Conference trucks::football;1

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Note 97.0                          Watford FC                          2 replies
YUPPY::TAYLORM                                        3 lines  25-SEP-1991 17:12
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    This is the Watford FC note.
    
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Note 97.1                          Watford FC                             1 of 2
CRISPY::TRINDERS                                      7 lines  25-SEP-1991 17:57
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     Well in that case I'll make the first reply from a Reading supporter
    :-)
    
     Are you glad to have David Byrne back?
    
    
      S�mon

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Note 97.2                          Watford FC                             2 of 2
YUPPY::TAYLORM                                        9 lines  25-SEP-1991 18:09
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    No, not particularly.  We need him off the payroll, so we are
    in a position to purchase other players. WFC seem to have adopted
    a policy of looking for non-league players at present! This has
    occurred following Peter Taylor's arrival as Perrymans assistant.
    
    I can't see Byrne getting back in our first team unless players
    like, Darren Bazeley, Rod Thomas get injured. 
               
    Martin

    
    The weather doesn't seem too bad, and I have promised to drive some
    Everton supporter friends, so it looks like I am going to see my
    first Watford game for over a year and a half tonight.
    
    I don't expect Watford to do very much, but I am looking forward to
    seeing David James, before he gets transferred.
    
    Come on you Horns !!
    
     Steve.
    

    
    Watford    1   -   2   Everton
    
    Darren Beazley     Mike Newell
    		       Peter Beardsley
    
    Everton won 3 - 1 on aggregate.
    
    Watford tried to have a go, but did not have the control or finishing
    to really trouble Everton. Luther Blissett had some dodgy offside
    decisions given against him in the first half, but should have finished
    a couple of times when he was clear through on Neville Southall. David
    James the Watford goalkeeper made a couple of sharp saves early on, and
    looked a very promising player.
    
    Everton seemed content to let Watford rush around as fast as they
    could, as the game degenerated into a game of gaining as much territory
    as possible by kicking the ball into touch. The game had got to such a
    state early in the second half that Neville Southall started trying to
    hide his yawning, and the main aim of the game seemed to be who could
    kick the ball the highest.
    
    Unfortunately for Watford the substitute Steve Perryman brought on 
    decided to break the monotony by going on a brilliant run into the
    Everton penalty area from the right wing. After supperbly dribbling his
    way round about five Everton players, Darren Beazely fired the ball to
    Southall's left and buried the ball into the bottom corner of the 
    Everton goal. This brought the scores level on aggregate and stirred 
    Watford into more frenzied activity and nearly another goal.
    
    Despite David James's superb resistance, Everton came to life and
    scored two goals in a minute, to kill the tie yet again. The goals
    came in the 82nd minute from first Mike Newell (a substitute for their
    Polish international) and then Peter Beardsley, as Watford had pushed
    up to try for a winner themselves.
    
    I was definitely impressed by David James, Darren Beazely, Nigel Gibbs,
    Jason Drysdale, and Luther. However, the "Rumbelows Man Of The Match"
    Dublin never really looked in control but charged into and made his
    tackles to get him and his team out of a number of diificult
    situations. Trevor Putney and Steve Butler looked complete donkeys,
    and the rest of the team rushed around as fast as they could.
    
    At least Steve Perryman has now got a team that tries, unlike the days
    of Dave Bassett when I gave up being a season ticket holder, on the
    basis of why pay to see a team of players who were on strike.
    Hopefully, Steve Perryman does seem to be trying to improve the team
    and its fortunes. I just hope that he can hold on to some of the very
    promising young players, instead of seeing them go to other clubs who
    then get promoted as their promise turns to reality.
    
    What is the transfer situation with David James ?
    
    
    				Steve.
    
    

    Steve,
    
    I agree with some of your comments on last nights game. I haven't
    got the time at present to give my match report. However, if we
    (WFC) had a reasonable striker other than the ageing Luther, then
    we would have won not only last night but a few of this seasons
    league games. It seems that Petchey will not let Perryman buy
    a striker unless he can find one for less than 50K! As far as i am
    concerned it is absolutley vital we buy a experienced striker, or
    we will struggle. 
    
    re: jamesy. Chelsea have made an official approach for him and
    neqotiations are underway. It seems that Kevin Hitchcock may be
    involved in player transfer + cash deal. Also, again official
    Aston Villa have made an approach and offered Gary Penrice in exchange
    + cash. (I am convinced that won't happen as Doug Ellis will want most
    of the money back they originally paid.) David wants to stay in London 
    so ut seems the Chelsea deal may happen. Oldham and Everton have also 
    been linked with DJ but i don't know if they are official. Finally
    WFC would not be in this position if we looked likely to mount a
    serious promotion cahllenge this season. DJ contract runs out at the
    end of this season so we have to selll now before he becomes a 'free'
    agent.
    
    Martin 

    
    With Watford winning away at Plymouth on saturday, they have now picked
    up more points away from Vicarage Road. It does appear that the lack of
    a reasonable striker is a major problem. In the game against Southend
    Watford had the most chances, but Southend took theirs to win.
    
