There’s only one more chance, under the short term loan ruling, for Gary Johnson to pull off a final signing before the deadline ends. With three loans sealed last week it leaves the new Town boss with just one final option and a difficult decision to make as to whether he brings in a defender or someone further up the park.
A lot may rest on the fitness of Leon McKenzie. With Billy McKay out for a few weeks, McKenzie will be needed but his stop start season has continued in the last week with the former Peterborough man missing the last couple of games with a knee problem. Should Johnson feel that he’ll be ok for the remainder of the season then the defence will be again looked at.
Ben Tozer was dropped on Tuesday night and there was an indication that moving John Johnson to centre back may become more permanent. Dean Beckwith was taken off at half-time at the B2Net Stadium and the Cobblers boss could be tempted by another defensive signing.
Either way, there could well be a fourth new face for the home fans to take in at the weekend game with Macclesfield Town.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Johnson set to meet Town fans
Gary Johnson will be meeting the Cobblers fans for the first time this evening (Thursday March 10th) as he speaks at his first Open Forum at Sixfields. In what is likely to be a popular evening for Town supporters as they prepare questions for the new boss, Johnson will be keen to discuss plans for the future as he tries to steer the club in the right direction.
Paul Tyrrell, bar manager of the Carlsberg Bar in the West Stand, will also be in attendance to discuss what improvements fans would like to see in this area. Andy Holt is also expected to be at the forum so a lively night expected!
The forum is free for all supporters (7:30pm for an 8pm start).
Paul Tyrrell, bar manager of the Carlsberg Bar in the West Stand, will also be in attendance to discuss what improvements fans would like to see in this area. Andy Holt is also expected to be at the forum so a lively night expected!
The forum is free for all supporters (7:30pm for an 8pm start).
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Sammo in for Mariners' post?
Sammo may be back in the game very quickly indeed as he has revealed that he has sent in his C.V. for the vacant managerial position at our old friends Grimsby Town. Despite it only being a week since his departure from Sixfields after 17 years, Sammo is keen to get right back into work and was in Cleethorpes at the weekend to “have a look” according to local press.
We of course wish Sammo all the best and hopefully he’ll be back in work as soon as possible and maybe we will one day see him back in his new job to get the farewell he richly deserves.
League Two midweek round up...gap opening at top and bottom...controversy at Valley Parade...
With Chesterfield defeating the Cobblers, it was vital for Bury to pick up all three points in their pursuit of the leaders and they did so with a narrow home victory over Morecambe thanks to a late goal from Lenell John-Lewis finally breaking down the Shrimps’ resistance. Wycombe opened a four point gap between themselves and fourth place with a single goal win against ten man Barnet at Underhill. Chris Westwood grabbed the winner there with a header from a Matt Bloomfield corner securing a massive win in the promotion race.
The win was made even better for them by Shrewsbury and Port Vale taking points off each other at the New Meadow. Marc Richards scored twice for Vale but goals from Lionel Ainsworth and James Collins were enough to earn Shrewsbury a draw in a result that is a whole lot better for the teams around them but neither Rotherham nor Gillingham could take full advantage.
Rotherham were beaten at Bradford in Peter Jackson’s first home game in charge for the Bantams as Tom Adeyami scored a controversial late winner. With the game poised at 1-1 going into stoppage time, Adeyami struck from distance and the ball seemed to hit the bar but the assistant referee awarded the goal, and ultimately the win, to City. Gillingham could only draw at Southend but keep a firm grip on the final playoff place thanks to that game finishing 2-2.
Of the chasing pack, Accrington Stanley made the biggest strides forward with a 3-0 home win over Stockport County. Phil Edwards scored two penalties for Stanley as they move to within seven points of the top seven with plenty of games in hand. County, along with Barnet, look very much doomed now.
That’s partly because both teams above them, Macclesfield Town and Burton Albion, got back to winning ways last night. Macc saw off Crewe thanks to Ross Draper’s goal after the midfielder was pushed up front for the evening. Burton eased their relegation worries with a home win against Lincoln City. Sam Winnall made the most of a mix up in the City defence to give his side the lead before Aaron Webster added a second and Winnall rounded off the win from the spot. Ashley Grimes’ late consolation for the Imps wasn’t enough and Burton are now four points above the drop zone with five games in hand!
Hereford’s own fears are long disappearing and they picked up another impressive three points at Stevenage – Joe Colbeck netting the winner there. And Aldershot ended their run of nine games without a win by beating Torquay with Luke Guttridge the match winner at the EBB Stadium.
Spireites too strong for Town
Chesterfield 2-1 Northampton Town
League Two
Tuesday, March 8th 2011
Gary Johnson joked on his appointment that today, March 9th, should have been the date he took over as Cobblers boss so as to avoid the perilous two opening games against high flying Shrewsbury and even higher flying Chesterfield. He may not actually be thinking it but you can see his point after a couple of defeats that are showing him that the task ahead is a tough one.
Johnson drafted in two of his new loan signings straight into the starting line-up at the B2Net Stadium with Nana Ofori-Twumasi in for Paul Rodgers and Jamie Reckord replacing Ben Tozer with John Johnson moving to centre back. Kevin Thornton returned in place of Billy McKay and played a more advanced role to try and support Shaun Harrad.
The early pressure was all with the home side and had Craig Davies not missed an open goal in the first five minutes then the eventual defeat could have been a hell of a lot worse. Chris Dunn dropped the ball into the path of Jack Lester who found Davies with a gaping net but the striker somehow contrived to miss.
The Cobblers were hanging on in the early exchanges and John Johnson had to clear the ball off the line after Dunn had blocked from Craig Davies and Derek Niven had followed up with a shot that looked destined to open the scoring.
But slowly we got back into the game and finished the half stronger, threatening to break the deadlock ourselves when Harrad had a shot deflected wide and Thornton also missed a chance right at the end of the half.
A reshuffle was enforced at the break as Dean Beckwith had to withdraw through injury. Ben Tozer replaced him and the words ringing in the players’ ears would have been to keep up the form that had given us real hope before the half-time whistle halted the resurgence. But it was the home side that took back control and with just over an hour played the deadlock was broken.
Lester burst through the Cobblers defence and forced Dunn into a good stop but Davies was making no mistake this time and rattled home the rebound. And it was near enough game over just a few minutes later with Danny Whittaker’s excellent work on the left finished off by Lester for 2-0.
