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General Category => Altrincham FC First Team => Topic started by: Jeffers on May 04, 2008, 11:00:36 PM
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So today is the big day. Will GH stay, will he go? Whose not really bothered?
The past three seasons in the conference have all ended in meeting the “less than expectations” mark. Each three seasons the history books show we have been relegated.
However, what is most disappointing is that this current season we only achieved 41 points, the same as the first season before the ludicrous points decision. Though this season we had a better team, well on paper at least. Even the defence with Shotton, Lane, Young, Tinson and Toulson, Jennings or Peyton conceded more than Aspinal, Band, Maddox, Munroe and Peyton back in 2005/6. Though we did manage to score the most goals this season of our three seasons back at non-leagues elite division.
So where did we go wrong this season? Certainly some of the players brought in during pre-season were not good enough (aka Whalley and Sedgemore) whilst Roca and Battersby did little apart from create and score the winner against nine man FGR.
Yes there was a shortened amount of time to recruit the “right people” during pre-season (so there’s an excuse for next season if we get a third successive reprieve). But a good manager can bring his side to achieve the necessary results, and provide tactics that work game in, game out. Furthermore had Halifax not had their 10 point deduction, we would have been relegated even before the last game of the season.
Some people will go on about the lack of finances for the players, others that GH has been around for years. To be relegated once is unfortunate, twice in successive seasons are questionable, and thrice in three seasons is undefendable. To have a target for three seasons and fail to meet each of them, shows the manager is out of his depth, to keep the same manager after these three relegations is mystifying. Additionally, GH does not behave as a manager should, as an ambassador for the club, anything GH does badly reflects negatively onto Altrincham FC, for instance, heckling home supporters and consistently swearing. I personally know Altrincham supporters who would like to go to matches, but have already been put off by the antics of our manager. But still the club persevere with the same manager, now not only to get us out of the conference north, but to then keep Alty in the league that for the past three seasons has shown he simply cannot do.
Please do not get me wrong about Graham Heathcote, GH HAS done a lot for this club, as player, coach, secretary, groundsman, manager, etc…. But sentimentality should be set aside for the sake of progress. The last three seasons have shown GH cannot manage at blue square premier level. It is simply time to make a change, and to allow a better manager the chance to make Altrincham supporters proud again.
The main debate, if by some miracle the correct decision was made, who would become our next manager?
Nick Jefferson
Altrincham Supporter.
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Part time clubs can't compete with full timers on a long term basis. It is no good blaming the manager. Give him the same funds as Oxford/Torquay/Exeter etc and i bet he would win the league. There is no point sacking him unless you have someone lined up to take over and do a better job.
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Part time clubs can't compete with full timers on a long term basis. It is no good blaming the manager. Give him the same funds as Oxford/Torquay/Exeter etc and i bet he would win the league. There is no point sacking him unless you have someone lined up to take over and do a better job.
The thing is though, as much as team performances have been a big issue, it is not the only factor to be taken into account. We need a manager who is able to conduct himself professionally and not fight/argue with paying customers and opposing officials at nearly every match. Such behaviour cannot and should not be overlooked.
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He is completely different when the cameras are on him.
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He is completely different when the cameras are on him.
That's what they said about Barrymore. ;D
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;)
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Here Here !
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He is completely different when the cameras are on him.
That's what they said about Barrymore.
My nomination for one liner of the year.
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Its his decision to stay or go. The board want him there. I wouldnt say he's done a bad job, but surely 3 very similar seasons go to show that he has reached his limit in terms of ability to achieve at Altrincham FC.
We can argue all day and night that with a better budget he would win us the league but the fact is the budget will only get worse if we are relegated. That points towards a new strategy for me and with it a new manager. We all know that we could have finished higher last season so its now time to see if there is someone who can provide that boost.
We are beyond being pro-active now, this is a reaction to 3 relegations, surely its time?
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Will we not find out for another ten days anyway?
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or perhaps a new manager would have us relegated in last position and a poor run in the bsn, I agree with the points made above however I do not agree that a new manager will do a better job per se we must accept that it is possible a new manager would do worse.
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or perhaps a new manager would have us relegated in last position and a poor run in the bsn, I agree with the points made above however I do not agree that a new manager will do a better job per se we must accept that it is possible a new manager would do worse.