    If we can get 1.5 million for David James that might help Perryman
    strengthen his squad, always providing he is allowed to spend the
    money on new players. Why has'nt James been signed up for Liverpool yet,
    what is the delay ? Though it is sad to see a talented young player 
    leave the club, I think in this case it will be of benefit to the club
    and the future development of the player.
    
    			Steve.
    

    I've just checked an old program (Wolves - 1st game of the season) and
    it reckons we're at home to Oxford next Wednesday (6th). Is this a
    misprint? I didn't think we ever played on Wednesday nights.
    
    Dave.
    
    ps. How was last night's match? I had to miss it.

    Dave,
    
    Yes, the Oxford game is on Wednesday 6th. The reason is that WFC are
    holding their Fireworks display on the 5th. It seems ridiculous
    that fireworks takes priority over football. But that seems the way
    WFC seem to approach things these days!
    
    Last night. The first half was fairly even with both Millwall and
    Watford going close. Watfords only attempts on goal were from distance
    with two shots from Drysdale and one from Porter. The keeper saved
    them all but did not catch cleanly and as usual we had no one following 
    in. Half-time 0-0.
    
    Second half. With the rain steadily getting worse, WFC display was
    pitiful, it must be bad when the crowd were slow handclapping and 
    shouting 'what a load of rubbish'. Watford had alot of possession
    but did not make use of it. There was a camera behind the goal following 
    every move of David James for the full 90 minutes. Millwalls first was 
    scored by Rae. The defence allowed him to run across the box unchallenged
    and eventually he shot, James seemed to let the ball slip
    through his hands for a rather soft goal, the second by Kerr, was
    again messy, it seemed the ball was going out for a corner when it was
    crossed back in to the 6 yard box with the defenders watching.
    Full time 0-2.
    
    WFC started the game playing David Holdsworth as sweeper, in the second
    half took Putney off replaced him with Butler, in the end Joe
    McLaughlin was playing centre-forward.
    
    Team was: James,Gibbs,Holdsworth,Dublin,McLaughlin,Drysdale,Putney,
    Nicholas,Porter,Blissett,Bazeley. Subs;Butler,Soloman
    
    Big Ron from Aston Villa was again watching James, he could NOT
    have been impressed on last nights performance.
    Watford have now lost 19 out of the last 35 home games. The worst
    run in their history!
    There was 7366 at the Millwall game, i hate to think how many (or few)
    there will be versus Oxford next Wednesday when there is also live
    European games on TV.
    
    The lack of ambition at WFC is very worrying. When we sold/lost the
    likes of Wilkinson,Falconer,Roeder before the season started, it
    doesn't take much to work out that we would have problems, but with
    the blinkered approach of the present chairman who should have allowed
    investment to strenghten the squad,  we now have to rely mostly on 
    funds available from the sale of David James (if/when) before Perryman 
    can try and attract new players.
     
    Martin
    News: Andy Kennedy who has 'scored' with Maria Whittacker (sp?) and
    twice for Watford this season is on a months loan with Bolton.
    

    Cheers for the info, Martin. Prediction for the Oxford match: 4,500.
    
    Dave.

    I am happy to see that ther is now a note on my one and only team and
    that there are more Hornets fans in DEC.
    
    I have been a Watford fan sinc they played Hillingdon Bro in the first
    round of the FA cup about 18 years ago. I remember the days of the 7-1
    win and the Man U, and Forrest victories. I never missed a game in the
    Third division but then I fell by the wayside and didn't go on a
    regular basis any more.
    
    I returned to the fold this year when I went to see the game against
    The Borough, hoe sickening to have the goals against by two ex players.
    Nicolas has to go he is crap! Putney is the only beef we have in
    midfield. God bless Luther he's still my vote for player of the year.
    
    Look forwards to reading about WATFORD FC in the future.

    
    What I was trying to ask, before I was rudely interupted by work, was
    when are Watford playing at home over the Christmas period ?
    
    The delicate negotiations have started on when to visit people, and I
    need to know the best time to be in Watford.
    
    			Thanks
    
    			Steve.
    
    

    Sorry, no fixture list to hand but if my memory is correct;
    
    Sunday 22nd December v Barnsley  Home
    Thurs  26th    "     v Millwall  Away
    Sunday 29th    "     v Cambridge Away
    Weds    1st January  v Tranmere  Home
    
    I'll check them tonight at the Oxford game
    
    Martin

    Pretty good memory, Martin. You got it bang on.
    
    I see my prediction (4,500) for the gate last night wasn't far off.
    
    Dave.

    Dave, your attendance estimation was pretty close. 
    
    The game itself was mediocre and the scoreline rather generous to WFC,
    although its the 3 points that really count.
    