Time wasn’t on the Cobblers’ side but there was one last gimmer of hope with around eight minutes to play. Andy Holt continued his excellent run of form in front of goal with a header from a Jacobs corner making it 2-1 and out of nowhere we had a chance of nicking a point.
Stoppage time drama followed…Johnson had a good chance with his own head to incredibly pull it level but could only direct the ball wide in the final chance. Too little too late then for Town and a third defeat in a week. This one is a little easier to take with Chesterfield storming through the final furlong towards promotion but still there’s room for big improvements.
Gary Johnson has indicated that there might yet be a fourth short term loan man brought in this week but only if there’s an option of a longer term deal afterwards. The home game with Macclesfield needs to yield a victory really and that’s the real test of the beginnings of Johnson’s reign.
League Two
Tuesday, March 8th 2011
Gary Johnson joked on his appointment that today, March 9th, should have been the date he took over as Cobblers boss so as to avoid the perilous two opening games against high flying Shrewsbury and even higher flying Chesterfield. He may not actually be thinking it but you can see his point after a couple of defeats that are showing him that the task ahead is a tough one.
Johnson drafted in two of his new loan signings straight into the starting line-up at the B2Net Stadium with Nana Ofori-Twumasi in for Paul Rodgers and Jamie Reckord replacing Ben Tozer with John Johnson moving to centre back. Kevin Thornton returned in place of Billy McKay and played a more advanced role to try and support Shaun Harrad.
The early pressure was all with the home side and had Craig Davies not missed an open goal in the first five minutes then the eventual defeat could have been a hell of a lot worse. Chris Dunn dropped the ball into the path of Jack Lester who found Davies with a gaping net but the striker somehow contrived to miss.
The Cobblers were hanging on in the early exchanges and John Johnson had to clear the ball off the line after Dunn had blocked from Craig Davies and Derek Niven had followed up with a shot that looked destined to open the scoring.
But slowly we got back into the game and finished the half stronger, threatening to break the deadlock ourselves when Harrad had a shot deflected wide and Thornton also missed a chance right at the end of the half.
A reshuffle was enforced at the break as Dean Beckwith had to withdraw through injury. Ben Tozer replaced him and the words ringing in the players’ ears would have been to keep up the form that had given us real hope before the half-time whistle halted the resurgence. But it was the home side that took back control and with just over an hour played the deadlock was broken.
Lester burst through the Cobblers defence and forced Dunn into a good stop but Davies was making no mistake this time and rattled home the rebound. And it was near enough game over just a few minutes later with Danny Whittaker’s excellent work on the left finished off by Lester for 2-0.
Time wasn’t on the Cobblers’ side but there was one last gimmer of hope with around eight minutes to play. Andy Holt continued his excellent run of form in front of goal with a header from a Jacobs corner making it 2-1 and out of nowhere we had a chance of nicking a point.
Stoppage time drama followed…Johnson had a good chance with his own head to incredibly pull it level but could only direct the ball wide in the final chance. Too little too late then for Town and a third defeat in a week. This one is a little easier to take with Chesterfield storming through the final furlong towards promotion but still there’s room for big improvements.
Gary Johnson has indicated that there might yet be a fourth short term loan man brought in this week but only if there’s an option of a longer term deal afterwards. The home game with Macclesfield needs to yield a victory really and that’s the real test of the beginnings of Johnson’s reign.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Runaway leaders set to welcome Cobblers
Chesterfield v Northampton Town
League Two
Tuesday, March 8th 2011
Gary Johnson takes full charge for the first time this evening and there’s no tougher place for him to start than with an away game at runaway leaders Chesterfield at the B2 Net Stadium. Johnson’s team selection will be the first thing to analyse as things get under way and we’ll see if there’s any significant changes to his thoughts from the side that were beaten by Shrewsbury, one picked by Malcolm Crosby.
One man pretty certain of his place will be Michael Jacobs who scored those two stunning goals at the weekend as the Cobblers twice took the lead at Sixfields only to lose 3-2. Billy McKay dislocated his elbow on Saturday so could be missing for several weeks while Leon McKenzie still doesn’t appear to be ready to return from his knee injury. That could mean Andy Holt filling in up front again unless Johnson has any new ideas regarding the now thin attacking options.
The three new signings that arrived yesterday, Steve Collis, Jamie Reckord and Nana Ofori-Twumasi, should all be available to play
League leaders Chesterfield stretched their advantage to eleven points with a big win at Cheltenham on Saturday and Craig Davies is still firing the goals in for the Spireites to lift them close to promotion. The lead at this point in the season is surely unassailable and the jittery spell in January is now all forgotten as they look to take another giant leap towards League One tonight.
Jack Lester should return to the starting line-up for the home side with boss John Sheridan’s policy of playing him in every home game likely to come into effect once more. Meanwhile Ian Breckin, who has missed his side’s last two games, could return from illness.
So a big night for the new boss to get to grips with and though there’s no real pressure to get a result we all desperately want to see us get back on the winning road. If we can do it tonight it will be a signal of real intent.
Elsewhere in League Two this evening...
If the Cobblers can get anything at Chesterfield, Bury are lurking and in terrific form with Ryan Lowe looking for a tenth goal in successive games for the Shakers. They take on Morecambe who have picked up fine wins over Chesterfield and Southend in the last two games. Wycombe slipped to third at the weekend so will be looking for all three points at Barnet who are looking increasingly doomed despite a good draw at Rotherham last time out.
Rotherham need a response from that one but face a tough trip to Bradford who will be desperate to impress new boss Peter Jackson in his first home game in charge. Fifth plays sixth with Shrewsbury hosting Port Vale and Southend are at home to the team they’re chasing in the final playoff place, Gillingham.
Stockport, off the back of a good win over Oxford at the weekend, go to Accrington still hoping for a miracle escape despite having played a lot more games than most with Burton Albion looking to pull away again with a home game against Lincoln City. Macclesfield Town still need to win their games in hand to avoid being dragged into a relegation scrap and they welcome free scoring Crewe to Moss Rose in the hope of doing just that.
Elsewhere, Stevenage and Hereford both hope to bounce back from defeats on Saturday as they clash at Broadhall Way and Torquay travel to Aldershot with their eyes also firmly on the playoff places.
