the line a few minutes later. Unfortunately, in the 40th, an Oxford corner saw both Hope and Perpetuini beaten for a header, leaving the score 1-1 at half time. Just three minutes into the second, Dodds took a free kick on the right wing and fired it into the box. Clitnovich was on the receiving end, and he dodged around a defender and squeezed in a ripping goal from a tight angle. A cross came into the Oxford box a few minutes later, and though Hope was closely marking his opponent, former Rushden striker Robert Duffy, he was only able to deflect the resulting shot past Tynan and into the net. They missed a free kick shortly after that, while Maamria's header in the 60th grazed the top of the crossbar. Tynan made a couple of saves before we raced forward on the counter-attack in the 70th. Perpetuini and Maamria exchanged passes down the left flank before the latter hooked in a floating cross. Young midfielder Tom Shaw read it perfectly, and headed home for the 3-2 lead. We held on for our first away win of the season. Bonner was a rock at the back, with no less than 14 interceptions. I didn't rate him at the start of the season, but he has really impressed lately.

Altrincham, Conference, Away

A scoreless first half saw Clitnovich put the ball over a couple of times. Altrincham had the better of the first half, but also wasted their opportunities. Dodds put one shot over, but in the 70th, his 30-yard free deflected off the wall and into the net for our opener. Three minutes later, Watson crossed the ball towards the scorer, and another deflection saw the ball into the net again, this time for an own goal. Not quite as convincing as the previous game, but a good result nonetheless. Simeon Jackson came off the bench after a long absence due to injury.

It's a bit of a concern to already have six losses on the board, and our streak of five games without a win or even a goal was a big worry. However, we at least have some away wins now, and some players are showing promise. Tom Bonner was named 3rd as Player of the Month and 2nd as Young Player of the Month, showing how quickly he has advanced from fringe player to important defender. Dodds has finally put some goals away, while Mills and Shaw look terrific in the middle. Perpetuini is at least back on the park now, and has looked okay. Dave Savage has been very disappointing for someone I thought would be a key player, and Tynan still doesn't look solid in goal. Our spate of injuries to the strikers is also a concern, though Jackson is now back and Rankine isn't far away. Hopefully next month will see our form of recent games continue.

| Pos  | Team          |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st  | Southport     |       | 12    | 8     | 1     | 3     | 18    | 11    | +7    | 25    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd  | York          |       | 12    | 6     | 4     | 2     | 22    | 10    | +12   | 22    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd  | Grays         |       | 12    | 7     | 1     | 4     | 21    | 14    | +7    | 22    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th  | Stevenage     |       | 12    | 7     | 1     | 4     | 20    | 13    | +7    | 22    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th  | Northwich     |       | 12    | 6     | 4     | 2     | 19    | 13    | +6    | 22    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th  | Gravesend     |       | 12    | 6     | 3     | 3     | 15    | 13    | +2    | 21    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th  | Forest Green  |       | 12    | 6     | 2     | 4     | 24    | 23    | +1    | 20    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th  | Morecambe     |       | 12    | 5     | 4     | 3     | 18    | 12    | +6    | 19    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th  | Weymouth      |       | 12    | 5     | 4     | 3     | 15    | 14    | +1    | 19    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th | Stafford      |       | 12    | 4     | 6     | 2     | 12    | 11    | +1    | 18    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th | Aldershot     |       | 12    | 5     | 3     | 4     | 22    | 28    | -6    | 18    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th | Halifax       |       | 12    | 4     | 5     | 3     | 15    | 12    | +3    | 17    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th | Woking        |       | 12    | 5     | 2     | 5     | 21    | 20    | +1    | 17    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th | Rushden       |       | 12    | 5     | 1     | 6     | 18    | 16    | +2    | 16    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th | Kidderminster |       | 12    | 4     | 4     | 4     | 18    | 23    | -5    | 16    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th | Oxford        |       | 12    | 4     | 3     | 5     | 20    | 20    | 0     | 15    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th | Dag & Red     |       | 12    | 2     | 7     | 3     | 16    | 18    | -2    | 13    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th | Exeter        |       | 12    | 2     | 6     | 4     | 18    | 21    | -3    | 12    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th | Altrincham    |       | 12    | 2     | 5     | 5     | 12    | 18    | -6    | 11    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th | Tamworth      |       | 12    | 3     | 2     | 7     | 10    | 16    | -6    | 11    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st | St. Albans    |       | 12    | 3     | 1     | 8     | 16    | 22    | -6    | 10    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd | Cambridge     |       | 12    | 2     | 2     | 8     | 10    | 17    | -7    | 8     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd | Crawley       |       | 12    | 5     | 2     | 5     | 16    | 14    | +2    | 7     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th | Burton        |       | 12    | 0     | 3     | 9     | 8     | 25    | -17   | 3     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10 points deducted from Crawley 

October, 2006

Northwich, Conference, Home

Maamria moved back to the middle with Jackson starting forward. The striker forced a save early. Northwich put a few over the bar, as did Bostwick for Rushden. The game looked like finishing with a scoreless result when Clitnovich missed from the edge of the area, and despite eight shots a piece, it was indeed a 0-0 finish.

Burton, Conference, Away

This was a game we were definitely expected to win, which made it rather dangerous. Naturally, we went behind after eight minutes, with Glenn Wilson easily rounded by a defender. Wilson went off injured a few minutes later, and while Jackson set up Dodds perfectly, his shot was parried and cleared. Mills dodged a couple of defenders only to see his shot turned wide while Dodds had a chip tipped over and a header from a Jackson cross saved. Burton had a player sent off for a two-footed tackle, yet scored from a 25-yard free just before half time. A disgraceful half, and I got stuck into the players at the break. Jackson forced a save five minutes into the second, and the parry was cleared to Mills. His pass into the box deflected into the path of Clitnovich, who continued his fine season with another goal. We still needed two more in forty minutes, but couldn't do it. Jackson and Perpetuini missed late shots as we sank to a loss against the bottom-placed side. I signed coaches Matthew Doran and Calum Collier after the game.

Gravesend, Conference, Home

Perpetuini crossed in early, finding Maamria ahead of his opponent. He passed to the open Dodds for a simple finish. Both sides had chances for another, with Mills in particular coming close, but it was 1-0 at half time. Maamria missed one himself early in the second, but in the 83rd, a clearing header from Hope set Clitnovich up for a counter-attack. He found Jackson, and while his shot was parried, Dodds was there to finish. 2-0.

St Albans, Conference, Away

A cross from Maamria early was deflected into the path of Clitnovich for a 10th minute lead to Rushden – a rare good start to an away game. Those two were busy all game, and it was Maamria who crossed for Mills to head past three defenders in the 67th. Tynan held on at the other end, and 2-0 was the final score.

The good news continued, with Rushden drawn against Corby Town in the FA Cup Fourth Round qualifiers. I also re-signed Gary Mills, Tom Bonner and Tom Shaw on slightly improved deals.

Exeter, Conference, Home

Clitnovich took his first break of the season against a side on a streak of five games without a win. Maamria looked to have given us the lead in the 14th, only to have it ruled offside. Savage played the ball to Jackson on the left corner of the area in first half injury time, and the striker had the time and space to close in and hit the ball in. There were again complaints of an offside, but this one stood. There was no doubt that the Exeter striker who equalised in the 60th after a long pass started out past the defence, but again the official was silent. A great long pass from Mills let Dodds put us back into the lead in the 73rd, and Dave Savage capped off a Man of the Match performance with a ripping, curling 30-yard strike. Ironically, Exeter had a goal ruled offside in the 90th, leaving us 3-1 winners.

Corby Town, FA Cup 4th Round qualifier, Home

I took this game as an opportunity to field a second-string side, giving pretty much all the First XI a rest. A long free from Jon Ashton out of defence set up Michael Rankine for a run and his first goal for Rushden. A clearance from Wilson set up Rankine for a similar move in the 18th for his second, but Corby responded moments later with a goal from a free. A pass across goal from Corby came off Ashton, and in his haste to clear the ball off the line, Tyrone Berry put it into his own net! If I went through all the chances we missed in the second half, we'd be going for pages. Suffice to say, we finished with 19 shots – six on target – and no more goals. Not a good way to end the month, with a replay in just a few days.

The run of three league wins in the middle of the month certainly improved things, but the loss to Burton was awful and the draw to Corby frustrating at best. Dave Savage has at least hit some form, relieving one of my concerns, and I'm delighted to have re-signed three youngsters. We're now in the top half of the table, which is where I want to be, but need to find some consistency.

November, 2006

Corby Town, FA Cup 4th Round qualifier (replay), Away

The winner of this game goes on to face Walsall. I stuck with the same side that drew 2-2 last time, hoping they could make more of their chances. Kelly and Jackson forced early saves before Rankine scored after picking up a loose ball and charging into the area. Kelly did the same himself, and 2-0 was good enough to put us through.

Morcambe, Conference, Away

Back to full-strength, but everything went against us. Jackson missed four shots in 20 minutes, while Morcambe scored from their first chance in the 40th despite a blatant offside. Dodds came off the bench, and crossed to strike partner Maamria in the 70th. The Tunisian snuck past two defenders to slam it home. Unfortunately, Hope was yet again rounded all too easily to allow Morcambe their second, and we could not respond.

Walsall, FA Cup 1st Round, Away

Dodds and Sheehan were ineligible for this game, but otherwise we were at full-strength. A Rushden player was able to run onto a loose defensive pass, but my heart sank when I saw it was Jackson. Thankfully, given his wayward shooting last time, he elected to cross to Maamria for a 3rd minute lead. We led at half time, but went behind minutes into the second when Hope was rounded and Bonner beaten for a header from the resulting cross. The League Two side dominated the rest of the half, and I was happy to come away with a 1-1 result and home replay.

Cambridge, Conference, Home

Cambridge took an early lead after a deflection caught both the defence and keeper out of position. Savage scraped the bar with a piledriver before Watson floated in a free to Dodds. It was cleared only as far as Chris Hope, and Dodds managed to knock his shot in. Dodds missed a chance for a second late in the first half, but a pass from Watson gave it to him early in the second half. A great performance from the Leicester striker in the 2-1 win.

Walsall, FA Cup 1st Round, Home

While Shaw missed an early chance, there was no doubt Walsall would score when they somehow had three open strikers for a cross late in the first half. We had our chances in the second half, but Clitnovich and Jackson missed shots and we were knocked out of the Cup.

Halifax, Conference, Away

Again there were gaping holes in the defence allowing our opposition to take the lead – this time after only two minutes. We were 0-2 down after five when a striker charged through and behind by three at the break. Dodds managed a consolation, but no more.

Certainly not the month I was hoping for. After a fairly promising start where we qualified for the FA Cup, we were knocked out in the first round, and lost two of three games in the league.

| Pos  | Team          |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st  | Northwich     |       | 20    | 11    | 6     | 3     | 33    | 21    | +12   | 39    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd  | York          |       | 20    | 9     | 8     | 3     | 40    | 23    | +17   | 35    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd  | Gravesend     |       | 20    | 10    | 4     | 6     | 29    | 28    | +1    | 34    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th  | Southport     |       | 20    | 11    | 1     | 8     | 28    | 27    | +1    | 34    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th  | Forest Green  |       | 20    | 10    | 3     | 7     | 42    | 35    | +7    | 33    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th  | Stevenage     |       | 20    | 10    | 3     | 7     | 32    | 26    | +6    | 33    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th  | Grays         |       | 20    | 10    | 3     | 7     | 33    | 30    | +3    | 33    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th  | Halifax       |       | 20    | 8     | 8     | 4     | 27    | 21    | +6    | 32    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th  | Woking        |       | 20    | 9     | 4     | 7     | 31    | 28    | +3    | 31    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th | Kidderminster |       | 20    | 7     | 9     | 4     | 38    | 38    | 0     | 30    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th | Rushden       |       | 20    | 9     | 2     | 9     | 30    | 25    | +5    | 29    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th | Stafford      |       | 20    | 7     | 8     | 5     | 19    | 22    | -3    | 29    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th | Morecambe     |       | 20    | 7     | 7     | 6     | 27    | 23    | +4    | 28    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th | Aldershot     |       | 20    | 7     | 7     | 6     | 35    | 40    | -5    | 28    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th | Dag & Red     |       | 20    | 6     | 8     | 6     | 30    | 24    | +6    | 26    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th | Oxford        |       | 20    | 7     | 5     | 8     | 33    | 30    | +3    | 26    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th | Crawley       |       | 20    | 10    | 4     | 6     | 26    | 18    | +8    | 24    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th | Weymouth      |       | 20    | 6     | 6     | 8     | 23    | 28    | -5    | 24    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th | Exeter        |       | 20    | 4     | 8     | 8     | 28    | 32    | -4    | 20    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th | Tamworth      |       | 20    | 5     | 5     | 10    | 20    | 27    | -7    | 20    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st | Altrincham    |       | 20    | 4     | 6     | 10    | 29    | 42    | -13   | 18    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd | St. Albans    |       | 20    | 5     | 2     | 13    | 25    | 33    | -8    | 17    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd | Cambridge     |       | 20    | 4     | 4     | 12    | 16    | 27    | -11   | 16    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th | Burton        |       | 20    | 2     | 3     | 15    | 18    | 44    | -26   | 9     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10 points deducted from Crawley  

December, 2006

Dagenham & Redbridge, Conference, Home

A big blow to start the month, with Scott Tynan ruled out for our opening game with a gashed leg. Alex Bryant came in, and the defence did him no favours. Bostwick was beaten to the ball for Dag's first, and Sheehan scored an own goal moments later. After 17 minutes, Bostwick lost an aerial contest and we were 0-3 down. An angry half-time address had no effect as we crumbled to another loss.

Grays, Conference, Home

It looked like being a scoreless first half until an injury time corner from Savage was knocked in by Maamria. It looked like we'd escaped with three points, despite losing Sheehan to injury, until a long pass in second half injury time resulted in a goal to Grays. It was too late for an equaliser, and two points went missing. My tough talk after the game only succeeded in annoying Clitnovich and Hope.

Kettering, FA Trophy 1st Round, Home

We needed a good result here – not just a Trophy game, but against fierce rivals Kettering. Bostwick gave us an early lead through a direct free kick, but we looked in trouble when they received a penalty in the 32nd. Thankfully, Bryant made a fine save, but we were again put under pressure mid-way through the second when Mills was sent off for a second yellow. Despite being a man down, Watson found enough space for a run down the left, and crossed perfectly to Dodds for the sealer.

We suffered yet another blow to our season, with Dave Savage ruled out for three months with a back injury. He had a slow start, but had become the fixture in the middle that he was expected to.

Aldershot, Conference, Home

Gary Mills also missed this game, through suspension, which really cut out a chunk of our midfield. For once, though, we scored first despite our opponents having more early chances – Maamria and Clitnovich combined to set Jackson on a free run into the area. Aldershot hit back moments later to make it level by the break Two minutes into the second, Dodds floated a free kick into the box, where Jackson beat three defenders to head in his second. We had a bit of a scare when Bonner was sent off late, but not only did we hold on to win, Jackson unselfishly passed across goal for Dodds to make it 3-1 in the dying minutes. We ended a four-game run without a league win, while Jackson ended his 11-hour scoring drought.

Stockport, Conference, Home

Bonner was suspended for this game, but Tynan and Mills returned. There was action at both ends early, with Mills and Rankine coming particularly close. However, it was midfielder Tom Shaw who did the damage, heading in crosses from Rankine and Clitnovich for a brace by half time. Southport did hit back in the second half thanks to an incisive pass and then received a penalty in the 65th after a trip from Mills. However, Tynan made the save, and with Sheehan strong at the back, we held on to win.

Four games without a loss is a good way to end the year, particularly when we started December with a 0-3 loss. We're still barely in the upper half of the table, which is acceptable for a first season, but not too pleasing.

I offered a number of contract extensions to players with 6 months remaining. The offers were on equal or lesser terms to existing deals, and while Hatswell and Perpetuini agreed, Tynan and Rankine turned down the offers.

| Pos | Inf   | Team               | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st |       | York               | 24    | 12    | 8     | 4     | 50    | 28    | +22   | 44    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd |       | Northwich          | 24    | 12    | 7     | 5     | 41    | 27    | +14   | 43    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd |       | Forest Green       | 24    | 12    | 4     | 8     | 50    | 43    | +7    | 40    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th |       | Gravesend          | 24    | 11    | 7     | 6     | 39    | 37    | +2    | 40    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th |       | Grays              | 24    | 11    | 6     | 7     | 39    | 35    | +4    | 39    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th |       | Dag & Red          | 24    | 10    | 8     | 6     | 41    | 26    | +15   | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th |       | Kidderminster      | 24    | 9     | 11    | 4     | 44    | 41    | +3    | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th |       | Halifax            | 24    | 10    | 8     | 6     | 31    | 30    | +1    | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th |       | Southport          | 24    | 12    | 2     | 10    | 32    | 33    | -1    | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th|       | Rushden            | 24    | 11    | 3     | 10    | 36    | 31    | +5    | 36    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th|       | Stevenage          | 24    | 11    | 3     | 10    | 38    | 36    | +2    | 36    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th|       | Morecambe          | 24    | 9     | 8     | 7     | 35    | 30    | +5    | 35    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th|       | Aldershot          | 24    | 9     | 7     | 8     | 40    | 47    | -7    | 34    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th|       | Stafford           | 24    | 8     | 9     | 7     | 23    | 26    | -3    | 33    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th|       | Weymouth           | 24    | 8     | 8     | 8     | 29    | 32    | -3    | 32    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th|       | Woking             | 24    | 9     | 4     | 11    | 33    | 38    | -5    | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th|       | Oxford             | 24    | 8     | 6     | 10    | 41    | 39    | +2    | 30    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th|       | Crawley            | 24    | 11    | 5     | 8     | 31    | 23    | +8    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th|       | Cambridge          | 24    | 8     | 4     | 12    | 28    | 29    | -1    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th|       | Exeter             | 24    | 5     | 10    | 9     | 37    | 40    | -3    | 25    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st|       | Tamworth           | 24    | 5     | 7     | 12    | 24    | 33    | -9    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd|       | St. Albans         | 24    | 6     | 3     | 15    | 33    | 43    | -10   | 21    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd|       | Altrincham         | 24    | 4     | 6     | 14    | 32    | 50    | -18   | 18    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th|       | Burton             | 24    | 3     | 4     | 17    | 24    | 54    | -30   | 13    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10 points deducted from Crawley                                                                     |  

January, 2007

Weymouth, Conference, Away

A terrible way to start the year, with an inexplicable backpass from Wilson straight into the path of a striker giving Weymouth a 5th minute lead. That was the only real chance of the game, and despite late shots from Clitnovich and Maamria, we couldn't score. A costly mistake from the young defender.

Forest Green, Conference, Away

We scored five goals the last time we took on Forest, and when a brilliant cross from Dodds left Perpetuini and Maamria with enough time to hold a raffle to decide who would take the shot before being challenged, the former put us into the lead after two minutes. Forest looked dangerous several times, but a clearance from Bonner left Dodds with a short run and strike for our second. Forest managed an incredible 21 shots to our seven, but with Hope, Sheehan and Wilson strong at the back, we held on.

Northwich, FA Trophy 2nd Round, Home

We looked to have managed another good start with a goal to Dodds in the opening minute, but it was ruled offside. In contrast to the previous game, we dominated but just couldn't score. The failed chances just kept racking up, until finally Dodds put on in off the wall from a free in the 68th.. It should have been at least a 3-goal margin, with Dodds and Clitnovich particularly wasteful, but one goal was all we needed to progress.

I made a few half-hearted attempts at signing a keeper with the transfer window open, but free agent Rab Douglas and Leeds youngster Jon Lund turned us down.

York, Conference, Home

We hosted the league-leaders and went down in under 90 seconds after a counter-attack. The day quickly got worse, with Perpetuini off injured, Jackson missing a sitter and York scoring a second after Tynan parried a shot to an opponent. York had a goal denied due to an offside, but with Jackson and Shaw missing shots, 0-2 was how it finished. Perpetuini turned out to have suffered a fractured arm, putting him out for a month. I made an attempt to sign Yeovil winger Gavin McCallum, but he turned us down.

Stevenage, Conference, Away

Watson caused some trouble with early corners, with one in the 9th resulting in a penalty after a scrable in the box. Watson took it himself...and put it straight into the keeper's hands. Fifteen minutes later, Watson was again the villain, beaten for a header which gave Stevenage the lead. Michael Bostwick went off with an ankle injury, putting him out for two months, and with Jackson missing numerous chances, we again failed to score.

Crawley, Conference, Away

The last game of the month, and with the side slipping down the table, we needed a win. Unfortunately, an unopposed striker headed in Crawley's first in the 7th minute, and again a player was free in the box for their second ten minutes later. Jackson finally hit the target, striking a goal from 20 yards late in the second half, but that was all.

I racked up a few more rejections after attempting to sign free agents – winger Robbie Foy and veteran keepers Magnus Hedman and Pavel Srnicek all made it clear they had no intention of joining Rushden.

Suffice to say, things are not going well. I cannot sign any players, and we continue to struggle in the league. Tom Bonner has fallen away sharply after his bright start to the season, and we're being hit by a few injuries. The goalkeeping situation is a huge concern, and we have been very reliant on our on-loan players. I actually received the dreaded vote of confidence from the board at the end of the month, and though my reasonable request for more time to build the squad seemed to satisfy them for the moment, there's no doubt things need to improve.

February, 2007

Gravesend, FA Trophy 3rd Round, Away

There were no less than five senior players missing for this game, with Bryant, Bostwick, Perpetuini, Wilson and Savage all out injured. Our opponents dominated early and scored in the 19th. A terrific Mills long ball gave Jackson the equaliser and scores were level at half time. Alan Sheehan was sent off for a professional foul, but despite bringing on an extra defender, we had a chance in the 73rd. The ball was cleared to touch, but Watson launched the throw into the box from long range. It bounced off a defender and perfectly into Clitnovich's path for our second. 2-1, and we progressed.

The triumph was short-lived, with the board suddenly forgetting their promise of more time to build the squad – another public warning. I finally made two signings, though they are more for the long-term.

Marvin McDonald [sT, ENG, 173cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Signed despite protests from my Assistant, McDonald didn't manage a game in three seasons at Macclesfield. McDonald is purely a poacher, but lacks the intelligence to get into the right positions. I'll have to rely on very good passing for him to score, but at least he can finish when he gets the chance.

Mark Preece [D C, ENG, 191cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0

Yes, another slow defender, but at least he has youth on his side. Preece played a few games for Forest Green this season, and may be a decent prospect.

I released Tyrone Berry to Vauxhall for free to make room for them, which leaves us a little thin in the midfield department, especially with our injuries.

Stafford, Conference, Home

With our opponents on a five game losing streak, we could not afford to drop any points here. Naturally we wasted many chances, conceded a goal, and lost 0-1.

Tamworth, Conference, Away

With the season slipping away, a goal to Mills in the first minute of this game was welcome, albeit brief, relief. When Tom Shaw played a great ball through to Dodds for our second just after the break, it looked like we had the game sealed, particularly when we were still 2-0 up with 15 minutes to go. It was not to be. Two goals in the final minutes to Tamworth, and more points down the drain.

Kidderminster, Conference, Away

A flat first half saw few chances, with Rankine putting one over the bar and Shaw forcing a save. The second half was more open, but until the 91st minute, the closest anyone came to scoring was substitute Jackson hitting the side netting after a good run. Yet with seconds to go, a long pass found a blatantly offside striker for the deadlock to be broken with no chance for a reply. Guess which side the striker belonged to? Another loss, and it looks unlikely we'll be able to even make the top half. And to think I was concerned about promotion!

Grays, FA Trophy 4th Round, Away

Chris Beardsley got a rare run in this cup game, and made the most of it, heading in a Sheehan corner in the 33rd. Grays hit back just before half time and despite a strong second half, we couldn't get a second. Thankfully, nor did they, and a home rematch was set up.