    Watford 2 Oxford 0
    
    Team; James,Gibbs,Holdsworth,Dublin,McLaughlin,Putney,Hessenthaler,
          Porter, Nicholas, Butler, Blissett. Subs;Soloman,Bazeley
    
    Watford took the lead from a Porter penalty after Blissett had been
    brought down just inside the box. That was about the only memorable
    action in the first half. The second was much better with both teams
    going close on occassions. Oxford really have themselves to blame for
    not taking 2 good chances. They also had a penalty appeal turned down
    I thought WFC were lucky to get away with it as Holdsworth definitely
    attempted to bring the player down from behind. However, the player
    had ridden the tackle and had already pushed the ball too far and
    decided to fall over one stride later. The Oxford keeper, Kee saved 
    well a couple of times but nearing the end of the game could only parry
    a Blissett header when the Oxford defence stood still and it fell to 
    the sub Darren Bazeley to score. Bazeley came on for the ineffectual
    Steve Butler. 
    WFC once again had a lot of possession but continued to pass backwards
    or sideways and when the eventual forward ball was made it was either
    into space for a 50/50 challenge or went directly to an Oxford player
    
    3 points for WFC when we play Leicester at home on Saturday? 
    
    Martin
    
    
     

    Well, another 3 points lost at Vicarage Road.
    
    Watford 0 Leicester 1
    
    WFC Team: James,Soloman,Holdsworth,Dublin,McLaughlin,Putney,Porter
    Nicholas,Hessenthaler,Butler,Blissett. Subs; Drysdale,Bazeley
    
    Leicester opened the scoring in the second minute, when a defensive
    mix-up ended when Kitson lobbed James from short range. Another 
    sloppy goal. Watford from then on dominated the game and had more
    chances in the following 88 minutes than i have seen for a long time.
    The Leicester keeper had a brilliant game with superb saves from
    Blissett, Hessenthaler and Nicholas, there was at least two cleared
    off the line and on other occasions defenders blocked the ball. The 
    luck was certainly on Leicesters side. However, i have said it before
    and will probably say it again but until Watford buy at least 1 or 2 
    decent strikers then we will continue to have these sort of games.   
    
    It does seem possible that we will buy Leroy Rosenior from West Ham
    in an attempt to score goals.
    
    Martin  

    
    Where is the money to buy a new striker going to come from, now David
    James is off the transfer list ? Was the fireworks do that much of a
    success ?
    
    			Steve.
    

    Steve,
    
    Apparently Perryman has had about 600K to spend for some time. He says
    he  will only use it when the time is 'right' and the 'right' type of
    players are available. Watford have agreed a 100k fee with West Ham
    for Rosenior. Will he be the 'right' type of player though? 
    
    The Fireworks night attracted 6500 on the Tuesday. The highest
    attendance for fireworks so far. The match v Oxford the following day 
    attracted 4800 approx. The worst league crowd for 17 years!!
    
    Martin  

    It now seems that any deal regarding Leroy Rosenior is off. He
    has joined Charlton an a months loan.
    Watford would not take the risk on him due to a possible knee
    problem. Also Reading pulled out as he failed the medical.
    
    Apparently Watford have been in negotiations with Notts County for
    Paul Harding, the former Barnet and Enfield player.
    
    Can we win two on the trot at Port Vale tomorrow? We haven't managed
    that so far this season.
    
    Martin
            
    
    Martin
    

    Watford have just signed striker Lee Nogan from Oxford for 275K and another 
    25k when he has made 25 appearances. All i know about him is that
    he is a Welsh U21 international, been on loan to Brentford and Southend
    over the last few years. He played at Vicarage Road on Nov 6th, but
    he didn't really catch my eye. Is there anyone out there who can tell
    me more? 
    
    Martin

    Lee Nogan scored for Watford on his debut v Barnsley (1-1). He
    played well and but for two brillaint saves by Lee Butler could
    have had a hat trick. There's still hope
    
    For all WFC supporters, Jack Petchey is being investigated by
    the Sunday Times for a number of reasons (timeshare business and
    WFC involvement)
    
    Martin

    Yeah, it was a very promising start from Nogan. In fact, it was a good
    game all round, apart from the result. To use an old football cliche;
    we can't go down if we continue to play like that.
    
    As for Petchy, if the Sunday Times is to be believed, its pretty
    obvious why Perryman hasn't been allowed to spend the Wealdstone money
    on new players. Makes one worry about the �1.2 million we're meant to
    be getting for James.
    
    Dave.

    
    What a good Christmas for Watford. They are now just below half way in
    the table and five points clear of a relegation slot. It seems a shame
    we have used up so many away games though, that is where we seem to be
    getting the results at the moment.
    
    I spent Christmas day and Boxing Day catching up on old issues of the 
    Watford Observer and match day programmes. I was a bit alarmed by one
    supporter in the Barnsley or Derby programme who claimed the best
    Watford game they had seen was the Everton game this season. Have they
    really been playing that badly ?
    
    				Steve.
      

    No, they're playing pretty well at the moment. 
    
    We seem to be lacking a bit of luck when it comes to finishing (at home).
    Everything seems to go just wide, hit the bar or get cleared off the
    line. They'll get it right in the end.
    
    We're only 13 points off the top. We still might make into the super
    dooper league!
    
    Dave.

    
.23>    We're only 13 points off the top. We still might make into the super
.23>    dooper league!
    
	You're only 10 points above Oxford.  You might even make it to
	the super dooper third division. :-)

    Well, that's four wins on the trot! 9 points away from the 
    play-offs with 8 games to play.   Hmm... nah, not a chance.
    
