Oh dear..

Novak Djokovic on Roger Federer:

"Some things are changing. I think he's a little bit shaken with that loss and mentally he has been struggling in the last couple of months. It's normal to have ups and downs after four years of absolute dominance on the men's tour."

"New names are coming, fresh talented players who believe more they can win against him and I am one of them. Suddenly he is worried a little bit.''

Erm..dont talk the talk if you cant walk the walk, eh Novak?

The final countdown..

Finally, 100% right with my predictions! Granted, it was only 2 out of 2, but whatever, a wins a win. I'll take it.

--


So, after a quite frankly magnificent tournament, Euro 2008 is coming to an end, and its had everything. We've had the style and flair from the Portugese and Spanish, and the astonishing comebacks and never say die attitude from Turkey, which was pure theatre at its finest. The decline of the 2006 World Cup finalists France and Italy was something to behold, as was the emergence of Russia as a real force in football. Certain players have come of age and made their mark, whereas certain players have been found wanting when it matters most. Not that I'll mention any names.....such as Florent Malouda.


One things for sure, the tournament has been brilliant for football fans. In an era where pragmatism reigns supreme in football, its been refreshing to see open games with goals - and plenty of them. And the two teams contesting the final have seen to that, with 22 goals between them, and 11 goals each. Which quite conviniently leads me to..



Germany vs Spain - THE FINAL



And what a final it is. Two of the biggest teams in Europe, and a final many predicted before the tournament even began. So who's going to win it?

Firstly the Germans, who find themselves in the final for the 5th time. Inconsistent would describe Germany so far in the tournament, but once again they find themselves in the final after a topsy tervy game against Turkey, in a game where their defensive frailties were once again brought to the forefront.

Make no mistake, this Germany team is vulnerable at the back, especially to pace and movement, something which Spain will look to exploit. However, in midfield they are strong and physical, and they will look to win this battle in the middle of the park, much like they did against the Portugese.

Going forward, they wont create too many chances, but the chances they do create tend to be put away. Germany are clinical in that final third, and Spain will have to be weary.

Key players? Germany have many big match players, but no more so than Michael Ballack. The Germany skipper is leading by example, and runs the German midfield. A good passer, hard to pick up, and always there if you need a goal - Ballack is certainly key for the Germans.

There are others, of course. Philip Lahm's attacking instincts from left full-back will have to be watched carefully, and the pairing of Lukas Podolski and Miroslav Klose are always dangerous in the final third.

Now the Spanish, and they finally have their final after long last. Much like the Germans, they have been inconsistent, but mental strength and perseverance has taken them to the final. But unlike Germany, they shown the class and flair that we knew they had in their semi-final against Russia, and that will give them confidence.

For me, there is no obvious weakness in the Spanish side, apart from their predictability. They can only play one way, and if Germany try and stifle the Spanish, a reluctance to go direct could mean Spain will be in for a frustrating night.

However, when Spain turn it on, its hard to stop them. The inclusion of Fabregas has given them added creativity and guile, though people shouldnt discount the input of Andreas Iniesta, who is also coming into great form.

And of course, the pace of Fernando Torres up front will cause the German defence numerous problems, and they will have to be on their guard.

For me though, Marcos Senna is the unsung hero of the Spanish side. A fantastic insurance policy for the rest of Spain's attack to express themself, Senna kept Arshavin so quiet we barely knew he was there. His duel with Michael Ballack promises to be fascinating.

--

For me, this comes down to mentality. Germany's performances so far have been inconsistent to say the least, but their mental strength can never be underestimated. They know how to win big matches, such is their efficency and ruthlessness. Having said that, Spain have shown some mental strength of their own in this tournament, and after years of imploding, have finally made a final. Can they go one step further and win the tournament?

Yes, in my opinion. If Spain play like they can, it should be Luis Aragones' side lifting the Trophy come Sunday night. For me, Spain can only beat themselves.

Spain 2-1 (in ET)

--

Well that's me for a week..I'll be watching the final in sunny Bulgaria. Jealous? You should be.

