Kyle Walker has returned to parent club Sheffield United after the Blades recalled him from his loan spell at Sixfields. Walker, a key figure in the Cobblers' line-up in recent weeks has shown real promise since arriving from Bramall Lane and was certainly at a different level on occasions.
Walker made nine appearances for the club but will now go back to attempt to force into the Blades squad.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Northampton Town 0-0 Bristol Rovers
And so a final ninety minutes of football to round of 2008 and what better way to end the calendar month than with a draw that showed just how bad we’re not and just how good we’re not at the changing of the year. The fact that we were clinging on to a draw at the end of the game shows that work is still to be done in 2009 but the way we started the game can equally show promise for the coming months.
Of course, it may be very tough to judge what 2009 will bring, with the current crop of Cobblers players not sure whether they will be playing together for much longer due to the financial cuts being made in the fallout from the NBC disaster. It’s going to be difficult to add to this squad and make it any better and if Stuart Gray can do that by January 31st he will have done an incredible job.
As it is, we must plug on and support the eleven men that turn out week in, week out and a mid-table finish looks a very safe bet after this afternoon’s game with a Bristol Rovers side who showed just as much inconsistency within the ninety minutes as we did ourselves.
It was the Cobblers who stormed out of the blocks, eager to erase the memories of the late Southend winner against them on Boxing Day. Bayo Akinfenwa, starting up front alongside Scott Mcgleish in the first game the two have played together, controlled a high ball early on with his ample chest and volleyed a controlled effort from distance against the post in an agonising near miss that could well have sparked a comfortable afternoon should it have found the net.
We continued brightly on and Danny Jackman had a deflected free kick saved well by visiting keeper Steve Phillips before the first flash point involving the officials of the afternoon came about. Jackman swung in the resulting corner and Akinfenwa rose to seemingly put us in front by powering a header into the unguarded net. The big man began to celebrate with the 5,000 or so Cobblers fans in attendance but referee Mr Hooper ruled it out for what seemed little contact on Phillips.
The ball was in Rovers’ net again a few minutes later with Scott McGleish’s effort ruled out for offside and this time it was more clear cut and the officials had a certain case.
Rovers were struggling to get a hold in the game and a shot into the side netting was the best they could conjure up until a minute before the break as Chris Lines curled over the top of Chris Dunn’s goal.
The start of the second half saw the Cobblers briefly threaten the visitors’ goal with Akinfenwa going close on a couple of occasions before Andy Todd headed over the bar from a Jackman corner but the early pressure faded and Rovers began to show their attacking mettle.
The linesman on the West Stand side of the ground wasn’t winning any friends but the pinnacle of his bizarre decisions came mid-way through the half when he awarded Rovers a free kick when Liam Davis had clearly taken the ball near the touchline. From that free kick, we were so nearly behind as a goal mouth scramble was cleared off the line. The danger wasn’t over though and Chris Dunn had to come out to deny Rickie Lambert from the following corner.
Rovers were beginning to impose themselves and so nearly took the lead with yet another scramble involving many bodies and the goal line once again saw us ride our luck more than once. It started to feel like it could yet be out day with such good fortune going our way and Liam Davis took the ball up the other end and went close to putting us in front.
It was the Cobblers’ turn to be cursing their own luck late on as Ryan Gilligan had a shot cleared at the last by a defender but the game ended all square and that was a fair result on the basis of the game and one that both managers will take after coming under pressure in different parts of the game. Both will point to big decisions going against them with Bayo’s header and Rovers’ good appeals for a spot kick for a second half handball going amiss but 2008 ended with just the solitary point for both teams.
What 2009 will bring is anyone’s guess but what is for certain is that you won’t be able to predict where we will be come May and the end of the current campaign. All eyes are now on the January transfer window as we see what is in store for our beloved club in the wake of our not so beloved council’s latest revelations.
Of course, it may be very tough to judge what 2009 will bring, with the current crop of Cobblers players not sure whether they will be playing together for much longer due to the financial cuts being made in the fallout from the NBC disaster. It’s going to be difficult to add to this squad and make it any better and if Stuart Gray can do that by January 31st he will have done an incredible job.
As it is, we must plug on and support the eleven men that turn out week in, week out and a mid-table finish looks a very safe bet after this afternoon’s game with a Bristol Rovers side who showed just as much inconsistency within the ninety minutes as we did ourselves.
It was the Cobblers who stormed out of the blocks, eager to erase the memories of the late Southend winner against them on Boxing Day. Bayo Akinfenwa, starting up front alongside Scott Mcgleish in the first game the two have played together, controlled a high ball early on with his ample chest and volleyed a controlled effort from distance against the post in an agonising near miss that could well have sparked a comfortable afternoon should it have found the net.
We continued brightly on and Danny Jackman had a deflected free kick saved well by visiting keeper Steve Phillips before the first flash point involving the officials of the afternoon came about. Jackman swung in the resulting corner and Akinfenwa rose to seemingly put us in front by powering a header into the unguarded net. The big man began to celebrate with the 5,000 or so Cobblers fans in attendance but referee Mr Hooper ruled it out for what seemed little contact on Phillips.
The ball was in Rovers’ net again a few minutes later with Scott McGleish’s effort ruled out for offside and this time it was more clear cut and the officials had a certain case.
Rovers were struggling to get a hold in the game and a shot into the side netting was the best they could conjure up until a minute before the break as Chris Lines curled over the top of Chris Dunn’s goal.
The start of the second half saw the Cobblers briefly threaten the visitors’ goal with Akinfenwa going close on a couple of occasions before Andy Todd headed over the bar from a Jackman corner but the early pressure faded and Rovers began to show their attacking mettle.