    Anyone got any reasons for this change in form? From what I've seen, we
    just seem to be having a touch more luck.
    
    Dave.

    
    Good to see Watford are in the First Division again, and starting well. 
    Appears we took best advantage of the new rules.
    
    Shame we did'nt get as much money as we wanted for David James. He
    played well for Liverpool on his debut, and could become one of the
    best bargain buys, unfortunately.
    
    				Steve.

	My initial reaction to the new back-pass rule following the Millwall
	game is simply, farcical.

	The opening goal to Millwall followed another back-pass to
	the keeper, Perry Suckling from Keith Dublin. Suckling looked
	to pass the ball to Gibbs, however McKinlay(?) anticipated and
	took the ball from Suckling's feet and put it into the empty net. 
	1-0 to Millwall.

	The penalty equaliser from Watford followed a Millwall defender
	trying to 'shepherd' the ball back to his keeper and in doing so
	apparently stopped Lee Nogan from getting to the ball. The ref 
	booked the Millwall player and gave the penalty to everyones surpise.

	The only 'decent' goal of the game followed an excellent cross
	from Bazeley which left Nogan with a simple header 2-1 Watford.

	The last goal came from a drop kick from Suckling deep into the
	Millwall half the keeper came out and tried to head the ball
	away with defender and Bazeley in pursuit. The keeper messed 
	it up and Bazeley put it away. 3-1 Watford.

	The game was rather physical with ex-Watford striker Malcolm
	Allen being sent off for retaliating against a David Holdsworth 
	tackle. The referee really lost control of the game from that 
	point on.

	The back-pass law may improve over time with keepers and 
	defenders 'learning' how to deal with such situations. However
	3 goals were attributable to the rule. There were a number of 
	panic situations when the ball was just booted away mostly
	in to touch.

	Martin
                                      

    
    Watford have managed their first away win of the season as well now,
    against Notts County. County went ahead and Jason Drysdale equalised
    with a Stuart Pearce style 20 yard free kick. Watfords winner was
    scored by Paul Furlong in the 71st minute.
    
    Tony Agana used to be at Watford. Apparently he is having a wretched
    start to the season at County, and was substituted last night.
    
    That's two wins out of three games for Watford, at least we might not
    struggle against relegation this year. The number of goals they have
    scored is encouraging as well. Seven goals in three games.
    
    			Steve.
    

    
    Two wins on the trot for Watford.  2-1 at home to Derby and now 3-0
    against Bristol Rovers away. Is this the start of the standard Steve 
    Perryman charge at the end of the season ? If it happens again this
    season we are only six points off a play off spot.
    
    			Steve.

    
                WATFORD 0    4 Swindon
    
    Well looks like that is it for Watford this season, unless they are
    still in the Herts Senior Cup. Nine points away from a play off place
    and eleven points clear of relegation.
    
    At least this season was an improvement on the last few, where we spent
    most of the season battling against relegation. Also, we had a good
    little run in the Coca Cola cup beating Leeds on the way.
    
    Lets hope Steve Perryman can continue the improvements.
    
    		Steve.
            

    Perryman resigns at Watford. 
    
    Antony

    
    	Perryman confirmed as Spurs No.2

    Kenny Jackett has been put in as caretaker manager. What will now
    happen to Phil Holder who Perryman put in as his first team coach?
    
    Martin

    Glenn Roeder is the new Watford manager. Ken Jackett will be his
    assistant. 

    Any Watford types still about?
    
    Good game on Monday, especially considering the conditions. 
    
    Watford dominated the first half, but couldn't change tactics when
    Forest put two men on Dyer and tightend up in the middle in the second
    half.
    
    Anyone hear anything about the reported 1.5 million offer from
    Southampton for Furlong and Dyer?
    
    Dave.

	I thought Al supported Watford ?

    Yes, but does he read this conference?

    
    Always interested to read about how Watford got on, because it is
    difficult to get to Vicarage Road or read the Watford Observer in
    Newbury.
    
    Perhaps it is due to lazy supporters like me not going to games, but
    Watford always seem to end up selling their good players. There are
    a number of ex-Watford players playing in the Premier League. I have 
    to hope that Watford stay up this year and can play Reading, and get
    my enjoyment from seeing any Dave Bassett team lose.
    
    			Steve. 

    re -1
    
    >a number of ex-Watford players playing in the Premier League. I have 
    >to hope that Watford stay up this year and can play Reading, and get
    >my enjoyment from seeing any Dave Bassett team lose.
    
    Think you mean ex-Dave Bassett team. He's been cheering up the other
    half of Sheffield with his chirpy Cockney humour for years now.
    
    Paul.
    

Under the present set up at Vicarage Road under the chairmainship of 
ex-West Ham director, Jack Petchey (timeshares, car dealing etc) there 
seems to be more admin/commercial/marketing (more ex West Ham) staff 
than players. I recollect that we have sold since he took over the 
following players, (over �400K)

 	- Tony Coton
	- Gary Penrice
	- David James
	- Glyn Hodges
	- Paul Wilkinson
	- Willie Falconer
	

More recently we have sold Ken Charlery and Roger Willis with no guarantee
from the Chairman that Glenn Roeder can invest the proceeds (�280k) on new 
players. Roeder believes we are 4 good/experienced players short of side that 
could challenge for the Premiership. He is right!