COME ON THE SPAIN!

And then there were 4..

So, 1 out of 4 predictions it is. Who said football was predictable? Germany and Spain are predictably in the semi-finals, but who could have eviasaged Turkey and Russia taking their place alongside them? Well, me actually. My cheeky pound on Russia to win the tournament is looking rather sweet indeed.

Anyhow, I digress. There's a semi-final preview to write!


Germany vs Turkey

Ah, The Germans. Never write them off? I certainly did. But here they are, in the semi-finals, and seemingly hitting their peak at the right time.

Against Portugal it was Germany back to their best. Tactically they got it spot on, with the impressive Ballack supporting Klose to great effect, with the luxury of two holding players behind him. Undoubtedly the star of the show, Ballack was in imperious form throughout the match. Too physically strong for the Portugese, and incisive going forward, this was the Germany we all expected to see, but didnt as they lumbered through their group unconvincingly.

Concerns over their defence remain, with the big German centre-backs looking vulnerable to pace and movement, but the Germans resillience under pressure can not be denied.



Now Turkey. What else is there to say? If you could win tournaments on character and spirit alone, Turkey would be favourites. In front for only 2 minutes in the whole competition, their place in the semi-final is testament to their never say die attitude. Faith Terim has installed such belief in his players, and for that he has to be commended.

However, suspensions and injuries will surely take their toll. Talisman Nihat is now out injured for the tournament, and the impressive Tuncay and Arda find themselves suspended for the semi final. Turkey have been a revelation so far in Euro 2008, but beating the Germans is surely too much to ask.



Backs to the wall for the Turks here. They're heavily depleted on the attacking front with Nihat and others out, and I feel this is one step too far for them. Where Croatia were wasteful, Germany will be clinical and ruthless. Though I still have concerns over their defence, I cant see Turkey posing too many problems. Another European final for the Germans, who are hitting form at just the right time. Why are people suprised?


3-0 Germany.


Spain vs Russia

So, the curse has been lifted for the Spanish. The quarter final stage was a big mental obstacle for Spain to overcome, and they've done it. Though their quarter final win against the Italians was far from a classic, the Spanish shown perseverance and mental strength, qualities that had been so lacking in recent years. Resolve from the Spanish, who would have thought it? No doubt about it, Spain will be filled with belief and confidence they can go all the way now.

Other qualities were lacking however. The passing game that was so effective against Russia failed the Spanish, with a lack of movement and conviction in their play. Improvement is surely needed, though you feel the Russians will be more open than the defensive and unambitious Italians, who to their credit stifled the Spanish to great effect.


And finally, the Russians, and Guus Hiddink is at it again. After transforming the fortunes of South Korea and Australia, Hiddink has made Russia into a real force. His young team outplayed and outclassed the Dutch, and will be a big test for Spain.

Their movement and the way they move the ball is something to admire, as is the fluidity and flexibility to their play, with full-backs bombing forward and midfielders filling the gaps they leave at the back. The Russians have improved with each game, and with Andrei Arshavin pulling the strings and looking fresh after missing the first two games, Russia look strong. And with Hiddink at the helm, anything is possible.


One thing's for sure, there will be no repeat of the 4-1 drubbing that Spain gave the Russians in their Group C opener. Russia have improved greatly since then, and key players have come back into the fold. Spain, however, have never reached the heights of that game, and need to find some form. With both teams favouring attacking football, this game could be open, and this will work in Spain's favour I feel, with Spain free to pass and probe at will, giving Torres and Villa the service they so desire.

2-1 to Spain.


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Once again, agree, disagree...feel free to leave a comment.

It's a knockout..

So here we have it. 8 teams remain in Euro 2008...time to have a look at who's made it, and make some (bad) predictions.