Grays, FA Trophy 4th Round, Home

Perpetuini returned from injury for this match, and started a move in the 5th minute which saw Clitnovich find Dodds open on the edge of the area. He fired it in for an early lead. Clitnovich continued his fine form, passing to Perpetuini for our second, but a penalty to Grays made it 2-1 in the 29th. Having set ip two goals, Clitnovich beat three defenders to a Dodds cross to make it 3-1, and Maamria hit in a penalty just before the break to seal the game. There was a brief worrying moment when Grays scored early in the second half, but Clitnovich and Dodds each managed a second for a thumping 6-2 win. They had four goals and five assists between them – a spectacular performance. If we're going to fail in the league, perhaps we can at least have some silverware to show for the season?

Clitnovich was the talk of the town, pumped up by myself, former Rushden player Duane Darby and the manager of our next opponents, Unfortunately, he did not seem to respond well to the pressure. Just what I need – our in-form player worrying about meeting expectations just when we need him to perform.

March, 2007

Woking, Conference, Away

Having sunk to a disastrous 18th in the league, three points were needed here. Shaw came close to scoring on a counter-attack, but Woking got the first in the 19th minute. Clitnovich and Dodds put several shots over, while we were lucky that a second Woking goal was disallowed. With seconds to go in the first half injury time, Dodds crossed to Maamria for an equaliser. It only took five minutes for Woking to regain their lead, through a Mills own goal. Maamria went off injured late after being hacked down, and while his opponent was sent off, Marcus Kelly sent our only chance wide. 1-2.

Altrincham, Conference, Home

After a shaky performance in the previous game, Clitnovich took advantage of a deflection to put us ahead after nine minutes. Altrincham hit back a few minutes later and it was level at the break. Jackson replaced Dodds at half time, and took a pass from Clitnovich to score our second. The Australian/Romanian made it a brace for himself after intercepting a defensive pass in the 73rd, and not even the loss of Glenn Wilson to a broken ankle could dampen the relief felt at ending a seven-game run without a win in the league.

Woking, FA Trophy Semi Final Leg 1, Away

As I said, if we're going to fail in the league, let's see if we can have some silverware. Michael Rankine forced an early save but was forced off by a minor knock. The second half was much more eventful than the first, with great chances at both ends. Dodds, Clitnovich and substitute Jackson caused havoc, but just couldn't get the ball in the net. Nor could Woking, and it comes down to the home leg.

Burton, Conference, Home

Naturally, a home game against the bottom-placed side would see a dismal performance. 0-1 down after ten minutes, 0-2 by the 47th. We barely had a shot on goal all game, and are now drifting close to the unthinkable – the relegation zone.

Woking, FA Trophy Semi Final Leg 2, Home

Woking were fresh off a 6-0 demolition of Altrincham, which was not what I wanted to see after our performance in the last game. Jackson went for a spectacular diving header early, forcing a save, but it was a cross that flew past our defenders and to an open striker that gave Woking an away goal in the 40th. Clitnovich set up Jackson with a great ball moments after the break, but the striker hit the side netting. Clitnovich did it himself in the 54th, but having conceded an away goal, we needed another. Woking went onto the back foot, and held on for the final minutes.

Oxford, Conference, Home

With the Trophy gone, can we salvage anything from the Conference? Clitnovich missed early, while Oxford went ahead in the 14th. Perpetuini grazed the bar from distance, and yet again at the other end, the result was different. 0-2. Marvin McDonald came on and promptly missed two shots. Watson gave us one from a penalty in the 63rd, but with two late Jackson misses, it looked all over. Clitnovich crossed the ball into the area in the second minute of injury time, but was well short of Jackson. However, the Oxford defender inexplicably went for a hasty header, and put it into his own net. At last some luck, but we need a lot more.

St Albans, Conference, Home

Michael Bostwick returned for this must-win game against a relegation-threatened opponent. Dodds and Jackson combined for the latter to put us ahead in the 14th, and Watson scored his second penalty in as many games later in the half. Tynan made several quality saves, and Dodds set up Mills for our third late in the game. The only bad news was that Jackson suffered a hamstring injury, putting him out for a month.

Exeter, Conference, Away

Another weak opponent that we needed to defeat. They were unlucky to have a goal disallowed, then a player sent off in the first half. Late in the half, Rankine crossed to Dodds, who scored with a brilliant diving header. Luck was definitely on our side in the first 45, but both sides were on the receiving end of several cards. An intentional handball saw Watson sent off in the 78th, and Clitnovich joined him moments later after receiving a second yellow for protesting. All of a sudden, we were down to nine men, with more than ten minutes to go. Tynan stood up, though, and we managed a third straight win.

Halifax, Conference, Home

Those suspensions decimated our already injury-ravaged squad, but at least gave Lee Tomlin the chance to play his first senior game of the season after good Under-18s form. It was Sheehan who struck early, blasting a 30-yard free into the net. Halifax made it 1-1 in the 9th, and Hope and Tomlin both came close to regaining the lead moments later. Things quietened down a bit after that, though Ashton had to clear the ball off the line in injury time. A counter-attack in the 59th saw Tynan outnumbered, and Halifax took the lead. A third sealed the game, though Dodds managed one in the final moments.

Certainly an eventful month, and at least we got a few wins. Savage, Bostwick and Perpetuini are back from injury, though Wilson, Jackson and Beardsley are now out. Tom Shaw and Clitnovich are also in need of a rest, so we're in a lot of trouble in the midfield. At this point, I just want the season to be over so I can re-assess the squad and make a few changes. I don't really know where to start at the moment, but it's clear changes are needed. We have a couple of games in hand over the sides below us, so relegation isn't a threat, but it looks like we'll definitely finish in the bottom half, which is a bad result. Wayne Hatswell was named Conference Player of the Month.

| Pos | Inf   | Team                | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st |       | York                | 41    | 22    | 12    | 7     | 73    | 40    | +33   | 78    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd |       | Stevenage           | 41    | 21    | 7     | 13    | 70    | 55    | +15   | 70    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd |       | Grays               | 41    | 20    | 10    | 11    | 71    | 59    | +12   | 70    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th |       | Forest Green        | 41    | 21    | 6     | 14    | 77    | 66    | +11   | 69    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th |       | Dag & Red           | 41    | 18    | 14    | 9     | 65    | 38    | +27   | 68    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th |       | Morecambe           | 41    | 17    | 15    | 9     | 61    | 44    | +17   | 66    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th |       | Woking              | 40    | 19    | 8     | 13    | 70    | 57    | +13   | 65    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th |       | Halifax             | 41    | 17    | 13    | 11    | 51    | 48    | +3    | 64    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th |       | Southport           | 41    | 18    | 7     | 16    | 61    | 62    | -1    | 61    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th|       | Crawley             | 41    | 20    | 10    | 11    | 60    | 40    | +20   | 60    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th|       | Stafford            | 41    | 17    | 9     | 15    | 41    | 44    | -3    | 60    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th|       | Aldershot           | 41    | 15    | 12    | 14    | 65    | 67    | -2    | 57    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th|       | Weymouth            | 41    | 14    | 14    | 13    | 46    | 51    | -5    | 56    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th|       | Kidderminster       | 40    | 14    | 13    | 13    | 60    | 63    | -3    | 55    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th|       | Northwich           | 39    | 15    | 9     | 15    | 59    | 53    | +6    | 54    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th|       | Gravesend           | 40    | 14    | 12    | 14    | 59    | 65    | -6    | 54    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th|       | Oxford              | 39    | 14    | 11    | 14    | 62    | 56    | +6    | 53    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th|       | Rushden             | 39    | 15    | 5     | 19    | 53    | 51    | +2    | 50    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th|       | Cambridge           | 41    | 14    | 7     | 20    | 57    | 63    | -6    | 49    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th|       | Exeter              | 41    | 9     | 17    | 15    | 61    | 66    | -5    | 44    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st|       | St. Albans          | 41    | 9     | 7     | 25    | 52    | 75    | -23   | 34    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd|       | Tamworth            | 41    | 7     | 12    | 22    | 43    | 71    | -28   | 33    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd|       | Altrincham          | 39    | 7     | 8     | 24    | 50    | 88    | -38   | 29    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th|       | Burton              | 40    | 8     | 4     | 28    | 47    | 92    | -45   | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10 points deducted from Crawley   | 

April, 2007

Northwich, Conference, Away

A superb exchange of passes from Dodds and Clitnovich gave Bostwick a gial in the 13th, but our opponents only took a minute to respond. Watson cleared the ball off the line late in the half, setting off a counter-attack which saw both Dodds and Tomlin free of the defence. Dodds unselfishly passed to his partner, and the youngster put through his first goal for the club. Clitnovich missed several shots in the second half, but with Northwich also wayward and Bonner strong at the back, we held on.

Morecambe, Conference, Home

Clitnovich and Shaw had much-needed rests in this game, while Hope started on the bench due ton our opponent's attacking pace. Morecambe took an early lead, but a 25-yard free from Sheehan went in off the post just before half time. We were quiet in the second half but looked to have at least picked up a point when scores were level with eight minutes to go. However, a counter-attack and cross suddenly made it 1-3.

Cambridge, Conference, Away

We clearly dominated this game, with 14 shots to 4. Unfortunately, Tomlin and Bostwick managed to miss almost all of their chances. The young striker looked to have finally broken through with a deserved goal in second half injury time, only to have it ruled offside. 0-0.

Dagenham & Redbridge, Conference, Home

This game was more even than the last, but we again failed to take our chances. Dagenham had no such problems, scoring early in the first half. Bostwick played Dodds through beautifully in the 60th, and he passed to partner Rankine. He was dispossessed, but Gary Mills got hold of it and blasted it in to equalise. The final score of 1-1 was a fair result.

Gravesend, Conference, Away

Tynan found Dodds on the right wing with a long clearance in the 7th, and he passed to partner Tomlin. Marked by two opponents and 25 yards out, Tomlin didn't even bother to get control of the ball – he simply blasted it into the top corner. Gravesend hit back with two goals and we lost Dodds to injury. A terrific long pass from Ashton set Tomlin on a forward run, and though his shot was parried, substitute Marvin McDonald was there for the finish.

Grays, Conference, Home

With Dodds, Clitnovich and Maamria missing from this game, a lot of our strike power was gone. We had our chances in the first half, especially through a diving header from Shaw and long shot from Mills, but were scoreless at the break. As usual, our opponents made the most of their chances, scoring twice in the second half. Marcus Kelly missed everything and we fell 0-2.

Morecambe, Conference, Home

Thankfully, the final game of the season. McDonald scored in just 17 seconds after Clitnovich brought the ball forward from the kick off, but scores were level four minutes later. There was a constant assault on the goals at both ends, with each side finishing with twenty shots. Clitnovich alone had eight. However, while we managed just one more, through Perpetuini, Morecambe hit two and ended our season on an appropriately disappointing note.

The season in review

Summary

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name              | Apps  | Gls   | Ast   | MoM   | Pas   | Tck   | Drb   | Sh T  | Av Rat| 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AMC   |       | Daniel Clitnovich | 48 (1)| 10    | 9     | 4     | 77%   | 1.16  | 0.55  | 29%   | 7.08  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| GK    | Wnt   | Scott Tynan       | 48    | -     | -     | 1     | 41%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.58  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Chris Hope        | 47    | -     | -     | 4     | 72%   | 3.72  | 0.06  | -     | 7.11  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Louis Dodds       | 44 (1)| 17    | 17    | 4     | 69%   | 0.36  | 1.14  | 40%   | 7.11  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Tom Shaw          | 43 (3)| 3     | 5     | 2     | 73%   | 2.45  | 0.32  | 33%   | 7.11  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Gary Mills        | 42 (2)| 6     | 2     | 1     | 71%   | 2.39  | 0.31  | 35%   | 6.91  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S4    | Wnt   | Alan Sheehan      | 38 (1)| 4     | 2     | 2     | 64%   | 3.24  | 0.30  | 30%   | 7.10  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DL    |       | Paul Watson       | 37 (2)| 2     | 4     | 1     | 65%   | 2.71  | 0.32  | -     | 6.64  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Dino Maamria      | 35 (3)| 7     | 7     | -     | 72%   | 1.15  | 0.43  | 32%   | 6.76  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S1    | Inj   | Michael Bostwick  | 33 (1)| 3     | 1     | -     | 70%   | 2.52  | 0.37  | 25%   | 6.85  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Wayne Hatswell    | 30 (1)| -     | -     | 2     | 71%   | 3.06  | 0.13  | -     | 6.94  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Simeon Jackson    | 28 (8)| 10    | 4     | 2     | 70%   | 0.50  | 1.46  | 37%   | 6.69  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    | Wnt   | David Perpetuini  | 25 (4)| 3     | 3     | -     | 72%   | 2.74  | 0.32  | 35%   | 6.97  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DR    | Inj   | Jon Ashton        | 21 (3)| -     | 2     | -     | 65%   | 4.09  | 0.28  | -     | 6.83  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S3    |       | Tom Bonner        | 20 (2)| -     | 2     | 2     | 69%   | 4.13  | 0.10  | -     | 7.09  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Glenn Wilson      | 19    | -     | 2     | 1     | 61%   | 3.92  | 0.17  | -     | 6.95  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S2    |       | Dave Savage       | 14 (8)| 1     | 3     | 1     | 76%   | 2.17  | 0.19  | 7%    | 6.73  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Marcus Kelly      | 11 (7)| 1     | -     | -     | 73%   | 1.82  | 0.95  | 36%   | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Michael Rankine   | 10 (2)| 3     | 4     | 1     | 65%   | 0.63  | 1.14  | 35%   | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Alex Bryant       | 9     | -     | -     | -     | 42%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.33  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Chris Beardsley   | 8 (3) | 1     | 1     | 1     | 68%   | 0.13  | 1.72  | -     | 6.55  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| FC    |       | Lee Tomlin        | 7 (1) | 2     | 2     | 1     | 75%   | 0.74  | 2.07  | 42%   | 6.63  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| FC    |       | Marvin McDonald   | 3 (4) | 2     | -     | -     | 79%   | 0.26  | 1.55  | 36%   | 6.57  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Jason Goodliffe   | 3     | -     | -     | -     | 79%   | 0.83  | -     | -     | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S5    |       | Mark Preece       | 0 (1) | -     | -     | -     | -     | -     | -     | -     | 7.00  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Tyrone Berry      | 5     | -     | -     | -     | 76%   | 1.69  | 1.33  | -     | 6.29  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       | Jamie Cook        | 0 (2) | -     | -     | -     | 73%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.50  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

| Pos       | Inf   | Team          |     | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st       | C     | Grays         |     | 46    | 24    | 11    | 11    | 82    | 60    | +22   | 83    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd       |       | York          |     | 46    | 22    | 15    | 9     | 78    | 48    | +30   | 81    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd       |       | Stevenage     |     | 46    | 24    | 8     | 14    | 83    | 66    | +17   | 80    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th       |       | Dag & Red     |     | 46    | 21    | 15    | 10    | 72    | 43    | +29   | 78    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th       | P     | Morecambe     |     | 46    | 20    | 17    | 9     | 76    | 49    | +27   | 77    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th       |       | Forest Green  |     | 46    | 23    | 7     | 16    | 83    | 71    | +12   | 76    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th       |       | Halifax       |     | 46    | 21    | 13    | 12    | 63    | 55    | +8    | 76    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th       |       | Woking        |     | 46    | 21    | 8     | 17    | 76    | 65    | +11   | 71    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th       |       | Kidderminster |     | 46    | 19    | 14    | 13    | 76    | 69    | +7    | 71    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th      |       | Crawley       |     | 46    | 23    | 11    | 12    | 63    | 43    | +20   | 70    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th      |       | Southport     |     | 46    | 20    | 8     | 18    | 67    | 68    | -1    | 68    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th      |       | Aldershot     |     | 46    | 18    | 13    | 15    | 78    | 75    | +3    | 67    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th      |       | Stafford      |     | 46    | 18    | 9     | 19    | 44    | 51    | -7    | 63    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th      |       | Cambridge     |     | 46    | 18    | 8     | 20    | 64    | 65    | -1    | 62    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th      |       | Northwich     |     | 46    | 17    | 10    | 19    | 70    | 67    | +3    | 61    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th      |       | Exeter        |     | 46    | 14    | 17    | 15    | 72    | 68    | +4    | 59    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th      |       | Oxford        |     | 46    | 15    | 13    | 18    | 71    | 68    | +3    | 58    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th      |       | Gravesend     |     | 46    | 15    | 13    | 18    | 67    | 76    | -9    | 58    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th      |       | Weymouth      |     | 46    | 14    | 16    | 16    | 48    | 57    | -9    | 58    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th      |       | Rushden       |     | 46    | 16    | 8     | 22    | 61    | 63    | -2    | 56    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st      | R     | St. Albans    |     | 46    | 11    | 8     | 27    | 61    | 85    | -24   | 41    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd      | R     | Altrincham    |     | 46    | 9     | 8     | 29    | 57    | 105   | -48   | 35    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd      | R     | Tamworth      |     | 46    | 7     | 13    | 26    | 48    | 85    | -37   | 34    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th      | R     | Burton        |     | 46    | 8     | 5     | 33    | 52    | 110   | -58   | 29    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Unquestionably a terrible season. I was concerned initially that we might be promoted before we were ready, yet in the end we were close to relegation. It's hard to pinpoint exactly where we went wrong. Though a slow defence cost us a few goals, more often than not a loss in a game we should have won saw a bad performance across the board. This seems to indicate a generalised problem, such as a lack of team unity. Though we certainly had a few experienced players and good leaders, there were few really good role models – indeed, I didn't set anyone up to tutor our numerous good young players, because there weren't any real standouts in that regard. There were a lot of new players at the club, which does mean that there's a bit of a settling in period. However, even in the latter half of the season we were still maddeningly inconsistent.

Of the players, we relied heavily on Leicester's Dodds and Sheehan at either end of the pitch. There were certainly good signs from our younger players, with Shaw, Bostwick, Bonner and Jackson becoming regulars in the side. Wilson made some mistakes but generally looked okay, while Tomlin showed good signs when he got a late run. Daniel Clitnovich was a fine performer, as were most of our midfielders. However, we had a lot of trouble with backup strikers and could not find a capable goalkeeper.

In one oddly promising sign, we won the Under-18s league, despite taking on the likes of Ipswich, Tottenham, Coventry and West Brom. Strikers Lee Tomlin and Lee Watts were the best performers.

For what it's worth, in the first season of Rushden and Diamond – The Legend Begins we finished 7th, and were almost unbeatable in the second season. A similar improvement here would be welcome...

Around the world: major awards and results

Rushden Supporters’ Player of the Year:

Daniel Clitnovich

World Player of the Year:

Didier Drogba (Chelsea)

World Footballer of the year:

Wayne Rooney (Man U)

England:

Winner: Liverpool

Relegated: Wigan, Watford, Reading

Promoted: Leeds, Birmingham, Stoke

Spain:

Real Madrid

Champions Cup:

Manchester United

EURO Cup:

Lens

The Transfers

Trans In

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22.7.2006          | Clitnovich, Daniel | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 26.7.2006          | Bryant, Alex       | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 31.1.2007          | McDonald, Marvin   | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3.2.2007           | Preece, Mark       | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    |                    |                    |                    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Trans Out

| Date               | Person             | To                 | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9.9.2006           | Cook, Jamie        | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8.2.2007           | Berry, Tyrone      | Vauxhall           | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    |                    |                    |                    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Loan In

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15.7.2006          | Dodds, Louis       | Leicester          | Loan               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16.7.2006          | Sheehan, Alan      | Leicester          | Loan               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    |                    |                    |                    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

The standout here is undoubtedly Clitnovich, who was named the Conference signing of the season. Bryant was a capable backup given that our first choice didn't exactly do much. Our loan signings were stars -perhaps a little too good, as we really relied on them. We certainly didn't lose much with the few players who were released

Pre-season, 2007/2008

Plenty of action over the off-season. I was given a new three-year contract as Rushden manager, but left with a very tight wage budget after we lost ₤300K in the last season.

I re-signed Scott Tynan on barely half of his previous wages until 2011 and released defender Jason Goodliffe to Nuneaton. Veteran Dave Savage and striker Michael Rankine were also released. I brought in midfielders Stevie Ferguson, Ikechi Anya, Gavin McCallum and Kyle Storer and defender Scott Cousins on free transfers and bought goalkeeper Adam Legzdins for ₤1K. Leicester reclaimed Dodds and Sheehan, sending us goalkeeper Conrad Logan and winger Max Gradel.

We also went through a lot of shuffling of staff, with coaches Matthew Doran and Calum Collier refusing to re-sign. Willie McStay, Geoff Evans and Australian legend Alex Tobin replaced them. Scout Aaron Mason also left, and was replaced by Antonio North.

SEASON OVERVIEW 07/08

The Club

Home Ground: Nene Park, Irthlingborough (capacity 6441, 4641 seated)

Rivals: Kettering, Northampton (fierce); Peterborough, Oxford, Luton

Reputation: Local

Estimated Value: ₤575K

Balance -₤200K

Transfer Budget: ₤5K

Media Prediction: 14th

Board Expectation: Stay Clear of Relegation

Fan Expectation: Fight Bravely Against Relegation

Staff

Chairman: Keith Cousins

Assistant Manager: John Dreyer

Coaches: Will Weedon, Alex Tobin, Wilie McStay, Geoff Evans (General); Tony Godden (GK); Paul Driver (Youth)

Physios: Phil Ward, Simon Parsell

Scout: Antonio Nort

The Squad

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name                      | No. | Squad Status | Cnt | Weekly wage | Expires   | Value   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Adam Legzdins             | -   | Key Player   | F/T | £150        | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Chris Hope                | 5   | Key Player   | F/T | £800        | 30.6.2008 | £5K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Gary Mills                | 17  | First Team   | F/T | £500        | 30.6.2009 | £20K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Michael Bostwick          | 32  | First Team   | F/T | £375        | 30.6.2008 | £12K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Scott Tynan               | 20  | First Team   | F/T | £210        | 30.6.2011 | £3K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Wnt   | Glenn Wilson              | 2   | First Team   | F/T | £375        | 30.6.2008 | £10K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Daniel Clitnovich         | 24  | First Team   | F/T | £450        | 30.6.2008 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | David Perpetuini          | 28  | Rotation     | F/T | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Inj   | Paul Watson               | 3   | Rotation     | F/T | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £6K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Dino Maamria              | 10  | Rotation     | F/T | £400        | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Gavin McCallum            | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £450        | 30.6.2010 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Kyle Storer               | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £450        | 30.6.2011 | £12K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Wayne Hatswell            | 6   | Rotation     | F/T | £500        | 30.6.2008 | £8K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Chris Beardsley           | 29  | Rotation     | F/T | £525        | 30.6.2008 | £12K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Jon Ashton                | 4   | Rotation     | F/T | £550        | 30.6.2008 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Tom Bonner                | 19  | Rotation     | F/T | £210        | 30.6.2009 | £5K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Scott Cousins             | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £160        | 30.6.2009 | £2K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Ine   | Conrad Logan              | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £0          | 23.6.2008 | £28K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Marcus Kelly              | 11  | Rotation     | F/T | £450        | 30.6.2008 | £20K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Simeon Jackson            | 12  | Rotation     | F/T | £275        | 30.6.2008 | £24K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Tom Shaw                  | 18  | Rotation     | F/T | £250        | 30.6.2010 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Ikechi Anya               | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £425        | 30.6.2011 | £7K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Mark Preece               | 25  | Rotation     | F/T | £300        | 30.6.2009 | £3K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Ine   | Max Gradel                | -   | Rotation     | F/T | £0          | 23.6.2008 | £6K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Stevie Ferguson           | -   | Backup       | F/T | £375        | 30.6.2009 | £8K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Alex Bryant               | 1   | Backup       | F/T | £160        | 30.6.2010 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Yth   | T. J. McClory-Cuthbertson | -   | Backup       | Yth | £90         | 30.6.2008 | -       | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Lee Tomlin                | 14  | Backup       | F/T | £275        | 30.6.2008 | £20K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Alex Bolt                 | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T | £80         | 30.6.2009 | £2K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Lawrence Lambley          | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T | £80         | 30.6.2009 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Dominic Langdon           | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T | £85         | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Martyn Margarson          | 23  | Hot Prospect | F/T | £80         | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Marvin McDonald           | 9   | Youngster    | F/T | £100        | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     |       | Sean O'Keefe              | -   | Youngster    | F/T | £100        | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Inj   | Ben Reynolds              | -   | Youngster    | Yth | £90         | 30.6.2008 | -       | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -     | Slt   | Leo Fortune-West          | -   | Not Needed   | F/T | £1,800      | 30.6.2008 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Wage Budget: £14,155

Total Weekly Wages at 10/7/07: £13,090

Senior Players: 25

Reserve Players: 11

U-18 Players: 17

[Note that players classed as Backup, Prospect or Youngster will not be profiled, and are regarded as reserve players]

Player [Pos, Nationality, Height, Age] – Rushden Seasons, Rushden League Games, Rushden League Goals

Goalkeepers

Conrad Logan [GK, IRE – 1 U21 Cap, 21] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan from Leicester

One of two players sent down to us by our parent club, Logan has no first team experience but has the talent to be a first-choice keeper. He's brave, solid in the goal and could set up a few moves with his superb kicking.

