*Halo*

Excerpt: Or not paid, to play football, as the case may be.

Extract from that linked article: "An indictment from the court case claims Arkadi Gaydamak and his partner, Pierre Falcone, helped to organise the sale of £450m of arms to the Angolan government between 1993 and 1998, including the landmines, 420 tanks, 150,000 shells, 12 helicopters and six warships." Falcondrone Limited?

Excellent topic, great to read so many happy stories of a new generation of Saints growing up. I had the pleasure of taking my two Nephews (my Sister's kids) to their first games recently. Eldest is 13 and youngest is 10. Sadly, their 'father' (I use the term loosely) is a pathetic specimen of a human being and had no time for his own kids, though, fortunately, he is no longer part of their lives. Because he did not like football, they were not 'allowed' to either. He failed in that regard, as they still grew up plastic Liverpool and Man. Utd fans respectively, though I always tried to encourage them in the importance of supporting your local team, so they eventually grew to follow Plymouth as their "2nd team" too. Though, they'd managed to reach the ages of 13 and 10, without ever having enjoyed the thrill of experiencing a live game of professional football. How sad is that? They live in Cornwall, and come to stay with me for school holidays sometimes (in Bournemouth, where I live now, though I'm Southampton born and bred). So, when they came for easter holidays (last season), I thought it would be a great opportunity to take them to their first game, which turned out to be AFC Bournemouth vrs Brentford. They really enjoyed the day, even though Brentford won 1-0; but that's just Bournemouth, and the story gets better. They came to stay again for much of the summer, and this time, were very keen to go with their favourite uncle to watch his beloved Saints play. Sis said that would be fine, "if I didn't mind" taking them. Lol. So, we set to planning the best first fixture for them, bearing in mind they'd be back off to cornwall before the start of September. So, as chance would have it, their 2nd game ever, this time watching Saints, would once again be against.....Brentford. We made a great day of it. Up early, building up the excitement. They had also never (unbelievably) even been on a train before, so we decided to get the fast train from Bournemouth to Southampton Central, and have lunch in our beautiful City of Southampton, and show them around a bit first to make a real 'day out' of it. They were very impressed with their first sight of St. Mary's, and had a really great time. Took them to the back of the Northam (my usual haunt), so they could enjoy starting some songs banging on the back boards, which they enjoyed alot. Knowing how we'd been struggling to find the net, I was just so desperate for us to score, so they could get their first goal to cheer, and to experience just how mental St. Mary's goes when in celebration. Thanks for making that wish come true go out to Danny Harding. Unfortunately we could not hold out though, so my nephews have now also experienced their first footballing 'hatred'. Having seen two games, both without victory, and both against Brentford, said London side are now distinctly on their disliked list. The best part though, was later that night, back home, and before sending the kids off to bed, the youngest asks me: "I know we're meant to support our local team, and I'll always kind of like Plymouth, but is it ok to support your uncle's team too? Are you allowed if it's a team your family supports and you can grow to support them too? So we had a nice little talk about how, yes, that is perfectly acceptable to support the team your family grows up with, but that you should still follow your local side too. So, I now have two converted 'Cornwall Saints' to come along to SMS with me whenever they come to stay. The best part is for last though: After they'd gone upstairs to bed, and I was sat at the desk on the computer (near the bottom of the stairs), I suddenly heard, in hushed tones (trying to be quiet and not wake their mum): 10 yo: "Oh when the Saints"..... 13 yo: "Oh when the Saints"..... 10 yo: "Go Marching in"..... 13 yo: "Go Marching in"..... together: "Oh when the Saints go Marching iiiiinn..." Ahh, magic. Their conversion was complete. Thanks for reading if you got this far.

It is also worth noting that of our seven games so far this season, four of them have been against sides currently occupying places in the top six. Charlton, top, (and unbeaten). Huddersfield, fourth, (lost once). Swindon, fifth, (lost once). Colchester, sixth, (lost twice). Then there is Brentford, currently lying in ninth place, (and they've only lost once too). Millwall sixteenth, (lost twice). Finally, we have Stockport, in eighteenth place, (they've lost three times, and it should have been four, were it not for a ninety-fourth minute penalty equalizer, against us). If we look closer at these games... our first game (Millwall @ Home) was always going to be tough, with the much publicized 'gelling' still to take place. Our two defeats come next, away at Huddersfield and Swindon (current top six sides). These admittedly, were poor performances on our part, though still a pretty new team learning to play together. From this point on, from my perspective at least, we've seen a steady (if unremarkable) improvement in performances; including being undefeated against two more top six sides (Colchester and top of the league Charlton (who had a 100% record until they played us). Throw in the trip to Stockport which we were extremely unlucky not to come away with the three points from, and I don't believe that things are as bad as they first appear. Yeovil at Home on Saturday is the test. We must use this as both a springboard, and a benchmark. Clearly, we must be looking to win this game, and really, to do so relatively comfortably. Signs are (again, from my perspective) that things are slowly coming together, and we seem to be playing more like a "Team" now, than a collection of (mostly) newly assembled individuals. We are becoming harder to beat, and now just need for things to 'click' more for us in the final third of the field. Once that happens (hopefully Saturday), I believe results will begin to rapidly improve. Progression is the name of the game, and I believe that we are indeed starting to 'make progress'.