Portugal (Winners of Group A) vs Germany (Runners up in Group B)

So, Portugal. There seems to be more talk about them off the field than on it, but they've quietly gone about their business and in the end, qualified comfortably. Much has been made about Cristiano Ronaldo (who else?) - but Deco in particular has impressed me, with one goal and two assists so far. The Barcelona star rarely gives the ball away, and everything good about Portugal seems to go through him. There are concerns about their lack of firepower, as usual, and no doubt questions will be asked about the timing of Luis Felipe Scolari's announcement that he is to manage Chelsea on July 1st, should Portugal fail again.

Then there's the Germans. Grinding out results, not coming out of 2nd gear, looking generally unconvincing..people are writing them off already. But write them off at your peril. It's typical Germany. Yes, they do look shaky at the back, and yes, Mario Gomez is a poor excuse for a footballer. But they have so much big tournament experience, it would be foolish to rule them out. Wouldnt it be just like Germany to go on and win the thing?

This is a tough one to call. The industrious Germans or the flair of the Portugese. I'll go for flair...just.

2-1 Portugal.


Croatia (winners of Group B) vs Turkey (runners up in Group A)

First the Croats. With 9 points out of 9, its been brilliant so far from Slavan Bilic's boys. With Luka Modric and the impressive Dario Srna pulling the strings in midfield, Croatia have looked the part so far. Yes, they lack quality up front, but with a midfield as good as Croatias, you feel they can get away with it. And they're well organized too. There's no big names or ego's to pamper in the squad, and that could well work in their favour.

And the Turks. They just never say die, do they? Judging by their mixed performances so far, you dont know what to expect from Turkey. With some skilful players such as Nihat and Tuncay, Turkey are here on merit, and deservedly so after their remarkable comeback against the Czech Republic, in which they kept playing their football and got their rewards. Their heart and character can not be questioned, but I do have doubts over their shaky defence.

Croatia should have too much for Turkey here, Modric and co will be rested up, and that will work to their advantage.

2-0 Croatia.


Holland (Winners of Group C) vs Russia (Runners up of Group D)

Now onto the Dutch. Arguably the most impressive side so far - allegations of in-fighting and a move away from the 'Total Football' philosophy have proven to be unfounded, with 9 points out of 9 in the 'group of death' and some quite splendid displays of counter-attacking football. With Sneider running the Dutch midfield, Van Nistelrooy showing so much more to his game than goals, and the sheer strength in depth they have, it's hard to look past the Dutch, but I have concerns if they go a goal down and have to abandon their counter-attacking game.

Russia? They just seem to be getting better and better, especially after that shaky start against the Spanish. They havent panicked, they're playing their own game, and its paying dividends right now. In Guus Hiddink they have a brilliant manager with a wealth of experience, and though the squad itself lacks experience, they more than make up for it in pace and technique, which playmaker Andrei Arshavin epitomizes. Momentum is on their side now.

I'll stick my neck out and say Russia to sneak this. The more tactically astute Hiddink to win this battle for the Russians.

2-1 (in extra time) to Russia.


Spain (winners of Group D) vs Italy (runners up in Group C)

Now to the Perennial underachievers themselves. Spain have started the tournament very well indeed, and once again find themselves at that dreaded quarter final mark. Can they finally overcome the curse? Though it will be a big mental burden for the Spanish, you cant see why not, especially with David Villa leading the line. The Valencia hitman has hit 4 goals in 2 games, and seems intent on taking the tournament by storm. However, despite all of Spain's pretty football, I do think they tend to overplay sometimes, something which was especially evident against the Swedes. It was no coincedence that day that the winning goal came from a quick direct ball forward, and you have to wonder if Spain will sacrifice style over substance.

And last but not least, the World Champions themselves, Italy. Much like Germany they have stumbled into the last 8, but their tournament experience always makes them a danger. A defensive approach may be needed against the attack-minded Spanish, which plays right into Italy's hands. They will try and stifle the Spanish midfield, closing them down at all times, and not allowing them to play. The losses of Gattuso and Pirlo will hurt the Italians however, with no-one to pull the strings and get the Italians playing.

Such a tough one to call..it could go down to the wire. As much as I want Spain to do it, Italy to nick this with a pragmatic approach, and Spain flatter to decieve. Again.