Adam Legzdins [GK, ENG, 176cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Formerly of Birmingham, Legzdins was going to be a challenger to Tynan for the first choice keeping role before Logan arrived. Don't read too much into the “Key Player” tag – that was to get the board to allow me the grand sum of ₤150 per week wages. He looks capable, and will get a go early.

Scott Tynan [GK, ENG, 186cm, 23] – 2, 54, 0

Struggled with the first team role last season, and a handful of good games did not cover a generally poor performance. He will have a much reduced role now that we have two other options.

Defenders

Jon Ashton [D RC/DM, ENG, 188cm, 24] – 1, 16, 0

Managed to play the rotational role expected of him last season, and should do the same again. Has not really shown any improvement, but as long as he's a reasonably solid option, I don't need much more.

Tom Bonner [D C, SCO, 183cm, 19] – 1, 21, 0

I said he wasn't ready for first team action at the start of last season, but he was actually one of our best players in the weeks following his debut. He fell away a bit in early 2007, but picked up by the end of the season. He's nothing special, but handy as a pure defender.

Michael Bostwick [D/M C, ENG, 188cm, 19] – 1, 29, 2

Though his shooting ability means I prefer to play him as a midfielder, our numerous midfield signings and lack of pace at the back means he will probably be better used as a defender. He's probably not as good in this role as some of our pure defenders, but has the height and strength to hold his own.

Scott Cousins [D/WB L, ENG, 178cm, 24] –0, 0, 0

Signed from Conference North side St Albans where he was an average player, Cousins is most notable for his set piece ability. He likes to go forward, but doesn't really have the skill to score or set up many goals. A rotational player at best.

Wayne Hatswell [D LC, ENG, 186cm, 31] – 2, 32, 1

One of several disturbingly slow players along our back line, Hatswell is strong in the air and played a solid role last season. He will do the same this year.

Chris Hope [D C, ENG, 185cm, 34] – 1, 38, 0

Nearing the end of his career, but still a good leader and solid presence at the back. It's probably time to start phasing him out due to his age, but with not many other options, he will have another big season.

Rushden captain 06/07

David Perpetuini [D/WB/M L, ENG, 175cm, 27] – 1, 22, 2

Played a bit more of a role last season than I expected, mostly in the midfield. This year he will play more in defence, since we have a few wingers.

Mark Preece [D C, ENG, 191cm, 20] – 1, 1, 0

Signed late last season after being released by Forest Green. He's a bit slow to be playing alongside the likes of Hopes or Hatswell, but does show some promise in the defensive skills. Wayne Hatswell will be tutoring him this season.

Paul Watson [D RL, ENG, 32] – 1, 34, 2

Coming to the end of his career, and in poor shape after missing much of the pre-season through injury. Will probably play a limited role now that we have options at both sides of defence.

Glenn Wilson [D RC, WAL, 186cm, 21] – 1, 15, 0

Didn't play nearly as much as I expected last season thanks to two injuries which put him out for the latter half of the season. Looks to be fit now though, and will play a bigger role as Watson is phased out.

Midfielders

Ikechi Anya [AM RL, SCO, 170cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0

Formerly of Wycombe, Anya is a rather small and fragile player, but possesses enough skill and pace to be a handy option on the wings.

Daniel Clitnovich [AM C, AUS, 172cm, 25] – 1, 40, 6

Originally signed as a backup for Maamria, Clitnovich became a key member of the side. He doesn't look overly skilful, but is adventurous enough to create chances.

Supporters' Player of the Year 06/07

Max Gradel [AM R, CIV, 180cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0 On Loan from Leicester

Our second on-loan player, Gradel is a superb runner who should create plenty of excitement. He's unfortunately not too good at crossing, but should carry the ball forward regularly.

Marcus Kelly [AM L, ENG, 170cm, 21] – 4, 75, 3

Our best midfielder according to my assistant, but Kelly certainly didn't look like that last season. Admittedly, he was not able to play in his preferred position of left wing, and he will get a chance to do so this year. Like Gradel, he can carry the ball, but doesn't do too much with it aside from that.

Gavin McCallum [AM RL, CAN – 3 caps, 176cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0

A new signing from Yeovil, McCallum isn't as quick as our other wingers but is much more of a threat with his crosses. Could be a handy player, especially with corners.

Gary Mills [M C, ENG, 175cm, 26] – 8, 161, 8

One of our better players last season, doing exactly what I wanted from him – holding down a central midfield spot. He's a player we can always rely on for a good, solid effort.

Tom Shaw [M C, ENG, 183cm, 20] – 4, 38, 3

Played much more than expected due to Savage's long absences, and stood up well despite his youth. Shaw should have a lesser role now that we have more options, which will give him time to develop.

Kyle Storer [M C, ENG, 180cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Notable for his Mohawk hairstyle, Storer was a solid player for fellow Conference side Tamworth last season. He's similar to Mills in that he's a solid worker in the middle, and should have a similar role.

Forwards

Chris Beardsley [sT, WAL, 183cm, 23] – 1, 10, 0

Had no impact last season, and looks a fringe player at best.

Leo Fortune-West [sT, ENG, 193cm, 36] – 0, 0, 0

A huge concern. He was out all last season on loan, and I didn't realise his wages were more than three times higher than that of any other player at the club. He refuses to leave on a mutual agreement and no club is willing to take him off our hands. He's incredibly slow and not much of a shot, but his height could be dangerous if we get a corner or cross.

Simeon Jackson [sT, CAN – 3 Caps, 178cm, 19] – 4, 44, 14

Made his international debut after a solid performance for Rushden. He has plenty of pace, which could make him a good partner for Fortune-West or Maamria.

Dino Maamria [AM/F C, TUN, 183cm, 36] – 1, 31, 5

Certainly in the final year of his time at Rushden, if not his career, but still an interesting option. He doesn't have the pace to play regularly, but his aggression, work rate and experience could make him a handy impact player off the bench.

Lee Tomlin [sT, ENG, 181cm, 18] – 2, 29, 2

Scored two goals in eight games despite his youth after coming into the seniors last season. He is quite quick but has a lot of improvement to make in the skills area.

Overview

Despite the remarkable drop in board and fan expectations, I think this is a stronger side than last season. We certainly have more options in the midfield, allowing me to play a more traditional formation and spread a bit of play out to the wings rather than having to focus on coming right down the middle all the time. I'm also happy to have a choice of a few goalkeepers.

Striking is our main concern, and I don't think I can afford to play more than one striker. There just aren't enough quality options with Rankine and Dodds gone. Tomlin isn't really ready, Beardsley isn't good enough and Maamria is too old to play regularly.

First XI

As such, I'll play a 4-3-2-1 formation, with two attacking wingers and a flat three across the midfield. The only problem with this is that it leaves Clitnovich without his only position of attacking central midfield, but I'll try him in the centre and see how well he adapts.

GK: Conrad Logan

RB: Glenn Wilson

LB: David Perpetuini

CB: Chris Hope

CB: Michael Bostwick

CM: Tom Shaw

CM: Daniel Clitnovich

CM: Gary Mills

AMR: Max Gradel

AML: Gavin McCallum

CF: Simeon Jackson

Sub: Wayne Hatswell

Sub: Ikechi Anya

Sub: Dino Maamria

Sub: Kyle Storer

Sub: Jon Ashton

Captain: Chris Hope

Penalties: Scott Cousins, Paul Watson, Dino Maamria, Chris Hope

Free Kicks: (L) Gavin McCallum, Wayne Hatswell; ® Paul Watson, Scott Cousins

Corners: (L) Gavin McCallum, Scott Cousins; ® Glenn Wilson, Dino Maamria

Throw Ins: (L) Scott Cousins, Kyle Storer; ® Glenn Wilson, Ikechi Anya

July, 2007

We had five friendlies to try and get the newly assembled side to gel before the start of the season. Our results were quite good. Though Logan looked bad in a 2-4 loss to Aberdeen, he kept a clean sheet as we beat Dundee 3-0. Gradel scored in each of these games. We then drew 1-1 with Sheffield Wednesday, went down 2-3 to parent Leicester and finished with an easy match, beating Blyth 3-0.

I re-signed Simeon Jackson and Michael Bostwick until 2010 to try and make things less hectic at the end of the season, with more than 20 players coming out of contract. The likes of Maamria, Hopes, Hatswell and Fortune-West are likely to go, but I prefer to sign up the younger players before their price goes up.

We were given odds of 100-1 to win the title, which is quite a change from last season. York and Stevenage look to be the main threats.

August, 2007

Dagenham & Redbridge, Conference, Home

Our opening game saw us without Perpetuini, Shaw and McCallum through injury. Cousins, Ashton and Kelly replaced them. There were promising signs early, with Kelly and Clitnovich coming close to scoring. In the 35th, left back Cousins broke down the wing and played the ball to Jackson. He was forced deep and wide, but found space to pass back to Bostwick. He in turn found Mills, who buried it in the corner. A cross from Kelly to Jackson just after the break was knocked in by a defender, but Jackson was able to get onto a pass from Wilson in the 61st and hit in our third goal. Kyle Storer came off the bench for his debut and promptly headed in a Wilson free, then the defender blasted one in himself from just outside the box. 5-0 is certainly a promising way to start the season, but there's a long way to go.

Shrewsbury, Conference, Away

Jackson missed an early chance to extend our scoring run, while Shrewsbury scored from a blatant offside in the 13th. There was no doubt about their second a few minutes later, and they sealed it with a late third. Not a good effort in our only televised game of the season.

Nuneaton, Conference, Home

Adam Legzdins made his debut in goal and saw Ikechi Anya put us ahead in the third minute. Bostwick looked to have extended our lead four minutes later, but it was ruled offside. Jackson beat three defenders to a Kelly pass to score in the 37th. Legzdins and Ashton were great at the back in the 2-0 win.

Kidderminster, Conference, Away

Bostwick again put one in early, heading in a long Clitnovich pass, and this time it was allowed to stand. Kidderminster responded immediately, but in the 13th a perfect first-time cross from Gradel found both Kelly and Mills in space. The latter scored, but a minute later Kelly provided a cross from the opposite flank for Jackson to take us to 3-1 in just 15 minutes. Clitnovich passed long for Jackson to run clear of the defence and score his second later in the half, and just before the break a “stupid” defensive error left him with an open goal. The first hat-trick for a Rushden player in my time at the club, and 5-1 at half time. Kidderminster actually hit back with two goals to ruin Legzdins' day, but we still got the three points.

Hinckley, Conference, Home

Our newly-promoted opponents were quite aggressive early, while we had remarkably few chances considering our recent attacking form. They hit the bar late in the game, and that was as close as either side got. Quite a turnaround from the eight-goal game a few days earlier, but at least we got a point.

Simeon Jackson was named Player of the Month for his five-goal start to the season – lucky I re-signed him before that! Bostwick was third as Young Player of the Month. I wouldn't dare speculate as to how this season will turn out after such a remarkable start. I remember we also had some high-scoring games early last season, and look how that turned out. Jackson, Ashton, Bostwick, Mills and Wilson have been the stars so far, and we've done well considering Shaw and McCallum missed the whole month. Fortune-West has had a bit of a run – if I'm paying him, I may as well try to get some use out of him – but has shown little.

September, 2007

Northwich, Conference, Away

Maamria started on the pitch and forced a save early. A long pass from Gradel saw him charge towards the box to get hold of the loose ball and, panicking at the sight of the Tunisian running at him, a defender put the ball into his own net. Wilson cleared off the line late, but a header with just two minutes to go gave Northwich an equaliser. They appeared to have a player offside, but the goal stood. 1-1.

Weymouth, Conference, Home

Gavin McCallum made a belated debut on the left wing in a game where Rushden dominated the first half but failed to score. Fellow winger Anya broke the drought after a brilliant pass from Cousins, then McCallum scored himself two minutes later from an Anya cross. Weymouth managed one goal in response, but with Shaw coming off the bench for his first game of the season, we held on to win.

Aldershot, Conference, Away

Aldershot dominated the first half, but missed almost everything. We had far fewer opportunities, but also failed to score. A quiet second half ensured a 0-0 finish.

Gravesend, Conference, Away

In contrast to our start to the season, neither side even had a shot until the final 20 minutes. Logan made a save, Jackson had one held at the other end, and it was another 0-0 result.

Sutton Utd, Conference, Away

A newly-promoted opponent gave us a chance to end our recent series of draws. Unfortunately, with Jackson putting an early shot wide, Clitnovich hitting the side netting and Bostwick having an effort held, we picked up our third straight 0-0 draw.

York, Conference, Home

A tougher opponent, but at least we were back at home. Logan conceded his first goal in four games in the 24th minute. McCallum played a perfect first-time pass into the box for Jackson to equalise, but York scored again just before half time. Another great pass – a 45-yard ball from mid-pitch – put Jackson through for his second in the 60th. A late attempt at his hat-trick was tipped wide, and again we only took a point from the game.

Torquay, Conference, Away

Jackson put an early header over the bar and then was forced off after a knock. Yet again we failed to really threaten the goals in an away game, but the 0-0 draw was our tenth straight game without a loss.

Though 10th place is not overly impressive, it is above the expectations of both the fans and board, which is of great comfort. We've only had one loss for the season, and have looked solid defensively. It is a concern that we only managed to score in one of our last five games, especially after two five-goal efforts in the first month.

Simeon Jackson has been the star performer so far, with seven goals in nine games. Our lack of other options up forward is a big worry though. The midfield hasn't been great, though Shaw and McCallum are only just making it into the side after a delayed start through injury. Wilson, Ashton, Bonner and Hope have been particularly good in defence.

October, 2007

Forest Green, Conference, Home

Though Logan had done quite well in defence, I gave Legzdins a run in goal. Jackson made his job easier, heading in a Gradel cross in the 20th.. Though we controlled much of the game, Forest equalised with half an hour to go. An 82nd minute corner from Wilson was returned to him by a defender, but he crossed it back for Jackson to give us back the lead. It only took two minutes for Forest to respond, and we could not pull ahead again.

Exeter, Conference, Away

Jackson put through this tenth of the season, heading in a Shaw cross, only to see Exeter make it 1-1 by the 15th minute. Again our defence was solid, but while we did not concede any more goals, nor could we score.

Stafford, Conference, Home

I promoted defender Paul Watson and striker Stevie Ferguson after good form in the reserves, but it was Marcus Kelly who ran into the box and scored early. It took our opponents longer than the previous game to equalise, but Stafford's 68th minute goal was enough to ensure we again only walked away with one point.

Stevenage, Conference, Away

We took a lucky lead in 90 seconds when a long ball from Bostwick was knocked in by a defender. Ashton did the same at the other end just before the break. Jackson skimmed the bar in injury time, and moments later Stevenage scored their second after a long throw. Jackson again grazed the bar late, and our thirteen-game streak without a loss came to an end.

Oxford, Conference, Away

With a hamstring injury putting Logan out for a month, Adam Legzdins returned to the side. Jackson had three shots early, but Oxford took the lead with a counter-attack. Jackson was shoved in the box three minutes into the second half, and Hope put the penalty in. Ten minutes later, a great run from Bostwick left him one-on-one with the keeper, and while his shot was saved, it was parried to Jackson for a simple finish. Hope could have sealed it in the 65th with a second penalty, but it was saved. That proved costly – Oxford scored a second later, and we had our 10th straight game without a win. Winger Ikechi Anya was put out for two months with an ankle injury.

Hinckley, FA Cup 4th Round qualifier, Away

Jackson continued his terrific season, rounding two defenders to score in the 3rd minute. Stevie Ferguson extended the lead after a great pass from Perpetuini and a long ball from Bonner gave Jackson a brace after only 24 minutes. Hinckley got one back before the break, but Paul Watson came off the bench and headed in a Clitnovich corner to ice the game. We face a tough task in the first round, having drawn Millwall.

Tom Bonner was the Conference Young Player of the Month, while Bostwick was third. We've still only lost two games out of seventeen, which is a terrific result, but I'd rather have a few more losses if we could exchange some of our draws for wins. That seems to suggest a more attacking style of game, but it's not like I'm playing defensively – it's just that we are stronger at the back than up front. Fortune-West and Maamria are down in the reserves, leaving us with Jackson as our only forward option. Stevie Ferguson has come up and scored a goal, but perhaps it's time to give Tomlin a run.

| Pos   | Inf | Team          |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |     | Woking        |       | 12    | 7     | 3     | 2     | 20    | 12    | +8    | 24    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |     | Stevenage     |       | 12    | 8     | 0     | 4     | 18    | 12    | +6    | 24    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |     | Shrewsbury    |       | 12    | 7     | 2     | 3     | 19    | 14    | +5    | 23    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |     | Halifax       |       | 12    | 6     | 4     | 2     | 21    | 12    | +9    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |     | York          |       | 12    | 6     | 4     | 2     | 18    | 9     | +9    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |     | Cambridge     |       | 12    | 7     | 1     | 4     | 22    | 14    | +8    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |     | Torquay       |       | 12    | 6     | 4     | 2     | 10    | 5     | +5    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |     | Stafford      |       | 12    | 7     | 1     | 4     | 15    | 11    | +4    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |     | Exeter        |       | 12    | 6     | 3     | 3     | 16    | 11    | +5    | 21    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |     | Rushden       |       | 12    | 4     | 7     | 1     | 17    | 10    | +7    | 19    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |     | Crawley       |       | 12    | 5     | 4     | 3     | 16    | 12    | +4    | 19    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |     | Oxford        |       | 12    | 6     | 1     | 5     | 15    | 12    | +3    | 19    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |     | Aldershot     |       | 12    | 5     | 2     | 5     | 12    | 11    | +1    | 17    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |     | Forest Green  |       | 12    | 4     | 4     | 4     | 11    | 13    | -2    | 16    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |     | Gravesend     |       | 12    | 4     | 3     | 5     | 11    | 11    | 0     | 15    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |     | Weymouth      |       | 12    | 4     | 3     | 5     | 11    | 13    | -2    | 15    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |     | Dag & Red     |       | 12    | 4     | 2     | 6     | 14    | 19    | -5    | 14    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |     | Hinckley      |       | 12    | 3     | 4     | 5     | 10    | 14    | -4    | 13    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |     | Southport     |       | 12    | 3     | 3     | 6     | 11    | 16    | -5    | 12    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |     | Northwich     |       | 12    | 3     | 3     | 6     | 10    | 15    | -5    | 12    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  |     | Sutton Utd    |       | 12    | 2     | 3     | 7     | 4     | 11    | -7    | 9     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  |     | Nuneaton      |       | 12    | 2     | 2     | 8     | 11    | 23    | -12   | 8     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  |     | Kidderminster |       | 12    | 1     | 4     | 7     | 20    | 31    | -11   | 7     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  |     | Salisbury     |       | 12    | 0     | 1     | 11    | 5     | 26    | -21   | 1     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

November, 2007

Southport, Conference, Home

We went behind in the first few minutes, with both Bonner and Hope passed far too easily. Jackson and McCallum each missed gettable shots, but a pass from Jackson was knocked in by a defender in the 20th. I think own goals are our second-highest scorer this season... Gradel put us ahead with a second effort after his first shot was parried, only to see Southport equalise with a 30 yard strike that somehow got past Legzdins. It looked like we had racked up yet another draw until they hit the crossbar in second half injury time. The ball rebounded straight to the shooter for a simple finish. That made it 11 league games without a win.

Millwall, FA Cup 1st Round, Home

Scott Tynan returned to the senior side for his first game of the season, with Logan injured and Legzdins unimpressive. He certainly had a tough task against a League One opponent, though Jackson actually had the first shot of the game. Millwall then slammed in three first half goals and another in the second to knock us out of the Cup.

Crawley, Conference, Away

Tomlin came in for his first game of the season. There were several chances at both ends, but neither side took advantage. A scoreless draw.

Woking, Conference, Home

McCallum gave us a 10th minute lead, heading in a Wilson corner. Jackson earned a corner shortly after the kick-off, and this time it was Shaw heading in McCallum's cross. Jackson hit the post in the 25th before Bostwick floated one over the keeper and into the net from 30 yards. 3-0 is how it finished – a great result against the third-placed side, and at last an end to our run of twelve league games without a victory.

I re-signed Jon Ashton for three years and Glenn Wilson for four, freeing me to release Hope and Hatswell at the end of the season.

| Pos   | Inf | Team          |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |     | Stevenage     |       | 20    | 14    | 0     | 6     | 36    | 23    | +13   | 42    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |     | Exeter        |       | 20    | 10    | 7     | 3     | 28    | 14    | +14   | 37    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |     | Shrewsbury    |       | 20    | 11    | 4     | 5     | 28    | 21    | +7    | 37    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |     | Woking        |       | 20    | 10    | 6     | 4     | 33    | 24    | +9    | 36    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |     | Aldershot     |       | 20    | 11    | 2     | 7     | 28    | 20    | +8    | 35    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |     | York          |       | 20    | 10    | 4     | 6     | 30    | 19    | +11   | 34    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |     | Cambridge     |       | 20    | 10    | 3     | 7     | 30    | 22    | +8    | 33    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |     | Oxford        |       | 20    | 10    | 3     | 7     | 28    | 22    | +6    | 33    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |     | Halifax       |       | 20    | 8     | 7     | 5     | 31    | 21    | +10   | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |     | Torquay       |       | 20    | 8     | 7     | 5     | 16    | 11    | +5    | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |     | Crawley       |       | 20    | 7     | 7     | 6     | 22    | 20    | +2    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |     | Stafford      |       | 20    | 7     | 7     | 6     | 22    | 20    | +2    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |     | Rushden       |       | 20    | 5     | 12    | 3     | 29    | 21    | +8    | 27    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |     | Kidderminster |       | 20    | 7     | 5     | 8     | 36    | 36    | 0     | 26    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |     | Dag & Red     |       | 20    | 7     | 5     | 8     | 27    | 28    | -1    | 26    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |     | Forest Green  |       | 20    | 6     | 8     | 6     | 22    | 24    | -2    | 26    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |     | Weymouth      |       | 20    | 6     | 6     | 8     | 19    | 22    | -3    | 24    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |     | Gravesend     |       | 20    | 6     | 5     | 9     | 19    | 26    | -7    | 23    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |     | Hinckley      |       | 20    | 5     | 7     | 8     | 19    | 26    | -7    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |     | Southport     |       | 20    | 5     | 6     | 9     | 20    | 32    | -12   | 21    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  |     | Northwich     |       | 20    | 5     | 5     | 10    | 20    | 31    | -11   | 20    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  |     | Sutton Utd    |       | 20    | 4     | 7     | 9     | 15    | 21    | -6    | 19    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  |     | Nuneaton      |       | 20    | 2     | 5     | 13    | 16    | 40    | -24   | 11    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  |     | Salisbury     |       | 20    | 1     | 2     | 17    | 13    | 43    | -30   | 5     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

December, 2007

Salisbury, Conference, Away

Despite numerous chances, wild shooting from Tomlin and Gradel meant that we struggled to get the ball in the back of the net – or even trouble the keeper. Kelly made the most of a lucky deflection from a McCallum pass. Scoring after he was left with the ball at his feet and an open goal. However, with only five minutes to go, Salisbury scored from one of their rare chances. Tomlin completed his frustrating game by putting a late shot wide, leaving us with a draw in a game we should have won.