Triple loan signing ahead of Spireites trip
Nana Ofori-Twumasi did indeed sign yesterday but wasn’t the only one coming through the Sixfields doors as Gary Johnson got straight to work on bringing in his own players. Another one from Posh, keeper Steve Collis, has been signed on loan until the end of the season while promising Wolves left back Jamie Reckord also comes in.
Collis, formerly of Barnet, Nottingham Forest, Yeovil, Southend, Crewe and Bristol City and provides solid competition for Chris Dunn, something that he could definitely benefit from.
Reckord, who was close to a move to Championship high flyers Swansea City on deadline day, is someone that Johnson has been watching for a long time and is described as “very athletic, strong with power and pace,” by the new Town boss. If Reckord does well, it is thought that a season long deal next season could be in the pipeline.
So Gary Johnson wasting little time then in assessing the squad and with all three of his new men straight into the squad for tonight’s game there could be a real shake up as we prepare to take on the league leaders on their own patch.
Monday, March 07, 2011
Posh defender set for Town loan?
Ghanian born defender Nana Ofori-Twumasi could be on his way to crossing the divide from Posh to Cobblers if rumours are to be believed. The full back, who began his career in the Chelsea youth team and went on to captain them, looks like he could follow his old boss Gary Johnson to Sixfields, possibly in time for Tuesday night’s game at Chesterfield.
Ofori-Twumasi, 20, was on loan with Dagenham and Redbridge for a month in 2009 and joined Boro on a free transfer last summer. The defender, despite his roots, has represented England at Under 16, Under 17, Under 18 and Under 20 level.
He’s seen chances at London Road to be limited so far though and could well be the first new face of Johnson’s regime.
Sunday, March 06, 2011
League Two round up: Spireites open eleven point gap...Bury go second as Lowe scores again...rare win for County...
Chesterfield are now eleven points clear at the top of League Two after a comfortable 3-0 away win at Cheltenham yesterday. Craig Davies scored twice to help the Spireites on their way with Kieron Djilali getting the other one. Wycombe came from a goal behind to lead 2-1 at home to Aldershot but succumbed to a John Halls equaliser as the Shots drew for a seventh time in eight games. That allowed Bury to go second with Ryan Lowe netting for the ninth game in a row in a 3-0 away win at Hereford.
Rotherham’s promotion hunt stuttered again with a 0-0 home draw with struggling Barnet. The Millers finished the game with ten men after Tom Newey shoved Izale McLeod with twenty minutes to play. Port Vale kept up the heat with a 2-1 home win over Macclesfield Town with Louis Dodds scoring what turned out to be the winner with a fine goal from distance and Bayo Akinfenwa scored to help Gillingham keep hold of seventh place in their 2-0 win against Bradford City.
Torquay moved into eighth after beating Stevenage Borough at Plainmoor with Danny Stevens and Jake Robinson getting the goals. The Gulls also had the luxury of missing a second half penalty with Chris Zebroski hitting the bar – Mark Roberts was sent off for the visitors for the challenge that led to the spot kick.
Elsewhere, the Shrimps defeated the Shrimpers as Morecambe ended Southend’s recent good run with a 2-1 win at the Globe Arena, only their fifth win at the new stadium. Two headers from corners, one from former Cobbler Chris McCready earned the points for Morecambe there.
Stockport picked up a rare win at the bottom of the table as they came from behind to beat Oxford United at Edgeley Park. Tom Craddock gave United the lead but Anthony Tonkins then saw red before Matt Paterson levelled the game and Greg Tansey came off the bench in stoppage time to score with one of his first touches.
Burton couldn’t follow up their Tuesday night win at Sixfields as they were beaten at Crewe 4-1 in a game that saw Clayton Donaldson score a hat-trick for the home side. Shaun Miller got the other one for Alex with Sam Winnall replying for Burton.
And Lincoln and Accrington played out the ultimate mid-table battle with a goalless draw at Sincil Bank.
As many questions as answers for new boss
Northampton Town 2-3 Shrewsbury Town
League Two
Saturday, March 5th 2011
Gary Johnson learned the best and worst from his new side yesterday as the Cobblers were unlucky to lose against impressive Shrewsbury Town. With the new era starting as the old one ended, with a 3-2 home defeat, it was still an improvement and gave Johnson plenty to think about.
One thing he will be delighted about will be that Michael Jacobs is tied down to a new contract. His two belters that twice gave the Cobblers the lead at Sixfields would have very much impressed the new boss who didn’t pick the team but did insist on being in the dug out despite only joining the club on Friday morning.
Jacob’s crackers weren’t enough though to see off a strong resistance from Shrewsbury who got back on track after a heavy home defeat to promotion rivals Bury on Tuesday night. Their goals weren’t exactly tap ins either as Sixfields was treated to their own mini goal of the month competition.
Shaun Harrad returned but Leon McKenzie was missing through injury as was Kevin Thornton with an illness. Marcus Hall missed out as well so Paul Rodgers filled in at left back. Jacobs was the one setting the pace though and a stunning strike on six minutes, blasted in off the under side of the bar from distance, set the tone for a frantic afternoon.
Shrewsbury were back on terms a couple of minutes later though just as the home fans were catching their breath with David Davis smashing the ball home from just inside the area – game on!
Chances at both ends followed with Harrad unlucky after being sent through with a shot blocked after he lifted the ball over visiting keeper Ben Smith and Jon Taylor testing Chris Dunn and Matt Harrold wasting the rebound for the Shrews.
It didn’t stop in the second half though and Jacobs would go on to net an even better second goal than his opener when he beat one man, dribbled past another and curled an absolute beauty into the top corner.
With our recent record of holding leads, though, it was no surprise that Shrewsbury would hit back. The speed of response was almost as quick as the first with James Collins’ shot beating Dunn all ends up for 2-2 and yet another terrific goal.
It was all set up for a frantic finale but it wasn’t to be for Johnson in his first game in charge. Taylor, having gone close earlier, made the most of hesitant defending from the Cobblers and fired the winner from the edge of the area. Nerves may have played a part but we just didn’t seem to want to clear the ball and paid the ultimate price.
So all three points were lost and Shrewsbury got their reward. They’ll certainly be up there come the end of the season and there’s no real shame in losing to them – as there won’t be should we come back from Chesterfield pointless on Tuesday night. The big test, and a game more likely for Johnson to be judged on, comes next Saturday at home to Macclesfield Town.