VERY little of the proceeds have been spent on new players. WFC also took
approx �2m from a ground sharing deal with Wealdstone, (WFC ripped them off!)

We did build a new stand at the Vicarage Road End.
    
Other players (before Petchey) sold include;

	- John Barnes
	- Tim Sherwood
	- David Bardsley
	- Malcolm Allen
	- Kevin Richardson
	- Ian Richardson
	- Rick Holden
	- Richard Jobson
	- Neil Redfearn
	- Lee Sinott
	- Wayne Allison	

For a reason I cannot understand WFC currently budget for 10000 average home
attendance (currently approx 7000). Therefore we are loosing �000's per week.

WFC will HAVE to sell again unless other outgoings are reduced!! (no cup
run again this season)

The prize assets at present are Paul Furlong and Bruce Dyer. If we sell
them soon then we might as well be resigned to being a 2nd (old 3rd) division
outfit. I expect Furlong to be sold before next season.

I believe Petchey made a big mistake buying the club. He believed he could make
money. He now seems aware that is not possible. 

(What money WFC have is held off-shore in a holding company)

Oh, by the way, My wife is on Gary Porter's testimonial committee, so if
anyone is interested in supporting any of his events then please let me know.

Martin 
	 

    
    What a depressing picture. I wonder if it could all have been different
    if Dave Bassett had stuck with the existing Watford coaching staff when
    he took over, instead of sacking them all and bringing in his own men.
    The players then appeared to go on strike, or at least work to rule,
    and supporters like my brother and I stopped attending as regularly,
    and I think even Elton lost interest.
    
    It is a shame we have not been able to have more loyal servants like
    Gary Porter. If those players that were sold were still at Vicarage
    Road we might still be in the Premier Division. I can remember hoping
    that Gary might be a potential England prospect. Was he once the
    England U21 or U19 captain ? Anyway if there is any competition with
    the chance of winning a new car I am interested. 
    
    However, the slump this season from ninth to one place above
    relegation has been acheived without a change of personnel, what
    happened ? 
    
    I can understand Glenn Roeder's and Watford's long term problem, and it
    is no wonder that Steve Perryman preferred to be Assistant Manager at
    Spurs. Has Petchey got any potential rivals or people that want to take
    over ? Can't another newspaper have a go at Elton ?
    
    			Cheers
    
    			Steve.
    

    re .40 
    
    Ooops! i forget a couple more players who have been scoring goals 
    lately;
    
    Dean Holdsworth
    Iwan Roberts

    Glenn Roeder's first signing!
    
    David Barnes from Sheff Utd 40K left back.
    
    Brian Kilcline has turned down a move to Watford. He would not
    take a drop in his wages (believed to be over 2K a week at Newcastle).
    
    Also.. Bruce Dyer, Richard Johnson and Gerard Lavin have all signed 
    new 3 year contracts.
    
    Martin

    Great news about Dyer. Gives him a chance to build up a reputation (and
    value) before he moves up to the Premiership (with or without us).
    
    I can't see Furlong staying. He's said he wants to move and his heart 
    doesn't seem to be in it any more.
    
    Dave.

    Well, it looks like Furlong is staying after all. It was reported at
    the weekend that he wants to sign up for another year. Has to be good
    news.
    
    Anyone go to Saturday's game?
    
    Dave.

    Dave
    
    Yes, I went as usual on Saturday. We deserved to win as we created
    many more chances than Oxford. However, with our defence anything
    can happen. Luckily we didn't let in our usual 2. 
    
    I spoke with Paul Furlong the previous Sunday at a Gary Porter
    testimonial event, and he is discussing terms of a new contract
    BUT this will not stop WFC selling him if a big offer is made!
    
    Have you read about the chairman trying to attract new investors?
    If you have got a spare 50K+ then can hand it over and have no
    say whatsoever in the running of the club. What a joke!
    The sooner he and his marketing director have gone then the better
    for all concerned.
    
    Bye the way, do you fancy attending a GP quiz nite to be held in Bushey
    on 24/3? Only 6pounds (inc food) to you. Beer is extra but is cheap!
    
    Martin

    Can't make the 24th. Do you have a list of his other testimonial
    events? I meant to pick one up at the Sponsors' evening. 
    
    Do you know how his testimonial year is going? Speaking to Nigel
    Gibbs, it didn't sound like he was doing that well.
    
    Dave.

    	Events as follows;
    
    	18/4 	Golf Day - Moor Park
        13/5 	Dinner/Dance - Hilton Int, Kensington 30#
    	4/7	Horse Racing - Windsor
    	??      Testimonial Match - Oppostion still to be arranged
    
    That's what's left. 
    
    I understand that up until the last event where money was lost the fund
    had been progressing quite well. However, it's all relative really.
    If WFC had been doing well then his events would have been better
    supported. Out of the 3 events I have been to so far only the quiz
    night was a sell out, there was tickets available for the Sportsmans Dinner
    (200 sold) and only the antiques roadshow and sporting exhibition
    was poorly attended. It is good to see Nigel supporting all of Gary's
    events. The men's night and race night were very well supported.
    