Halifax, Conference, Home

Again we had more shots at goal than our opponents, and again we failed to score. This time Simeon Jackson was more accurate than Tomlin, but his three on-target shots were saved. Meanwhile, Halifax scored once in the 20th and again in second-half injury time.

Braintree, FA Trophy 1st Round, Away

Our Conference South opponents gave me a chance to give a few lesser-lights a bit of a run, and Lee Tomlin took advantage. He scored early from a great Hope pass and then set up Jackson (I played with a 4-4-2 for this game) with a cross for a 2-0 lead. A first-time pass from Shaw gave Jackson enough time to catch the keeper off-guard for his second and despite a late goal from Braintree, we progressed comfortably.

Cambridge, Conference, Away

Despite several chances for Jackson and Storer to score, the first half finished without a goal. Cambridge had a goal disallowed just after half time, and in the 67th Chris Hope repeated his effort of the previous game with a great pass to give Jackson a goal. Cambridge had no answer – 1-0.

Dagenham & Redbridge, Conference, Away

Dagenham scored the only goal of this game in a flat performance to end 2007.

At the half-way point of the season, we are in a pretty solid position. Though we are a long way from the top, we have shown an ability to close down opponents and have dropped very few games. Our new signings have had the chance to settle in and have been solid without being dominant. I doubt I'll go for any signings over the transfer window due to our tight financial situation. Getting rid of our two highest-paid players, Fortune-West and Hope, will free up a fair bit of room for free transfers, so I'll just have to wait.

| Pos   | Inf | Team          |     | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |     | Stevenage     |     | 24    | 15    | 2     | 7     | 43    | 29    | +14   | 47    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |     | Shrewsbury    |     | 24    | 14    | 5     | 5     | 35    | 22    | +13   | 47    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |     | Aldershot     |     | 24    | 14    | 3     | 7     | 39    | 24    | +15   | 45    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |     | Woking        |     | 24    | 12    | 8     | 4     | 39    | 28    | +11   | 44    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |     | York          |     | 24    | 12    | 6     | 6     | 35    | 22    | +13   | 42    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |     | Halifax       |     | 24    | 11    | 7     | 6     | 39    | 26    | +13   | 40    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |     | Exeter        |     | 24    | 11    | 7     | 6     | 32    | 24    | +8    | 40    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |     | Cambridge     |     | 24    | 12    | 3     | 9     | 36    | 27    | +9    | 39    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |     | Oxford        |     | 24    | 12    | 3     | 9     | 33    | 27    | +6    | 39    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |     | Dag & Red     |     | 24    | 11    | 5     | 8     | 36    | 30    | +6    | 38    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |     | Torquay       |     | 24    | 9     | 10    | 5     | 27    | 18    | +9    | 37    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |     | Crawley       |     | 24    | 9     | 8     | 7     | 28    | 24    | +4    | 35    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |     | Kidderminster |     | 24    | 8     | 8     | 8     | 43    | 41    | +2    | 32    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |     | Rushden       |     | 24    | 6     | 13    | 5     | 31    | 25    | +6    | 31    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |     | Stafford      |     | 24    | 7     | 7     | 10    | 23    | 26    | -3    | 28    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |     | Weymouth      |     | 24    | 7     | 7     | 10    | 23    | 27    | -4    | 28    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |     | Forest Green  |     | 24    | 6     | 10    | 8     | 26    | 31    | -5    | 28    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |     | Hinckley      |     | 24    | 6     | 9     | 9     | 25    | 34    | -9    | 27    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |     | Gravesend     |     | 24    | 7     | 5     | 12    | 23    | 36    | -13   | 26    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |     | Northwich     |     | 24    | 6     | 6     | 12    | 24    | 37    | -13   | 24    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  |     | Sutton Utd    |     | 24    | 5     | 8     | 11    | 20    | 26    | -6    | 23    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  |     | Southport     |     | 24    | 5     | 8     | 11    | 24    | 38    | -14   | 23    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  |     | Nuneaton      |     | 24    | 3     | 6     | 15    | 22    | 50    | -28   | 15    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  |     | Salisbury     |     | 24    | 1     | 4     | 19    | 17    | 51    | -34   | 7     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

January, 2008

Shrewsbury, Conference, Home

A rare televised game for Rushden. We were repeatedly denied by the keeper, with shots from Tomlin, Shaw and McCallum kept out. I brought Stevie Ferguson off the bench with fifteen minutes to go, and it only took him three to break the deadlock. He may well have been offside when Wilson's pass came in, but I was happy to walk away with a deserved three points. In other happy news, I re-signed Lee Tomlin until 2011.

Nuneaton, Conference, Away

Tomlin celebrated his new contract with a 7th minute goal after a through pass from Anya. We had numerous shots on goal turned away, while Nuneaton equalised from their first chance. However, a rather lucky penalty just before half time let Watson put us back in front. Despite nine shots on target, we could not score a third. Nuneaton hit three in the third half, leaving us 2-4 losers despite being the better side.

Torquay, FA Trophy 2nd Round, Home

With few chances from general play in wet conditions, Torquay took the lead mid-way through the first half via a penalty. Jackson regained parity from an Anya cross, and we held on for our first draw in over a month – and an away replay.

Torquay, FA Trophy 2nd Round Replay, Home

Just a week later, we faced Torquay again in the FA Trophy, though this time the game was away. They took an early lead when Bonner was passed far too easily and were ahead 0-2 in eight minutes. Clitnovich got one back when a shot from Shaw was parried while Jackson was twice denied by the keeper in the 20th minute. We certainly had our chances to score a second, but failed to do so. Torquay scored a flukish third in the final minute to ensure we were knocked out of the competition in the early stages, in contrast to last season.

Kidderminster, Conference, Home

Glenn Wilson went off injured in an otherwise unremarkable first half. Legzdins did well to hold on against a strong assault, but was finally beaten by a counter-attack with ten minutes to go. Immediately we came forward from the kick-off. Marcus Kelly's pass across goal actually hit the post, and while it bounced out, McCallum was there to tap it in past the out-of-position keeper. 1-1. Unfortunately, Wilson was ruled out for over a month with fractured ribs.

Hinckley, Conference, Away

After a quiet first half, we looked to have broken the deadlock minutes into the second, only for Tomlin's goal to be ruled offside. Hinckley struck two in as many minutes with half an hour to go and hit another in the final few minutes to complete the embarrassment. Kelly's late goal was meaningless.

Northwich, Conference, Home

We certainly didn't want to drop a game at home to a relegation-threatened opponent, but could not put a shot on target in the first half. Indeed, we failed to do so in the second, despite a total of 11 attempts. Thankfully, our opponents had a goal ruled offside, and we escaped with a point.

We've fallen down the table a bit, having dropped three games in January. Disturbingly, they were big margins too – we lost 2-4, 1-3 and 1-3. Even with three senior goalkeepers, I still can't find a solid regular there. Still, we've done enough to survive this season, and it'll be a matter of continuing the rebuilding process.

| Pos   | Inf | Team          |     | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |     | Stevenage     |     | 30    | 18    | 3     | 9     | 55    | 37    | +18   | 57    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |     | Shrewsbury    |     | 29    | 17    | 5     | 7     | 41    | 27    | +14   | 56    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |     | Aldershot     |     | 29    | 17    | 3     | 9     | 48    | 26    | +22   | 54    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |     | Exeter        |     | 29    | 15    | 8     | 6     | 40    | 25    | +15   | 53    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |     | Oxford        |     | 30    | 16    | 4     | 10    | 48    | 34    | +14   | 52    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |     | Halifax       |     | 29    | 14    | 9     | 6     | 48    | 31    | +17   | 51    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |     | Woking        |     | 29    | 14    | 8     | 7     | 44    | 32    | +12   | 50    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |     | York          |     | 29    | 14    | 6     | 9     | 40    | 27    | +13   | 48    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |     | Dag & Red     |     | 29    | 14    | 6     | 9     | 47    | 36    | +11   | 48    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 10th  |     | Cambridge     |     | 30    | 14    | 4     | 12    | 48    | 39    | +9    | 46    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 11th  |     | Stafford      |     | 29    | 11    | 8     | 10    | 33    | 27    | +6    | 41    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 12th  |     | Torquay       |     | 29    | 10    | 11    | 8     | 31    | 27    | +4    | 41    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 13th  |     | Kidderminster |     | 29    | 10    | 10    | 9     | 52    | 46    | +6    | 40    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 14th  |     | Forest Green  |     | 30    | 9     | 11    | 10    | 40    | 38    | +2    | 38    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 15th  |     | Crawley       |     | 29    | 9     | 11    | 9     | 35    | 36    | -1    | 38    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 16th  |     | Rushden       |     | 29    | 7     | 15    | 7     | 36    | 33    | +3    | 36    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 17th  |     | Sutton Utd    |     | 30    | 8     | 11    | 11    | 29    | 31    | -2    | 35    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 18th  |     | Gravesend     |     | 29    | 9     | 6     | 14    | 30    | 48    | -18   | 33    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 19th  |     | Weymouth      |     | 29    | 8     | 7     | 14    | 25    | 37    | -12   | 31    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 20th  |     | Hinckley      |     | 29    | 7     | 9     | 13    | 30    | 46    | -16   | 30    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 21st  |     | Northwich     |     | 30    | 7     | 8     | 15    | 28    | 47    | -19   | 29    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 22nd  |     | Southport     |     | 29    | 5     | 10    | 14    | 29    | 53    | -24   | 25    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 23rd  |     | Nuneaton      |     | 29    | 4     | 9     | 16    | 29    | 58    | -29   | 21    | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| 24th  |     | Salisbury     |     | 29    | 1     | 4     | 24    | 20    | 65    | -45   | 7     | 
| --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

February, 2008

Weymouth, Conference, Away

Weymouth scored in the 29th through a blatant offside, but Tom Shaw was able to walk in a goal when Mills' shot came off the post. Jackson headed in Kelly's corner right on half time to regain the lead, but it only lasted until the 60th minute when Weymouth put in a second. The final half hour was quiet, resulting in a 1-1 draw.

Aldershot, Conference, Home

Alex Bryant came in for his first game of the season and promptly conceded two goals. Gradel got one back with a header but with Tomlin missing everything, we couldn't get level.

Gravesend, Conference, Away

Poor finishing from Jackson and Storer left us scoreless, while Gravesend scored from a rare chance immediately after half time. An attempt to attack only saw them score again for our sixth straight game without a win.

Torquay, Conference, Home

Tomlin had a few efforts saved early, which was an improvement on his usual wayward shooting, but still didn't get us a goal. Torquay had a goal disallowed in the 68th, which was enough to spark Tomlin into action. He took a pass from Anya, turned around a defender and hit it well into the net. Storer followed up with a 25-yard free] A good win to keep us in touch of a mid-table finish.

Sutton Utd, Conference, Home

A long free from the right wing was taken by Watson, and he drifted the ball over the defence and even the keeper. It bounced off the post, but Storer was there for the finish. Gradel scored from a more conventional run and strike later in the first half. Jackson hit one in the second and would have had a brace if he wasn't slightly offside. Sutton only managed to pull one back, and that was quickly answered when Gradel set up Shaw. 4-1.

York, Conference, Away

Despite sitting 13th on the table, York had lost their past seven games. With both Anya and McCallum injured for this game and Gradel in need of a rest, I reverted to my formation of last season. Unfortunately, we went behind after two minutes and lost Clitnovich to another injury. York scored twice more to complete the rout.

Forest Green, Conference, Away

Four midfielders were unavailable for this game due to injury. After we missed a few early efforts, as usual, Forest scored with their first chance. They got another late to seal it, but we never looked like getting even one on the board.

Exeter, Conference, Home

We had some much-needed luck three minutes in when a pass across goal from Jackson was fumbled by the keeper into Max Gradel's path for a simple finish. Watson made no mistake from the penalty spot later in the half, but Exeter hit back 10 minutes into the second. We had a bit more luck when a second Exeter goal was ruled out, and we managed to steal the three points.

Stafford, Conference, Away

Our luck did not carry into this game, with Mills and Shaw hitting the post and Stafford scoring from their first shot. A terrific 50-yard pass from Watson allowed Kelly to bring us level with a rare accurate finish. I was playing with two strikers, as our lack of midfielders made playing my usual formation difficult, and had brought on Chris Beardsley for Tomlin at the break. Beardsley has spent most of the season in the reserves and will be released at the end of the season, but he made the most of a weak clearance, hitting the ball past the out-of-position keeper. Jackson looked to have sealed it in the 82nd thanks to another long pass from Watson, but Stafford made it 3-2 moments later. Thankfully, though, we did hang on for the win.

I signed 25-year-old defender Fred Murray as a potential replacement for Perpetuini, who has not signed a new contract, but had to place winger/forward Stevie Ferguson on the transfer list at his own request due to lack of first-team action.

March, 2008

Stevenage, Conference, Home

Young midfielder Alex Bolt, a product of the youth team, made his debut after good form in the Reserves. Storer intercepted a defensive pass and caught the keeper out of his area from 30 yards for a 15th minute lead. Stevenage were level ten minutes later but Tomlin managed to get hold of a poor goal kick and put it into the back of the net. Stevenage again pulled level with half an hour to go, but we looked to have at least held on for a draw...until they scored three minutes into injury time. Not even a point to show for a fairly good effort.

Oxford, Conference, Home

Scott Tynan had a rare run and conceded a goal after 27 minutes. Jackson had one barely tipped away and Oxford scored again on the counter-attack. Shaw headed in one goal from a Kelly cross, but Jackson's attempt at an equaliser was denied by the keeper. 1-2 at the break. It was Kelly who again provided a chance in the 78th, this time with a corner, and Jon Ashton put in his first for the club. Three minutes later, it was Kelly again – a cross to substitute Beardsley, who put it in. 3-2, and that's how it remained.

Woking, Conference, Away

Tynan started off with two great saves, and we took advantage at the other end when Jackson sent a great pass across the area for Gradel to finish. Tynan was unluckily caught out by a deflection which left Woking with an open goal to equalise, but a counter-attacking move started by Storer saw Jackson make it 2-1 in the 33rd. Former Rushden striker Daniel Chillingworth scored his second to make it 2-2, and the made it a hat-trick from the penalty spot with ten minutes to go. It was a good performance from Rushden, but we had nothing to show for it.

Southport, Conference, Away

Our relegation-threatened opponents had much more to play for than we did, and they showed it with a goal in the first half. It took us until the 63rd minute to respond, and the best news is that it came from young midfielder Alex Bolt. Despite a number of chances, we only got a draw.

Some solid efforts, but ultimately frustrating results. On-loan Marcus Gradel was named Young Player of the Month, and Tom Shaw was third. I re-signed most of my staff, but coach Willie McStay refused all offers. So, I suppose, instead of Willie mcStay, it's more a case of Willie McGo. Sorry.

April, 2008

Crawley, Conference, Home

Tomlin picked up a parried Anya shot to put us ahead in the 7th and the lead was extended by McCallum when Mills passed across the goal for a tap-in finish. Anya was also involved in our third goal, just after half time, when his shot was deflected in for an own goal. A solid 3-0 win.

Salisbury, Conference, Home

For once, we put away a weaker side with ease. Cousins started it off with a penalty in just the third minute, then young Alex Bolt scored his second just a handful of games after making his debut. Kelly chipped in a third and Jackson made it 4-0 by half time. We didn't have a shot in the second half, but nor did we need one as we cruised to victory.

Halifax, Conference, Away

A much tougher opponent, and a see-sawing game. Both sides had their chances, but it was Mills who finally struck with only three minutes to go. We held on for a fine 1-0 win, our third on the trot. A good result, but it's all too late.

Cambridge, Conference, Home

The last game of the season served as a farewell to a number of players, both those on loan (Gradel and Logan, who have been quite solid) and Rushden regulars like Perpetuini, Kelly, Hope and Hatswell. Unfortunately, captain Hope was out injured, so Hatswell took over the armband. Cambridge missed a few shots before McCallum headed in a free kick from Mills. Jackson hit the post early in the second half. Stevie Ferguson, in his first game for several months, headed in a corner from McCallum and Jackson extended the lead to 3-0 after a fine pass from Bolt. Logan made a few sharp saves and Storer capped it off with a fine strike.

Four games, four wins, an aggregate score of 12-0. I was named Manager of the Month, Gavin McCallum was Player of the Month, with Kyle Storer second, and Storer was Young Player of the Month, with Tom Bonner third. That's a pretty good reflection of our dominance in April, and it's great to see players that I've brought in having an impact.

The season in review

Summary

| Pos   | Inf   | Team          |  Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   | C     | Aldershot     |  46    | 29    | 6     | 11    | 75    | 43    | +32   | 93    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Shrewsbury    |  46    | 26    | 11    | 9     | 70    | 42    | +28   | 89    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   | P     | Halifax       |  46    | 23    | 15    | 8     | 69    | 41    | +28   | 84    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | Exeter        |  46    | 23    | 12    | 11    | 66    | 42    | +24   | 81    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Stevenage     |  46    | 24    | 5     | 17    | 78    | 57    | +21   | 77    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Oxford        |  46    | 22    | 10    | 14    | 68    | 52    | +16   | 76    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Cambridge     |  46    | 21    | 11    | 14    | 71    | 57    | +14   | 74    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Forest Green  |  46    | 19    | 15    | 12    | 72    | 55    | +17   | 72    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Woking        |  46    | 19    | 14    | 13    | 65    | 52    | +13   | 71    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Dag & Red     |  46    | 21    | 8     | 17    | 70    | 59    | +11   | 71    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Torquay       |  46    | 18    | 14    | 14    | 56    | 47    | +9    | 68    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Kidderminster |  46    | 17    | 15    | 14    | 77    | 61    | +16   | 66    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Rushden       |  46    | 16    | 17    | 13    | 70    | 57    | +13   | 65    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Sutton Utd    |  46    | 16    | 14    | 16    | 55    | 52    | +3    | 62    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Crawley       |  46    | 15    | 17    | 14    | 64    | 68    | -4    | 62    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Stafford      |  46    | 15    | 14    | 17    | 51    | 49    | +2    | 59    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | York          |  46    | 16    | 10    | 20    | 61    | 55    | +6    | 58    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |       | Weymouth      |  46    | 12    | 15    | 19    | 48    | 67    | -19   | 51    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |       | Gravesend     |  46    | 13    | 9     | 24    | 50    | 81    | -31   | 48    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |       | Northwich     |  46    | 10    | 13    | 23    | 50    | 78    | -28   | 43    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  | R     | Hinckley      |  46    | 9     | 14    | 23    | 48    | 85    | -37   | 41    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  | R     | Southport     |  46    | 8     | 14    | 24    | 48    | 83    | -35   | 38    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  | R     | Nuneaton      |  46    | 9     | 11    | 26    | 48    | 88    | -40   | 38    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  | R     | Salisbury     |  46    | 6     | 6     | 34    | 37    | 96    | -59   | 24    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name              | Apps  | Gls   | Ast   | MoM   | Pas   | Tck   | Drb   | Sh T  | Av Rat| 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Chris Hope        | 38    | 1     | 2     | 3     | 70%   | 3.39  | 0.03  | -     | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Gary Mills        | 37 (1)| 3     | 4     | 1     | 67%   | 2.30  | 0.46  | 22%   | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| FC    | Wnt   | Simeon Jackson    | 36    | 23    | 7     | 3     | 70%   | 0.18  | 1.42  | 54%   | 7.14  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S3    |       | Tom Shaw          | 32 (1)| 4     | 5     | 3     | 69%   | 2.28  | 0.44  | 40%   | 7.09  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Daniel Clitnovich | 31 (1)| 1     | 5     | -     | 73%   | 1.90  | 0.28  | 30%   | 6.94  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DL    | Wnt   | David Perpetuini  | 31 (1)| -     | 1     | -     | 62%   | 3.03  | 0.33  | -     | 7.03  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DR    |       | Jon Ashton        | 30 (2)| 1     | -     | 4     | 65%   | 4.24  | 0.33  | -     | 7.38  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Tom Bonner        | 30    | -     | 1     | 3     | 65%   | 4.28  | 0.07  | -     | 7.40  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Kyle Storer       | 27 (4)| 5     | 4     | 2     | 70%   | 2.11  | 0.33  | 42%   | 7.16  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S1    | Loa   | Marcus Kelly      | 27 (3)| 5     | 12    | 1     | 64%   | 1.08  | 2.69  | 26%   | 7.17  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| GK    | Wnt   | Conrad Logan      | 24    | -     | -     | 1     | 43%   | 0.04  | -     | -     | 6.83  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S4    |       | Paul Watson       | 23 (1)| 3     | 2     | -     | 62%   | 2.55  | 0.34  | -     | 6.63  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S5    |       | Michael Bostwick  | 22 (4)| 2     | 3     | 3     | 70%   | 3.17  | 0.25  | 25%   | 7.19  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AML   |       | Gavin McCallum    | 21 (6)| 5     | 4     | 1     | 67%   | 0.83  | 1.35  | 40%   | 7.04  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Max Gradel        | 21    | 5     | 5     | 1     | 63%   | 0.93  | 2.28  | 53%   | 7.48  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Ikechi Anya       | 21    | 2     | 6     | 2     | 63%   | 0.94  | 1.82  | 31%   | 7.00  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Glenn Wilson      | 20    | 1     | 4     | 1     | 59%   | 3.38  | 0.42  | -     | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Req   | Scott Cousins     | 18    | 1     | 2     | -     | 60%   | 2.86  | 0.06  | -     | 6.89  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Loa   | Lee Tomlin        | 14    | 5     | 1     | -     | 70%   | 0.36  | 2.19  | 36%   | 6.93  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Wayne Hatswell    | 12 (1)| -     | 1     | -     | 65%   | 2.06  | 0.08  | -     | 6.92  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AMR   | Req   | Stevie Ferguson   | 8 (2) | 3     | -     | -     | 69%   | 0.60  | 2.04  | 66%   | 6.70  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    | Lst   | Alex Bolt         | 8     | 2     | 1     | -     | 66%   | 1.73  | 0.53  | -     | 7.13  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Loa   | Scott Tynan       | 6     | -     | -     | -     | 45%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.83  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Alex Bryant       | 3     | -     | -     | -     | 33%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Lst   | Leo Fortune-West  | 2 (5) | -     | -     | -     | 53%   | 0.26  | 0.51  | -     | 6.71  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Unh   | Dino Maamria      | 1 (5) | -     | 1     | -     | 81%   | -     | 1.31  | -     | 6.50  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S2    | Wnt   | Chris Beardsley   | 0 (3) | 2     | -     | -     | 71%   | -     | 2.34  | 33%   | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       |                   |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Though the board and fans are a hell of a lot happier than they were this time last year, I'm still not fully satisfied. What is so different about the Rushden XI that started the season with a couple of five-goal wins and ended with four straight victories and the one in the middle of the season that dropped the simplest of matches? The players are the same, the tactics are the same, but the performances just aren't consistent. Leadership is an obvious concern in this situation, but Hope is a terrific captain. The many new players to the side may take time to gel, but why then would they perform so well at the start of the season and then struggle in the middle?