The linesman on the West Stand side of the ground wasn’t winning any friends but the pinnacle of his bizarre decisions came mid-way through the half when he awarded Rovers a free kick when Liam Davis had clearly taken the ball near the touchline. From that free kick, we were so nearly behind as a goal mouth scramble was cleared off the line. The danger wasn’t over though and Chris Dunn had to come out to deny Rickie Lambert from the following corner.
Rovers were beginning to impose themselves and so nearly took the lead with yet another scramble involving many bodies and the goal line once again saw us ride our luck more than once. It started to feel like it could yet be out day with such good fortune going our way and Liam Davis took the ball up the other end and went close to putting us in front.
It was the Cobblers’ turn to be cursing their own luck late on as Ryan Gilligan had a shot cleared at the last by a defender but the game ended all square and that was a fair result on the basis of the game and one that both managers will take after coming under pressure in different parts of the game. Both will point to big decisions going against them with Bayo’s header and Rovers’ good appeals for a spot kick for a second half handball going amiss but 2008 ended with just the solitary point for both teams.
What 2009 will bring is anyone’s guess but what is for certain is that you won’t be able to predict where we will be come May and the end of the current campaign. All eyes are now on the January transfer window as we see what is in store for our beloved club in the wake of our not so beloved council’s latest revelations.
Bristol Rovers (H) Preview
The Cobblers fulfill the final game of the year this afternoon as Paul Trollope's Bristol Rovers side attempt to overtake us in the League One standings.
Team News
The Cobblers will be without midfielder Abdul Osman who was sent off with fifteen minutes to go of the Boxing Day defeat at Southend. Jason Crowe and Danny Jackman both picked up knocks in the same game and will face late fitness tests along with Adebayo Akinfenwa. Chris Doig remains sidelined long term but Luke Guttridge could return to the starting line-up.
Rovers midfielder Craig Disley has recovered from concussion and should be back in contention for the game but David Pipe is definately missing. Pipe is injured at the moment but would miss the game through suspension even if he were able to play.
Form
Stuart Gray's side were beaten by Southend on Boxing Day through a late free kick but won the last game at Sixfields against Carlisle by a single Jason Crowe goal.
Rovers have lost their last two games, a 3-1 defeat at Stockport County followed by a home defeat to MK Dons on Boxing Day.
Recent Meetings
12/03/08: ROVERS 1-1 COBBLERS
Sean Rigg put the Gas in front but Poul Hubertz grabbed an equaliser to keep the Cobblers in the hunt for a top half finish towards the end of last season.
06/11/07: COBBLERS 0-1 ROVERS
Days after a good league run came to and end at Southend, Rovers doubled the misery by winning with a Rickie Lambert goal.
19/11/05: COBBLERS 4-0 ROVERS
Two goals from Andy Kirk, one from Martin Smith and a late header from Pedj Bojic seal a comfortable win en route to promotion.
07/10/05: ROVERS 0-0 COBBLERS
Stalemate in the Cobblers' promotion season of 05/06.
03/01/05: ROVERS 3-1 COBBLERS
Former Cobbler James Hunt gives Rovers the lead before it's doubled by Chris Edwards. Eric Sabin gives us hope with ten minutes to go but Junior Agogo makes it 3-1 in stoppage time.
25/09/04: COBBLERS 2-1 ROVERS
Two goals in the first half from Scott Mcgleish puts us in the driving seat and despite a late goal from Dave Savage we held out for the win.
Recent Meetings
GAMES PLAYED: 120
ROVERS WINS: 39
DRAWS: 34
COBBLERS WINS: 47
Southend United 1-0 Northampton Town
On a day for the family to gather around the dinner table and put down the remains of Christmas Day's turkey and jacket potatoes, football goes on and the Cobblers travelled to Southend to attempt to continue the momentum gained from a heroic comeback at Scunthorpe and single goal success over Carlisle at Sixfields.
But unfortunately there wasn't much of a sign about on a chilly day in Essex that either Stuart Gray's side or the side in the worst form in the division, Southend that a classic would be on the cards and Gray's men would eventually succumb to losing a man and to a last gasp winner. The dramatic nature of the finish certainly didn't match the previous 92 minutes of action as neither side wanted to make mistakes but both gave the ball away cheaply and were pretty much as bad as each other. A League One advertisement this was not.
Kyle Walker, the man who signed an extension to his loan spell last week, was one of those on the pitch at Roots Hall that could have shone brighter than anyone and took the game by the scruff of its neck but even he was off his usual form. Walker missed two good chances in a game bereft of goal mouth action. The defender first took down a knock from the returning Adebayo Akinfenwa to shoot straight at goalkeeper Steve Mildenhall and then missed an even better opportunity after good work from Liam Davis down the left hand side.
Jason Crowe nearly gave the home side a helping hand before half-time, narrowly escaping an own goal but the sides went in level after a poor first half and there was little to suggest that it would improve after half time.
The pace did increase a little with Giles Coke shooting wide at one end and the tricky Junior Stanislas beating two men and having a good effort saved by Chris Dunn. Dunn had little to do up until that point and it looked like he would follow up his clean sheet against Carlisle with another block out against the Shrimpers but when Abdul Osman was sent off for a second yellow card with fifteen minutes to go, you could sense an onslaught from Southend.
Akinfenwa was brought off to accommodate new tactics after Osman's dismissal as Luke Guttridge joined the fray but we just couldn't hold on. A free kick in stoppage time was given and you could feel that all so usual sinking feeling as Stanislas stepped up and curled the ball past Chris Dunn, who may feel he could have done better, to win the game for Southend and send the 400 or so Cobblers faithful home to pick up their Christmas leftovers in a foul mood.