True, but on the flip side a new manager might do better for us. The only way to find out is try it.
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I personally know Altrincham supporters who would like to go to matches, but have already been put off by the antics of our manager.
Is this really true? If so, it seems pretty small minded.
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I personally know Altrincham supporters who would like to go to matches, but have already been put off by the antics of our manager.
Is this really true? If so, it seems pretty small minded.
I know people who aren't renewing season tickets because of our manager. It's not small minded, its just exercising your right as a consumer to take the ultimate sanction.
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I can feel one of those Bombay TV things coming on about today's events ...
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I can feel one of those Bombay TV things coming on about today's events ...
Please don't encourage him.
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Does anyone else get the feeling this whole thread is a mute as we all know the board will back Graham, even if he offers to resign again?
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Does anyone else get the feeling this whole thread is a mute as we all know the board will back Graham, even if he offers to resign again?
100% agree.
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The meeting could well be something bigger than just GH'as future. Surely when end of season things are done it is a case of looking at the whole structure of the club, thinking laterally, how to increase funding streams, possible youth/reserve set ups etc etc.
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Ballers I agrree entirely, the bigger picture needs looking at and restructure if possible/necessary.
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GH would make a superb general manager with an overview over the whole set up from juniors to 1st XI
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GH would make a superb general manager with an overview over the whole set up from juniors to 1st XI
Playing devils advocate here, would GH not make a superb manage given the right infrastructure?
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GH would make a superb general manager with an overview over the whole set up from juniors to 1st XI
Playing devils advocate here, would GH not make a superb manage given the right infrastructure?
Yes
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Heathcote to stay at Alty
By Connor Murphy
Comment
GRAHAM Heathcote is set to stay on as Altrincham manager despite the club's relegation from the Blue Square Premier.
After meeting with the club's board today, Heathcote agreed to continue in the job no matter what division Alty find themselves in next season.
There had been call for change from some fans after another difficult campaign in non-league football's top flight had ended in disappointment.
But the board have reiterated their confidence in Heathcote as the right man to lead the club forward.
The decision had been in Heathcote's hands after chairman Geoff Goodwin said last week that the club would continue to back the Robins boss.
And despite some original doubts over whether he would step down or not, the 53-year-old has decided to stay on.
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Doubts?
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Heathcote to stay at Alty
By Connor Murphy
Comment
GRAHAM Heathcote is set to stay on as Altrincham manager despite the club's relegation from the Blue Square Premier.
After meeting with the club's board today, Heathcote agreed to continue in the job no matter what division Alty find themselves in next season.
There had been call for change from some fans after another difficult campaign in non-league football's top flight had ended in disappointment.
But the board have reiterated their confidence in Heathcote as the right man to lead the club forward.
The decision had been in Heathcote's hands after chairman Geoff Goodwin said last week that the club would continue to back the Robins boss.
And despite some original doubts over whether he would step down or not, the 53-year-old has decided to stay on.
Didn't see that coming about a million miles off...
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safest job in football ?
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Might I suggest, safest job in the world?
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Seriously, so f**king annoying. Safest job in the world.
3 seasons, 3 relegations. No progress.
(Yes, I know we're clear of debts etc., but no on-pitch progress)
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Does that mean I can go into work tomorrow shout and scream at people, then try and lamp someone and keep my job? >:( >:(
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f**k it. Its done now. Nobody can say theyre suprised.
Now its time to think about how else to bring about more success.
Lets wait to see what else was discussed in this meeting. I hope it wasnt the 2 minute hand shake this article suggests. A lot more at stake than just the managers job!
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I hope in that case we're going to have a positive GH. No going on about the part time thing anymore should we be lucky enough to get reprieved. To say, yes it's difficult but we're going to give it a real go, just like we used to and especially at Moss Lane which we can still make a difficult place for teams to come.
That we will fund the team effectively now we have less constraints and debts dragging us down, a real statment of intent if we're in the BSN and a positive confident attitude if we're in the BSP.
Moreover, that those involved start accepting any criticism with a little more humility and treat the fans as the most important people. It's football, it's a tough job, there will be criticism, it will be thankless, not everyone understands how what hard work it is, just shut up and get on with it and realise what a marvellous position and club it is.