That was certainly a frustrating situation overall, but there were certainly more positive signs than in my first season. We did have those good runs, and made sure we survived with plenty of games in hand. Better yet, there were good signs for the future. Players like Shaw, Ashton, Bonner and Bostwick really stepped up from bit-part roles to being a core part of the side. Youth team products like Tomlin and Bolt showed plenty of promise and the new signings settled in well.

Around the world: major awards and results

Rushden Supporters’ Player of the Year:

Simeon Jackson

World Player of the Year:

Miroslav Klose (Werder Bremen)

World Footballer of the year:

Wayne Rooney (Man U)

England:

Winner: Manchester United

Relegated: West Ham, Stoke, Sheffield United

Promoted: Wigan, Watford, Sunderland

Spain:

Barcelona

Champions Cup:

Chelsea

EURO Cup:

Zaragoza

The season in review

Summary

| Pos   | Inf   | Team          |  Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   | C     | Aldershot     |  46    | 29    | 6     | 11    | 75    | 43    | +32   | 93    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Shrewsbury    |  46    | 26    | 11    | 9     | 70    | 42    | +28   | 89    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   | P     | Halifax       |  46    | 23    | 15    | 8     | 69    | 41    | +28   | 84    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | Exeter        |  46    | 23    | 12    | 11    | 66    | 42    | +24   | 81    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Stevenage     |  46    | 24    | 5     | 17    | 78    | 57    | +21   | 77    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Oxford        |  46    | 22    | 10    | 14    | 68    | 52    | +16   | 76    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Cambridge     |  46    | 21    | 11    | 14    | 71    | 57    | +14   | 74    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Forest Green  |  46    | 19    | 15    | 12    | 72    | 55    | +17   | 72    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Woking        |  46    | 19    | 14    | 13    | 65    | 52    | +13   | 71    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Dag & Red     |  46    | 21    | 8     | 17    | 70    | 59    | +11   | 71    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Torquay       |  46    | 18    | 14    | 14    | 56    | 47    | +9    | 68    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Kidderminster |  46    | 17    | 15    | 14    | 77    | 61    | +16   | 66    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Rushden       |  46    | 16    | 17    | 13    | 70    | 57    | +13   | 65    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Sutton Utd    |  46    | 16    | 14    | 16    | 55    | 52    | +3    | 62    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Crawley       |  46    | 15    | 17    | 14    | 64    | 68    | -4    | 62    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Stafford      |  46    | 15    | 14    | 17    | 51    | 49    | +2    | 59    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | York          |  46    | 16    | 10    | 20    | 61    | 55    | +6    | 58    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |       | Weymouth      |  46    | 12    | 15    | 19    | 48    | 67    | -19   | 51    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |       | Gravesend     |  46    | 13    | 9     | 24    | 50    | 81    | -31   | 48    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |       | Northwich     |  46    | 10    | 13    | 23    | 50    | 78    | -28   | 43    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  | R     | Hinckley      |  46    | 9     | 14    | 23    | 48    | 85    | -37   | 41    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  | R     | Southport     |  46    | 8     | 14    | 24    | 48    | 83    | -35   | 38    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  | R     | Nuneaton      |  46    | 9     | 11    | 26    | 48    | 88    | -40   | 38    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  | R     | Salisbury     |  46    | 6     | 6     | 34    | 37    | 96    | -59   | 24    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| Pkd   | Inf   | Name              | Apps  | Gls   | Ast   | MoM   | Pas   | Tck   | Drb   | Sh T  | Av Rat| 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Chris Hope        | 38    | 1     | 2     | 3     | 70%   | 3.39  | 0.03  | -     | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Gary Mills        | 37 (1)| 3     | 4     | 1     | 67%   | 2.30  | 0.46  | 22%   | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| FC    | Wnt   | Simeon Jackson    | 36    | 23    | 7     | 3     | 70%   | 0.18  | 1.42  | 54%   | 7.14  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S3    |       | Tom Shaw          | 32 (1)| 4     | 5     | 3     | 69%   | 2.28  | 0.44  | 40%   | 7.09  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |       | Daniel Clitnovich | 31 (1)| 1     | 5     | -     | 73%   | 1.90  | 0.28  | 30%   | 6.94  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DL    | Wnt   | David Perpetuini  | 31 (1)| -     | 1     | -     | 62%   | 3.03  | 0.33  | -     | 7.03  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DR    |       | Jon Ashton        | 30 (2)| 1     | -     | 4     | 65%   | 4.24  | 0.33  | -     | 7.38  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Tom Bonner        | 30    | -     | 1     | 3     | 65%   | 4.28  | 0.07  | -     | 7.40  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |       | Kyle Storer       | 27 (4)| 5     | 4     | 2     | 70%   | 2.11  | 0.33  | 42%   | 7.16  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S1    | Loa   | Marcus Kelly      | 27 (3)| 5     | 12    | 1     | 64%   | 1.08  | 2.69  | 26%   | 7.17  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| GK    | Wnt   | Conrad Logan      | 24    | -     | -     | 1     | 43%   | 0.04  | -     | -     | 6.83  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S4    |       | Paul Watson       | 23 (1)| 3     | 2     | -     | 62%   | 2.55  | 0.34  | -     | 6.63  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S5    |       | Michael Bostwick  | 22 (4)| 2     | 3     | 3     | 70%   | 3.17  | 0.25  | 25%   | 7.19  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AML   |       | Gavin McCallum    | 21 (6)| 5     | 4     | 1     | 67%   | 0.83  | 1.35  | 40%   | 7.04  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Max Gradel        | 21    | 5     | 5     | 1     | 63%   | 0.93  | 2.28  | 53%   | 7.48  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt   | Ikechi Anya       | 21    | 2     | 6     | 2     | 63%   | 0.94  | 1.82  | 31%   | 7.00  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Glenn Wilson      | 20    | 1     | 4     | 1     | 59%   | 3.38  | 0.42  | -     | 7.05  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Req   | Scott Cousins     | 18    | 1     | 2     | -     | 60%   | 2.86  | 0.06  | -     | 6.89  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Loa   | Lee Tomlin        | 14    | 5     | 1     | -     | 70%   | 0.36  | 2.19  | 36%   | 6.93  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |       | Wayne Hatswell    | 12 (1)| -     | 1     | -     | 65%   | 2.06  | 0.08  | -     | 6.92  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AMR   | Req   | Stevie Ferguson   | 8 (2) | 3     | -     | -     | 69%   | 0.60  | 2.04  | 66%   | 6.70  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    | Lst   | Alex Bolt         | 8     | 2     | 1     | -     | 66%   | 1.73  | 0.53  | -     | 7.13  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Loa   | Scott Tynan       | 6     | -     | -     | -     | 45%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.83  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj   | Alex Bryant       | 3     | -     | -     | -     | 33%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Lst   | Leo Fortune-West  | 2 (5) | -     | -     | -     | 53%   | 0.26  | 0.51  | -     | 6.71  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Unh   | Dino Maamria      | 1 (5) | -     | 1     | -     | 81%   | -     | 1.31  | -     | 6.50  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S2    | Wnt   | Chris Beardsley   | 0 (3) | 2     | -     | -     | 71%   | -     | 2.34  | 33%   | 6.67  | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|       |       |                   |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       |       | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Though the board and fans are a hell of a lot happier than they were this time last year, I'm still not fully satisfied. What is so different about the Rushden XI that started the season with a couple of five-goal wins and ended with four straight victories and the one in the middle of the season that dropped the simplest of matches? The players are the same, the tactics are the same, but the performances just aren't consistent. Leadership is an obvious concern in this situation, but Hope is a terrific captain. The many new players to the side may take time to gel, but why then would they perform so well at the start of the season and then struggle in the middle?

That was certainly a frustrating situation overall, but there were certainly more positive signs than in my first season. We did have those good runs, and made sure we survived with plenty of games in hand. Better yet, there were good signs for the future. Players like Shaw, Ashton, Bonner and Bostwick really stepped up from bit-part roles to being a core part of the side. Youth team products like Tomlin and Bolt showed plenty of promise and the new signings settled in well.

Around the world: major awards and results

Rushden Supporters’ Player of the Year:

Simeon Jackson

World Player of the Year:

Miroslav Klose (Werder Bremen)

World Footballer of the year:

Wayne Rooney (Man U)

England:

Winner: Manchester United

Relegated: West Ham, Stoke, Sheffield United

Promoted: Wigan, Watford, Sunderland

Spain:

Barcelona

Champions Cup:

Chelsea

EURO Cup:

Zaragoza

The Transfers

Trans In

| Date               | Person                     | From               | Fee                | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16.5.2007          | Ferguson, Stevie           | Woking             | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.6.2007           | Storer, Kyle               | Tamworth           | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10.6.2007          | McClory-Cuthbertson, T. J. | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11.6.2007          | Cousins, Scott             | St. Albans         | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2007           | Legzdins, Adam             | Birmingham         | £1K                | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2007           | McCallum, Gavin            | Yeovil             | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13.7.2007          | Anya, Ikechi               | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9.3.2008           | Murray, Fred               | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total                      |                    | £1K                | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Trans Out

| Date               | Person             | To                 | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3.6.2007           | Goodliffe, Jason   | Nuneaton           | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2007           | Savage, Dave       | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11.7.2007          | Rankine, Michael   | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Loans In

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21.6.2007          | Gradel, Max        | Leicester          | Loan               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23.6.2007          | Logan, Conrad      | Leicester          | Loan               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

There weren't a lot of changes to the core of the side in the 07/08 season. Nobody left during the season, and those that were released at the start did not really make me regret my decision. Savage retired, Rankine played a handful of games in Conference North and Goodliffe played a solid season with Nuneaton.

Our loanees were not as critical as last season, which is probably a positive. Logan was solid without being a real standout at the number one keeper, while Gradel showed plenty of good signs and was a potent attacking threat.

Murray and McClory-Cuthbertsson were the only ones of the new signings that didn't become at least semi-regulars in the senior team. Storer was probably the highlight, but McCallum was also particularly impressive. Most of these signings are quite young, so there true value won't be shown for a few years, but having not paid for all but one of them, it's hard to lose.

Pre-season, 2008/2009

The side underwent something of a revolution over the pre-season, with a massive number of squad changes. I finally re-signed Marcus Kelly for another two seasons and rejected a ₤20K Morecambe bid for him. However, there was no new contract for several former Under-18 players who failed to impress in the reserves (Langdon, Beecroft, McDonald, Nevin, Margarson and Reynolds) or veterans Fortune-West, Perpetuini, Hope, Watson, Beardsley, Maamria and Hatswell.

That left me quite a few spots to fill, and with a fair amount of space under the board-imposed salary cap but no money for transfers, I went looking for players with expired contracts. I'll go into those that I did sign in the profiles section, but in all I signed 11 players. Leicester only sent us one player on loan, midfielder Andy King.

Our finances are continuing to get worse, though I have cut the wage budget despite a number of new signings. Admittedly, half of them put together barely equal Fortune-West's wages, so that wasn't too hard...

Though the media seems to be predicting a mediocre season and the fans are expecting even less, the board wants a mid-table finish. I'd be expecting the same, but this club has proven very difficult to predict so far.

SEASON OVERVIEW 08/09

The Club

Home Ground: Nene Park, Irthlingborough (capacity 6441, 4641 seated)

Rivals: Kettering, Northampton (fierce); Peterborough, Oxford, Luton

Reputation: Local

Estimated Value: ₤675K

Balance -₤450K

Transfer Budget: None

Media Prediction: 15th

Board Expectation: Safe mid-table position

Fan Expectation: Rebuild the team

Staff

Chairman: Keith Cousins

Assistant Manager: John Dreyer

Coaches: Will Weedon, Alex Tobin, Geoff Evans (General); Tony Godden (GK); Paul Driver (Youth)

Physios: Phil Ward, Simon Parsell

Scout: Antonio North

The Squad

| Pkd   | Inf | Name                      | No.  | Squad Status | Cnt     | Weekly wage | Expires   | Value   | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S2    |     | Mike Edwards              | -    | First Team   | F/T     | £600        | 30.6.2010 | £12K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |     | Gary Mills                | 17   | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2009 | £24K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| S4    |     | Darryl Knights            | -    | First Team   | F/T     | £130        | 30.6.2012 | £16K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| DC    |     | Jon Ashton                | 4    | First Team   | F/T     | £575        | 30.6.2010 | £20K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     | Wnt | Marcus Kelly              | 11   | First Team   | F/T     | £550        | 30.6.2010 | £18K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| AMR   |     | Scott Gardner             | -    | First Team   | F/T     | £140        | 30.6.2012 | £35K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| DR    |     | Glenn Wilson              | 2    | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2011 | £14K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Scott Gates               | -    | First Team   | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2013 | £16K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| MC    |     | Daniel Clitnovich         | 24   | First Team   | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2009 | £18K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Adam Legzdins             | 26   | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2010 | £6K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| S1    |     | Michael Bostwick          | 32   | Rotation     | F/T     | £375        | 30.6.2010 | £18K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Conor Sinnott             | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2010 | £12K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| AML   |     | Gavin McCallum            | 30   | Rotation     | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2010 | £30K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Adam Davies               | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £375        | 30.6.2011 | £3K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Kyle Storer               | 8    | Rotation     | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2011 | £35K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| GK    | Loa | Scott Tynan               | 20   | Rotation     | F/T     | £230        | 30.6.2011 | £5K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| DC    |     | Tom Bonner                | 19   | Rotation     | F/T     | £220        | 30.6.2009 | £12K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| DL    |     | Scott Cousins             | 15   | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2009 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Shola Oyedele             | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £325        | 30.6.2011 | £3K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Keiran Walmsley           | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2010 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| FC    | Wnt | Simeon Jackson            | 12   | Rotation     | F/T     | £350        | 30.6.2010 | £40K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| S3    |     | Tom Shaw                  | 18   | Rotation     | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2010 | £20K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| S5    |     | Ikechi Anya               | 16   | Rotation     | F/T     | £475        | 30.6.2011 | £14K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | David Wood                | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £150        | 30.6.2011 | £5K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     | Inj | Scott Mackison            | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2012 | £7K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| MC    | Wnt | Andy King                 | -    | Rotation     | F/T     | £0          | 24.6.2009 | £85K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Fred Murray               | 35   | Backup       | F/T     | £325        | 30.6.2010 | £3K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Jamie McGhee              | -    | Backup       | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £5K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Stevie Ferguson           | 27   | Backup       | F/T     | £375        | 30.6.2009 | £16K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Alex Bryant               | 1    | Backup       | F/T     | £160        | 30.6.2010 | £18K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Mark Preece               | 25   | Backup       | F/T     | £300        | 30.6.2009 | £4K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Lee Tomlin                | 14   | Backup       | F/T     | £300        | 30.6.2011 | £40K    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Ugo Udoji                 | 21   | Backup       | F/T     | £160        | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Marvin McDonald           | 9    | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £1K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Alex Bolt                 | 34   | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £90         | 30.6.2009 | £7K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     | Inj | Lawrence Lambley          | -    | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £90         | 30.6.2009 | £1K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Iain Thomas               | -    | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £65         | 30.6.2009 | £1K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | T. J. McClory-Cuthbertson | -    | Youngster    | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Sean O'Keefe              | -    | Youngster    | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2010 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Callum Reynolds           | 22   | Youngster    | F/T     | £60         | 30.6.2009 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|  
| -     |     | Andrew Tidswell           | -    | Youngster    | F/T     | £60         | 30.6.2009 | £2K     | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Wage Budget: £15,574

Total Weekly Wages at 25/6/08: £12,216

Senior Players: 27

Reserve Players: 15

U-18 Players: 14

[Note that players classed as Backup, Prospect or Youngster will not be profiled, and are regarded as reserve players]

Player [Pos, Nationality, Height, Age] – Rushden Seasons, Rushden League Games, Rushden League Goals

Goalkeepers

Alex Bryant [GK, ENG, 175cm, 23] – 2, 9, 0

Only a backup, but a pretty solid one. Bryant is actually our highest-valued keeper by some distance and my assistant insists he is the best choice, but his inexperience and poor handling put the other two ahead of him for the moment.

Adam Legzdins [GK, ENG, 176cm, 21] – 1, 15, 0

A little disappointing. The former Birmingham player was signed as a challenger for the number one spot, but he never really held it down. There will be less competition with Logan gone, but he'll need to show more than he did last season.

Scott Tynan [GK, ENG, 186cm, 23] – 3, 59, 0

Spent most of last season in the reserves, but came up late and looked good in his five games, Probably back to the number one by default, but will be rotated around.

Defenders

Jon Ashton [D RC/DM, ENG, 188cm, 25] – 2, 46, 1

An excellent season from the solid defender. He doesn't exactly look classy, but does his job and does it well. Another big year is required with several veteran defenders leaving.

Tom Bonner [D C, SCO, 183cm, 20] – 2, 46, 0

Much like Ashton, a solid pure defender who must again put in a good season.

Conference Young Player of the Month, October 2007

Michael Bostwick [D/M C, ENG, 188cm, 20] – 2, 54, 4

Had a consistent season rotating between defence and midfield. Though I prefer him in the middle, our lack of defensive options again means he will be forced back more often than not.

Scott Cousins [D/WB L, ENG, 178cm, 25] –1, 18, 1

Looked okay in his 18 games last season, but now must step up at left back with Perpetuini released. He will also have an increased role at set pieces now that Watson is gone.

Adam Davies [D RC, WAL – 6 U21 Caps, 188cm, 21] – 0, 0, 0

The first of our new signings to be profiled, Davies is a fairly promising young player who adds depth to our defence. He didn't show much for fellow Conference side Cambridge or even Bedford when on loan to the Conference South, but at least he gives us more options. He tries to play his way out of trouble but doesn't really have the skill to do so, which could be dangerous...

Mike Edwards [D C, ENG, 186cm, 28] – 0, 0, 0

Adding some experience to our defensive line, Edwards is a fairly unremarkable player with a long history in League Two with Hull and Notts County. He's well-rounded in the defensive skills without excelling in any.

Shola Oyedele [D RC/AM RC, NIG, 181cm, 23] – 0, 0, 0

A versatile player who was a fairly average performer with Woking and Airdrie United in recent times, Oyedele adds a bit of depth to the side.

Glenn Wilson [D RC, WAL, 186cm, 21] – 2, 33, 1

Again missed a large chunk of the season with injury, with fractured ribs and a pulled hamstring putting him out for most of the latter half. The good thing is that these are different to the injuries suffered in the first season, but he seems to be cursed in this regard. He has the talent, but can he stay out on the park long enough to be of value?

David Wood [D RLC, ENG, 180cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0

A young player who came through Derby's youth setup. He looked unremarkable on loan at Telford in the Conference North, but our lack of options and his solid defensive fundamentals mean he'll probably get a go.

Midfielders

Ikechi Anya [AM RL, SCO, 170cm, 20] – 1, 19, 2

Despite a few injuries, Anya was a handy player last season. Gradel probably took his role to some extent, but he should get a bit more of a go this year,

Daniel Clitnovich [AM C, AUS, 172cm, 25] – 2, 67, 6

Didn't have nearly as much effect in his second season, probably because he needed to play in central midfield rather than in his preferred position of attacking midfield. Will still have a role this season, but could come under increasing pressure.

Supporters' Player of the Year 06/07

Stevie Ferguson [AM R/ST, SCO, 179cm, 26] – 1, 6, 2

Spent most of last season in the reserves and became rather upset at this, but settled down when given a late run. He has a bit of pace and, unlike most of our midfielders, can carry the ball well. Doesn't really stand out enough to be a regular, though.

Scott Gardiner [AM R, LUX – 9 Caps, 180cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Pretty much a direct replacement for Gradel, Gardiner is probably the highest-profile new signing, despite being on a mere ₤140 a week. He became an international despite not getting a game at Leeds, but he has the pace and ability to be a useful addition to the team.

Scott Gates [AM L, SCO – Capped at U19 level, 175cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Signed really as a replacement for Kelly, who of course has now been re-signed. Gates has a lot of pace, but not much in the way of ability, and he'll need to impress early to hold down a spot.

Marcus Kelly [AM L, ENG, 170cm, 21] – 5, 103, 8

Belatedly re-signed due to my concerns about a lack of ball-carrying skill and stability in the side. He set up over 10 goals last season, which is a very handy performance from a midfielder.

Andy King [AM C, WAL – Capped at U19 level, 182cm, 19] – 0, 0, 0 On loan from Leicester

Our only on-loan player this season, King is a very talented playmaker who should play a big role in our midfield. He was good for Dag & Redbridge last season, but I can see him playing an even bigger role here.

Scott Mackison [AM R, SCO, 175cm, 21] – 0, 0, 0

Signed on the advice of my scout, Mackison actually looks to be a very disappointing player. He's slow and not particularly talented.

Gavin McCallum [AM RL, CAN – 4 caps, 176cm, 20] – 1, 23, 5

Had a delayed start to the season due to injury, but was a useful midfielder when he was up and running. Faces a bit more competition in the midfield this season, but will be one of the first picked at this point His importance in our fine end to 07/08 cannot be overstated.

Conference Player of the Month, April 2008

Gary Mills [M C, ENG, 175cm, 27] – 9, 197, 11

The workhorse put in another solid effort last season, and will again be expected to hold down a central midfield spot.

Tom Shaw [M C, ENG, 183cm, 20] – 5, 66, 7

Was able to take a bit more time to develop last season, while still being a solid contributor to the first team. He'll never be a star, but he has a place at this level.

Kyle Storer [M C, ENG, 180cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Had a slow start to his Rushden career, and spent some time down in the reserves. However, he didn't drop his head, and was a solid player in the latter half of the season. Indeed, he was one of our stars in our great end to the season.

Conference Young Player of the Month, April 2008

Conor Sinnott [M C, IRE, 179cm, 22] – 0, 0, 0

A well-rounded but unremarkable player, Sinnott has had some experience in this division with Northwich and should rotate through the side.

Kieran Walmsley [D R/M C, ENG, 178cm, 24] – 0, 0, 0

Though he can play as a defender, his skills make Walmsley a better choice in the midfield. He can be a threat from distance and is good with corners. He didn't get much of a game with Morecambe, but should here.

Forwards

Simeon Jackson [sT, CAN – 5 Caps, 179cm, 20] – 5, 75, 32

Talk about stepping up. Jackson hit 18 goals last season, scoring at a rate of more than one every second game. He even put through a hat-trick at one point. Admittedly, playing as a sole striker gives you plenty of chances to score, but Jackson took advantage of them well. He has the pace and finishing ability to be a real threat at this level.

Supporters' Player of the Year 07/08; Conference Player of the Month, August 2007

Darryl Knights [AM/F C, ENG, 177cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

A real speedster who could carve up a defence, Knights comes from Ipswich but spent last season on loan at Conference North side Altrincham. He scored six goals in thirteen games, and I think he could be a threat for Rushden this season.

Lee Tomlin [sT, ENG, 181cm, 19] – 3, 42, 6

Still only has a handful of goals to his name, but looks increasingly comfortable in the senior side. Tomlin looks very similar to Jackson as a player, and serves as a capable backup to him at this point in his career.

Overview

Despite the remarkable drop in board and fan expectations, I think this is a stronger side than last season. We certainly have more options in the midfield, allowing me to play a more traditional formation and spread a bit of play out to the wings rather than having to focus on coming right down the middle all the time. I'm also happy to have a choice of a few goalkeepers.

Striking is our main concern, and I don't think I can afford to play more than one striker. There just aren't enough quality options with Rankine and Dodds gone. Tomlin isn't really ready, Beardsley isn't good enough and Maamria is too old to play regularly.

First XI

There's certainly plenty of new names there, and a few others I haven't covered (midfielder Jamie McGhee from Mansfield and a few youth team players). However, the core of the side will still be made up of players who have been around the club for a while.

The major shake-up comes in the back half, with Logan, Watson, Hope, Hatswell, Watson and Perpetuini gone. That's the goalkeeper and pretty much a back four no longer at the club. The new signings aren't going to step in immediately, so it's up to existing players to step up.