The leftovers from this day will need to be picked up soon as Bristol Rovers visit Sixfields on Sunday afternoon in the final game of 2008. As we face 2009 in as much insecurity off the pitch as ever we must try to do everything we can in the vital ninety minutes on it to make sure we're a League One club next season. Anything after that is a bonus in times of real uncertainty and anyone about to jump on the players' backs for this Boxing Day defeat will do well to remember that it could be a whole lot worse.
But unfortunately there wasn't much of a sign about on a chilly day in Essex that either Stuart Gray's side or the side in the worst form in the division, Southend that a classic would be on the cards and Gray's men would eventually succumb to losing a man and to a last gasp winner. The dramatic nature of the finish certainly didn't match the previous 92 minutes of action as neither side wanted to make mistakes but both gave the ball away cheaply and were pretty much as bad as each other. A League One advertisement this was not.
Kyle Walker, the man who signed an extension to his loan spell last week, was one of those on the pitch at Roots Hall that could have shone brighter than anyone and took the game by the scruff of its neck but even he was off his usual form. Walker missed two good chances in a game bereft of goal mouth action. The defender first took down a knock from the returning Adebayo Akinfenwa to shoot straight at goalkeeper Steve Mildenhall and then missed an even better opportunity after good work from Liam Davis down the left hand side.
Jason Crowe nearly gave the home side a helping hand before half-time, narrowly escaping an own goal but the sides went in level after a poor first half and there was little to suggest that it would improve after half time.
The pace did increase a little with Giles Coke shooting wide at one end and the tricky Junior Stanislas beating two men and having a good effort saved by Chris Dunn. Dunn had little to do up until that point and it looked like he would follow up his clean sheet against Carlisle with another block out against the Shrimpers but when Abdul Osman was sent off for a second yellow card with fifteen minutes to go, you could sense an onslaught from Southend.
Akinfenwa was brought off to accommodate new tactics after Osman's dismissal as Luke Guttridge joined the fray but we just couldn't hold on. A free kick in stoppage time was given and you could feel that all so usual sinking feeling as Stanislas stepped up and curled the ball past Chris Dunn, who may feel he could have done better, to win the game for Southend and send the 400 or so Cobblers faithful home to pick up their Christmas leftovers in a foul mood.
The leftovers from this day will need to be picked up soon as Bristol Rovers visit Sixfields on Sunday afternoon in the final game of 2008. As we face 2009 in as much insecurity off the pitch as ever we must try to do everything we can in the vital ninety minutes on it to make sure we're a League One club next season. Anything after that is a bonus in times of real uncertainty and anyone about to jump on the players' backs for this Boxing Day defeat will do well to remember that it could be a whole lot worse.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Boxing Day Special...The Cobblers' recent history on December 26th...
The Cobblers on Boxing Day...Mixed bag of results in recent times on December 26th for Town...
The Cobblers have a mixedrecord of four wins, four defeats, one draw and a postponement in the last ten Boxing Day outings. Below is the record of the last few games falling on December 26th...
2007: DONCASTER 2-0 COBBLERS
Mark McCammon and Adam Lockwood were the scorers as the Cobblers put in one of the poorer performances of last season on Boxing Day against the eventual winners of last season's League One playoffs.
2006: COBBLERS 2-0 CHELTENHAM
Two goals from Scott McGleish help the Cobblers to an important victory over relegation rivals Cheltenham Town. The second of McGleish's goals came from the penalty spot.
2005: COBBLERS 1-0 MANSFIELD
David Hunt scores the only goal of the game against Mansfield en route to automatic promotion from League Two in 2005/06.
2004: NOTTS COUNTY P-P COBBLERS
Game postponed early in the day due to a frozen pitch at Meadow Lane. The rearranged game takes place a couple of months later and ends goalless.
2003: BRISTOL ROVERS 1-2 COBBLERS
Wayne Carlisle puts Rovers in front but goals from Richard Walker and Derek Asamoah in the last fifteen minutes of the game turns it on its head for a Cobblers win. The last time we won away from home on Boxing Day.
2002: COBBLERS 0-1 CHESTERFIELD
A late strike from Shayne Bradley earns the Spireites an away win.
2001: COBBLERS 2-3 COLCHESTER
On an entertaining Boxing Day, Richard Hope puts the Cobblers into the lead but just before half time, Ian Sampson puts through his own net to send the sides in level. Further goals from Graham Barrett make it 3-1 to the visitors and although Jamie Forrester pulls a goal back, it's too late to steal anything from the game.
2000: COBBLERS 2-0 BRISTOL CITY
Two goals in as many minutes from Dave Savage and Jamie Forrester are enough to see off City at Sixfields.
1999: SOUTHEND 2-2 COBBLERS
The last time Southend and the Cobblers met on Boxing Day saw Martin Carruthers put the home side in front. John Frain and Ian Sampson turned the game back in our favour but Neil Tolson grabs a late equaliser as the points are shared at Roots Hall.
1998: NOTTS COUNTY 3-1 COBBLERS
Kim Grant gives County the perfect start by scoring in the opening minute of the game before Fran Tierney and Ian Richardson make it 3-0 before half time. Lee Howey gets the Cobblers' consolation goal.
So the Cobblers will be looking to put the recent record in their favour as we make the trip to Southend oon Boxing Day 2008!
The Cobblers have a mixedrecord of four wins, four defeats, one draw and a postponement in the last ten Boxing Day outings. Below is the record of the last few games falling on December 26th...
2007: DONCASTER 2-0 COBBLERS
Mark McCammon and Adam Lockwood were the scorers as the Cobblers put in one of the poorer performances of last season on Boxing Day against the eventual winners of last season's League One playoffs.