Big week in the reshuffling of the Cobblers then, with Johnson already implying that more players will be brought in on loan from his contact book. Defenders are surely on that list after another frustrating result but on the flip side he will have seen the potential of one or two of his most prized new assets.
League Two
Saturday, March 5th 2011
Gary Johnson learned the best and worst from his new side yesterday as the Cobblers were unlucky to lose against impressive Shrewsbury Town. With the new era starting as the old one ended, with a 3-2 home defeat, it was still an improvement and gave Johnson plenty to think about.
One thing he will be delighted about will be that Michael Jacobs is tied down to a new contract. His two belters that twice gave the Cobblers the lead at Sixfields would have very much impressed the new boss who didn’t pick the team but did insist on being in the dug out despite only joining the club on Friday morning.
Jacob’s crackers weren’t enough though to see off a strong resistance from Shrewsbury who got back on track after a heavy home defeat to promotion rivals Bury on Tuesday night. Their goals weren’t exactly tap ins either as Sixfields was treated to their own mini goal of the month competition.
Shaun Harrad returned but Leon McKenzie was missing through injury as was Kevin Thornton with an illness. Marcus Hall missed out as well so Paul Rodgers filled in at left back. Jacobs was the one setting the pace though and a stunning strike on six minutes, blasted in off the under side of the bar from distance, set the tone for a frantic afternoon.
Shrewsbury were back on terms a couple of minutes later though just as the home fans were catching their breath with David Davis smashing the ball home from just inside the area – game on!
Chances at both ends followed with Harrad unlucky after being sent through with a shot blocked after he lifted the ball over visiting keeper Ben Smith and Jon Taylor testing Chris Dunn and Matt Harrold wasting the rebound for the Shrews.
It didn’t stop in the second half though and Jacobs would go on to net an even better second goal than his opener when he beat one man, dribbled past another and curled an absolute beauty into the top corner.
With our recent record of holding leads, though, it was no surprise that Shrewsbury would hit back. The speed of response was almost as quick as the first with James Collins’ shot beating Dunn all ends up for 2-2 and yet another terrific goal.
It was all set up for a frantic finale but it wasn’t to be for Johnson in his first game in charge. Taylor, having gone close earlier, made the most of hesitant defending from the Cobblers and fired the winner from the edge of the area. Nerves may have played a part but we just didn’t seem to want to clear the ball and paid the ultimate price.
So all three points were lost and Shrewsbury got their reward. They’ll certainly be up there come the end of the season and there’s no real shame in losing to them – as there won’t be should we come back from Chesterfield pointless on Tuesday night. The big test, and a game more likely for Johnson to be judged on, comes next Saturday at home to Macclesfield Town.
Big week in the reshuffling of the Cobblers then, with Johnson already implying that more players will be brought in on loan from his contact book. Defenders are surely on that list after another frustrating result but on the flip side he will have seen the potential of one or two of his most prized new assets.
Friday, March 04, 2011
Johnson on becoming Cobblers boss
Gary Johnson spoke for the first time this afternoon on becoming the new Cobblers boss, stating ambitions as a major reason for accepting the job. He said,
"This is the right club at the right time for me. I've taken clubs up at this level before and I am really looking forward to getting going.”
"It has been done very quickly but the chairman has pushed the boat out to get me in and I appreciate that. It isn't necessarily the league you are in, it’s the club you are at and this club matches my ambitions."
For the full interview, check out Cobblers World via the official website (currently running a 14 day free trial offer!)
"This is the right club at the right time for me. I've taken clubs up at this level before and I am really looking forward to getting going.”
"It has been done very quickly but the chairman has pushed the boat out to get me in and I appreciate that. It isn't necessarily the league you are in, it’s the club you are at and this club matches my ambitions."
For the full interview, check out Cobblers World via the official website (currently running a 14 day free trial offer!)
Johnson named Town boss!
David Cardoza has got his man and Gary Johnson has been named the new Northampton Town manager. The former Yeovil, Bristol City and Peterborough man was quickly identified as the number one target and joins on a two and a half year contract.
Having taken Yeovil to two promotions from conference to League One and steered City back to the Championship as well as being the Latvian national manager for two years there’s a wealth of experience coming into the club and having suffered from a real down day with Sammo’s departure the other day this has really lifted the spirits.
We’re yet to learn whether Johnson will be in charge tomorrow or not but either way it’s a tough, tough start for him with Shrewsbury and Chesterfield waiting this week.
Gary Johnson...from Latvia to London Road...
1988: Appointed Reserve team manager at Cambridge United before going on to become assistant manager to John Beck in 1990.
1992: Becomes Cambridge first team manager.
1999: Named Latvian national team coach.
2001: Joins Yeovil Town as manager and wins the FA Trophy in first season.
2002: Helps the Glovers to promotion into the football league.
2004: Leads Yeovil to the League Two title in only second season in the league.
2005: Appointed Bristol City boss.
2007: Gains promotion from League One with City in a season that included an 18 match unbeaten run.
2008: Takes City all the way to the Championship Playoff Final where they are eventually beaten by Hull City.
2010: Departs Ashton gate and joins Peterborough United a few months later.
2011: Sacked by Posh in January.
Thursday, March 03, 2011
New era begins as Shrews come to town
Northampton Town v Shrewsbury Town
League Two
Saturday, March 5th 2011
With the shock of Sammo’s departure behind us, the Cobblers take on League Two high flyers Shrewsbury Town with new boss Gary Johnson watching on. Will we see a dramatic change in fortunes as players look to impress the new man? Or will the Shrews prove too much for a group still feeling the reverberations from the events of this week?
The visitors will be well up for it as well after a heavy 3-0 defeat at home to Bury on Tuesday night that saw them overtaken by the Shakers. So both sides perhaps with a point to prove as we hit the final straight of the season.
The Cobblers will welcome back Shaun Harrad from a three game ban but Liam Davis is missing with an Achilles problem. Ryan Gilligan has returned from a loan spell at Torquay but is not eligible to play until next weekend.
Shrewsbury boss Graeme Turner has admitted that he would happily swap February's manager of the month award for three points tomorrow afternoon. He has Ian Sharps available again after a one match suspension but Sean McAllister is missing. Defender Jermaine Grandison is doubtful after collecting a knock in midweek.
So a new era begins at Sixfields tomorrow and the players will be desperate to end this winless run against one of the sides that we should be very envious of in terms of league position at the moment!
Elsewhere in League Two this weekend...