1-0 (in extra time) to Italy.

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So there's my predictions. Agree? Disagree? Leave a comment..

Goodbye Hilly..

After 10 years of loyal service, the inevitable has happened. Kevin Hill's Torquay United career has come to an end.

It was always on the cards, even more so when Lee Hodges signed. But now it's actually happened, its hard to imagine TUFC without him.

As long as I can remember, Hilly has been around. 474 times in fact, breaking the appearance record for the club. And each and every time he's wore a Torquay shirt, he has given his all. Be it in defence, midfield, attack, or even in goal - Hilly gave 110%.

His heading ability was phenomenal - Hilly could beat the tallest of centre-backs with his leap. And Hilly could play too, not looking out of place in the promotion winning team of 03/04.

He scored some vital goals - keeping us in the Football League at Barnet in 2001, and more recently, doing his bit to get us back there against Exeter a matter of months ago. But that wasnt to be.

Through the good and the bad, Hilly has been there. An ultimate professional, who always played with a smile on his face - there needs to be more footballers like him in the modern game. Hopefully some involvement with the youth set up will go some way towards doing that, otherwise, good luck at Dorchester.

A Torquay career that started at Macclesfield in front of 2000 fans, and ended at Wembley, with 40,000 fans applauding him. A fitting end, I think.

Switch hitting - a big fuss over nothing?

There are many problems that exist in the game of cricket. The on-going Zimbabwe issue is one, and corruption in cricket is another. The constant streams of money being thrown into the game is also a cause for concern.

But no. The real issue is Kevin Pietersen's quite brilliant 'switch shot'. Pietersen played the stroke during the opening match of the NatWest Series against New Zealand to great effect. How innovative. How fantastic. How utterly..wrong. Apparantly.

You see, traditionalists have argued the shot gives the batsman an unfair advantage, and in turn puts the bowler and fielder at a disadvantage, because the bowler has to announce his bowling arm beforehand.

Ludicrious.

Yes, Pietersen does have an advantage...his strength and vision to pull the shot off in the first place. Should that be banned as well? Of course not, it's a fantastic skill, and it shows how much confidence in himself Pietersen has to pull off the shot in the first place.

But no, let's ban reverse swing, that puts the batsman at a disadvantage. And let's not stop at Cricket, the stepover puts fellow Footballers at a disadvantage, too.

Thankfully common sense has prevailed, and the shot stands in all forms of Cricket, including the 50 over game, which has been give a much needed boost. At the end of the day Cricket, and all sports, is about entertainment. And the 16,000 fans at Durham would certainly agree with that sentiment.

Not one for the purists...

Despite the Apprentice final that was being screened on the Beeb as I wrote this blog (Lee will win - watch this space!) - I found myself engrossed in Switzerland vs Turkey, which despite the ridiculous conditions, served up quite the entertaining game.

OK, so it wasn't one for the purists. There was no 'total football' to be seen...heck, at times there was little football to be seen whatsoever. The first half gave way to some shambolic weather conditions - yes this took the sting out of the game somewhat, and it didnt make for the best football, but it was sure as hell watchable.

But while quality was lacking, there was no shortage of drama. You see, both teams went out to win this match, and that's refreshing to see in an age where too many teams are content to pile men behind the ball and hope for the best.

And win it Turkey did, in the cruelest of fashions. A deflected goal in the last minute. Heartbreak for the hosts, sheer joy for the Turks, and a thrilling finale for the neutrals!

Low on quality, high on drama, poor weather conditions, direct football, flukey last minute winners...sounds more like Accrington Stanley vs Barnet. No wonder I enjoyed myself so much.

From one extreme to another..

Football. It's a funny old game isnt it?

Seriously though, only in Football would we see two completely different games like today. Take France vs Romania for instance.

Bore draw doesnt even begin to describe this game. A sheer lack of fluency, urgency and ambition - and this was from both sides. It was played more like a pre-season friendly, not a group game from Euro 2008. With Italy and Holland to come later on, I expected one of the two sides to take the iniative, and not settle for a draw, but it wasnt to be.