2006: COBBLERS 2-0 CHELTENHAM
Two goals from Scott McGleish help the Cobblers to an important victory over relegation rivals Cheltenham Town. The second of McGleish's goals came from the penalty spot.
2005: COBBLERS 1-0 MANSFIELD
David Hunt scores the only goal of the game against Mansfield en route to automatic promotion from League Two in 2005/06.
2004: NOTTS COUNTY P-P COBBLERS
Game postponed early in the day due to a frozen pitch at Meadow Lane. The rearranged game takes place a couple of months later and ends goalless.
2003: BRISTOL ROVERS 1-2 COBBLERS
Wayne Carlisle puts Rovers in front but goals from Richard Walker and Derek Asamoah in the last fifteen minutes of the game turns it on its head for a Cobblers win. The last time we won away from home on Boxing Day.
2002: COBBLERS 0-1 CHESTERFIELD
A late strike from Shayne Bradley earns the Spireites an away win.
2001: COBBLERS 2-3 COLCHESTER
On an entertaining Boxing Day, Richard Hope puts the Cobblers into the lead but just before half time, Ian Sampson puts through his own net to send the sides in level. Further goals from Graham Barrett make it 3-1 to the visitors and although Jamie Forrester pulls a goal back, it's too late to steal anything from the game.
2000: COBBLERS 2-0 BRISTOL CITY
Two goals in as many minutes from Dave Savage and Jamie Forrester are enough to see off City at Sixfields.
1999: SOUTHEND 2-2 COBBLERS
The last time Southend and the Cobblers met on Boxing Day saw Martin Carruthers put the home side in front. John Frain and Ian Sampson turned the game back in our favour but Neil Tolson grabs a late equaliser as the points are shared at Roots Hall.
1998: NOTTS COUNTY 3-1 COBBLERS
Kim Grant gives County the perfect start by scoring in the opening minute of the game before Fran Tierney and Ian Richardson make it 3-0 before half time. Lee Howey gets the Cobblers' consolation goal.
So the Cobblers will be looking to put the recent record in their favour as we make the trip to Southend oon Boxing Day 2008!
Southend United (A) Preview
The Cobblers travel to Southend on Boxing Day to face a side bereft of confidence following a poor run of form that's seen them go from playoff contention to mid-table in a matter of weeks.
Form
Southend have lost their last three games, the latest being a 3-0 drubbing at Hartlepool last Friday night. The only win in the last few weeks has been the 3-1 win over Luton Town in the FA Cup Second Round, setting them up with a third round tie at Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea.
The Cobblers followed up the incredible 4-4 draw at Scunthorpe with a more straiught forward 1-0 home win over Carlisle United on Saturday. Jason Crowe's header was enough to seal the points and move us into the top half of the table.
Team News
Southend are without defenders Adam Barrett and Dan Harding who both miss the game through suspension. Franck Moussa has completed his loan period at Wycombe and could come back into the squad for the visit of the Cobblers.
Stuart Gray's only injury concern is skipper Chris Doig who definately misses out again but other than that he has a fully fit squad to choose from and coule name an unchanged side from last weekend's win over Carlisle.
Recent Meetings
12/04/08: SOUTHEND 1-1 COBBLERS
Colin Larkin heads the Cobblers in front in the first half but Lee Barnard taps home a rebound to equalise following Charlie Mulgrew's free kick.
03/11/08: COBBLERS 0-1 SOUTHEND
Adam Barrett's second half header gives Southend all three points at Sixfields and starts us off on a run of seven games without a win.
21/05/05: SOUTHEND 1-0 COBBLERS (League Two Playoff Semi Final, 2nd Leg)
Fredy Eastwood's controversial penalty sends Southend to the Millennium Stadium and the League Two playoff final as the Cobblers come up short in the playoffs for the second season in a row.
15/05/05: COBBLERS 0-0 SOUTHEND (League Two Playoff Semi Final, 1st Leg)
A nervy playoff semi final, first leg at Sixfields that ends goalless.
19/02/05: COBBLERS 1-2 SOUTHEND
Martin Smith fires the Cobblers into a seventh minute lead but two identical headers from Adam Barrett turns the game in Southend's favour late in the game, the winner coming in stoppage time.
30/11/04: COBBLERS 0-2 SOUTHEND (JPT Southern Area Quarter Final)
Former Cobbler Lawrie Dudfield and Carl Pettifer score the goals to send The Shrimpers through to the Southern Area Semi Finals.
30/10/04: SOUTHEND 2-1 COBBLERS
Mark Gower and Wayne Gray score either side of a missed Scott McGleish penalty to hand Southend a two goal lead. Eric Sabin strikes late on to give us hope but the home side hang on.
Head to Head...Shrimpers v Cobblers...
Games Played: 121
Southend Wins: 41
Draws: 28
Cobblers Wins: 52
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Walker extends Cobblers deal
Right back Kyle Walker has extended his loan spell with the Cobblers until the January transfer window. The Sheffield United defender, who has been impressing since joining from the Blades last month, was due to depart Sixfields this week.
But following another strong performance against Carlisle United in Saturday's 1-0 win, Walker has signed for a further month to take him up to the transfer window.
Meanwhile, Adebayo Akinfenwa came through another 45 minutes unscathed as Ian Sampson's reserve team saw off Rushden and Diamonds in a hastily arranged game on Monday.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Northampton Town 1-0 Carlisle United
The Cobblers were propelled into the top half of League One yesterday as Jason Crowe's goal was enough to send us into the upper reaches of the table for the first time in a couple of months. The bad vibes from the council this week had put this game into the back of minds for a while but by the time kick off came around, it was back to what we do best and supporting a group of players that may not be together for a whole lot longer should budget adjestments be made in January.