On paper, and before the game, I look at taking a point from (away at) the top of the league side (who had 6 wins from 6) as a good result; and after the game, I still see it as a good point. Though it is slightly disappointing when considering the events of the 90 minutes, that after putting in a very good first half performance and leading at the break, to come out and do the usual, conceding so early into the second period. Whilst I prefer to see us playing in a straight 4-4-2, I could understand Pardew's selection of the five man midfield, as JJ Shelvey plays off Burton in the 'hole', and clearly Lloyd James was asked to sit in there to stop him finding space to make things happen. In the first half, that tactic worked well for us, though in the second, it was clear that Charlton had worked out ways to get around it; and we should then really have made our own changes as we were coming under increasing pressure as the half went on. Jaidi's composure seemed to help us a great deal when he came on, though the introduction of Jacob Mellis was very surprising. I imagine Fish Mills must've been feeling the effects of three very hard challenges in short succession, otherwise can't see why he came off as he was playing very well for us. Even so, why Mellis on and not Papa Waigo or Lee Holmes? Over all though, whilst disappointing to lose another lead, a point at Charlton is still a decent result. Still happy with our progress in the sense of the team beginning to improve performance-wise and develop an understanding, though that happiness will become tempered somewhat if we fail to beat Yeovil. If we can (and we should) do that, I feel that we'll start to put some wins together and climb the table.

Thanks for your reply MLG. That's how I did it too when editing FM09 up to date, to keep me going 'til release day. I trust that Herr Liebherr has been given 20's for Resources and Business, and given "sugar daddy" status? (I expect you can't answer that, but feel sure it would be a 'yes' if you could).

I don't know whether your NDA prevents you from answering this MLG, but I'm curious as to how you've set things up to get Markus Liebherr into the game? Usually of course he'd just be Chairman, but if we're being true to real life, obviously we now have Nicola Cortese as Exec. Chairman with Markus taking his 'back seat' role. But I can't see how that could work in the game and still reflect Markus as our Owner. My guess would be you've had to put Markus as Chairman, with Cortese as Managing Director perhaps?

Very pleased with our new players. If Waigo is going to be playing right wing, I'd like to see a new quick striker come in on loan with option to buy, or if he'll be used up front, then still feel we need another pacey right winger. Overall though, no complaints. We've addressed the major areas of concern, and brought in some players of the quality that will improve the squad, rather than just adding more back up players as in the past. All in all, a successful transfer window.

Stick with the Yelllow Submarine song, but change the chorus to: "Rickie Lambert is Southampton's Goal Machine, Southampton's Goal Machine, Southampton's Goal Machine..."

Same for me, I usually go alone through choice. Saturday's are akin to making a Sacred Pilgrimage to St. Mary's for me. It's a personal journey, back to my Home City, which I enjoy to undertake with just my own company. The sense of pride, in the pulling on of the Red and White Striped shirt... The train up to Southampton from Bournemouth, with the build up of the feelings and anticipation of 'coming home'. Arriving, stepping off the train into Southampton Central, and the walk to the Ground, filled with the buzz of being back in my Home City that I love, and the excitement of once again entering the 'Holy Place' of St. Mary's, and 'Worshipping' within the fellowship of my brethren, at the back of the Northam. There is nothing like it, the Sacred Pilgrimage to St. Mary's; and whilst I sometimes let my Dad accompany me (as he understands my 'Reverence' for the occasion) it is definitely a 'spiritual' journey I enjoy most to take alone; almost like a 'religious' experience.

Grrr, that really is just not funny. First saw the title of the article come up on NewsNow, thought "yes, finally...who is it?" Clicked article link... cue usual disappointment. Surely they must know how frustrated we are with the lack of incoming players so far? Under different circumstances, in happier times, sure, it would've been mildly amusing. But not now. Not when we've got a threadbare squad which is likely to really struggle unless we can make some serious improvements to it. Bad taste and timing, very disappointed OS.

Southampton; and it's not even a decision which requires any deliberation. Sure, I get caught up in the atmosphere of the major International tournaments (when we actually manage to qualify for them), and naturally I like to see England do well, but I feel no real connection to the National team. If for some reason we ceased to have a National team, I wouldn't really be overly fussed; whereas, Saints is a passion that courses through my veins, and is a part of who I am. Part of my identity. Take away my Southampton, I'd be lost. So it's a 'no contest' really. For me, there is no Club vrs Country 'debate', as there's nothing for me to debate. I rarely even think about England, save on International dates, Southampton on the other hand, are part of my life every day.