Needless to say, I wasnt too hopeful for the next encounter. However I was to be proved wrong as both teams served up a feast of football.

Unlike the previous game, both teams came to attack. And both teams had chances as well, though it was the Dutch who won the game, showing some great counter-attacking football on two occassions, scoring two fantastic goals. Take nothing away from Italy though, who were unlucky not to score themselves. You'd have to fancy them against the pedestrian French and the unambitious Romanians.

Fantastic drama, great technical play, quick incisive football...what more can you ask for?

After a slow start to the tournament, it now feels as if Euro 2008 has actually started. Let's hope the rest of the tournament can deliver to a similar standard.

Euro 2008 - who to support?

With England out of the equation, everyone needs a team to support this summer. Here's my 2 picks..

Sweden:

Dont ask me why, but I feel a certain affilation to the Swedes. Zlatan Ibrahimovic is a true enigma up front, a real maverick. You just dont know which one will turn up - the inspired genius, or the lazy frontman. Then you have Henrik Larsson, the epitome of what a modern day footballer should be like. A true professional, who is held in high regard wherever he's played, and rightly so. You have the crazy in-fighting between Freddie Ljungberg and Olof Mellberg (maybe we'll see another training ground bust up!?) - and of course, the fit blondes that will turn up supporting the Swedes in their droves certainly helps matters.

Whats more, the Swedes gave us Ikea. And Ulrika Jonsson. What's not to love?

Lets not kid ourselves though, Sweden dont really stand out as potential winners, do they? Solid, but unspectacular. Putting money on the Swedes is throwing your money away. So while my heart will be following the Swedes, my wallet will be following..

Spain:

Yes, Spain. The perennial underachievers. The country who have bottled more tournaments than I've had hot dinners. The country who constantly, year after year, allow themselves to believe that this could be their tournament at long, long last. Ring any bells?

But honestly, I think it's *finally* going to be their year.

Looking at the squad, there's no shortage of talent. Iker Casillas is as good as they come between the sticks, and in front of him has the ever impressive Carlos Puyol holding things together in defence. Sergio Ramos will look to support the attack whenever possible down the right hand side, and with a lack of width within the team, his role will be vital.

Then the midfield.

Looking at the Spanish midfield, I'm hardpressed to name a better midfield in Europe. Cesc Fabregas, Andrés Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez, Xabi Alonso..to name but a few. The fact that Mikel Arteta cant even get close to the squad speaks volumes. At times it can be impossible to get the ball from this midfield, such is their ability to pass the ball and keep possession.

The strikeforce. We all know what Fernando Torres can do, after a phenomenal debut season for Liverpool, scoring 33 goals. David Villa is also a huge talent and will need to be watched closely, along with the impressive Dani Guiza, who notched 27 goals for Mallorca.

There are, of course, some concerns. Torres and Fabregas have seemingly been unable to produce their club form for their country, perhaps due to the change in style and pace from the Premiership. It's only natural with the players at their disposal that Spain deploy a tight, passing, possession based game with a 4-1-4-1 formation, which perhaps doesnt make best use of their talents, especially Torres, who some would argue isnt best suited to playing the long striker role, and has thrived on being able to run in behind defences with his blistering pace. Furthermore, Spain have been accused by some of 'overplaying' - pretty on the eye yes, but not always effective. Hopefully all of this can be addressed, and Luis Aragones can get the best out of his players. For the sake of my wallet if nothing else.

Maybe this really is the time Spain lift the trophy. Maybe they'll bottle it again? Maybe Sweden will suprise us all? One thing's for sure, it's going to be a hell of a tournament!

French open serves up a feast of drama..

Now, contrary to what you regular readers might think reading this blog (Hi Mum!), I do actually appreciate sports other than football.

No, really.

For example, the tennis. One of my favourite sports...in fact, some of my favourite sporting memories come from this sport.