One of those that could find himself in the transfer window come January popped up with the winning goal in the final game before Christmas. A welcome Christmas present for Stuart Gray was that we held onto the lead given to us by Jason Crowe just after the hour mark and we can now happily relax on Christmas Day with an excellent league position.
Before Crowe had netted the winner, Scott McGleish had a goal disallowed for an offside decision after Leon Constantine had set him up. More decisions went against us as Constantine seemed to be tugged down by Richard Keogh inside the area but referee Mr Gibbs gave the decision the other way for a Carlisle free kick.
Danny Jackman, in fantastic form coming into the game, so nearly added to his season's goal tally but had a shot cleared off the line in the final action of a good first half performance from the Cobblers.
Carlisle could so easily have been in front just after the break and Keogh will be cursing his incredible miss from just a few yards out following a free kick from on loan midfielder Graham Kavanagh because just minutes later we were in front.
Jackman put in a trademark delivery and Crowe, one of the smallest players on the pitch, rose to head home the goal that would win the game for the Cobblers.
With twenty minutes to go, Adebayo Akinfenwa made his triumphant return to first team action. After impressing in the reserves this week, he replaced Mark Hughes and received a warm welcome back from the Town faithful that have missed him as much as his team mates have. The dream return so nearly came off when the big man had a shot deflected wide just after his introduction.
Both Leon Constantine and Andy Holt hit the post in the closing stages before Carlisle had an effort ruled out for offside but the game ended in the Cobblers' favour and three vital points for Stuart Gray means that we're back into the comfort of the top half.
Carlisle can reflect on a game where they never realy got going and will now be looking nervously over their shoulder at the bottom four following last season's run to the playoffs.
Saturday, December 20, 2008
Carlisle United (H) Preview
The Cobblers host Carlisle United on Saturday with all eyes back to action on the pitch following this week's bad news off it.
Adebayo Akinfenwa could play some part in the game after playing an hour for the reserves at Wycombe on Tuesday night and scoring a goal for good measure. Luke Guttridge could also come back into the squad after missing last week's game at Scunthorpe through a neck injury. Chris Doig is missing still while Ron-Robert Zeiler will battle Chris Dunn for the goalkeepers' jersey.
Carlisle could welcome back Danny Graham and Peter Murphy after both missed out recently through injury. Midfielder Graham Kavanagh has extended his loan spell from Sunderland and will once again be available for selection.
Adebayo Akinfenwa could play some part in the game after playing an hour for the reserves at Wycombe on Tuesday night and scoring a goal for good measure. Luke Guttridge could also come back into the squad after missing last week's game at Scunthorpe through a neck injury. Chris Doig is missing still while Ron-Robert Zeiler will battle Chris Dunn for the goalkeepers' jersey.
Carlisle could welcome back Danny Graham and Peter Murphy after both missed out recently through injury. Midfielder Graham Kavanagh has extended his loan spell from Sunderland and will once again be available for selection.
Monday, December 15, 2008
NBC hammer another nail in Sixfields' coffin
Disturbing sounds have come out of the latest meeting between Northampton Town Football Club and Northampton Borough Council with the council making it clear that any proposed redevelopment of Sixfields and the surrounding area will come behind the development of the town centre.
The council have said that no retail which "inadvertantly or in any other way" had an impact on the town centre would be agreed, putting any plans to redevelop Sixfields to the back burner behind a proposed improvement of the Grosvenor Centre, a deal that may not be complete until 2026.
Only non-retail development would now be considered by the council and the Cardozas, along with every single Northampton Town fan, have been completely let down by a council that does not seem to see the potential of a football club to its town.
David Cardoza was obviosuly upset and said,
"We are bitterly disappointed at this news. We have now been left with very few options for development and none of these at present will release enough funds to implement our original or revised plans."
"We now have to go back to the drawing board, start from scratch, talk to our partners and try to work up a plan to put to the council which can salvage some of our plans, if indeed this is at all possible."
The council have said that no retail which "inadvertantly or in any other way" had an impact on the town centre would be agreed, putting any plans to redevelop Sixfields to the back burner behind a proposed improvement of the Grosvenor Centre, a deal that may not be complete until 2026.
Only non-retail development would now be considered by the council and the Cardozas, along with every single Northampton Town fan, have been completely let down by a council that does not seem to see the potential of a football club to its town.
David Cardoza was obviosuly upset and said,
"We are bitterly disappointed at this news. We have now been left with very few options for development and none of these at present will release enough funds to implement our original or revised plans."
"We now have to go back to the drawing board, start from scratch, talk to our partners and try to work up a plan to put to the council which can salvage some of our plans, if indeed this is at all possible."
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Scunthorpe United 4-4 Northampton Town
The odds were stacked well against Stuart Gray’s men from the off and with Frank Fielding returning to Blackburn Rovers before the game there was more and more things in our way of recording a result at a ground that doesn’t hold a lot of great memories for the Cobblers.
Abdul Osman returned to the starting line up while Colin Larkin returned to the bench once again. Meanwhile, Leon Constantine won a place back in the starting eleven after missing out in last weekend’s home draw with Leyton Orient. Chris Dunn came in for the departing Fielding in goal but could have no idea of what was about to come flying his way as the Cobblers made a disastrous start to the game.
Izzy Iriekpen fired a warning shot early with a header that shot wide of the post before Scott McGleish shot wide at the other end from long range. But the home side did take the lead on thirteen minutes with the goal that would start an extraordinary afternoon. Martyn Woolford did well on the left hand side and crossed for Ben May to nip in to open the scoring.