Also, I think there are a few people who should stop reading this forum.
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O.k. graham we know you read these messages so how about giving us long suffering paying supporters something to look forward to over the summer.regardless of what league we will be in lets go out and strengthen the team where we need to now and not in the middle of june and lets do it to bsp standards not bsn then if we do go down at least we will have a fighting chance of getting straight back.Other clubs are already signing key players what we need is players who can play in there right positions no swapping and changing?.It would be nice to see some youngsters who are hungry for a game and not the money brought in ala ryan shotton [have a goodwin for that one graham]but thats just my opinion.Theres a core of about 900 of us at most home games and a good 250 at most away games and i know that some of us have a moan at you but that is just through frustration we are a patient loyal bunch who love this club as much as you. I and i,m sure the majority of fans will support you the board and the staff for the comming season all we ask is for a bit of fighting spirit on the pitch ;D and a finish anywhere above the bottom 4 . GOOD LUCK AND BEST WISHES ;)
COME ON THE COTES ALTY
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O.k. graham we know you read these messages so how about giving us long suffering paying supporters something to look forward to over the summer.regardless of what league we will be in lets go out and strengthen the team where we need to now and not in the middle of june and lets do it to bsp standards not bsn then if we do go down at least we will have a fighting chance of getting straight back.Other clubs are already signing key players what we need is players who can play in there right positions no swapping and changing?.It would be nice to see some youngsters who are hungry for a game and not the money brought in ala ryan shotton [have a goodwin for that one graham]but thats just my opinion.Theres a core of about 900 of us at most home games and a good 250 at most away games and i know that some of us have a moan at you but that is just through frustration we are a patient loyal bunch who love this club as much as you. I and i,m sure the majority of fans will support you the board and the staff for the comming season all we ask is for a bit of fighting spirit on the pitch ;D and a finish anywhere above the bottom 4 . GOOD LUCK AND BEST WISHES ;)
COME ON THE COTES ALTY
Goodwinworthy post.
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Like GH or loath him, the decision has been made.
COME ON ALTY.
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OK - I have been looking at the past 3 seasons in the Conference and I DO NOT class the 'Robinson relegation" as a relegation as that was no ones fault.....
05/06 - Won 24%, Drawn 26%, Lost 50%
06/07 - Won 28%, Drawn 26%, Lost 46%
07/08 - Won 20%, Drawn 30%, Lost 50%
05/06 - For 40, Against 71, Diff -31
06/07 - For 53, Against 67, Diff -14
07/08 - For 56, Against 82, Diff -26
I want the club to progress... Thats all .... Not be scared and as my motto in life is "Its better to regret something you have done that to regret something you haven't.....
Time will tell .....
Can we move FORWARDS and not be scared of moving the football club forwards as well.
I also disagee with various comments in the past that imply the fans are unrealistic, I can tell you know there aren't many clubs who would back a manager over 3 (well 2) relegations is there ??? and as Fans the support that is directed is second to none in my opinion.
I think Altrincham have the most realistic fans around but I also believe that should not stop them from wanting to be ambitious and also be annoyed/upset if things aren't going well. If people are prepared to take a 'pat on the back' they should be prepared to take some heckling as well.... its part of FOOTBALL or indeed ANY OTHER BUSINESS !?
For me last season wasn't about lack of money or backing by the board or indeed anything off the field but by negative tactics that cost us in games. We should believe in ourselves more and try and kick on and not settle for being a 'part time' team that the whole world is against. I don't expect 3-4-3 in games but I do expect us to TRY and compete and not just 'hang on' for as long as possible cos the last 2 seasons have proved that doesn't work..
Teams should be scared of coming to Moss Lane and we should be positive enough to impose that.
As a Football club I just ask again that we don't get scared of moving forwards. Altrincham FC is still a big name in non league football and will be back up there in time, if we allow it to.
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Like GH or loath him, the decision has been made.
COME ON ALTY.
Yeh lets have a positive next season whatever division we are in, and leave all matters unitl the end of the season, not call for GH to resign in the middle of the season, as that is no good for anybody, and make an improvement on what was a pretty shoddy season we have just had.
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So, it's official then.
It's a life sentence.