    Martin 

    Cheers Martin,
    
    I might well make the Dinner/Dance. Is it really at the Shepherds Bush
    Hilton? Have the club fallen out with the Watford Hilton? I guess I
    just phone the club for tickets.
    
    Dave.

    Dave,
    
    Yes, it is at that Hilton. The present Marketing set up at WFC 
    view GP testimonials events as competition for their own. They 
    (1 person in particular) have continually obstructed Gary's events.  
    Originally the dinner/dance was to be at the Watford Hilton but suddenly
    WFC's marketing dept have arranged an end of season d/d the previous 
    weekend at the Watford Hilton. This was viewed as an effort to 'sink'
    Gary's event and committee have therefore changed the venue. 
    
    Please DO NOT call the club, they (marketing) will deny all knowledge 
    and try to sell you the 'other' function. If you want tickets then 
    please call me.
    There will also be special rates if you want to stay over at the hotel
    and watch the FACUP final next day on a big screen. Also there will 
    probably be a coach laid on from Watford at extra cost.
    
    I could write a book about the problems regarding GP's testimonial
    season and the marketing dept. Watford Observer are fully aware 
    of the problems and might be printing an article after Gary's 
    Testimonial year has been completed!
    
    Martin
    
    (Craig Ramage looks like a good buy, if only we could stop the goals
    against)

    Martin,
    
    Thanks for all the info (I'd be very interested to know who the '1
    person in particular' is, but I can probably guess). Does this mean
    that Olly Phillips is preparing a hatchet job? I do hope so.
    
    I'll give you a ring if/when I get my party sorted out.
    
    Cheers,
    
    Dave.

    Martin,
    
    We're all sorted. Gibbo's got us some places on his table. Any info on
    the special rates at the Hilton would be much appreciated.
    
    Thanks again,
    
    Dave.

    Dave,
    
    Please ring Sue Crowley at the Hilton on 071 603 3355 regarding the
    special rates for Gary's dinner. Sue is the Manager at the Ladbroke and
    also on Gary's committee. The big screen is only provisional at present.
    
    How many are there on Gibbsy's table? It sounds as though he may be
    having 2 tables. 
    
    Martin

    Cheers, I'll ring her.
    
    I think he said there'd be 10. We've got 4 going.
    
    Dave.

    Well, Brucie's gone. So much for the 3 year contract.
    
    Still, its got to be a good move for the lad and the money will come in
    handy (unless Billy Butlin decides to spend it on some marketing
    scheme, buying Petchey time-shares for the marketing staff).
    
    Can't blame Roeder. He did his best to keep the lad at the club.
    
    Dave.

    I heard on the radio that there was a demonstration after last night's
    3-0 defeat by Grimsby. Was it more of the usual 'bring back Elton' stuff
    or were they after Roeder's head?
    
    Perhaps if I used my season ticket once in a while, I wouldn't need to
    ask these silly questions.
    
    Dave.

    Dave,
    
    In my view the 200 or so that demonstrated spoke for about 10000.
    The club has no ambition, is being sold down the river, the Dyer
    sale was just another reason. Roeder is NOT to blame, he has no money
    and no support from the board!
    
    I was there on Tuesday. After going 2-0 down a gathering formed
    behind the goal at the Vicarage Road end chanting "we want Petchey out'
    and "sack the board" When we went 3 down a few tried to invade the
    pitch. (No police at all in the ground!) At the final whistle about
    200 broke the cordon of stewards and headed for the main stand. As we
    sit just in front of the 'box' I decided to move away and view from the
    tunnel. About 100 climbed the wall and the steps and about 30 climbed
    over into the directors box and went down the steps to the inner
    sanctum. They were held back by a few stewards whilst the directors
    who were there locked themselves in the board room. PETCHEY wasn't at
    the match anyway!!  What could have been a nasty situation was
    quietened down by the arrival of a few police with dogs. 
    
    To me this was bound to happen if we lost again. The club has lost
    all contact and is completely out of touch with its supporters. 
    
    It seems Roeder will have about 300K to spend from the Dyer 1.25M!!
    The deadline is this week. Unless something very positive happens
    then the club will not only be relegated, they will not be able to
    attract new players, and players such as Porter, Lavin, Furlong
    and Drysdale will almost certainly leave.
    
    I have plenty more to say but haven't got the time!
    
    Dave, Ollie has got it right in the Watford Observer, have you read it?
    
    Millwall on Saturday should be fun!!
    
    Martin
    

    Martin,
    
    Millwall is always 'fun'. If we lose this one you could see me leading
    a pitch invasion from the top tier of the Rous stand. On second
    thoughts, I doubt many of the pensioners will be up to absailing.
    
    The main problem seems to be that Petchey believes the club's there to
    make him money. This may be true of most businesses, but *not* football
    clubs. Its also very short sighted. He'd make far more money in the
    higher divisions.
    
    Don't get the Observer where we live, but I'd be interested to hear
    what Ollie had to say.
    