Just six minutes later and the game was already to begin to look beyond the Cobblers when Scunthorpe took a two goal lead when Gary Hooper ran and shot from twenty five yards to unlease a fantastic strike that left Chris Dunn with no chance as it rattled into the top corner of his net. With Scunthorpe riding high in League One and the Cobblers with a poor away record, this looked over there and then.
But the first of many twists and turns was just around the corner and it came in the shape of Scott McGleish who halved the deficit as he rose at the back post to head home a Liam Davis cross and give the travelling support some hope. The action was fast paced and there always looked to be more goals in it but unfortunately for Stuart Gray, his job got harder before the break as Hooper beat a collection of Cobblers defenders on the line to head the ball in from close range.
The Cobblers tried in vain to get back into the game before the half time whistle and were a little unlucky to be going in two goals behind. Stuart Gray’s team talk had to be rousing but whatever he said didn’t work straight away as the home side made it 4-1 within minutes of the restart. Woolford sent in a shot that Chris Dunn parried but Ben May got his second of the game from the rebound.
The odds at the beginning of the game were now completely blown out of the water and lengthening by the second but Giles Coke found space in the area to finish low into the net after an Andy Todd free kick. There was still over half an hour to go but any sane Cobblers fan still could not even consider what was about to happen.
Five minutes after Coke’s goal, his second of the season, and incredibly it was 4-3 as Danny Jackman finished well from the edge of the area to set up a quite remarkable finale.
Ryan Gilligan came off the bench in place of Scott McGleish as we looked for the equaliser and Jason Crowe came agonisingly close to getting it with just over ten minutes to go as he sent in a shot from thirty yards that crashed off the cross bar and bounced onto the goal line before a Scunthorpe defender cleared.
But there was that final piece of luck, magic or skill, whichever way you look at it but whatever you call it, it was unbelievable. Danny Jackman stepped up to take a corner and connected well enough for the ball to fly into the net and send the away fans barmy after a stunning recovery. Scunthorpe could have snatched it at the death as Jackman made a goal line clearance as hearts were well and truly in mouths.
So after a magnificent game of football we’re left once again loving a sport that can stun you when you least expect it, leave you in a state of despair one minute and ten minutes later have you jumping for joy and run you through every emotion imaginable. There’s a few hundred Cobblers fans travelling back from Scunthorpe tonight that will remember this day for years to come even though the result won’t be the most significant in recent years.
Set the Sky Plus box/recorders for The Championship tomorrow morning...it’s one to keep!
Abdul Osman returned to the starting line up while Colin Larkin returned to the bench once again. Meanwhile, Leon Constantine won a place back in the starting eleven after missing out in last weekend’s home draw with Leyton Orient. Chris Dunn came in for the departing Fielding in goal but could have no idea of what was about to come flying his way as the Cobblers made a disastrous start to the game.
Izzy Iriekpen fired a warning shot early with a header that shot wide of the post before Scott McGleish shot wide at the other end from long range. But the home side did take the lead on thirteen minutes with the goal that would start an extraordinary afternoon. Martyn Woolford did well on the left hand side and crossed for Ben May to nip in to open the scoring.
Just six minutes later and the game was already to begin to look beyond the Cobblers when Scunthorpe took a two goal lead when Gary Hooper ran and shot from twenty five yards to unlease a fantastic strike that left Chris Dunn with no chance as it rattled into the top corner of his net. With Scunthorpe riding high in League One and the Cobblers with a poor away record, this looked over there and then.
But the first of many twists and turns was just around the corner and it came in the shape of Scott McGleish who halved the deficit as he rose at the back post to head home a Liam Davis cross and give the travelling support some hope. The action was fast paced and there always looked to be more goals in it but unfortunately for Stuart Gray, his job got harder before the break as Hooper beat a collection of Cobblers defenders on the line to head the ball in from close range.
The Cobblers tried in vain to get back into the game before the half time whistle and were a little unlucky to be going in two goals behind. Stuart Gray’s team talk had to be rousing but whatever he said didn’t work straight away as the home side made it 4-1 within minutes of the restart. Woolford sent in a shot that Chris Dunn parried but Ben May got his second of the game from the rebound.
The odds at the beginning of the game were now completely blown out of the water and lengthening by the second but Giles Coke found space in the area to finish low into the net after an Andy Todd free kick. There was still over half an hour to go but any sane Cobblers fan still could not even consider what was about to happen.
Five minutes after Coke’s goal, his second of the season, and incredibly it was 4-3 as Danny Jackman finished well from the edge of the area to set up a quite remarkable finale.
Ryan Gilligan came off the bench in place of Scott McGleish as we looked for the equaliser and Jason Crowe came agonisingly close to getting it with just over ten minutes to go as he sent in a shot from thirty yards that crashed off the cross bar and bounced onto the goal line before a Scunthorpe defender cleared.
But there was that final piece of luck, magic or skill, whichever way you look at it but whatever you call it, it was unbelievable. Danny Jackman stepped up to take a corner and connected well enough for the ball to fly into the net and send the away fans barmy after a stunning recovery. Scunthorpe could have snatched it at the death as Jackman made a goal line clearance as hearts were well and truly in mouths.
So after a magnificent game of football we’re left once again loving a sport that can stun you when you least expect it, leave you in a state of despair one minute and ten minutes later have you jumping for joy and run you through every emotion imaginable. There’s a few hundred Cobblers fans travelling back from Scunthorpe tonight that will remember this day for years to come even though the result won’t be the most significant in recent years.
Set the Sky Plus box/recorders for The Championship tomorrow morning...it’s one to keep!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Scunthorpe United (A) Preview...
The Cobblers will be looking to end a poor record at Scunthorpe this Saturday when Stuart Gray takes his side north to face the high flying Iron.