Chesterfield, who went nine points clear at the top on Tuesday night, travel to Cheltenham hoping to get their promotion band wagon rolling on. Wycombe, defeated by the Spireites on Tuesday, are at home to Aldershot and will be desperate to get back to winning ways. Bury are now in the top three and go to Hereford full of confidence after that midweek victory.
Meanwhile, Rotherham host Barnet with high value points for both sides at stake. Only goal difference separates the Millers from the top three while Barnet are two points from safety. Port Vale take on Macclesfield Town whilst Bradford begin life after Peter Taylor with a tough trip to one of his former sides, Gillingham.
The Shrimps and the Shrimpers collide at The Globe Arena with Morecambe and Southend doing battle and bottom club Stockport will be aiming to put a dent into both Oxford’s playoff hopes and the four point gap between themselves and safety.
Burton are at Crewe looking to build on the Tuesday night win that got Sammo the sack and the two sides just above the Cobblers, Lincoln and Accrington meet at Sincil Bank. And it’s eleventh v tenth as Torquay and Stevenage both try to keep up their playoff hopes.
Wednesday, March 02, 2011
Sammo: Legend departs but leaves lasting memories
So Ian Sampson has departed Sixfields after a season of more ups and downs than even we as Town fans are used to. A run of five straight draws that ended with last night’s defeat at home to Burton Albion brought about the end of the road for a man who has made Sixfields his working home for the last 17 years.
The shock on this Wednesday afternoon is that a man has been discarded for a league position that is safe enough but apparently not good enough for the future thinking of the board. In under a year, Sammo has gone from signing a new deal following an excellent second half of last season to being shown the door and we can only now pay tribute to a man who has been Mr NTFC for as long as I’ve known.
In his playing days, Sammo never put a foot wrong to my knowledge. A centre back with not a great deal of pace, he made his short comings up in passion and pride in wearing the claret shirt. At London Road, Peterborough in the year 2000, Sammo’s finest hour came when he struck the winner in a 2-1 derby win that will live with us forever. A few years later and he was pulling on the shirt he loved for the final time in that incredible Playoff Semi Final at Field Mill, his 499th appearance for the club.
Going straight into the club’s coaching set up was a logical step and the defender soon became the youth team coach, reserve team manager, assistant manager and then first team manager. It makes it an even more painful departure to chronicle an unmatched loyalty to one team that in this day and age is not something you generally find.
As to this season, it was fitting that Sammo got one final night of emotion and celebration, at Anfield where he led his troops to a remarkable victory on penalties. That night alone will mean his stint as manager will stand out to fans of the future.
For the rest of the season, well it can be argued that some players have let their boss down in certain things, some decisions have gone against him but that’s for another debate. For now, we can only celebrate an iconic figure of Northampton Town Football Club.
A last niggle is that he never got to say goodbye to his fans and the ones that stuck by him, saw his passion for the club and loved him to bits, particularly through the nineties and the revival of the club from nothing through to two Wembley show pieces.
In terms of a manager, I can’t even begin to think who’s going to come in to replace him but believe me, there’s some hefty, hefty boots to fill.
Sammo sacked...a legacy ends!
Ian Sampson has today been sacked by Northampton Town Football Club...it's a sad day whatever you think of our form and I need some time to collect my thoughts on a legend departing Sixfields.
All I can say for now is thank you Sammo and that there's a whole lot more to follow.
Albion stun Town at Sixfields
Northampton Town 2-3 Burton Albion
League Two
Tuesday, March 1st 2011
Well the sequence of draws is over. But it wasn’t a glorious triumph that ended the run, nor a moment of huge relief but a disappointing defeat to a struggling Burton Albion side that meant the club record for draws was only equalled and not over taken. The result means that the previous run of tied games looks even worse and there’s now a fight on hand for the players to show their worth ahead of the summer and the manager to turn things around before the boo boys start swooping once more.
Burton, who scored three times in ten minutes last season to beat us by the same score line at the Pirelli Stadium, must have sensed a repeat as they stormed into a three goal lead in the first half. The early signs weren’t good with a poor back pass from Dean Beckwith selling Chris Dunn short and Dunn stopping a certain goal.
But the deserved goal that gave the visitors the lead did arrive a few minutes later when good work from Jacques Magoma on the left hand side set up the chance for Andy Corbett to knock the ball home from close range. The Cobblers were simply not in the game and Leon McKenzie’s effort soon after the goal was as close as we would come until Albion stretched their lead to 3-0 through a superb effort from John McGrath and a disaster for Dunn on his 100th appearance for the club. Dunn caught a cross but tumbled into his own net and that summed up the first half.
John Johnson did pull one back before the break but there was still evidently so much work to do. Andy Holt, a stalwart and someone you have to feel sorry for at the moment, hit the woodwork before making it 3-2 on the hour with a header from a Michael Jacobs free kick.
Jacobs had an equaliser ruled out for an apparent push on the defender when turning him but you got the feeling that we would get back into it. McKay hit the post with an agonising header in the late flurry of chances for the Cobblers but after Holt shot wide it was all over and the chance of an almighty fight back was over.
It was the first half showing that killed this one for us and contrary to previous games in which we’ve let leads go it was a few goals against that got us going and creating chances and that needs to be addressed. If we don’t kick on until behind and can’t hold on to leads then we’ll be in big trouble. There’s still time to go either way in this table and the effects of being dragged into the wrong end of the League Two table need to be instilled into the players.
Shrewsbury at home and Chesterfield away are next…daunting prospects at the best of times but it would be just like us to go and win both of those!
Elsewhere in League Two...
Chesterfield went nine points clear of Wycombe at the top of League Two by beating them 4-1 last night. Wanderers still have a game in hand but it’s still looking like the safe money being with the Spireites in the race for the title and promotion. In the other big game at the top, Bury came away from Shrewsbury with all three points in a 3-0 victory that takes them up to third place.
Rotherham have dropped out of the top three after a draw at Torquay whilst Gillingham hold on to seventh after drawing at Aldershot. That’s because Oxford were beaten by Lincoln who had two own goals to thank for their victory.
Meanwhile, Cheltenham were victorious over Stockport who remain rooted to the bottom of the table and won’t be helped by Burton’s win at Sixfields.