As far as football goes, Southampton is everything for me. I love football, because I love Southampton Football Club. I love my beautiful City, and for me, I support Saints because they represent and play for the City I love, was born and grew up in. If Southampton never had a football team, I would never have got into watching football at all. So for me, nothing could ever come close to replacing Southampton Football Club. Family moved us down to Bournemouth when I was fifteen due to Dad's job, and I've grown to love this place too. I could throw a stone at Dean Court from where I live, so I'd probably have ended up watching AFCB with some of my friends here sometimes. I have, over the years, developed some affection for the Club too, but it would never be the same. I could never "support" them, and feel that indescribably passionate love that I feel for my Southampton. Losing Southampton Football Club would have been simply unthinkable. Thank you Markus!

Because when they were younger, (I think it was his little brother) couldn't pronounce 'Joseph' properly, and kept saying 'jo-fish' instead.

A very good appointment I feel. Whatever angle I look at it from, it just feels "right" for us. That's just it. For so many years now; everything about our beloved Football Club, has just been so very wrong. It has been so hard for us, having to watch the Club we love being relentlessly mismanaged, and falling apart. But I'm so glad to be Southampton right now. We've stuck with it through all this sh*te, while the passion and spirit that once epitomised this Club was sucked dry. Finally, it feels like we've emerged from the storm, the dark clouds that have hung so heavily over our Club for so long, have broken up, and at last, the sun is shining again for us, and our future looks bright. An excellent new owner, who seems a perfect "fit" for us, followed by a manager who also feels like the right man, at the right time. How great it is, to feel that long forgotten thing called optimism flowing once again. - - - - - A few excerpts from the article shared by syd_barrett_saint: http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2...wsstory.sport1 Sounds very promising indeed. A warm welcome to Southampton Football Club to Alan Pardew. I hope we will enjoy much success together.

I know what you mean. Red just doesn't look good on me either. Was really looking forward to buying a nice new all yellow away top. Definitely won't be buying that though, unfortunately. Revolting shirt. What were they thinking?

Yes. Strachan first choice, but would be very happy to see Nigel return.

Sorry if posted elsewhere, but not seen it: http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/sport/display.var.2519215.0.exceltic_boss_gordon_strachan_playing_down_any_return_to_management.php

Thanks, I'll have a look when I log out.

I also wish to become a full member, now that there is something positive to talk about at long last. Now for the problem: I do not have credit cards, debit cards, or pay pal, etc. I tried to send a PM to two of our Admins earlier this afternoon, but it seems I am unable to send them. What I need to know, is am I able to send cash to a postal address, and if so, who and where do I send it to? Thanks.

Dear Mr. Liebherr, Firstly, a heartfelt thank you, and a warm welcome to Southampton Football Club. Reading your first message to us earlier today, was like a huge weight had been lifted. Your words brought great comfort, and at the same time, a renewed excitement for our future. I'm not sure how much you know about the full extent of the turmoil our great club has been through over these last five years, and how badly our supporters have suffered under seemingly unending mismanagement at all levels; but suffice to say, the famous "Spirit of Southampton" had all but evaporated, morale was at rock bottom, and hope fading fast. I don't know that it is possible to adequately express in words, the magnitude of what you have just done for us. You have given us our hope back, and the Spirit of Southampton is soaring once again. Thanks to you Markus, our Club is alive and well, and for the first time in so long, we can all look future to a bright and successful future, under your leadership. Myself, my family, and Southampton fans everywhere, are immensely grateful to you. Kind Regards, Halo.

Gutted. I, like most of us I'm sure, had my heart set on Mickey Fialka taking us over. Oh well, guess we'll just have to settle for a Billionaire who doesn't even live with his parents in a small semi detached house in Barnet. In all seriousness though, I am absolutely delighted, the fantastic news we've waited for, for so very long. It has been one hell of an emotional rollercoaster ride, but finally, we call all relax, and look forward to the bright future that we deserve. Thank you Markus, for believing in our Club, and giving us a future.

Lol, stunning, isn't it. Looks like they must have laid off their research team when the 'economic downturn' hit. Then again, it's The Star, so they may well never have had one.

The 'NewsNow.co.uk' feed has just provided this: http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/88108/Saints-saved/

I would not be averse to Wotte being given a chance, based solely on the professionalism he has shown over the course of this stressful administration period, although in my own mind, to offer him the position based on that alone, would be counter productive. I am very thankful to Mark Wotte for the professional way that he has carried himself through these testing times, but we have to also take other facets into consideration, and from my own perspective of what I've seen of his coaching 'ability', I cannot personally see that he is the right man to take us forward. If I have to sit through another season of that catastrophic diamond formation, I think I might just spontaneously combust under the exasperation. I would still like to see Paul Tisdale here next season. Rather than retype my reasons for that choice, I previously explained them in this post.