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There will clearly be plenty of debate, but let's just hope that Graham has now learnt from some of the questionable tactics and learnt about the types of players we need. In the summer, I was excited about players like Sedgemore and Whalley but we can all now see they aren't the type of players we need. But lets not forget, from janurary onwards we brought in JJ, Shotton, Young, Toulson, King and Turnbull who I thought were all impressive and I can only take this to mean GH has learnt something. Not many people doubt his knowledge of Alty, non-league football and his ability to attract players to the club, so all I want to see now is some good tactics...is that much to ask? In my opinion, he'll have the whole package if he does and so I hope we can see a change in his approach next year, whatever league we're in!
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Let's hope there will be lessCONTAINMENT[ and more ANGER MANAGEMENT.Surely the Board must warn him as to his future conduct when representing the club.
Disgusted.
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Watch, Listen and Learn :).. Love the words on it ....
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOwybu4IhR0
If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs, and blaming it on you
If you can trust yourself when the board, fans and media doubt you, yet inspire your team to win by a goal, or two
If you can save your team from certain relegation with nothing but your will to win Then give them all the credit, massaging the egos of eleven men
If you can push your superstar, to always up his game Or meet with total disaster and shoulder all the blame
If you can take a rising star and teach him the pitfalls of success Or stand up to the short-sighted board, when they're demanding more for less
If you can go in 3 nil down, then take your men and lift their heads Or endure abuse from the opposition and leave the retorts unsaid
If you can handle the media spotlight, whilst knowing they wait like wolves for your fall Or bring on another striker, risking it all
If you can motivate your men to fill those dying seconds with a last minute run
Yours is the glory, the game and everything that's in it And what's more, you'll be a Manager my son.
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
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Disappointed, but not surprised.
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
In any way that doesn't endorse and/or finance "Heathcote F.C.". I want nothing futher to do with the club while that idiot is in charge.
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
In any way that doesn't endorse and/or finance "Heathcote F.C.". I want nothing futher to do with the club while that idiot is in charge.
As much as I can very much sympathise with what you say (& why you say it) it would be a shame not to go to support the team. Reduced crowds will not change anything except disappoint & dishearten the players.
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It will hurt to do it. However, if our relegation is confirmed it will make little difference anyway as I would find it difficult to get to most games. Nevertheless, as a matter of principle I cannot bring myself to endorse the decision to carry on with the same management in any way.
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We've all said at some point that the buck stops here and its no more Alty. If you succeed you're probably the strongest man ever.
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We've all said at some point that the buck stops here and its no more Alty. If you succeed you're probably the strongest man ever.
I can honestly say that in 18 years of supporting Alty I have never felt nearly as insulted as I do by today's announcement. Not even John King's "gobsh*tes" comment comes close.
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It will hurt to do it. However, if our relegation is confirmed it will make little difference anyway as I would find it difficult to get to most games. Nevertheless, as a matter of principle I cannot bring myself to endorse the decision to carry on with the same management in any way.
Fair enough & understandable.
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I would like to agree with Alty365's comments and will not be renewing my season ticket for next season.
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I will see how its going on the pitch before i part with money
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"The Board paid tribute to the work carried out by Graham Heathcote in putting out a team which has overachieved against clubs with more significant financial resources."
My own opinion on that statement is that if we had overachieved against clubs with more significant financial resources we wouldn't have been relegated surely ?
Okay we got 2 points off Torquay amongst others, but we DID NOT overachieve against everyone with a more financial clout that ourselves.The term overachieve refers to that of 'perform better or achieve a greater degree of success than expected' I don't think that applies to Alty at all.
One sentence... Histon, played 2, 0 points.
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"The Board paid tribute to the work carried out by Graham Heathcote in putting out a team which has overachieved against clubs with more significant financial resources."
My own opinion on that statement is that if we had overachieved against clubs with more significant financial resources we wouldn't have been relegated surely ?
Okay we got 2 points off Torquay amongst others, but we DID NOT overachieve against everyone with a more financial clout that ourselves.The term overachieve refers to that of 'perform better or achieve a greater degree of success than expected' I don't think that applies to Alty at all.
One sentence... Histon, played 2, 0 points.
Funny, I thought the same thing.
I'd still like to know what the board think represents a good season for Alty.