The midfield has plenty of options. Indeed, perhaps too many, as I really had trouble finding spots for a lot of players I regarded as First XI quality. I'll again go with five midfielders, but we'll be a bit more focused with King as a playmaker.

GK: Scott Tynan

RB: Glenn Wilson

LB: Scott Cousins

CB: Jon Ashton

CB: Tom Bonner

CM: Daniel Clitnovich

CM: Andy King

CM: Gary Mills

AMR: Scott Gardiner

AML: Gavin McCallum

CF: Simeon Jackson

Sub: Mike Edwards

Sub: Ikechi Anya

Sub: Darryl Knights

Sub: Tom Shaw

Sub: Michael Bostwick

Captain: Glenn Wilson

Penalties: Scott Cousins, Darryl Knights, Scott Gardiner

Free Kicks: (L) Gavin McCallum, Scott Cousins; ® Keiran Walmsley, Scott Gardiner

Corners: (L) Gavin McCallum, Scott Cousins; ® Keiran Walmsley, Gavin McCallum

Throw Ins: (L) Scott Cousins, Kyle Storer; ® Glenn Wilson, Ikechi Anya

July, 2008

I signed Scott Gemmill to replace Willie McStay as coach.

Our friendlies saw a series of bizarre results, and I'm not quite sure what they portend. We started off by beating parent club Leicester 2-1, with Scott Gardiner scoring on debut and Anya coming off the bench to give us the win. An amazing game saw us record a 6-4 win against Fisher, with a first-half hat-trick to Jackson and another goal to Gardiner. Good to see that we can score, but Tynan letting in half a dozen is a worry... Youth team striker Lee Watts looked very impressive, and he's definitely one to watch.

Knights hit a brace in a 4-1 win over Worcester (Legzdins in goal), and Jackson did the same as we defeated Dorchester 2-0. Knights hit the only one in a 1-1 draw against Southend before we hammered Bath 5-0. Watts had a brace in 15 minutes, Anya set up three and Ferguson looked particularly deadly.

As I said, we certainly can score, but can we hold out enough goals to earn the points?

August, 2008

Gravesend, Conference, Home

We kicked off the campaign at Nene Park with two debutants on the pitch – King and Gardiner. King created a chance for McCallum early, who put it over the bar, while Tynan made some good saves. We didn't have a shot on target after our assaults in the pre-season, but this time Tynan held onto a clean sheet.

Chester, Conference, Away

An unusual problem for Rushden, with both McCallum and Jackson on international duty with Canada for World Cup qualifiers. Kelly and Knights came in for them. Though intended as a playmaker in the middle, it was King who was on the end of a cross from Kelly, and he put it through for our first of the season. Ashton was beaten too easily to let Chester equalise just before half time. Edwards replaced him later in the game and made an important tackle. We looked set for another draw, but an inexplicable back pass with no Rushden player within forty yards of the goal saw the ball roll past the Chester keeper and into the net! A bizarre way to win, but I'll take the points.

Sutton Utd, Conference, Away

David Wood and Conor Sinnott played their first games for Rushden, while Jackson and McCallum returned. Wood was busy early and came forward often. In the 30th, he passed to Kelly who retreated out of the area and then turned and crossed back in. On the end of it was King, just like in the previous game, and he scored again. Kelly hit the bar a few minutes later, and we went in ahead. In the 73rd, Kelly passed from the left wing across to Mills. He centred to King who blasted in his second of the game from 20 yards. Sutton got one back late, but King's efforts got us another three points.

Fulham made an offer for 16-year-old striker Lee Watts – a rather unfair one, with no fee, a friendly and a 30% sell-on clause. He looks a good prospect, so I refused. This naturally upset the player, but hopefully even if I do have to sell him, I can get a bit of compensation.

Scarborough, Conference, Away

Scarborough took a lead after 15 minutes, but in a repeat of the Chester game, Kelly sent in a cross and there to meet it was Andy King. Four goals in three games for the midfielder. King played his intended role by setting up Jackson just after the break, but he put it wide. Scarborough had a goal disallowed, and we took advantage when a great long pass from Bostwick went over the defence and put Jackson through on goal. This time he finished well, and we won 2-1.

Crawley, Conference, Home

Back at Nene Park after a few games on the road, with former Rushden player David Perpetuini lining up against us. The first half was even, but a stunning half-pitch pass from King found Kelly on the edge of the box, and he crossed to Jackson to head home a goal. Tynan held up well, King created numerous chances, and 1-0 was the final score.

Crawley made an interesting offer for young winger TJ McClory-Cuthbertson: ₤1K plus a young midfielder. I rejected it, deciding I'd rather stick with the player I was more familiar with. I did, however, make a sale – winger Marcus Kelly for ₤60K, plus a 20% sell-on clause, to Barnet. On first glance, that may seem an odd move. He's only 22, and has been a dominant player for us this season, setting up several goals from corners and crosses. However, I have a glut of midfielders at the moment, and the reality is that the club is in pretty dire straits financially. The ₤60K is handy, and so is the saving of ₤550 per week. Hearts and Fulham both made enquiries about Lee Watts, but were warded off by my ₤250K asking price.

St Albans, Conference, Away

The departure of Kelly gave Scott Gates his first game for the club, while Knights and Gardiner came in for McCallum and Jackson, who were on international duty. A 45-yard pass from Bonner found King outside the area, and he took it in for his fifth of the season. Clitnovich hit the crossbar before a quick pass across the area found...King. His second before half time. St Albans got one back late, but couldn't manage a second.

Five straight wins after a draw to kick off the season. I was named Manager of the Month, and King was second in the Player of the Month award and won Young Player of the Month. I guess the only downside is that we have been so reliant on our only on-loan player. King has been dominant, making several chances for other players and scoring plenty himself. Of the other players, Kelly was really the only one to stand out, and of course he's now gone. I hate to put a dampener on such a great start, but I'd be feeling a lot better if some of our regulars were playing more of a role in the wins.

August, 2008

Gravesend, Conference, Home

We kicked off the campaign at Nene Park with two debutants on the pitch – King and Gardiner. King created a chance for McCallum early, who put it over the bar, while Tynan made some good saves. We didn't have a shot on target after our assaults in the pre-season, but this time Tynan held onto a clean sheet.

Chester, Conference, Away

An unusual problem for Rushden, with both McCallum and Jackson on international duty with Canada for World Cup qualifiers. Kelly and Knights came in for them. Though intended as a playmaker in the middle, it was King who was on the end of a cross from Kelly, and he put it through for our first of the season. Ashton was beaten too easily to let Chester equalise just before half time. Edwards replaced him later in the game and made an important tackle. We looked set for another draw, but an inexplicable back pass with no Rushden player within forty yards of the goal saw the ball roll past the Chester keeper and into the net! A bizarre way to win, but I'll take the points.

Sutton Utd, Conference, Away

David Wood and Conor Sinnott played their first games for Rushden, while Jackson and McCallum returned. Wood was busy early and came forward often. In the 30th, he passed to Kelly who retreated out of the area and then turned and crossed back in. On the end of it was King, just like in the previous game, and he scored again. Kelly hit the bar a few minutes later, and we went in ahead. In the 73rd, Kelly passed from the left wing across to Mills. He centred to King who blasted in his second of the game from 20 yards. Sutton got one back late, but King's efforts got us another three points.

Fulham made an offer for 16-year-old striker Lee Watts – a rather unfair one, with no fee, a friendly and a 30% sell-on clause. He looks a good prospect, so I refused. This naturally upset the player, but hopefully even if I do have to sell him, I can get a bit of compensation.

Scarborough, Conference, Away

Scarborough took a lead after 15 minutes, but in a repeat of the Chester game, Kelly sent in a cross and there to meet it was Andy King. Four goals in three games for the midfielder. King played his intended role by setting up Jackson just after the break, but he put it wide. Scarborough had a goal disallowed, and we took advantage when a great long pass from Bostwick went over the defence and put Jackson through on goal. This time he finished well, and we won 2-1.

Crawley, Conference, Home

Back at Nene Park after a few games on the road, with former Rushden player David Perpetuini lining up against us. The first half was even, but a stunning half-pitch pass from King found Kelly on the edge of the box, and he crossed to Jackson to head home a goal. Tynan held up well, King created numerous chances, and 1-0 was the final score.

Crawley made an interesting offer for young winger TJ McClory-Cuthbertson: ₤1K plus a young midfielder. I rejected it, deciding I'd rather stick with the player I was more familiar with. I did, however, make a sale – winger Marcus Kelly for ₤60K, plus a 20% sell-on clause, to Barnet. On first glance, that may seem an odd move. He's only 22, and has been a dominant player for us this season, setting up several goals from corners and crosses. However, I have a glut of midfielders at the moment, and the reality is that the club is in pretty dire straits financially. The ₤60K is handy, and so is the saving of ₤550 per week. Hearts and Fulham both made enquiries about Lee Watts, but were warded off by my ₤250K asking price.

St Albans, Conference, Away

The departure of Kelly gave Scott Gates his first game for the club, while Knights and Gardiner came in for McCallum and Jackson, who were on international duty. A 45-yard pass from Bonner found King outside the area, and he took it in for his fifth of the season. Clitnovich hit the crossbar before a quick pass across the area found...King. His second before half time. St Albans got one back late, but couldn't manage a second.

Five straight wins after a draw to kick off the season. I was named Manager of the Month, and King was second in the Player of the Month award and won Young Player of the Month. I guess the only downside is that we have been so reliant on our only on-loan player. King has been dominant, making several chances for other players and scoring plenty himself. Of the other players, Kelly was really the only one to stand out, and of course he's now gone. I hate to put a dampener on such a great start, but I'd be feeling a lot better if some of our regulars were playing more of a role in the wins.

September, 2008

Oxford, Conference, Away

Glenn Wilson was ruled out for this game and the rest of the month with a knee injury, allowing Adam Davies to make his debut. Jackson missed a couple of sitters and King had a shot saved in the first half. We couldn't score, bringing our winning streak to an end, but a late clearance off the line from Edwards gave us a point.

Lewes, Conference, Home

Legzdins came in for his first game of the season, as did Lee Tomlin. The first half was utterly uneventful, without a single shot. A good pass from Woods saw Mackison have a shot at goal, and while the keeper just barely reached it, he parried it to Gates for a simple finish. It was probably offside, but the goal stood. Three minutes later, Mackison crossed from the right past the keeper this time, and Tomlin tapped it in for a 2-0 win. Considering our finish to last season, that makes it thirteen straight league games without a loss.

York, Conference, Home

King had his first break of the season, as did Bonner. York scored the only one of the first half, and the closest we came was Clitnovich skimming the bar. We missed a number of shots in the second half, and our streak was ended.

Exeter, Conference, Away

King and Tynan returned as we took on top side Exeter, but they went ahead in the 17th. We looked like more of a threat in the second half, but Knights and Jackson both had shots saved, and we could not score an equaliser.

Torquay, Conference, Away

Tynan made a few fine saves early, but eventually conceded in the 32nd. Jackson had two turned away just before the break, but it was that man to the rescue again – Andy King headed in Anya's 53rd minute cross. Torquay regained their lead with fifteen minutes to go, and with late misses to Mackison and Anya, we suddenly had three straight losses.

Cambridge, Conference, Away

Another tough opponent, but a great run from McCallum down the left allowed Jackson to put us ahead in the 20th. Legzdins made a few saves but was beaten just before half time by a free. They scored again on the other side of the break and then suddenly made it 1-3. A fourth in the 55th sealed it, but they hit another a few minutes later to rub it in. Tomlin set up Gardner for our second, but it was irrelevant. All of a sudden, our season is coming apart.

Kidderminster, Conference, Home

Tynan returned and was put under pressure in the opening minutes. However, Kidderminster missed their chances, and McCallum put us ahead through a penalty. Kidderminster hit back before the break, and somehow Tynan let the ball run ahead of him before clearing it...putting it straight into the path of a forward. Kidderminster scored their second, then a third in the final minutes. 1-3, and we're in big trouble.

Five straight losses is a terrible run, but it is in such contrast to our form at the start of the season that I really have no idea whether we dramatically over-performed then or are dramatically under-performing now. We did have a few tough opponents in that last run, but Kidderminster and Torquay are mid-table at best. The major problem is that I still can't get a settled number one goalkeeper, but several players are also looking flat.

October, 2008

Northwich, Conference, Away

Alex Bryant came into the goal for his first game of the season, and was given a one-goal buffer five minutes in when a shot from Gates in a scramble in the box took a huge defection. Gates added a second with a header from Mackison's corner ten minutes later and Conor Sinnott hit in a corner from Clitnovich in the 35th. 3-0 is how it finished, hopefully ending our slump.

Stevenage, Conference, Home

A tough game was made harder with Andy King on international duty, but Tom Shaw came in for his first game of the season. Tomlin had a few early shots but Stevenage took the lead in the 23rd. We conceded another three minutes later and finished 0-2 losers in a flat performance.

Dag & Redbridge, Conference, Home

The flat performance carried over into this game, but at least we didn't concede in the first half. However, we did three minutes into the second. A long pass from King was partially cleared, but Mills got onto the ball and hit it in to equalise with twenty minutes to go. We were the dominant team, with 14 shots to 6, but could only get one point for our trouble.

Stafford, Conference, Away

Andy King scored his first goal in quite a while after picking up a loose defensive pass but Stafford were level by half time. The only other event of the game was an injury to Scott Cousins, putting him out for a month with a fractured arm. Andy King was Man of the Match for the fifth time – already a Rushden record.

Weymouth, Conference, Home

Woods replaced Cousins at left back and by forcing a parry with a long-range shot in the fourth, allowed Tomlin a simple finish. Fellow defender Oyedele was partly responsible for our second when his centring ball was knocked in by a defender. Mackison scored with a diving header in the 49th to seal it 3-0.

Worchester, FA Cup 4th Round qualifier, Home

A game we should win against a Conference North opponent, even with Mills injured and King ineligible. It took a while, but Shaw finally headed in a corner from Mackison. That was all we needed to progress. Unfortunately, we lost Tom Bonner for a month with broken ribs.

King was again named Young Player of the Month. We now sit in 11th spot, which is about where I want to finish. Simeon Jackson has been very disappointing, and Tomlin is taking over from him in the senior side. I'd like him to train Watts, but apparently Watts is so highly rated that he is ineligible to have a mentor. We will be missing Bonner, Legzdins, Mills and Cousins next month, which will make things a little tougher.

| Pos   | Inf  | Team          |  Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |      | Stevenage     |  19    | 11    | 5     | 3     | 34    | 17    | +17   | 38    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |      | Exeter        |  19    | 11    | 4     | 4     | 23    | 11    | +12   | 37    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 3rd   |      | Sutton Utd    |  19    | 10    | 6     | 3     | 25    | 12    | +13   | 36    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |      | Cambridge     |  19    | 11    | 1     | 7     | 35    | 24    | +11   | 34    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |      | Gravesend     |  19    | 7     | 10    | 2     | 27    | 18    | +9    | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |      | Shrewsbury    |  19    | 7     | 10    | 2     | 27    | 21    | +6    | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |      | York          |  19    | 8     | 7     | 4     | 27    | 23    | +4    | 31    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |      | Bury          |  19    | 8     | 6     | 5     | 28    | 16    | +12   | 30    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 9th   |      | Kidderminster |  19    | 8     | 5     | 6     | 35    | 21    | +14   | 29    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |      | Oxford        |  19    | 8     | 5     | 6     | 23    | 18    | +5    | 29    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |      | Rushden       |  18    | 8     | 4     | 6     | 23    | 20    | +3    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |      | Torquay       |  19    | 8     | 4     | 7     | 23    | 22    | +1    | 28    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |      | Dag & Red     |  19    | 6     | 9     | 4     | 26    | 20    | +6    | 27    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 14th  |      | Burton        |  18    | 8     | 2     | 8     | 22    | 28    | -6    | 26    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |      | Stafford      |  19    | 6     | 6     | 7     | 22    | 25    | -3    | 24    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |      | Chester       |  19    | 6     | 5     | 8     | 22    | 24    | -2    | 23    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 17th  |      | Weymouth      |  19    | 6     | 5     | 8     | 18    | 30    | -12   | 23    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 18th  |      | Crawley       |  19    | 6     | 4     | 9     | 15    | 20    | -5    | 22    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 19th  |      | Forest Green  |  19    | 6     | 3     | 10    | 32    | 36    | -4    | 21    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 20th  |      | Woking        |  19    | 3     | 11    | 5     | 17    | 17    | 0     | 20    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 21st  |      | St. Albans    |  19    | 2     | 9     | 8     | 19    | 30    | -11   | 15    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 22nd  |      | Scarborough   |  19    | 3     | 5     | 11    | 13    | 33    | -20   | 14    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 23rd  |      | Lewes         |  19    | 1     | 7     | 11    | 13    | 37    | -24   | 10    | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| 24th  |      | Northwich     |  19    | 1     | 3     | 15    | 10    | 36    | -26   | 6     | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

November, 2008

Bury, Conference, Home

King added to his stellar season with a headed goal from a Tomlin cross. We should have been at least two ahead at half time, but our second finally came when Oyedele passed long for Tomlin, and a defender put it into his own net in his rush to clear it.

Burton, Conference, Away

Gates missed a few good early chances and Tomlin and Sinnott were both repeatedly denied by the keeper. Gates finally got one in in the 31st after a fine run, but despite 15 shots in the first half, we only had one goal to show for it. That tally increased to 22 by the end of the game, but we still only finished 1-0. Adam Davies was Man of the Match after spending most of the season in the reserves. It's amazing how players can step up when called upon after an injury.

Yeovil, FA Cup 1st round, Away

We lost King (ineligible) and McCallum (international duty) for this important cup game. I didn't have huge expectations against League One opponents, but a draw would be good for the home gate receipts a replay would bring, at least. However, we dominated early, and took the lead when a tight Mackison cross was headed in by Tomlin right on the line. Yeovil hit back in the 28th, then took the lead with a free a few minutes later. Bryant did his best to keep us in it, but we kept wasting chances. A penalty to Tomlin in the 84th looked to have given us the draw I wanted...only for the young striker to put it over the bar. 1-2, and we were out in the first round.

Shrewsbury, Conference, Away

Tom Shaw joined our growing injury list in a scoreless first half. Anya put a shot wide after getting one-on-one with the keeper, but his cross saw Jon Ashton head in our first with thirty minutes to go. It looked like Shrewsbury had equalised in the final minutes, but it was ruled offside and King squeezed in a sealer after a Tomlin shot was parried. 2-0, and Shaw's injury was thankfully minor.

Forest Green, Conference, Home

Glenn Wilson returned for his first game in quite a while thanks to injury. Clitnovich forced a few saves before McCallum hit in a free from just outside the area. Wilson was Man of the Match, and one goal was all it took for the three points.

Woking, Conference, Away

Scott Cousins returned from injury against Woking , but we fell behind in the 18th minute when Davies was caught out of position. Glenn Wilson was beaten to the ball for Woking's second. A counter-attack after Gates had a shot saved made it 0-3. A bad performance – our first league loss in eight games.

I was named Manager of the Month, since we won four of five games. King was again Young Player of the Month. I re-signed Gary Mills for a further year with a slight wage increase, but Clitnovich and Bonner rejected new deals.

December, 2008

Chester, Conference, Away

17-year-old striker Lee Watts, who has attracted attention from the likes of Fulham and Hearts, made his debut in this game. He had a couple of shots denied by the keeper as we dominated the first half. Sinnott hit the bar and Mackison and Storer also had shots saved. Shaw finally scored from a parry a minute into the second half and in the 61st, after four on target shots, a pass from Mackison gave Watts a simple finish from close range. A goal on debut for the massive prospect. That proved valuable when Chester scored twice in the final three minutes. Mackison missed a chance to regain the lead, and we had to settle for a point. I re-signed Clitnovich after the game.

St Albans, FA Trophy 1st Round, Home

Given that we only had a Conference North opponent, I gave Watts another run. In the 17th, he took a pass and charged forward. From 25 yards, he blasted the ball straight over the keeper, who hadn't left the box, and into the goal. Brilliant. We didn't have many chances, but with three minutes to go, Shaw held the ball up long enough for Watts to break free of the defenders. He rounded the keeper with ease and hit in his third in two games.

Sutton Utd, Conference, Home

Watts held his spot for the next game, but could not score despite six attempts in the first half alone. He continued to rack up the chances, but nobody could break through and we ended the year with a draw.

I re-signed reserve goalkeeper Iain Thomas, defender Mark Preece, midfielder Alex Bolt and utility Lawrence Lambley at the end of the year. Senior defender Scott Cousins also re-signed. We finished in 9th spot, which is a bit below where we were a few weeks ago (we got as high as fifth, having spent the first month in second), but there's a hell of a lot of teams even on 42 points. This will be a tight season, and every result matters.

Player-wise, Jackson, Storer and Knights have been very disappointing. Bryant looks to have secured the goalkeeping spot, Gates is a real threat on the left wing and Wilson is settling back in after an early injury. Davis has returned after a stint in the reserves and is looking solid at the back. Watts has shown plenty of potential and as for King...well, I just wish he was here for a lot longer than just the season.

| Pos   | Inf   | Team           | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   |       | Exeter         | 25    | 15    | 4     | 6     | 29    | 16    | +13   | 49    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Stevenage      | 25    | 14    | 6     | 5     | 39    | 22    | +17   | 48    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |       | Cambridge      | 25    | 15    | 1     | 9     | 42    | 30    | +12   | 46    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   |       | Sutton Utd     | 25    | 12    | 8     | 5     | 28    | 15    | +13   | 44    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Bury           | 25    | 12    | 6     | 7     | 45    | 26    | +19   | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | Kidderminster  | 25    | 12    | 6     | 7     | 44    | 28    | +16   | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Gravesend      | 25    | 10    | 12    | 3     | 39    | 23    | +16   | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Torquay        | 25    | 12    | 6     | 7     | 32    | 25    | +7    | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Rushden        | 25    | 12    | 6     | 7     | 31    | 25    | +6    | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | York           | 25    | 11    | 9     | 5     | 37    | 32    | +5    | 42    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Shrewsbury     | 25    | 8     | 11    | 6     | 33    | 29    | +4    | 35    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Dag & Red      | 25    | 8     | 10    | 7     | 34    | 28    | +6    | 34    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Chester        | 25    | 9     | 6     | 10    | 34    | 31    | +3    | 33    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Weymouth       | 25    | 9     | 5     | 11    | 26    | 38    | -12   | 32    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Oxford         | 25    | 8     | 7     | 10    | 27    | 26    | +1    | 31    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Stafford       | 25    | 8     | 6     | 11    | 30    | 35    | -5    | 30    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | Woking         | 25    | 6     | 11    | 8     | 23    | 23    | 0     | 29    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |       | Burton         | 25    | 9     | 2     | 14    | 26    | 40    | -14   | 29    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |       | Forest Green   | 25    | 8     | 4     | 13    | 41    | 40    | +1    | 28    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |       | Crawley        | 25    | 7     | 7     | 11    | 23    | 31    | -8    | 28    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  |       | Scarborough    | 25    | 6     | 6     | 13    | 21    | 38    | -17   | 24    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  |       | St. Albans     | 25    | 4     | 10    | 11    | 28    | 44    | -16   | 22    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  |       | Lewes          | 25    | 3     | 8     | 14    | 17    | 46    | -29   | 17    | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  |       | Northwich      | 25    | 2     | 3     | 20    | 16    | 54    | -38   | 9     | 
| -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

January, 2009

Gravesend, Conference, Away

Watts and Shaw forced saves before King sent forward a brilliant through ball for McCallum. His cross found Mackison for a simple finish. Bryant made a few saves but was eventually beaten with fifteen minutes to go. Watts missed a lot of chances, and I sent him back to the Under-18s after the game. I signed Scottish scout Andy McWilliam and re-signed defender Tom Bonner.