League Two
Tuesday, March 1st 2011
Well the sequence of draws is over. But it wasn’t a glorious triumph that ended the run, nor a moment of huge relief but a disappointing defeat to a struggling Burton Albion side that meant the club record for draws was only equalled and not over taken. The result means that the previous run of tied games looks even worse and there’s now a fight on hand for the players to show their worth ahead of the summer and the manager to turn things around before the boo boys start swooping once more.
Burton, who scored three times in ten minutes last season to beat us by the same score line at the Pirelli Stadium, must have sensed a repeat as they stormed into a three goal lead in the first half. The early signs weren’t good with a poor back pass from Dean Beckwith selling Chris Dunn short and Dunn stopping a certain goal.
But the deserved goal that gave the visitors the lead did arrive a few minutes later when good work from Jacques Magoma on the left hand side set up the chance for Andy Corbett to knock the ball home from close range. The Cobblers were simply not in the game and Leon McKenzie’s effort soon after the goal was as close as we would come until Albion stretched their lead to 3-0 through a superb effort from John McGrath and a disaster for Dunn on his 100th appearance for the club. Dunn caught a cross but tumbled into his own net and that summed up the first half.
John Johnson did pull one back before the break but there was still evidently so much work to do. Andy Holt, a stalwart and someone you have to feel sorry for at the moment, hit the woodwork before making it 3-2 on the hour with a header from a Michael Jacobs free kick.
Jacobs had an equaliser ruled out for an apparent push on the defender when turning him but you got the feeling that we would get back into it. McKay hit the post with an agonising header in the late flurry of chances for the Cobblers but after Holt shot wide it was all over and the chance of an almighty fight back was over.
It was the first half showing that killed this one for us and contrary to previous games in which we’ve let leads go it was a few goals against that got us going and creating chances and that needs to be addressed. If we don’t kick on until behind and can’t hold on to leads then we’ll be in big trouble. There’s still time to go either way in this table and the effects of being dragged into the wrong end of the League Two table need to be instilled into the players.
Shrewsbury at home and Chesterfield away are next…daunting prospects at the best of times but it would be just like us to go and win both of those!
Elsewhere in League Two...
Chesterfield went nine points clear of Wycombe at the top of League Two by beating them 4-1 last night. Wanderers still have a game in hand but it’s still looking like the safe money being with the Spireites in the race for the title and promotion. In the other big game at the top, Bury came away from Shrewsbury with all three points in a 3-0 victory that takes them up to third place.
Rotherham have dropped out of the top three after a draw at Torquay whilst Gillingham hold on to seventh after drawing at Aldershot. That’s because Oxford were beaten by Lincoln who had two own goals to thank for their victory.
Meanwhile, Cheltenham were victorious over Stockport who remain rooted to the bottom of the table and won’t be helped by Burton’s win at Sixfields.
Tuesday, March 01, 2011
Cobblers keep on drawing with more action tonight...
So another day, another draw at Southend with again a lead being pegged back. John Johnson rifled us in front at Roots Hall before Barry Corr gave the travelling fans that oh so familiar feeling of going home with a point. Not that it's a bad thing to draw down there but with a club record looming should we tie tonight's game with Burton Albion at Sixfields it really is getting to be too much!
Albion visit having slipped into the drop zone following a home defeat to Rotherham at the weekend and will also be desperate for the win. Calvin Zola, a transfer window target for the Cobblers, won't be involved due to a hamstring injury but Scott Malone returns.
Chris Dunn will play his 100th game for the club tonight but Liam Davis misses out with an achilles problem that looks set to keep him out of Saturday's game as well. Dean Beckwith and Josh Walker are both doubtful which could mean Paul Rodgers comes back into the thinking should Johnson need to slot in at centre back.
Apologies for the lack of updates this week...it's been a mad one! Full service to resume from tomorrow though, and let's hope I'm reflecting on a win and not a new club record!
ps...for my debut post on excellent Football League Blog the Two Unfortunates recalling the 1997 playoff winning side, see here:
http://bit.ly/ftUVJj
Albion visit having slipped into the drop zone following a home defeat to Rotherham at the weekend and will also be desperate for the win. Calvin Zola, a transfer window target for the Cobblers, won't be involved due to a hamstring injury but Scott Malone returns.
Chris Dunn will play his 100th game for the club tonight but Liam Davis misses out with an achilles problem that looks set to keep him out of Saturday's game as well. Dean Beckwith and Josh Walker are both doubtful which could mean Paul Rodgers comes back into the thinking should Johnson need to slot in at centre back.
Apologies for the lack of updates this week...it's been a mad one! Full service to resume from tomorrow though, and let's hope I'm reflecting on a win and not a new club record!
ps...for my debut post on excellent Football League Blog the Two Unfortunates recalling the 1997 playoff winning side, see here:
http://bit.ly/ftUVJj
Friday, February 25, 2011
Club record close as Town go to the Sea side!
Southend United v NorthamptoN Town
League Two
Saturday, February 26th 2011
It’s a rather dubious club record that the Cobblers could match tomorrow. Should the game at Southend end with a sixth consecutive draw we will level the number gained in the 1983/94 season. As I said earlier in the week, a point at Southend wouldn’t usually be considered a poor result particularly with them on such good form but something needs to click into place to get us those much wanted three.
Leon McKenzie is again a doubt after missing out on the Tuesday night draw at Hereford while Shaun Harrad sits out the second of a three game ban that also means he misses the game against former club Burton Albion on Tuesday night. Abdul Osman does return after his three game suspension and should go straight back into the side and Francis Laurent could face the side he left in the summer.
Southend skipper Craig Easton has said this week that his side’s season really starts with Saturday’s game against the Cobblers. The hosts moved up to ninth, just one point off the playoffs, on Tuesday night with a home win over Barnet and will be favourites to extend their recent good run.
Lee Sawyer returned to action for the Shrimpers on Tuesday night after a year out of action. Rebuilding his fitness playing part time for Woking, Sawyer is now back in Football League action and should keep his place for the Cobblers’ visit. Miguel Comminges was another to make his first appearance of the season in the same game but his place in the side could come under pressure from fit again youngster Kane Ferdinand.
So will one point turn into three…or zero?! You never can tell these days but we should just keep the faith and hopefully with the pressure more on Southend we can get something from a very tough game indeed.
Around League Two this weekend...
Bradford manager Peter Taylor will leave the club following his side’s home game against fellow strugglers Stockport County on Saturday. The former Leicester boss has seen his side slump to 21st in the league and it was revealed yesterday that his reign will end after tomorrow’s game. County can close the gap on the Bantams from six to three points with a win at Valley Parade.