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Well we know GG would prefer us to be in the BSN......
So disappointed in the board and GH.
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disappointed and disillusioned >:(
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Iam an Altrincham fan, and will still be following Altrincham next season, at the end of Altrincham is 'FC' which when I last checked meant football club, therefore I will be supporting the club (players, manager, assistant manager, chairman, ballboys)
These Board Statements just get more and more worrying :(
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We've all said at some point that the buck stops here and its no more Alty. If you succeed you're probably the strongest man ever.
I can honestly say that in 18 years of supporting Alty I have never felt nearly as insulted as I do by today's announcement. Not even John King's "gobsh*tes" comment comes close.
What was the 'King' comment ? Only just started following Alty in that Era. Thought he was a pretty good manager tbh and 'saved' (?) the club in '96 ?
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We 'overachieved' by gettin into the Conference in the first placeand I do not deny that but 3 seasons on and 3 relegations later is NOT overachieving at all.
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We 'overachieved' by gettin into the Conference in the first placeand I do not deny that but 3 seasons on and 3 relegations later is NOT overachieving at all.
Quite the opposit, we avoided relegation in the first year on the pitch (I'm forgetting the -18!!) and from there we should have kicked on, built a Conference National standard team and established ourselves in the league. Instead we underachive every year.
At the start of this season I would have been happy with 5th bottom, had it not been for Halifax's minus 10 points the Weymouth game would have been pointless.
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
In any way that doesn't endorse and/or finance "Heathcote F.C.". I want nothing futher to do with the club while that idiot is in charge.
As much as I can very much sympathise with what you say (& why you say it) it would be a shame not to go to support the team. Reduced crowds will not change anything except disappoint & dishearten the players.
But, let's be honest, just what will change things at Moss Lane?
Three consecutive finishes in the relegation zone?
No.
Relentless (and unsuccessful) negative tactics and a prehistoric 'style' of football?
No.
A manager who continually embarrasses the club with his lack of discipline?
No.
A manager who verbally abuses his own supporters and never apologises for his behaviour?
No.
Jennifer's Dad - just count yourself fortunate that you are exiled in Scotland and didn't have to watch Alty last season, otherwise I suspect that you would feel just as disillusioned as some people on this Forum!
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At the end of the day we all go for one thing Altrincham fc.
Some of you may be feeling like this http://www.freewebarcade.com/game/damn-birds/
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It's starting to look like the board and management have lost the majority of the supports backing.
Whilst I will continue to follow and support the team, and I will be renewing my season ticket, I will not be buying golden goals, programmes, putting money in the buckets or attending fundraising events.
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
In any way that doesn't endorse and/or finance "Heathcote F.C.". I want nothing futher to do with the club while that idiot is in charge.
As much as I can very much sympathise with what you say (& why you say it) it would be a shame not to go to support the team. Reduced crowds will not change anything except disappoint & dishearten the players.
But, let's be honest, just what will change things at Moss Lane?
Three consecutive finishes in the relegation zone?
No.
Relentless (and unsuccessful) negative tactics and a prehistoric 'style' of football?
No.
A manager who continually embarrasses the club with his lack of discipline?
No.
A manager who verbally abuses his own supporters and never apologises for his behaviour?
No.
Jennifer's Dad - just count yourself fortunate that you are exiled in Scotland and didn't have to watch Alty last season, otherwise I suspect that you would feel just as disillusioned as some people on this Forum!
I can see JD's point. Would it not be easier to show your disapproval if you are there.
Will all those not renewing their season tickets be going to the Fan's Forum?
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I just hope this season we can be a bit more positive.
Which is basically an attitude I'd like to see in a culture change of the club. we've had so many reminders of look where we were when we came in from the board.....yet weren't we told "The past does not equal the future?"
When Alty were great and they were in the changing room at Birmingham I'll bet Kingy didn't turn round to Ronnie Ellis and say "look, they're full time, top flight, no way we can compete at this level, best we can hope for is a draw....try and contain them"...I bet he said Go and have af*****g go and scare the lives out of them!!!!!!
The last two seasons in the last game we were a goal away from survival......those goals could have been scored ealier in the season.
The 'cote is certainly experienced at our level .........now is the time for him to put the last 3 years experience to good use!!!