Form
Scunthorpe moved up the table last weekend with a good 2-0 win at fellow promotion chasers MK Dons. Ian Morris and Garry Thompson were on the score sheet for the Iron at Stadium: MK.
The Cobblers were held at home by Leyton Orient last Saturday as Liam Davis' second minute goal was cancelled out by JJ Melligan just before half time. The result left us in mid-table but still looking over our shoulder at the bottom four.
Team News
Scunthorpe are missing Paul Hayes with a broken cheekbone while Kevan Hurst and David Hurst are out until the New Year. Defender Andy Crosdy could miss out with a knee problem and Grant McCann is suspended after picking up his fifth booking of the season at Milton Keynes last week.
Stuart Gray is still without Adebayo Akinfenwa and Chris Doig ahead of the game but Abdul Osman and Colin Larkin both came through another reserve team game this week and should be included in the squad. Nicholas Bignall has returned to Reading after his loan spell came to end this week. Frank Fielding plays his final game for the club before moving back to parent club Blackburn.
Recent Meetings
09/04/07: COBBLERS 2-1 SCUNTHORPE
After the Cobblers fans staged a protest before this Easter Monday game against the council's delays to a decision on Sixfields redevelopment, the team went on to record a big win. With the visitors close to being crowned champions, Alex Pearce put the Cobblers in front before Billy Sharp equalised. But Brad Johnson swooped in stoppage time to fire us a well earned win at Sixfields.
18/11/06: SCUNTHORPE 1-0 COBBLERS
Andy Crosby fires home a late penalty to sink the Cobblers at Glanford Park with just four minutes to go.
09/04/05: COBBLERS 1-2 SCUNTHORPE
Andy Kirk puts the Cobblers into the lead after just four minutes but first half goals from Paul Hayes and Richard Kell turn the game around and Scunthorpe take home all three points.
30/08/04: SCUNTHORPE 2-0 COBBLERS
A first half goal from Andy Keogh and an Andy Crosby spot kick ease the home side to victory.
Head to Head...Iron v Cobblers...
Games Played: 45
Scunthorpe Wins:
22 Draws: 12
Cobblers Wins: 21
Sunday, December 07, 2008
Northampton Town 1-1 Leyton Orient
With four straight wins away from home under their belt and not a league goal conceded since October, Leyton Orient had every reason to be confident ahead of their trip to Sixfields yesterday. The O’s were bragging a fine record on the road this season and their season had only been blighted by a poor run at Brisbane Road.
So it was certainly against the form guide when the Cobblers took a second minute lead as Liam Davis drove home following an uncleared Andy Todd cross. With one goal in that short amount of time after kick off we could have been forgiven for thinking that this was the start of the floodgates opening following the visitors’ stubborn run of blocking sides out.
Nicholas Bignall featured in a rare starting berth up front with Scott McGleish and forced O’s keeper Glenn Morris into a good stop after twenty minutes as we increased the pressure and tried to force the issue of the early lead. It was all going swimmingly until just before the break when Orient came forward in a rare attack. Leading scorer Adam Boyd got in a powerful header that Frank Fielding did very well to save but JJ Melligan was on hand to nod home the equaliser at the worst possible time.
A half time gee-up was needed but it was the visitors that had the first opening of the second half with Tamika Mkadawire shooting wide. This seemed to kick us into life and Bignall again was in the middle of the action as his shot was blocked by a covering O’s defender.
Fielding had to be at his best mid way through the half as the on loan keeper proved that a January swoop would be well appreciated as he kept out Adam Chambers’ powerful effort with a good save after Chambers had been set up by Boyd. Sam Parkin was brought onto his old stomping ground with twenty minutes to go while Colin Larkin replaced Ryan Gilligan for the Cobblers.
A final ten minute attack from the Cobblers included Giles Coke having a shot saved and Scott McGleish round the keeper before having the ball bounce away from him but the game ended in a frustrating draw but on that the visitors very much deserved on the basis of the play.
The result leaves us still hanging around in mid-table and in desperate need of both the big Bayo back in action and a proven goal scorer to make games like this one safe if we’re to get into the upper realms of the table.
So it was certainly against the form guide when the Cobblers took a second minute lead as Liam Davis drove home following an uncleared Andy Todd cross. With one goal in that short amount of time after kick off we could have been forgiven for thinking that this was the start of the floodgates opening following the visitors’ stubborn run of blocking sides out.
Nicholas Bignall featured in a rare starting berth up front with Scott McGleish and forced O’s keeper Glenn Morris into a good stop after twenty minutes as we increased the pressure and tried to force the issue of the early lead. It was all going swimmingly until just before the break when Orient came forward in a rare attack. Leading scorer Adam Boyd got in a powerful header that Frank Fielding did very well to save but JJ Melligan was on hand to nod home the equaliser at the worst possible time.
A half time gee-up was needed but it was the visitors that had the first opening of the second half with Tamika Mkadawire shooting wide. This seemed to kick us into life and Bignall again was in the middle of the action as his shot was blocked by a covering O’s defender.
Fielding had to be at his best mid way through the half as the on loan keeper proved that a January swoop would be well appreciated as he kept out Adam Chambers’ powerful effort with a good save after Chambers had been set up by Boyd. Sam Parkin was brought onto his old stomping ground with twenty minutes to go while Colin Larkin replaced Ryan Gilligan for the Cobblers.
A final ten minute attack from the Cobblers included Giles Coke having a shot saved and Scott McGleish round the keeper before having the ball bounce away from him but the game ended in a frustrating draw but on that the visitors very much deserved on the basis of the play.