Barnet are also looking to escape the bottom two having played plenty more games than their rivals and they host Lincoln City at Underhill. There are implications at both ends of the table as Burton welcome Rotherham and leaders Chesterfield host Morecambe. Wycombe, who went back up to second on Tuesday night, go to Macclesfield and third placed Shrewsbury are at home to seventh placed Gillingham. The Gills are four points behind their hosts and will see this as an ideal chance to close that gap.
Elsewhere, Bury face Crewe at Gigg Lane whilst Port Vale are at Aldershot and Oxford, with now just goal difference separating them from the playoffs, take on Hereford at the Kassam. Meanwhile, two sides just above the Cobblers, Stevenage and Cheltenham, go head to head at Broadhall Way and Accrington Stanley are at home to Torquay.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Should they stay or should they go?
There’s a chance that by the start of next season, Cobblers fans will be watching an entirely new side with no less than eleven players out on contract in the summer. Sammo has indicated that most will be playing for their futures at the club over the next few weeks so who should we offer new deals to and who are surplus to requirements? Unfortunately looking at the list shows that most are big players and with the likes of Josh Walker and Ben Tozer ending their loan spells come May it’ll be a nervy time to be a Town fan!
Here’s my views on the guys out of contract:
Chris Dunn...tough one fro Dunny. He’s not entirely consistent but can pull off some moments of quality on his day. Having come through the youth system behind Mark Bunn he’s not hit the same levels but has kept us in one or two games. Is that enough though? Personally I think it could be time to look into other options and for a keeper wanting first team football it could mean the end of the road and a fresh challenge. VERDICT: Let go
Abdul Osman...we’ve all seen how much we miss Osman in the last couple of games so he’s one we need to tie down. Sammo will be desperate to keep his spine in tact and Osman is a key part of that. VERDICT: Keep
Liam Davis...Davis has been attracting scouts from sides at a higher level but hasn’t seemed to get a really good run in the side for various reasons this term. Given a full pre-season and a good formation that we stick to though and he can still have a major role to play. Verdict: Keep
Craig Hinton...out on loan at the moment with his highlight for the Cobblers this season being his fantastic camera and interview skills on the Liverpool “Behind the Scenes” videos that appeared on the official website post match! Seems a good character for the dressing room but is that enough with wages needing to be freed up? Sorry Craig! Verdict: Get rid
Billy McKay...Another tough one. Billy gives everything to his game and doesn’t get the plaudits a lot of the time. I still feel he has a lot to give to us and not just as a substitute to Leon and Harrad for his menacing of defenders and decent goal scoring touch. Verdict: Keep
Leon McKenzie...The goal ratio speaks for itself and we have to just hope that Leon is settled and wants to stick around. A promising partnership with Shaun Harrad is already forming and when both fit and one their form could be one of the best partnerships in the league. Verdict: Keep
Kevin Thornton...Ah, the enigma that is! In and out of the side this season and a real luxury when he’s on his game. Thornton was tipped to be the star of the season but injuries have been cruel to the former Coventry man. Still, Sammo seems to have turned him around and there’s no doubt that we need to keep hold. Verdict: Keep
Marcus Hall...Brought in as a quick fire replacement for Peter Gilbert, Hall has been as consistent as his predecessor at left back. Should stay, and I don’t see any reason why he won’t. Verdict: Keep
Francis Laurent...I’ve not actually seen Laurent play yet but he’s another who appears to need his fitness back before he can get going. Hence the problem with mid-season deals like this one where the player isn’t 100% and always playing catch up. It would only be down to the players’ attitude to his return to form that would be needed to get Sammo on board for a longer deal. Verdict: A tentative Keep
Paul Rodgers...With John Johnson coming in it’s been tough for Rodgers to break into the first team squad but he’s certainly a player that can be useful in many positions so for that reason alone we should hold on to him. Verdict: Keep
Dean Beckwith...Not the quickest of defenders and one prone to the odd error but he’s formed a good partnership with Ben Tozer. Assuming Tozer doesn’t come back we will need Beckwith in tact for continuity. Verdict: Keep
So basically I’m keeping nine out of eleven based on where we are at the moment and assuming that there’s not going to be a miraculous playoff chasing end to the season. Let me know your thoughts either way! Continuity is needed as mentioned but attitudes, discipline and the like are also required so that we can show the undoubted quality that this side has.
Here’s my views on the guys out of contract:
Chris Dunn...tough one fro Dunny. He’s not entirely consistent but can pull off some moments of quality on his day. Having come through the youth system behind Mark Bunn he’s not hit the same levels but has kept us in one or two games. Is that enough though? Personally I think it could be time to look into other options and for a keeper wanting first team football it could mean the end of the road and a fresh challenge. VERDICT: Let go
Abdul Osman...we’ve all seen how much we miss Osman in the last couple of games so he’s one we need to tie down. Sammo will be desperate to keep his spine in tact and Osman is a key part of that. VERDICT: Keep
Liam Davis...Davis has been attracting scouts from sides at a higher level but hasn’t seemed to get a really good run in the side for various reasons this term. Given a full pre-season and a good formation that we stick to though and he can still have a major role to play. Verdict: Keep
Craig Hinton...out on loan at the moment with his highlight for the Cobblers this season being his fantastic camera and interview skills on the Liverpool “Behind the Scenes” videos that appeared on the official website post match! Seems a good character for the dressing room but is that enough with wages needing to be freed up? Sorry Craig! Verdict: Get rid
Billy McKay...Another tough one. Billy gives everything to his game and doesn’t get the plaudits a lot of the time. I still feel he has a lot to give to us and not just as a substitute to Leon and Harrad for his menacing of defenders and decent goal scoring touch. Verdict: Keep
Leon McKenzie...The goal ratio speaks for itself and we have to just hope that Leon is settled and wants to stick around. A promising partnership with Shaun Harrad is already forming and when both fit and one their form could be one of the best partnerships in the league. Verdict: Keep
Kevin Thornton...Ah, the enigma that is! In and out of the side this season and a real luxury when he’s on his game. Thornton was tipped to be the star of the season but injuries have been cruel to the former Coventry man. Still, Sammo seems to have turned him around and there’s no doubt that we need to keep hold. Verdict: Keep
Marcus Hall...Brought in as a quick fire replacement for Peter Gilbert, Hall has been as consistent as his predecessor at left back. Should stay, and I don’t see any reason why he won’t. Verdict: Keep
Francis Laurent...I’ve not actually seen Laurent play yet but he’s another who appears to need his fitness back before he can get going. Hence the problem with mid-season deals like this one where the player isn’t 100% and always playing catch up. It would only be down to the players’ attitude to his return to form that would be needed to get Sammo on board for a longer deal. Verdict: A tentative Keep
Paul Rodgers...With John Johnson coming in it’s been tough for Rodgers to break into the first team squad but he’s certainly a player that can be useful in many positions so for that reason alone we should hold on to him. Verdict: Keep
Dean Beckwith...Not the quickest of defenders and one prone to the odd error but he’s formed a good partnership with Ben Tozer. Assuming Tozer doesn’t come back we will need Beckwith in tact for continuity. Verdict: Keep
So basically I’m keeping nine out of eleven based on where we are at the moment and assuming that there’s not going to be a miraculous playoff chasing end to the season. Let me know your thoughts either way! Continuity is needed as mentioned but attitudes, discipline and the like are also required so that we can show the undoubted quality that this side has.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
The beauty of mediocrity
Hereford 1-1 Northampton Town
League Two
Tuesday, February 23rd 2011
Ok so it’s five draws in a row now, five points from a possibly fifteen and another instance where we have thrown away a lead. Sammo called it a must win game, as did many of the Town supporters headed for Edgar Street last night. The cause wasn’t helped by Ben Tozer joining Leon McKenzie, Abdul Osman and Shaun Harrad on the “unavailable” list and a spine of a side that desperately needed three points was gone before we’d even kicked a ball. Add to that Josh Walker going off during the game and it was a decent enough showing on the face of it to earn our latest single point.