I remember Ivanisevic vs Rafter like it was yesterday. A thriller of a final, which produced an atmosphere that wont be seen again at Wimbledon for a long time. This final had everything, from fantastic stroke play to edge of the seat drama. It was billed as the peoples final, a final no-one could have predicted..and in the end was a fitting end to a fantastic tournament.

Anyhow, I digress. This year's French Open has produced its own fair share of drama and excitement.

The shock of Justine Henin's retirement before the tournament left many fans flabbergasted, but also left space for a new number one in women's tennis.

That woman was Maria Sharapova, who disappointingly crashed out in the 4th round to her fellow Russian and suprise package, Dinara Safina.

With her back against the wall, Safina has been particularly impressive, saving match points on not just one..but two occassions in this tournament. With impressive form on clay previous to the French Open, Safina appears to finally be escaping his brother Marit Safin's shadow, and this could well be her year.

Elsewhere, the Serbian pair of Ana Ivanovic and Jelena Jankovic have continued to impress, and their semi final tomorrow promises to be a classic. With both women's different styles bound to clash, both women will have to play tactically, which may suit Jankovic, who contuinues to search for her first grand slam final. Whatever happens, the two Serbians look set to dominate woman's tennis for a long time.

In the men's draw, who would have thought lightning would strike twice? Rafel Nadal and Novak Djokovic will meet in the French Open semi-finals for the second straight year, with the winner facing Roger Federer or home grown hero, Gaël Monfils in the final.

Nadal has been ominious form throughout the tournament, and is the undisputed king of the clay circuit due to his superior stamina and perseverance. Because of this, Nadal will always be happy to stay at the baseline, which suits the slower clay surface. It remains to be seen whether Djokovic can unseat Nadal and produce a shock, and the Serbian will need to use everything in his reputoire to do so. If Djokovic is at his aggressive best, anything can happen.

On the other side of the men's draw, Roger Federer is at anything but his best. The Swiss star has struggled for form all year, but we shouldnt count out Federer just yet, though he faces a tough ask against Gael Monfils in the second semi final.

The Frenchman has been in scinsillating form throughout the tournament, not least in his last match against David Ferrer, a match in which his talents were gloriously evident. The crowd will be right behind Monfils from the very off, and Federer will need to be on top of his game if he's to reach a second consecutive final.

So, there we have it. Some classic tennis awaits us, and I for one cant wait to see it all unfold.

Finally, a word on Andy Murray. Though he did crash out in the 3rd round, the British hope shown some signs of improvement on the clay surface, and can now focus on Wimbledon. No pressure there then..

A bright Spark..

So, after dispensing with both their managers services, despite relatively succesful seasons, it appears Chelsea and Manchester City are after the same man to transform their fortunes.

His name in Mark Hughes, a man who slowly has built a reputation as one of the brightest young managers in the game.

Hughes did brilliantly in his first management job, transforming Wales from an awful national side to a team fighting for a place in Euro 2004, only to be defeated by Russia in the playoffs despite beating Italy en route. Nonetheless, an impressive achievement.

Next came Blackburn, as the lure of day to day management became too much. And Hughes contiuned to impress, taking Blackburn to FA Cup Semi Finals, and three top 10 finishes, including one 6th place finish, taking Rovers into Europe.

His shrewdness in the transfer market has also been something to admire, with Benni McCarthy, Roque Santa Cruz, and David Bentley being rather astute signings indeed.

Hughes builds teams in his own image: tough, hard to play against, but with plenty of guile and class. As a player he proved capable of winning trophies and, although he hasn't won any silverware yet as a manager, it seems to be a matter of time.

But is Manchester City the right move for Mark Hughes? In my opinion, yes.

Looking at Blackburn, Hughes has taken them as far as they can go. Realistically, there's no chance of breaking into the elusive 'big 4', not with their crowds or budget.

Compare that to Manchester City, who have the financial clout, the big shiny stadium, and the big fanbase to gatecrash the big 4 party.

No contest.