    Dave.

    
    Apparently Watford have bought a player from one of the London Premier
    League sides. Needless to say he hasn't played in their first team this
    year. Does any one know who it is ? 
    
    			Steve.

    Isn't it that Colin Foster from the Hammers'.
    
    
    
    /GAry

    Hadn't heard that one, but I did hear we swapped Ashby for some
    Brentord defender.
    
    Dave.

    Yes, WFC have signed Keith Millen from Brentford for Barry Ashby
    + 65K. Also Colin Foster form WHU for 150K. I expect that is then
    end of any spending spree allowed following the Dyer sale.
    
    To me, it's trying to shut the stable door after the horse has
    bolted! I shouldn't think Holdsworth and Dublin are too amused.
    
    Still a clean sheet against Millwall on Saturday and it will be the 
    first in 28 games! 
    
    
    
     
    

    So, of our two best forwards, we sell one and the other looks like he's
    on his way, anyway. What do we do with the money? Buy two defenders.
    
    I know we have a 'bit' of a defensive problem, but are we really going
    to avoid relegation by drawing our remaining matches 0-0?
    
    Dave.

          <<< Note 68.63 by CUCKOO::YEOMANSD "Deceptively shallow" >>>

    
>    I know we have a 'bit' of a defensive problem, but are we really going
>    to avoid relegation by drawing our remaining matches 0-0?
    
     Probably not.

    
     Hope this helps,

     Stuart

    Well, it appears they're drafting in police horses for the Millwall
    game.
    
    This is not to stop Millwall from having their usual 'fun', but to
    protect the directors from the Watord supporters. Looks like I've
    picked a good match for my return. Can't wait to see the horses in the
    directors' box.
    
    Dave.

    Jack Petchey has stepped down as WFC Chairman!!! 
    
    Sounds good but he still retains controlling interest so what does it
    really mean?  Surely he has to sell.
    
    I will put in more details later.
    
    
    Martin

	Watford hope to make an announcement next week with regard to the 
    	new chairman. It is believed JP's next step will be to sell.
	It appears very unlikely that Elton will repurchase.

	My first reaction was that this was great news but until he does sell,
	whoever is named Chairman will not have controlling interest and 
	therefore the new man will have no authority and maybe be a "puppet"
	until a new buyer is found. I cannot see him selling at a loss, so it
	could be a very long wait. JP remains in the US and will not be
    	seen at Vicarage Road until after Easter. 

	WFC have signed QPR striker Dennis Bailey on loan until the end of the 
	season.

	It's ironic that JP has allowed a few quid to be spent on players, 
    	when if this had been done a few months ago we may not have been 
    	fighting relegation and JP may not have resigned.

	Gary's quiz night was held last night and was attended by over 300.
	Players present were, Mark Watson, Nigel Gibbs, Craig Ramage, David
	Barnes, John White, Robert Page, Jason Drysdale and ex WFC player 
	Malcolm Allen. The players were told yesterday morning about JP. 
	An annoncement was made last night about JP at the quiz night and
	was greeted by loud cheers and disbelief!
    
    	Martin

    
    Martin,
    
    	Thanks for the information. You have done such a good marketing job
    over the last week that my brother and I and some friends from Hemel
    Hempstead are planning a return for the Millwall game. Lets hope its
    not to late to get out of trouble.
    
    Looking forward to reading Oliver Phillips comments. I have missed the
    Watford Observer. Especially their match reports which have line after
    line about what Watford did and then just as an aside mention that the 
    other team happened to score :-)
    
    		Cheers
    
    		Steve.
                                    

    A clean sheet at last!
    
    Due to a nasty bout of food poisoning, I've had to delay my return for
    another week. How did the new boys perform? Are we staying up?
    
    Dave.

           <<< Note 68.69 by CUCKOO::YEOMANSD "What wagon's that?" >>>

>    A clean sheet at last!
    
>    Due to a nasty bout of food poisoning,


     Spooky.

     Stuart

    The 'new boys' played well. Tommy Mooney made the 1st goal after 13
    seconds. Lavin claimed the goal but it looked like the defender trying
    to clear the danger hit Keller and the ball flew in. 
    
    We played 5 across the back with Dublin as sweeper. Foster was
    commanding and got to just about every cross that Millwall put in.
    Millen also played very well. We looked very solid at the back
    and only once did Millwall have a chance to score. 
    Dublin actually looked comfortable on the ball and our style
    appeared to suit Lavin and Drysdale who had a bit more freedom.
    
    Mooney was kicked off the park by Millwall and was replaced by 
    Bailey who looked good for the last 15 mins. 
    
    Ramage played Hessenthaler through following a Millwall corner 
    and coolly slotted past Keller with 10 mins to go.
    
    WFC have 9 games to go and they will all be difficult. Our next
    3 are Forest (away) Leicester (home) and Peterboro (away) with our
    last game away to Palace! With a bit of luck and if they continue
    from the Millwall game then we should make it.
    
    Rumours regarding a new purchaser.......EJ ???
    