Weymouth, FA Trophy 2nd Round, Home

We lost keeper Alex Bryant to a virus and striker Tomlin to a leg injury for this game, with Legzdins and Jackson replacing them. Jackson took advantage of his chance after spending a month in the reserves, scoring after only five minutes when King put him through. Weymouth responded ten minutes later after a mistake from debutant Fred Murray, but Mackison repaired the damage by holding off a defender long enough to push into the area and hit it home. Jackson made it a brace in the 82nd to seal it.

Scarborough, Conference, Home

A long free from Cousins found Mackison, who somehow was all alone in the area, and headed in a 22nd minute goal. Mackison scored his second from a 20-yard free ten minutes into the second half and Jackson made it 3-1 from a fine Gates pass. A dominant win

Crawley, Conference, Away

Crawley hit the lead in the 23rd after a mad scramble in the penalty area and though Mills should have levelled in injury time, he put his shot over the bar from close range. McCallum missed a number of attempts, but a long-range shot from Bostwick brought us level with twelve minutes to go. McCallum's last minute shot was saved, and we finished 1-1.

I sold Kyle Storer to Greenock Morton for ₤75K, plus a 25% sell-on clause. Though Storer is one of our few good midfield passers, and played well last season, he really hasn't looked too flash recently, and was spending time in the reserves. I'm always reluctant to sell young players, and he's only 21, but with the club in a poor financial situation and a glut of midfielders, I couldn't really refuse the bid.

St Albans, Conference, Home

We had an unlikely scorer, with a long throw from Wilson finding defender Adam Davies in the area, and he struck it in for a 16th minute lead. Unfortunately, we threw away numerous chances, and although St Albans had just two shots for the game, one of those got through Legzdins. We only got a point, and with such a tight top half of the table, that could be costly. Rushden are in 7th and a few points behind the sides above us, though we do have one game in hand.

AFC Telford, FA Trophy 3rd Round, Away

I took advantage of our draw against a Conference North side by resting a few senior players. Watts couldn't come in despite his dominance in the reserves, as he was ineligible to play in this game for some reason. Telford took a surprise lead in the 6th through a counter-attack, and then looked to have extended it in the tenth with a second, but thankfully it was ruled out due to an earlier foul. Nonetheless, we had to score at least once. I was getting worried when it got to the final twenty minutes and we hadn't done so, but Tomlin squeezed one in from a tight angle in the 74th. Mackison and Bostwick came close in the final minutes, but all we could do was set up a replay.

February, 2009

AFC Telford, FA Trophy 3rd Round (replay), Home

We were dealt a bit of a blow for this replay, with McCallum and Jackson on international duty with Canada and Tomlin too tired after the last game. Oddly, Watts was eligible to play in this game after not being able to in the previous one, so I brought him straight in. It was Mills who put us ahead though, hitting into an open goal after Bostwick's shot was saved. Watts hit the post late in the half and had one turned away in the final minutes of the game. 1-0 was all we needed.

York, Conference, Away

A loss to York ended our fine start to the season and set us on a disastrous run that nearly derailed our campaign. Jackson came close with a header, but it was York opening the scoring in the 35th. We were awarded a penalty in the 48th, and York had a player sent off for arguing about the decision, but Cousins' penalty was saved and despite the numbers advantage, our run of seven games without a league loss was ended.

Dag & Redbridge, Conference, Home

We fell to 9th after that loss, and couldn't afford another. Cousins sent a free kick to the edge of the area rather than going for a header, and defender Adam Davies had enough space to turn and blast in a great goal from 25 yards. They equalised just before half time, but Andy King did brilliantly to beat a defender and restore the lead in the final half hour. Glenn Wilson was sent off for a professional foul with ten minutes to go, but Mackison sealed it by heading in a cross from fellow winger Gates.

Exeter, Conference, Home

Alex Bolt came up for his first match of the season, having shown good signs late last season. Andy King missed the only real chance of the first half, but a superb interception and pass in the midfield from the Leicester star gave Jackson a simple finish for the only goal of the game.

Stevenage, FA Trophy 4th Round, Away

Alex Bryant replaced Legzdins after an absence due to injury. He was put under plenty of pressure, and though he made some good saves, he was beaten in the 26th. Despite a number of shots, it wasn't until Davies headed in a 79th minute corner from Clitnovich that we managed to draw level. I would have been happy with a home replay, but three minutes into injury time, Mackison centred the ball to King just outside the area. He fired off a stunning first-time shot that smashed into the crossbar, and Gates was there to tap in the rebound. There was barely time for the kick-off, and we continued to survive in the FA Trophy.

Oxford, Conference, Home

Since this was a mid-week game, I rested Bryant, Cousins and Clitnovich. Legzdins conceded in the 16th after a shot somehow got through three defenders. Gates had one cleared off the line and Bolt missed a couple as we ended the half a goal down. That was made two goals moments into the second half thanks to former Rushden striker Robert Duffy and they completed a 0-3 rout in the final minutes.

Lewes, Conference, Home

After that loss, we couldn't afford to drop a game to the 23rd placed Lewes. Jackson had two shots saved and King hit the post in a scoreless first half. We lost both Mills and Mackison to injuries, but despite bringing on Watts as a second striker, we did not score from out 16 shots. We at least got one point, but it should have been three. Mills' injury was minor, but Mackison will miss two months with a dislocated shoulder.

Not a great month for the club, with two league losses and a draw in a game which we should have won. I'm pleased to be through to the finals of the FA Trophy, but the league is my priority. Watts has been sent back to the Under-18s and Bolt and Legzdins have been dropped to the reserves, with Anya and Knights recalled after good form.

March, 2009

Torquay, Conference, Home

Bostwick scored an important goal in the 38th from an out-swinging Cousins corner but Torquay hit back early in the second. We fought hard to regain the lead, but Gates missed a sitter and Jackson put one off the bar. Shaw did a great job in the midfield all game, but the players up the pitch didn't take advantage of his good work.

Chester, FA Trophy Semi Final first leg, Away

We were knocked out at this stage in 2007, and I went out full-strength in hopes of doing better this time. Amazingly, both Bostwick and Gates were forced off with injuries in the first fifteen minutes, meaning this was a costly game before it had even really got underway. We then conceded a goal in the 25th, but Jackson collected a loose clearance and hit it in for an away goal eight minutes later. Just four minutes after that he had a second thanks to a superb through ball from King. Anya celebrated his return to the side with a sharp run and finish in the 65th and King scored from close range when a McCallum free was parried four minutes later. 4-1, giving us the luxury of resting players in the home leg. Gates' injury was minor, but Bostwick suffered fractured ribs and will miss a couple of months. At least we have no shortage of depth – our reserves won their last game 7-0.

Kidderminster, Conference, Away

This was a crucial game, with our opponents two points ahead of us in 7th spot. Though Knights, Tomlin and King were busy early, they took the lead in the 31st. It took a long time, but a bad clearance from the keeper saw Tomlin with an open run at the goal, and he put us level with a dozen minutes left. He had a chance to give us the lead in injury time, but put it wide. 1-1 in a fairly even game. Adam Davies continued his fine form with a Man of the Match effort.

Chester, FA Trophy Semi Final second leg, Home

With four away goals already in the bank, I rested most of the senior players for this leg. Watts was ineligible, having already played in an Under-18s game (ah, so that's why he was ineligible last time!) but the likes of Bolt, Tynan, Walmsley, Marvin McDonald and Fred Murray got a run. Chester scored one very early, but Anya restored our three-goal buffer after a good long pass from Oyedele. Chester scored again from a penalty in the 36th, and made it 5-4 on aggregate with twenty minutes to go. Surely we couldn't drop it from here? McDonald missed a chance to extend our lead, and despite being clearly offside, a Chester goal with five minutes to go was allowed to stand. Suddenly, it was 5-5 on aggregate, and with no goals in the final minutes, we went to extra time. Tynan had been terrible, and I was not looking forward to penalties. Anya missed a chance in extra time, and we conceded in the 108th. Unbelievably, we'd lost after a 4-1 away win. Disgraceful. I can take some of the blame, having rested a lot of players, but we'd shown signs of good depth before. Indeed, I was concerned we had too many first-team quality players.

Cambridge, Conference, Home

The only good thing about that result was that we could focus entirely on the league. Unfortunately, Wilson's failed attempt to clear off the line saw us conceded an own goal after only a few minutes – not what you need against the top side. We played fairly well and pulled level when a long ball from Wilson was headed in by King. They responded two minutes later though, and we finished 1-2. The promotion spots now look out of reach, and we'll have to settle for a mid-table finish.

Burton, Conference, Home

Jackson and McCallum missed this one through international duty, and we went behind just before half time. Anya continued his fine return to the side by hitting in a 57th minute equaliser. Shaw and Tomlin both skimmed the bar, but that's as close as we got in another flat effort.

Bury, Conference, Away

A dismal month got worse when we fell behind to Bury and never looked like getting even.

Simply a terrible month. We dropped what looked like a certain progression to the FA Trophy final and failed badly in the league. Though Anya has taken his chance upon being recalled, Knights has struggled badly. Gates, Shaw and Mills have also fallen out of form, which cuts out a large chunk of our midfield, particularly considering the injuries to Bostwick and Mackison and dismal form of Stevie Ferguson, who will be released at the end of the season. All that's left is to try and salvage a mid-table finish.

April, 2009

Northwich, Conference, Home

We had to win this game against the bottom-placed side. Jackson had three shots in the first ten minutes without a goal, but Mills was able to sneak around a defender and drive home a goal in the 13th. An own goal came after a free from King was parried, but Cousins wasted a chance to put us further ahead from the spot. We've done badly with penalties this season, but thankfully this wouldn't cost us here. Jackson had a goal disallowed before Cousins sealed the 3-0 win. It was the expected result.

With coaches Alex Tobin, Tony Godden and Paul Driver set to leave at the end of the season (Tobin refused to re-sign, Godden is over-paid and Driver isn't that good), I brought in Liam Greaves as youth coach and Simon Miotto as goalkeeping coach.

Stevenage, Conference, Away

We were a goal down after only two minutes, but just a minute later, Jackson put enough pressure on a defender to make him hit the ball into his own net. Stevenage restored their lead in the 11th.. Everything we tried went wide in the second half and Stevenage scored again. Glenn Wilson was put out for the rest of the season with fractured ribs.

Weymouth, Conference, Away

The games were fast becoming meaningless. Cousins finally got a penalty on target only for Weymouth to pull level in the 29th.. Tomlin restored the lead when Alex Bolt's long-range effort was parried into his path in the 40th. Bryant played his best game for the club, Ashton was a presence in defence and Cousins scored his second with a brilliant 30-yard free kick.

Stafford, Conference, Home

An utterly boring first half, and it didn't get any better in the second. 0-0.

Shrewsbury, Conference, Home

At least there were a few shots in the first half, but no goals. Shrewsbury scored with 20 minutes to go, but we scored twice in three minutes through McCallum (from a King pass) and Jackson (assisted by Bolt) to take the lead. Shrewsbury responded moments after our second, making it 2-2 with seven minutes left. That's how it finished.

Forest Green, Conference, Away

Another flat first half, but this time we broke the deadlock when a fine pass from Jackson put Gates through in the 70th. Forest took nine minutes to respond and poor shooting from Mills meant we failed to regain the lead.

Woking, Conference, Home

The final game of an ultimately disappointing season. Appropriately, we wasted early chances and Woking took the lead. Bolt passed well for Jackson to bring us level in the 55th but with King's late effort coming back off the post, all we managed was a point. The only good news was the naming of Tom Bonner as Young Player of the Month.

The season in review

Summary

| Pos   | Inf   | Team          |       | Pld   | Won   | Drn   | Lst   | For   | Ag    | G.D.  | Pts   | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1st   | C     | Stevenage     |       | 46    | 26    | 12    | 8     | 81    | 43    | +38   | 90    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2nd   |       | Cambridge     |       | 46    | 26    | 6     | 14    | 81    | 57    | +24   | 84    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 3rd   |       | Exeter        |       | 46    | 24    | 9     | 13    | 62    | 46    | +16   | 81    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 4th   | P     | Sutton Utd    |       | 46    | 21    | 16    | 9     | 49    | 27    | +22   | 79    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 5th   |       | Oxford        |       | 46    | 22    | 11    | 13    | 61    | 41    | +20   | 77    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6th   |       | York          |       | 46    | 22    | 11    | 13    | 63    | 52    | +11   | 77    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 7th   |       | Torquay       |       | 46    | 21    | 13    | 12    | 58    | 44    | +14   | 76    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 8th   |       | Bury          |       | 46    | 20    | 15    | 11    | 70    | 46    | +24   | 75    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9th   |       | Kidderminster |       | 46    | 21    | 12    | 13    | 75    | 54    | +21   | 75    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 10th  |       | Rushden       |       | 46    | 17    | 17    | 12    | 56    | 47    | +9    | 68    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11th  |       | Shrewsbury    |       | 46    | 16    | 19    | 11    | 58    | 48    | +10   | 67    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 12th  |       | Chester       |       | 46    | 19    | 10    | 17    | 73    | 64    | +9    | 67    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 13th  |       | Woking        |       | 46    | 14    | 20    | 12    | 54    | 40    | +14   | 62    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14th  |       | Dag & Red     |       | 46    | 15    | 14    | 17    | 69    | 64    | +5    | 59    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 15th  |       | Forest Green  |       | 46    | 17    | 8     | 21    | 68    | 64    | +4    | 59    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 16th  |       | Gravesend     |       | 46    | 13    | 18    | 15    | 60    | 56    | +4    | 57    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 17th  |       | Crawley       |       | 46    | 14    | 14    | 18    | 47    | 57    | -10   | 56    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 18th  |       | Stafford      |       | 46    | 12    | 14    | 20    | 44    | 58    | -14   | 50    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19th  |       | Burton        |       | 46    | 14    | 6     | 26    | 42    | 74    | -32   | 48    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 20th  |       | Weymouth      |       | 46    | 12    | 10    | 24    | 44    | 71    | -27   | 46    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 21st  | R     | Scarborough   |       | 46    | 11    | 13    | 22    | 38    | 70    | -32   | 46    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22nd  | R     | Lewes         |       | 46    | 9     | 16    | 21    | 38    | 73    | -35   | 43    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23rd  | R     | St. Albans    |       | 46    | 8     | 16    | 22    | 45    | 77    | -32   | 40    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 24th  | R     | Northwich     |       | 46    | 4     | 8     | 34    | 37    | 100   | -63   | 20    | 
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

| Pkd   | Inf  | Name              | Apps  | Gls   | Ast   | MoM   | Pas   | Tck   | Drb   | Sh T  | Av Rat| 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    | Wnt  | Andy King         | 44    | 13    | 7     | 8     | 77%   | 2.67  | 0.52  | 37%   | 7.36  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DL    | Unh  | Scott Cousins     | 35    | 3     | 4     | 2     | 64%   | 2.76  | 0.23  | 69%   | 7.00  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| FC    |      | Simeon Jackson    | 32    | 11    | 4     | 1     | 68%   | 0.29  | 1.27  | 46%   | 6.75  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DR    | Wnt  | Shola Oyedele     | 30 (4)| -     | 4     | 2     | 67%   | 3.40  | 0.48  | -     | 6.97  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |      | Mike Edwards      | 30 (2)| -     | -     | -     | 71%   | 3.13  | 0.16  | -     | 6.91  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AML   |      | Scott Gates       | 30 (1)| 6     | 3     | 4     | 68%   | 0.95  | 1.83  | 39%   | 7.03  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| GK    |      | Alex Bryant       | 30    | -     | -     | -     | 44%   | 0.03  | -     | -     | 6.93  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |      | Tom Shaw          | 27    | 2     | 3     | 3     | 74%   | 2.83  | 0.36  | 24%   | 7.00  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj  | Glenn Wilson      | 25    | -     | 1     | 2     | 68%   | 3.71  | 0.13  | -     | 7.24  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |      | Michael Bostwick  | 24 (4)| 2     | 2     | 1     | 69%   | 2.51  | 0.25  | 31%   | 6.96  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |      | Gary Mills        | 24    | 3     | 2     | -     | 69%   | 1.78  | 0.31  | 27%   | 6.88  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S1    |      | Jon Ashton        | 23 (2)| 1     | 2     | 1     | 64%   | 3.08  | 0.21  | -     | 7.00  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| DC    |      | Tom Bonner        | 23 (1)| -     | 1     | 4     | 70%   | 4.41  | 0.12  | -     | 7.13  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S4    |      | Gavin McCallum    | 22 (4)| 3     | 5     | 1     | 67%   | 0.70  | 1.66  | 25%   | 6.92  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S5    |      | Adam Davies       | 20 (1)| 3     | 1     | 3     | 69%   | 3.26  | 0.20  | -     | 7.19  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S2    |      | Conor Sinnott     | 19 (3)| 1     | -     | -     | 68%   | 2.10  | 0.30  | 47%   | 7.05  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Wnt  | David Wood        | 18    | -     | 2     | -     | 64%   | 2.17  | 0.11  | -     | 6.78  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| AMR   |      | Ikechi Anya       | 17 (5)| 3     | 3     | 1     | 62%   | 0.86  | 2.00  | 33%   | 6.73  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S3    |      | Daniel Clitnovich | 15 (9)| -     | 2     | -     | 72%   | 2.58  | 0.51  | 52%   | 6.83  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |      | Lee Tomlin        | 15 (2)| 6     | 6     | 1     | 68%   | 0.13  | 1.60  | 40%   | 7.06  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |      | Adam Legzdins     | 14    | -     | -     | -     | 46%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.43  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Lst  | Scott Tynan       | 11    | -     | -     | -     | 39%   | -     | -     | -     | 6.36  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     |      | Scott Gardner     | 10    | 1     | -     | -     | 64%   | 0.45  | 1.35  | -     | 6.90  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| MC    |      | Alex Bolt         | 9     | -     | 3     | -     | 72%   | 2.57  | 0.21  | 27%   | 6.67  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Req  | Darryl Knights    | 8 (6) | -     | 1     | -     | 69%   | 1.62  | 0.76  | 22%   | 6.43  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Unh  | Stevie Ferguson   | 5 (6) | -     | -     | -     | 67%   | 0.73  | 1.75  | -     | 6.45  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj  | Lee Watts         | 5 (2) | 3     | -     | 1     | 67%   | -     | 1.39  | 46%   | 6.71  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Req  | Fred Murray       | 2     | -     | -     | -     | 67%   | 3.00  | 0.86  | -     | 5.50  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj  | Keiran Walmsley   | 1 (2) | -     | -     | -     | 48%   | 1.76  | -     | -     | 6.00  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -     | Inj  | Marvin McDonald   | 1     | -     | -     | -     | -     | -     | 1.50  | -     | 5.00  | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Much like last season, the fans and board are happy, but I am not. It seems we are constantly showing flashes of being a quality side, yet simply cannot manage to hold that form for long enough to have success over an extended campaign.

When you don't lose in your first eight league games, winning six, finishing 10th is a disappointment. I think our position does reflect our overall performance – we had some good wins against weaker sides, dropped a few fairly close ones against the top ones and had a fair mix of unlucky losses and lucky wins. It's the fact that the overall performance is made up of such dramatic peaks and troughs that frustrates me so much.

I think we do have a good squad. Admittedly, we were hugely reliant on Andy King, who was the dominant figure in our early good form. He covered our attacking weakness by scoring 13 goals for the season, and setting up another seven. Jackson was flat, albeit still scoring 11 goals, but Tomlin showed signs of improvement and Watts continued to look like a fine prospect. Alex Bryant finally looked to have become a regular first team keeper, and the defence looked strong with Bonner, Wilson, Davies, Ashton and Cousins all solid. The midfielders were naturally overshadowed by King, but generally did their job.

What I think we need most are another first team forward (whether players already at the club like Tomlin or Watts stepping up or a new signing) and a bit of leadership, but everybody will need to improve to cover the loss of King. The reserves again won the league, so we must have some depth, but can they show it in the firsts?

Around the world: major awards and results

Rushden Supporters’ Player of the Year:

Scott Cousins

World Player of the Year:

Thierry Henry (Arsenal)

World Footballer of the year:

Thierry Henry (Arsenal)

England:

Winner: Chelsea

Relegated: Wigan, Everton, Fulham

Promoted: Reading, Barnsley, West Ham

Spain:

Real Madrid

Italy

Juventus

Champions Cup:

Inter

EURO Cup:

Juventus

The Transfers

Players In

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11.6.2008          | Gates, Scott       | Dundee             | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Walmsley, Keiran   | Morecambe          | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Gardner, Scott     | Leeds              | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Mackison, Scott    | Northwich          | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | McGhee, Jamie      | Mansfield          | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Sinnott, Conor     | Reading            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Knights, Darryl    | Ipswich            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Wood, David        | Derby              | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 9.7.2008           | Edwards, Mike      | Notts Co           | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 11.7.2008          | Davies, Adam       | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 14.7.2008          | Oyedele, Shola     | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 

Players Out

| Date               | Person             | To                 | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.6.2008           | Langdon, Dominic   | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.6.2008           | Margarson, Martyn  | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | Reynolds, Ben      | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Fortune-West, Leo  | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 1.7.2008           | Beardsley, Chris   | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Hope, Chris        | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Watson, Paul       | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Maamria, Dino      | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Hatswell, Wayne    | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Beecroft, Jake     | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | McDonald, Aynsley  | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 2.7.2008           | Nevin, Lee         | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 22.7.2008          | Perpetuini, David  | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 28.8.2008          | Kelly, Marcus      | Barnet             | £60K               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23.1.2009          | Storer, Kyle       | Morton             | £75K               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 6.5.2009           | Ferguson, Stevie   | Free Transfer      | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £135K              | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Loans In

| Date               | Person             | From               | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 23.6.2008          | King, Andy         | Leicester          | Loan               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Promoted Youth

| Date               | Person             | To                 | Fee                | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | Greenwood, David   | Rushden            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | McLean, Gordon     | Rushden            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | Whittaker, Brian   | Rushden            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | Booth, Ricky       | Rushden            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| 19.6.2008          | Court, Carl        | Rushden            | Free               | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
|                    | Total              |                    | £0                 | 
| ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Our first two sales in my time at Rushden brought some much-needed funds into the club, though unfortunately I was not able to do anything with the income. Of all the players I released over the last year, only Perpetuini went on to be a regular player at another club, and since Cousins covered him well here, I don't regret any of those moves.

The players in seemed to have worked for the most part, but since they are mostly young players I can't be certain. Knights and Walmsley were clearly disappointments, but most of the others became regulars in the senior side.

Pre-season, 2009/2010

Like last season, I made a number of free signings to start the year, but this time I focused on experience, hoping to bring a bit of consistency to the side. I will profile all five shortly. Stevie Ferguson was the only player to leave, so the side is getting a bit bloated. Unfortunately, Leicester did not send us any players down this season. They were relegated from the Championship last season, so I suppose they are going through a transitional phase with their squad at the moment. I made loan offers for King and Danny Granville, but both players rejected the move.

We were given 10-1 odds for the title, which is certainly a step up from previous seasons. I said it was time to perform last season, but if we don't this time around, I will be in trouble.