Yes, City is being ran by a madman, who could well sack Hughes by Christmas if things arent going his way. If so, so what? He's just another victim of a ridiculous regime - it wouldnt tarnish his reputation too much. Succeed and Hughes is a hero, his glowing reputation furthered.

Hughes has achieved all he can at Blackburn, now is the time to jump ship, albiet to an unsteady one.

Exeter, the FA Trophy, and everything else in between..

First of all, congratulations to Exeter City. All jokes and rivalries aside, you didnt let your heads drop, and your character and determination was there to see. You threw the kitchen sink at us, and we surrendered. Good luck to you in the Football League - after years of near misses you deserve your chance.

So, after being in control for so long...we managed to blow it. A second trip to Wembley was within our grasp, but after 20 minutes of madness the dream was over.

So what went wrong?

For one, I firmly believe had we not scored, the match would have finished 0-0. We were soaking up Exeter's pressure well, with Exeter's only clear cut chance the clearance off the line in the first half. The goal allowed complacency to creep in, and as a result, the players switched off from their defensive mind set. After the first goal we panicked, and from then on it was a total shambles.

Another issue for me was the substitutions/team selection. The omission of Lee Phillips was baffling - if he's fit enough for the bench, he's fit enough to start the match. Phillips allows us to defend from the front, and without him Exeter were allowed too much time to work the ball.

Secondly, the substitution of Steve Woods. Woods was holding things together at the back with his experience, and when he went off we lost our shape and our organization.

So to collapse like that is bad enough in any match, but to your main rivals at home in a playoff semi? Cant say I've felt that deflated after a match in a long, long time.

Then came Wembley. A chance to salvage something from the season? To be honest, we looked a team desperately short on confidence, naturally..but we went there and gave it a good go. I think Ebbsfleet edged it on the day, but both teams had chances and Ebbsfleet took theirs, taking advantage of yet another error at the back. I felt for Toddy when he made his mistake, so consistent all season, you could tell how much it meant to him at the end as well.

For me though, the highlight of the day had to be Hilly breaking the all time appearance record. What a stage to break the record, and the standing ovation was well observed from both sets of fans. Well done Hilly, you're a dying breed in today's game.

So there we have it. A disappointing end to the campaign, but all things considered, it's been a fantastic season for us. To look at where we were 10 months ago and see where we are now is nothing short of remarkable, and all credit has to go to everyone connected with the club. Everyone's pulling in the right direction now, from the players to the directors, and its good to see, especially after last season's shenanigans.

This season? It's going to be a lot harder, that's for sure. Wrexham and Mansfield should be strong coming from the Football League, and the parachute payments will certainly help them. I also expect Stevenage to do well - Graham Westley may be a shady character, but he knows this league, and Stevenage are geared up for the Football League. Oxford and Rushden should also improve after disappointing finishes last time around, with Rushden in particular spending big.

It will be tough, yes, it's always harder to get out of this league if you dont manage it first time..but I think we've got just as much of a chance as anyone.

As for OUR squad, the rebuilding has already started. The deadwood such as Mullings, Bedeau and Hockley has already been shipped out, and in an attempt to freshen things up, Lee Phillips has been sold to Rushden for 17.5k.

Coming in, the exciting Nicky Wroe, who will add guile and creativity to a somewhat predictable midfield. Tyrone Thompson and Matt Green will give us pace and goals, and Wayne Carlisle is the genuine winger we've been crying out for. Michael Brough will provide competition in the centre of defence, and with the imminent signing of Shwan Jalal, hopefully the goalkeeping position has finally been sorted for good.

The new signings would indicate a change of tactics for next season, with all the signings comfortable in possession, and technically very sound. I believe we DID become too predictable at times last season, with no plan B in place. Hopefully we'll become a bit more flexible next season, with more emphasis on keeping the ball on the floor. Exeter and Aldershot have shown you can play your way out of this league.

And that's the important thing. The Football League. Promotion has to be the aim now, with things moving forward in all areas at the football club now. The youth set up is back, attendances continue to increase..all well and good, but the Football League has to be the aim.

Let's make it happen.