    Martin 
    
    PS. Walking from the ground with my 6 year old daughter we witnessed
    a number of Millwall thugs, who were looking for trouble, and without 
    any provocation hit a WFC supporter right it the face. I alerted a 
    daydreaming policeman to the assault. A few minutes later I saw the 
    thug get into his car and drive off laughing!!!
    
    
    Well done ... Millwall (try explaining that to a 6 year old!)

    I have just heard that Stuart Timperley has been appointed the new
    Chairman of WFC. That is all i know at present.
    
    ST is one of JP's directors and from the little i know it appears
    that thr change is in name only and JP still is the major shareholder
    and controls the purse strings!

    Great win in the week. 4 goals scored, but the 3 against doesn't bode
    well for our new defensive line-up.
    
    Proud moment for me tomorrow. I'm taking the boy to see his first
    match. He's only 3, so he gets in free. My brother's bringing his kids
    (4 and 7) along too and as my season ticket's in the Rous Stand its
    costing him 35 quid for the pleasure of taking 2 kids to a second class
    football match!
    
    The Rous is empty these days. Anyone heard any rumours about the price
    of tickets in the new stand, next season?
    
    Dave.
    
    ps. (The real reason for this note) Here's hoping Chelsea can do the
    business tomorrow!

    >so he gets in free
    
    	Do you have to pay to be let out?? ;->>
    
    	Rick.

    >Do you have to pay to be let out?? ;->>
    
    Good question. The attention span of a 3 year old is not that great. I
    expect to be leaving by half time (an added bonus if its like most of
    the games I've seen this season).
    
    Dave.
    
    ps. I shalln't mention Leeds' last visit to Vicarage Road.

    Well, we're safe (unless Birmingham get 14 goals in their last game). A
    win at Palace would round the season off nicely.
    
    There is still some interest left, as L*t*n still have the opportunity
    of 2nd division football, next season.
    
    Dave.

    "A win at Palace would round the season off nicely"
    
    Didn't you forget the smileys after that one - I predict a goal fest of
    utmost quality and Palace getting their 7th consecutive win.
    
    Paul

>    Didn't you forget the smileys after that one - I predict a goal fest of
>    utmost quality and Palace getting their 7th consecutive win.
    
    Well, we'll see. We've tightened up a lot at the back (wish I could say
    the same), in recent games and I predict a close match. Watford could
    just nick it by the odd goal in 3.
    
    I'll be there with Mr Panes (if he recovers from his celebrations) to
    confirm his claim of being the leader of the 'Palace Right Bastidge Hard
    Crew'.
    
    Dave.

    Thought you would have been crowing about finishing above us, Dave
    
    Billy

    No crowing, just quiet satisfaction.
    
    An adequate end to a dire season gives us a platform to launch next
    season's assault on the premiership.
    
    Dave.

    <<< Note 68.80 by CUCKOO::YEOMANSD " Crystal Palace - worthy champions" >>>

    
>    An adequate end to a dire season gives us a platform to launch next
>    season's assault on the premiership.
    
     Dave,
   
     I will be very much surprised if Watford don't claim the one automatic
     promotion slot, to gain their rightful position in the Premiership.

     Stuart

    Martin,
    
    Are you still going to tonight's do at the Hilton? If so, we'll be in
    the bar from 7-7:30ish with Gibbo.
    
    Dave.

    Hi Dave,
    
    Will you be joining the Vice Presidents this coming season? I
    understand the fee will be 650 pounds for a new member!!
    
    I will be in the Family enclosure.
    
    Glenn only has 300k to spend on new players following the sale
    of Dyer and Furlong! It will be another long hard season to endure
    unless Petchey sells his ownership, soon!!!!
    
    Martin                            

    Only 300,000 to spend out of the 3.7million?!? Is the rest going on the
    new stand or into Petchey's pocket?
    
    VP only 650? I thought it was nearer 800. Still thinking about next
    season, but the Rous Stand is so dead, these days, it looks like we'll
    be going for the North Stand.
    
    Dave.

    Newcastle have just signed Jason Drysdale for the bargain price
    of 425,000!!!! (should have been 800K at least, but he had not signed 
    a new contract)
    
    So who's going to be left back this season? David Barnes or will
    Kenny Sansom make a come-back?
    
    Yet another of Watford's youngsters sold. I expect the next to go
    will be Gerard Lavin.
    
    Not looking good for the new season.
    
    Martin
    
    
    
    

    Yeah, things are looking a tad bleak since the Klinsman/Baggio deal fell
    through.
    
    Did we play Wycombe on Saturday? If so, do you know the score?
    
    Dave.

    No I don't know. We have got Fulham tomorrow and of course Spurs
    on Sat.
    

    Palace 1 - Watford 0 (AET)
    
    Sounds like we can count ourselves a tad unlucky.
    
    I listened to the end of the match on R5 and according to the
    commentator, the match only got going in the last period of extra time.
    Watford should have scored 3 times, but Palace came back to sneak one
    at the death.
    
    With that kind of good fortune and a relatively easy quarter final
    draw, we could see Palace go all the way.
    
    So, we've only let in 2 goals in 12 games, but can't find anyone who
    can slot them in at the other end. I wonder how much Spurs want for
    Rosenthal?
    
    Dave.