That’s the first of many positives that we have to look at to save ourselves from going clinically insane at the amount of times we help out those still doing the ppools. Andy Holt was again emplotyed in a more advanced role and he nodded us in front a couple of minutes after half time before the inevitable equaliser. The home side can justify a point after having a goal disallowed and after Chris Dunn had pulled off a fine double save earlier in the contest. Wade Fairhurst nodded them level and the Cobblers went home with a draw once again.
Extending this run to six wouldn’t be greatly received but any other time in the season a draw at Southend, our next fixture on Saturday, would be a decent result! It’s the fine line in football at times like this where one pass, mistimed tackle or moment of genius can turn one point into that sought after three and patience is very much needed. Earlier in the season when we lost five in a row we would have been chomping at the bit for five points so now we need to hope that another little run is started where the corner is turned.
It’s a frustratingly slow time for the club and the fans but sensibility is required. Unfortunately it’s not looking like anything will come from this season but when you look down at Stockport and Barnet you have to understand that these draws are keeping us away from danger of not only relegation but an absolute disaster. It’s a testing time, but cliché it might be, it could be a whole lot worse.
Elsewhere in League Two last night...
Deane Smalley was the match winner for leaders Chesterfield at Bradford and the Spireites extended their lead at the top to nine points. Wycombe moved back to second after thumping Burton Albion 4-1 but Port Vale were halted after a surprise home defeat to Stevenage, who are now back in the top half of the table.
Cheltenham came from two goals down to draw with Torquay at Whaddon Road after Wes Thomas scrambled home a late equaliser. Meanwhile, Southend go above Torquay after their victory over Barnet. Defeat for them leaves them bottom having bow played the same amount of games as Stockport. Burton are a point above the drop zone but still have six games in hand whilst Bradford are five points better off with one game in hand.
Macclesfield moved above Morecambe by beating them 2-0 with former Cobbler Chris McCrady netting an own goal but the game of the night came at Accrington where Stanley beat Crewe 3-2 thanks to a winner fifteen minutes from time Sean McConville.
League Two
Tuesday, February 23rd 2011
Ok so it’s five draws in a row now, five points from a possibly fifteen and another instance where we have thrown away a lead. Sammo called it a must win game, as did many of the Town supporters headed for Edgar Street last night. The cause wasn’t helped by Ben Tozer joining Leon McKenzie, Abdul Osman and Shaun Harrad on the “unavailable” list and a spine of a side that desperately needed three points was gone before we’d even kicked a ball. Add to that Josh Walker going off during the game and it was a decent enough showing on the face of it to earn our latest single point.
That’s the first of many positives that we have to look at to save ourselves from going clinically insane at the amount of times we help out those still doing the ppools. Andy Holt was again emplotyed in a more advanced role and he nodded us in front a couple of minutes after half time before the inevitable equaliser. The home side can justify a point after having a goal disallowed and after Chris Dunn had pulled off a fine double save earlier in the contest. Wade Fairhurst nodded them level and the Cobblers went home with a draw once again.
Extending this run to six wouldn’t be greatly received but any other time in the season a draw at Southend, our next fixture on Saturday, would be a decent result! It’s the fine line in football at times like this where one pass, mistimed tackle or moment of genius can turn one point into that sought after three and patience is very much needed. Earlier in the season when we lost five in a row we would have been chomping at the bit for five points so now we need to hope that another little run is started where the corner is turned.
It’s a frustratingly slow time for the club and the fans but sensibility is required. Unfortunately it’s not looking like anything will come from this season but when you look down at Stockport and Barnet you have to understand that these draws are keeping us away from danger of not only relegation but an absolute disaster. It’s a testing time, but cliché it might be, it could be a whole lot worse.
Elsewhere in League Two last night...
Deane Smalley was the match winner for leaders Chesterfield at Bradford and the Spireites extended their lead at the top to nine points. Wycombe moved back to second after thumping Burton Albion 4-1 but Port Vale were halted after a surprise home defeat to Stevenage, who are now back in the top half of the table.
Cheltenham came from two goals down to draw with Torquay at Whaddon Road after Wes Thomas scrambled home a late equaliser. Meanwhile, Southend go above Torquay after their victory over Barnet. Defeat for them leaves them bottom having bow played the same amount of games as Stockport. Burton are a point above the drop zone but still have six games in hand whilst Bradford are five points better off with one game in hand.
Macclesfield moved above Morecambe by beating them 2-0 with former Cobbler Chris McCrady netting an own goal but the game of the night came at Accrington where Stanley beat Crewe 3-2 thanks to a winner fifteen minutes from time Sean McConville.
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