SEASON OVERVIEW 09/10

The Club

Home Ground: Nene Park, Irthlingborough (capacity 6441, 4641 seated)

Rivals: Kettering, Northampton (fierce); Peterborough, Oxford, Luton

Reputation: Local

Estimated Value: ₤775K

Balance -₤395K

Transfer Budget: None

Media Prediction: 13th

Board Expectation: Safe mid-table position

Fan Expectation: Safe mid-table position

Staff

Chairman: Keith Cousins

Assistant Manager: John Dreyer

Coaches: Will Weedon, Scott Gemmill, Geoff Evans (General); Simon Miotto (GK); Liam Grieves (Youth)

Physio: Simon Parsell

Scouts: Antonio North, Andy McWilliam

The Squad

| Pkd | Inf | Name                      | No. | Squad Status | Cnt     | Weekly wage | Expires   | Value   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| S1  | Wnt | Mike Edwards              | 3   | First Team   | F/T     | £600        | 30.6.2010 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| MC  | Lst | Gary Mills                | 17  | First Team   | F/T     | £625        | 30.6.2010 | £22K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Dwight Yorke              | 25  | First Team   | F/T     | £190        | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| S2  |     | Jon Ashton                | 4   | First Team   | F/T     | £575        | 30.6.2010 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| DR  | Wnt | Glenn Wilson              | 2   | First Team   | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2011 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| ML  | Wnt | Scott Gates               | 13  | First Team   | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2013 | £28K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Adam Legzdins             | 26  | Rotation     | F/T     | £180        | 30.6.2010 | £10K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Darryl Knights            | 10  | Rotation     | F/T     | £130        | 30.6.2012 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| S3  | Wnt | Michael Bostwick          | 32  | Rotation     | F/T     | £375        | 30.6.2010 | £22K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Conor Sinnott             | 28  | Rotation     | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2010 | £18K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| DC  |     | Jamie Buchan              | 27  | Rotation     | F/T     | £350        | 30.6.2011 | £7K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| MR  | Inj | Gavin McCallum            | 30  | Rotation     | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2010 | £30K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Adam Davies               | 31  | Rotation     | F/T     | £375        | 30.6.2011 | £6K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| S4  |     | Matty Collins             | 6   | Rotation     | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2011 | £16K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| DC  |     | Tom Bonner                | 19  | Rotation     | F/T     | £425        | 30.6.2012 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| DL  | Wnt | Scott Cousins             | 15  | Rotation     | F/T     | £220        | 30.6.2010 | £3K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| GK  | Loa | Alex Bryant               | 1   | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2010 | £240K   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| 
| -   |     | Shola Oyedele             | 29  | Rotation     | F/T     | £325        | 30.6.2011 | £9K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Slt | Ben Gill                  | 8   | Rotation     | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2013 | £14K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Scott Gardner             | 7   | Rotation     | F/T     | £140        | 30.6.2012 | £28K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| FC  |     | Simeon Jackson            | 12  | Rotation     | F/T     | £350        | 30.6.2010 | £45K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Tom Shaw                  | 18  | Rotation     | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2010 | £20K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Ikechi Anya               | 16  | Rotation     | F/T     | £525        | 30.6.2011 | £22K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | David Wood                | 5   | Rotation     | F/T     | £160        | 30.6.2011 | £8K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Scott Mackison            | 23  | Rotation     | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2012 | £26K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| MC  |     | Daniel Clitnovich         | 24  | Rotation     | F/T     | £500        | 30.6.2010 | £24K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Dean Stamp                | 11  | Rotation     | F/T     | £450        | 30.6.2013 | £20K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| FC  |     | Lee Watts                 | 33  | Rotation     | F/T     | £55         | 30.6.2011 | £190K   | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Fred Murray               | 35  | Backup       | F/T     | £325        | 30.6.2010 | £5K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Jamie McGhee              | -   | Backup       | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £8K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Lst | Scott Tynan               | 20  | Backup       | F/T     | £250        | 30.6.2011 | £3K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Keiran Walmsley           | 36  | Backup       | F/T     | £170        | 30.6.2010 | £2K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Alex Bolt                 | 34  | Backup       | F/T     | £110        | 30.6.2011 | £10K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| S5  |     | Lee Tomlin                | 14  | Backup       | F/T     | £300        | 30.6.2011 | £60K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Ugo Udoji                 | 21  | Backup       | F/T     | £190        | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Marvin McDonald           | 9   | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Lawrence Lambley          | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £2K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Paris Cowan-Hall          | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £60         | 30.6.2010 | £18K    | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Callum Reynolds           | 22  | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2012 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Yth | Iain Thomas               | -   | Hot Prospect | F/T     | £75         | 30.6.2012 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | T. J. McClory-Cuthbertson | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £2K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Loa | Mark Preece               | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £300        | 30.6.2011 | £5K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Sean O'Keefe              | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2010 | £3K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Loa | Andrew Tidswell           | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £100        | 30.6.2011 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | John Roberts              | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £60         | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   |     | Gary Harrison             | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £75         | 30.6.2012 | -       | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Lee Keeley                | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £65         | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Yth | Darren Jackson            | -   | Youngster    | Yth     | £100        | 30.6.2010 | -       | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Yth | Mark Warner               | -   | Youngster    | Yth     | £110        | 30.6.2010 | -       | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| -   | Wnt | Bob McKenzie              | -   | Youngster    | F/T     | £55         | 30.6.2010 | £1K     | 
| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

Wage Budget: £14,070

Total Weekly Wages at 18/7/09: £13,173

Senior Players: 27

Reserve Players: 23

U-18 Players: 14

[Note that players classed as Backup, Prospect or Youngster will not be profiled, and are regarded as reserve players, except Tomlin and Bolt]

Player [Pos, Nationality, Height, Age] – Rushden Seasons, Rushden League Games, Rushden League Goals

Goalkeepers

Alex Bryant [GK, ENG, 175cm, 24] – 3, 35, 0

I classed him as “only a backup” last season, but he wound up as the number one. He's still not fully settled in the role, and Legzdins and Tomlin will get a go if he struggles, but he will be first chosen for now.

Adam Legzdins [GK, ENG, 176cm, 22] – 2, 25, 0

My only purchase to date, and a rather disappointing one. Kept three clean sheets in ten games, which isn't too bad, but never really impressed.

Scott Tynan [GK, ENG, 186cm, 24] – 4, 69, 0

Struggled in the reserves for much of the season, and was responsible for our disgraceful FA Trophy exit.

Defenders

Jon Ashton [D RC/DM, ENG, 188cm, 26] – 3, 70, 2

Ashton was nowhere near as dominant last season as he was in 07/08, but he was still a useful figure at the back. A similar role this season is all we need.

Tom Bonner [D C, SCO, 183cm, 21] – 3, 66, 0

A good season from a young player who doesn't look overly talented, but does the job. Like Ashton, I rely on him for quiet but effective efforts at the back.

Conference Young Player of the Month October 2007, April 2009

Michael Bostwick [D/M C, ENG, 188cm, 21] – 3, 76, 6

Missed a couple of months through fractured ribs late last season, but before then he was a very handy player in both defence and midfield. He'll probably continue to play back more than in the middle, especially as I plan to only play four midfielders this season.

Jamie Buchan [sw/D/M C, SCO – 13 U21 Caps, 178cm, 32] – 0, 0, 0

Signed to add experience to our youngish back four. He's a bit smaller than the younger players, but better with the ball, which will hopefully mean fewer defensive errors. Indeed, Buchan is skilled enough to play in the midfield if necessary. He spent a long time in the Scottish Premier League, and more recently has spent a fair amount of time at Conference opponents Aldershot without ever really excelling.

Scott Cousins [D/WB L, ENG, 178cm, 25] –2, 49, 4

A replacement for Perpetuini, he well and truly rose to the challenge, being named the Supporters' Player of the Year. He was strong at left back all season and set up a few goals with his quality corners. Will again have a big role to play.

Supporters' Player of the Year 08/09

Adam Davies [D RC, WAL – 6 U21 Caps, 188cm, 22] – 1, 14, 2

Looked terrible in his first few games, and wound up spending several months in the reserves. However, he worked hard, and when brought in due to injury, he did enough to look like a capable player. Will get another go.

Mike Edwards [D C, ENG, 186cm, 29] – 1, 29, 0

Did his job without ever standing out. Probably has less of a role now that the superior Buchan has been signed, but should still be a regular in defence.

Shola Oyedele [D RC/AM RC, NIG, 181cm, 24] – 1, 27, 0

With the constant injuries to Wilson, Oyedele played plenty of games at right back and looked solid. With a bit more depth in defence, he'll have a lesser role this season.

Glenn Wilson [D RC, WAL, 186cm, 23] – 3, 55, 1

Continued his injury-prone run, but at least made it out for 22 games. He's one of the few leaders at the club and is a quality defender, so I'd like to give him as much of a run as possible, but it just depends on how well his body holds up.

David Wood [D RLC, ENG, 180cm, 20] – 1, 15, 0

As I said last season, Wood is an unremarkable player, but his versatility at the back and our lack of a backup for Cousins meant he got a few games at left back. He didn't look too bad there, and should again get a few games.

Midfielders

Ikechi Anya [AM RL, SCO, 170cm, 21] – 2, 38, 3

Fell out of the side after a poor start to the season, and though he did make an impression on his return with a goals and a couple of assists, he was ultimately disappointing. He will have to work hard to regain a first team spot.

Alex Bolt [M C, ENG, 178cm, 20] – 3, 15, 2

One of our impressive reserve players, who has also shown himself capable at first team level. He works extremely hard and has decent skills, but doesn't quite have enough credit to be in the first team at this point.

Daniel Clitnovich [AM C, AUS, 172cm, 27] – 3, 87, 6

Again had a lesser impact than his first season, though all the midfielders were overshadowed by King. He's getting on a bit in years and will be under a bit more pressure from the younger players.

Supporters' Player of the Year 06/07

Matty Collins [M C, WAL, 182cm, 23] – 0, 0, 0

A good ball player who should play a similar role to Mills as a workhorse in the middle. He's not very adventurous with his passing, but is accurate and works extremely hard. Collins spent the last few years with Wrexham in League Two, and though he didn't stand out there, he may be more suited to a lower level.

Scott Gardiner [AM R, LUX – 13 Caps, 180cm, 21] – 1, 8, 1

Gardiner's lack of stamina made it difficult for him to play many games, and he didn't have a huge impact when he did. However, he was a solid player, and will get a go again.

Scott Gates [AM L, SCO – Capped at U19 level, 177cm, 21] – 1, 25, 5

Got a bit more of a run than I originally intended once Kelly was sold, and did well. He has plenty of pace, but lacks the skills of many other midfielders.

Ben Gill [DM, ENG, 181cm, 21] – 0, 0, 0

Gill has spent time at a few different clubs like Hinckley and Torquay, and looked okay. He's well-rounded but mostly unremarkable.

Scott Mackison [AM R, SCO, 175cm, 22] – 1, 19, 5

I described Mackison as “slow and not particularly talented” at the start of last season, but while that doesn't seem to have changed, he was a useful scorer last season. I hope he can do the same again.

Gavin McCallum [AM RL, CAN – 13 caps, 176cm, 21] – 2, 46, 8

Continues to improve as a player, and though his regular international absences are annoying, we have the depth to cover for him. He's a bit slow, but is great from set pieces.

Conference Player of the Month, April 2008

Gary Mills [M C, ENG, 175cm, 28] – 10, 219, 13

Has a bit more competition with the very similar Collins signed, but his record of solid performances over the years and experience should make him a regular.

Tom Shaw [M C, ENG, 183cm, 21] – 6, 86, 8

Has not really come along as I'd like, and though his results are still fairly good, he is in danger of being pushed out of the side by more talented players.

Conor Sinnott [M C, IRE, 179cm, 23] – 1, 19, 1

Another unremarkable midfielder who will rotate through the side.

Kieran Walmsley [D R/M C, ENG, 178cm, 25] – 1, 2, 0

A large disappointment, Walmsley failed to win a first team spot and did not do much in the reserves.

Forwards

Simeon Jackson [sT, CAN – 18 Caps, 179cm, 21] – 6, 104, 39

Had a much quieter year despite frequently playing as a lone striker, and was even out-scored for the season by a midfielder. He will be playing with a partner this season, which may reduce the pressure on him.

Supporters' Player of the Year 07/08; Conference Player of the Month August 2007

Darryl Knights [AM/F C, ENG, 177cm, 20] – 1, 12, 0

Even more disappointing than Walmsley, Knights failed to secure a spot in either midfield or attack. With two strikers, he will get another chance to use his pace, but needs to perform early.

Dean Stamp [sT, ENG, 182cm, 20] – 0, 0, 0

Signed from Shrewsbury, Stamp has shown some signs of being a capable scorer at this level. He's brilliant from frees and decent in general play.

Lee Watts [sT, ENG, 188cm, 18] – 3, 5, 1

Made an impact with a goal on debut and then two more in a Cup game. He has been devastating at reserve and Under-18 level, and now gets a chance in the big time. He's good in the air, which makes him an ideal partner for the other strikers, but the only problem is his finishing ability.

Dwight Yorke [AM/F C, TTO – 55 Caps, 179cm, 37] – 0, 0, 0

Ah, the last of my signings, and perhaps the most interesting one. Yes, it's only a short-term move, but on ₤190 per week, it can't go too wrong. Yorke has spent time at Rotherham and Peterborough recently and showed a bit of goalscoring form. Paired with a quick partner, he may be able to use his experience to poach a few goals.

Overview

No less than 26 players have contracts expiring at the end of the season, so there's a lot of people playing for their futures. I'll do my best to wrap up a few contracts early in the season, but the squad has become a bit bloated, and it's time to make some cuts. It's all well and good to win the reserves every year, but that means nothing if the seniors continue to struggle. I have cover for pretty much every position, but if I have to keep swapping players around the side will be unsettled and we'll see more of the inconsistency this side is becoming famous for.

First XI

Now that we finally have a few strikers in the side, I'm going with a traditional 4-4-2 formation, with the wingers pushing to their preferred positions of attacking midfield. I think that will take some pressure off Jackson and give us more avenues into attack.

GK: Alex Bryant

RB: Glenn Wilson

LB: Scott Cousins

CB: Jamie Buchan

CB: Tom Bonner

RM: Gavin McCallum

LM: Scott Gates

CM: Gary Mills

CM: Daniel Clitnovich

CF: Lee Watts

CF: Simeon Jackson

Sub: Mike Edwards

Sub: Jon Ashton

Sub: Darryl Knights

Sub: Lee Tomlin

Sub: Matty Collins

Captain: Glenn Wilson

Penalties: Scott Cousins, Dwight Yorke, Darryl Knights

Free Kicks: (L) Dean Stamp, Scott Cousins; ® Gavin McCallum, Scott Gardiner

Corners: (L) Gavin McCallum, Scott Cousins; ® Scott Gardiner, Gavin McCallum

Throw Ins: (L) Scott Cousins, David Wood; ® Glenn Wilson, Ikechi Anya

July, 2009

Again we had high-scoring results in our friendlies. We hammered Whitby 5-0 with a good spread of goals. A 0-1 loss was followed by another five-goal performance – 5-1 over Stalybridge. Jackson, Yorke and Stamp were among the scorers, which was a promising sign. A 0-1 loss to Leicester ended our pre-season.

August, 2009

Cheltenham, Conference, Away

McCallum and Mills missed this one after having their pre-seasons interrupted by injury. Mackison and Collins replaced them. Bryant was put under pressure and conceded after the third shot on target in only six minutes. After fifteen minutes it was 0-2, and 0-4 at half time. Bryant saved us further embarrassment by keeping out a penalty, but there's no denying we were simply hammered.

Dag & Redbridge, Conference, Away

McCallum and Jackson were off on international duty, giving Stamp the chance to play his first game, alongside Tomlin. Bryant was again assaulted early and conceded in the 7th. We finally had an attack in the 53rd, but Tomlin's shot came back off the bar and was cleared. Yorke came off the bench, but we couldn't even get the ball forward. This is a very bad start.

Gravesend, Conference, Home

I could only hope our first home game would see an improvement. The side was completely re-shuffled, with Gill on debut and several others coming in for their first game of the season. Gill missed our only chance of the first half. Gravesend scored with their first shot in the 50th, but we finally put one on the board when a great long ball from Woods allowed Watts to blast the ball in from just inside the area. That was all though – 1-1 in a game we should have won.

Chester, Conference, Home

McCallum finally came in for his first game of the season in a game against a tough opponent. He certainly made an impact, hitting in a 30-yard free off the wall. Bryant made some great saves before a 30-yard pass from Gill found Watts in space. He passed sharply to Darryl Knights, and last season's failure finally scored his first goal for the club. He was then tripped in the area just before half time, and put the resulting penalty in. Chester got one back, but there was no denying us the much-needed three points.

Crawley, Conference, Away

This game was only two days after our win, forcing a number of changes. They received a dubious penalty early, but for the second time this season, Bryant made the save. Crawley dominated the first half, but Jackson was busy in the second, forcing a save and hitting the bar. Yorke came off the bench and provided some attacking spark, firing in four shots in the final half hour. Unfortunately, one was wide and three were saved, so we only went away with a point.

Shrewsbury, Conference, Home

Jackson and McCallum were off on international duty once again, but Mills had recovered sufficiently from his pre-season injury to start on the pitch. They blew plenty of chances, but Knights made no mistake from the penalty spot in the 22nd. Another incisive pass from Wood found Watts in the area, and though his first shot was saved, he slammed in the rebound. Four minutes later, Watts took a long pass from Bostwick, skipped past a defender and blasted it home. 3-0, and a pleasing way to end an odd month.

I have struggled to re-sign Bostwick and McCallum, but Bryant has signed a four-year extension.

September, 2009

Stafford, Conference, Away

Our away form hadn't been good, and it didn't help when Watts had to be replaced after picking up an knock. Knights was constantly denied by the keeper, but when Stafford had a player sent off and Shaw forced a save, he was there to collect the rebound. 1-0 in the 75th, and that's how it finished.

Cambridge, Conference, Home

Yorke started on the pitch for the first time, and when Cousins took a corner in the 8th, he used his experience to get into position to head it home. Cambridge pulled level four minutes later and despite sharp passing from Mackison, it was Cambridge with the next goal. They scored twice more in the second half, despite some spark from substitutes Anya and Knights. A bad result, and I just hope it doesn't lead to another slump.

Woking, Conference, Away

A match against a top side was not what we needed straight after a bad loss. The first half was fairly quiet, but six minutes into the second, Woking took the lead. Our situation got worse in the 60th when Woods was sent off for a two-footed tackle. I brought Wilson on for Gill, a fairly defensive move in an effort to stop us from suffering another morale-sapping hammering. However, on a counter-attack after the resulting free kick, a cross from Gates deflected off a defender and into the path of Watts, who struck it home. Jackson came close to putting us ahead a few minutes later, with his shot barely turned away. Unfortunately, there was no saving a shot from Woking in the 75th, which proved to be the last one of the game. Not an awful result, but we already have a few losses on the board this season.

Burton, Conference, Home

Lee Watts continued to show plenty of promise, starting a move in the 11th that saw Jackson take the ball forward, then return to Watts for the finish. His fifth of the season. Five minutes later, Mills tried to pass across the goal to Jackson. The keeper got a hand to it, but only managed to knock the ball to its intended target, and Jackson made it 2-0. Burton were not totally out of it at any stage, but missed their chances. McCallum sealed it in the 60th.

Farnborough, Conference, Away

Watts had a few early attempts, missing twice and having one saved. He broke through in the 38th, then just before half time, strike partner Dwight Yorke headed in a cross after a one-two with Mackison. Cousins sent a free into the area which was headed out of defence. Matty Collins took the ball and passed to fellow new signing Jamie Buchan to make it 3-0. Farnborough got one back, then had a second by the 70th. Bonner continued his poor run of form by being at least partly to blame for both goals. I replaced him with Mike Edwards, and we held on to record a second straight win.

Frustrated at our early form, I made a few changes to the squad in hopes of having a more settled First XI. I dropped Davies, Oyedele, Bonner, Shaw, Anya and Tomlin to the reserves. Anya and Bonner had been playing poorly, and the others simply couldn't make it into the side. I also made another two signings. I know the side is bloated, but we're going to lose a lot of players at the end of the season, and I want to have a bit of security. The first was 18-year-old Dutch midfielder Marco Beltman, who looks good with the ball but will start in the reserves. The other was goalkeeper Morten Jakobsen. He's a bit small for a keeper, but is consistent and reliable. He already has an Under-21 cap for Sweden, and though I have just re-signed Bryant, he is struggling this season. With Tynan struggling in the reserves and Legzdins injured, Jakobsen will get a go.

Oxford, Conference, Home

Indeed, with Bryant conceding two late goals in the previous game, I decided to give Jakobsen his debut against Oxford. We attacked hard, and when Cousins played a free into the area in the 20th, Tomlin was able to bring the ball down, turn and score. McCallum had one ruled out later in the half, but with Jakobsen strong in goal, we got the three points.

The only downside was that winger Scott Mackison is demanding a pay rise. As if I don't have enough contract renewals to deal with... I told him to wait until the end of the season.

Exeter, Conference, Away

Exeter were clearly the better side here, and the only surprise is that it took them 55 minutes to score. We didn't trouble the keeper all game, and were probably lucky to only lose by one goal.

Torquay, Conference, Home

Fred Murray came up after fine reserves form, and Bryant also returned to the senior team. Stamp came in for his second game. A flat first half was followed by an explosive few minutes to start the second. Torquay scored after five minutes, but just after the kick-off, Stamp headed home a corner from Mackison. That was all there was for this game – 1-1 to end the month.

We are in the expected mid-table spot, so I guess I can't be too disappointed. However, I'm tired of treading water. We have good players here, and it's time they started to show it.

October, 2009

Gateshead, Conference, Away

Stamp retained his spot in the side, and set up McCallum for the opening goal of the game with a fine cross just before the break. He added one himself, beating an opponent to a loose back pass in the 52nd and twice came close to scoring again in the remainder of the game. Jakobsen did well to keep a clean sheet in the 2-0 win. Anya was solid on his return to the team.

Bury, Conference, Away

Jakobsen again held up well in goal, but we were denied a lead with Jackson's 40th minute strike ruled out. A 64th minute goal to Bury gave them the lead instead, and despite creative play from Dwight Yorke, we failed to score.

Kettering, Conference, Home

An important game here, with Kettering's promotion meaning we will be facing one of our major rivals regularly. Murray and Gardiner, on his return from international duty, had early shots on target, but saved. Gardiner's cross in the 41st was headed by a defender, but Stamp took the ball and hit it in from close range. Four minutes later, a sharp pass from Collins put Watts through, and he smacked it in from outside the area. Mills hit the post twice in the second half before a long pass from Gill saw Stamp seal it with his second goal. Always good to see new signings working together well...

Havant & Woodbridge, Conference, Home

A wonderful floating free from Mills saw Jackson able to find space in the area and round the keeper to score in the 7th. Despite losing Mills and Jackson to knocks, we continued to attack, and when Stamp flicked a free short to the running Anya, the young winger iced the game with a 25-yard strike which went in off the post. The injuries were minor, Anya is back in form, Jakobsen looks a star and we had another three points on the board.

Nuneaton, FA Cup 4th Round qualifier, Home

I brought Bryant back just to give Jakobsen a break, but the move backfired when we conceded in the 5th minute. Bostwick took only a minute to respond, heading in a corner from Anya, and in the 37th Anya was again involved in a good move. He crossed to Collins, who flicked on a first time pass for Yorke to give us the lead. Anya continued his fine form in the 45th, crossing into the box. The ball went past Stamp, but Mackison was there to tap it in on the far post. Stamp hit the post in the second half and had another shot saved in the 3-1 win.

Forest Green, Conference, Away

Known for his sharp frees, Collins fired in an absolute rocket in the third minute. Though the 35-yard effort was parried, Collins was able to take it, turn and hit the ball in. Stamp scored his fifth of the season in the 30th through a pass from partner Jackson. Jackson had a few chances to score one of his own, but had to settle for earning a penalty in the 58th which saw Stamp score his second. Jackson got his goal with eight minutes to go, single-handedly charging forty yards and then scoring from a tight angle. 4-0.

A clean sweep of the awards for Rushden – I was Manager of the Month, Stamp was Player of the Month (Jackson second) and Jackson was Young Player of the Month (Bostwick second). We won four of five league games and progressed in the Cup – unfortunately to a first round match against Wolves. Stamp looks spectacular, Murray has come out of nowhere to secure a first-team spot and regulars like Bostwick, Mills and McCallum are playing superbly. New goalkeeper Jakobsen also looks good.