The result leaves us still hanging around in mid-table and in desperate need of both the big Bayo back in action and a proven goal scorer to make games like this one safe if we’re to get into the upper realms of the table.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Leyton Orient (H) Preview
The Cobblers look to bounce back from the defeat to Colchester United when Leyton Orient come to town on Saturday afternoon (3pm). Stuart Gray still has a chance to move his side into the top half of League One despite last week's set back and could have two players back from injury for the game.
Team News
Colin Larkin and Abdul Osman could return to the squad following their appearances for the reserves this week. Both played a full ninety minutes on Wednesday afternoon at Peterborough and could feature. Adebayo Akinfenwa and Chris Doig are both still sidelined though and definitely miss the game.
Orient welcome back on loan former Cobblers striker Sam Parkin to the squad after suspension. Tamika Mkandawire could also return after suffering a thigh injury. The O's are still without striker Wayne Gray.
Recent Meetings
25/01/08: COBBLERS 2-0 ORIENT
Giles Coke and Poul Hubertz get the goals to sink the O's in the last meeting between the sides back in January.
01/09/07: ORIENT 2-2 COBBLERS
Poul Hubertz and Chris Doig fired the Cobblers into a to goal lead before half-time but two goals in five minutes from Adam Chambers and Tamika Mkandawire in the second half earned the home side a draw.
07/04/07: ORIENT 0-2 COBBLERS
An early Simon Cox goal and an own goal just before the break from Aiden Palmer gave the Cobblers a vital win on the way to League One survival last season.
19/12/06: COBBLERS 0-1 ORIENT
Paul Connor scores with ten minutes to go to win the game for The O's in John Gorman's final game in charge of the Cobblers.
14/02/006: COBBLERS 1-1 ORIENT
After an Andy Kirk wonder goal gives the Cobblers an early lead, Orient strike back on 65 minutes through John Mackie to grab a point.
14/01/06: ORIENT 1-2 COBBLERS
Goals from Scott McGleish and Chris Doig put the Cobblers into the lead and despite a late Daryl McMahon goal for the home side, we hold on for a vital win en route to promotion to League One.
For The Record...Cobblers v O's...
GAMES PLAYED: 88
COBBLERS WINS: 36
DRAWS: 23
ORIENT WINS: 29
Team News
Colin Larkin and Abdul Osman could return to the squad following their appearances for the reserves this week. Both played a full ninety minutes on Wednesday afternoon at Peterborough and could feature. Adebayo Akinfenwa and Chris Doig are both still sidelined though and definitely miss the game.
Orient welcome back on loan former Cobblers striker Sam Parkin to the squad after suspension. Tamika Mkandawire could also return after suffering a thigh injury. The O's are still without striker Wayne Gray.
Recent Meetings
25/01/08: COBBLERS 2-0 ORIENT
Giles Coke and Poul Hubertz get the goals to sink the O's in the last meeting between the sides back in January.
01/09/07: ORIENT 2-2 COBBLERS
Poul Hubertz and Chris Doig fired the Cobblers into a to goal lead before half-time but two goals in five minutes from Adam Chambers and Tamika Mkandawire in the second half earned the home side a draw.
07/04/07: ORIENT 0-2 COBBLERS
An early Simon Cox goal and an own goal just before the break from Aiden Palmer gave the Cobblers a vital win on the way to League One survival last season.
19/12/06: COBBLERS 0-1 ORIENT
Paul Connor scores with ten minutes to go to win the game for The O's in John Gorman's final game in charge of the Cobblers.
14/02/006: COBBLERS 1-1 ORIENT
After an Andy Kirk wonder goal gives the Cobblers an early lead, Orient strike back on 65 minutes through John Mackie to grab a point.
14/01/06: ORIENT 1-2 COBBLERS
Goals from Scott McGleish and Chris Doig put the Cobblers into the lead and despite a late Daryl McMahon goal for the home side, we hold on for a vital win en route to promotion to League One.
For The Record...Cobblers v O's...
GAMES PLAYED: 88
COBBLERS WINS: 36
DRAWS: 23
ORIENT WINS: 29
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Crunch time for stadium plans
Northampton Town chairman David Cardoza has handed Cobblers fans a stark warning ahead of crunch meetings with the council in this weekend's match day programme.
Cardoza, writing in the notes for the Leyton Orient programme, said that the time is now for a decision to be made on Sixfields and that if it is not forthcoming it could threaten the veru future of the club.
The chairman writes, "As a club, we're determined to achieve our ambitions and make sure the town is not let down. But without the council on board there's no redevelopment and without the redevelopment there's no real future for Northampton Town Football Club; not that I can see anyway."
"It's now, or never. It's make or break time for the club and the council. It's cost me and my father £7 million to get to this stage over the last few years and we can't go on propping up the business without any hope of the club becoming self-sufficient through improved facilities."
"There's now no room left for further delays, no room left for warm words and yet no action," Cardoza continues, "We either jointly achieve something historic on behalf of the whole town, or we admit to the failure to achieve and suffer the consequences of that inaction."
New loanees make Town bow
New loan signings Ron-Robert Zieler and Kurt Robinson ade their reserve team debuts on Wednesday afternoon. Zieler played the full ninety minutes but couldn't prevent Ian Sampson's men from suffering a derby defeat to Peterborough United.
Good news on the injury front saw Colin Larkin and Abdul Osman come through the gae unscathed and both come into contention for Saturday's visit of Leyton Orient.
Meanwhile, 17-Year-Old midfielder Tom McBride has been called up to the Northern Ireland Under 17s for a Christmas training camp.
Good news on the injury front saw Colin Larkin and Abdul Osman come through the gae unscathed and both come into contention for Saturday's visit of Leyton Orient.
Meanwhile, 17-Year-Old midfielder Tom McBride has been called up to the Northern Ireland Under 17s for a Christmas training camp.
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