I remember and keep going back to the vauxhall motors game where he played pottsy alone up front and I said at that time the 'cote could be a great manager if just put more confidence and belief into his team selection...for the rest of that season he said "this league is about scoring goals" and that philosophy led to an attractive season where we did overachieve and got success....it is the philosophy and belief that drives a club's fortunes on the pitch I reckon.
I do sympathise with those who are angry and respect their feelings.....I wonder if the club do and how they going to overcome this?
Perhaps the cote is gonna stubbornly go out there and give us a season to remember? let's bloody hope so!
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We've all said at some point that the buck stops here and its no more Alty. If you succeed you're probably the strongest man ever.
Ive never felt like this. And I hope I never will. Im grateful at being exiled in many ways because I fear i would be at breaking point by now.
Alty365, this is a bit harsh. Im sure you will go back on those words come next season, at least I hope you do. A club needs its fans most following relegation. Sometimes you have to look over the board and over the management and players and remember that what you actually care about is the essence of having a club and following it through thick and thin.
Ive said this many times but for me I can still feel good when I think that our only problems now are on the pitch. After 10 years of uncertainty its a welcome change to not worry about losing the club completely.Definitely not a time to walk away, even if temporarily.
The fans were here long before GH was even a player and they will be there long after he and the board have gone. The board can have their time now, they kept the club going for us after all, but there will be a time when that is forgotten and they have to listen to the fans again.
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I just hope this season we can be a bit more positive.
I honestly don't think GH can do this. It would mean having to change a mindset created after 3 years of struggling and 'firefighting'. 3 years later we're still told that 'we can't compete' against Oxford/Torquay etc, yet we've seen that these teams are not infallible and in fact weren't Oxford beaten by Northwich, Weymouth and Droylsden? GH is passing his negativity onto his players and onto us.
We've never played attractive football under GH and never will. He isn't skillful enough as a manager or a coach. Maybe Graham Barrow was brought into help with this, but that's another matter altogether.
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One of the main issues for me is the constant "what a good job we have done" statements and "we are part time and can't compete" philosophy.
No one is denying that the board have done a great job in putting the club on an even keel but lets give up already with this back slapping and self congratulating and make football and not business decisions.
There has to be a realisation that the fans do care, thats why there is so much frustration.
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I just hope this season we can be a bit more positive.
I honestly don't think GH can do this. It would mean having to change a mindset created after 3 years of struggling and 'firefighting'. 3 years later we're still told that 'we can't compete' against Oxford/Torquay etc, yet we've seen that these teams are not infallible and in fact weren't Oxford beaten by Northwich, Weymouth and Droylsden? GH is passing his negativity onto his players and onto us.
We've never played attractive football under GH and never will. He isn't skillful enough as a manager or a coach. Maybe Graham Barrow was brought into help with this, but that's another matter altogether.
Cant agree with that comment. When we won the play offs we played some great stuff
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
How do you propose to support the players/team?
In any way that doesn't endorse and/or finance "Heathcote F.C.". I want nothing futher to do with the club while that idiot is in charge.
As much as I can very much sympathise with what you say (& why you say it) it would be a shame not to go to support the team. Reduced crowds will not change anything except disappoint & dishearten the players.
But, let's be honest, just what will change things at Moss Lane?
Three consecutive finishes in the relegation zone?
No.
Relentless (and unsuccessful) negative tactics and a prehistoric 'style' of football?
No.
A manager who continually embarrasses the club with his lack of discipline?
No.
A manager who verbally abuses his own supporters and never apologises for his behaviour?
No.
Jennifer's Dad - just count yourself fortunate that you are exiled in Scotland and didn't have to watch Alty last season, otherwise I suspect that you would feel just as disillusioned as some people on this Forum!
I can see JD's point. Would it not be easier to show your disapproval if you are there.
Will all those not renewing their season tickets be going to the Fan's Forum?
Paying to be there and voicing disapproval = being given a tirade of abuse from the manager and being threatened. >:( >:( >:(
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This decision is a joke. The clique don't give a toss what the supporters think and are only interested in making sure their mate keeps the safest job in football. I won't be coming to any more games (home or away) or assisting with any more fundraising while Heathcote is in charge. Today's announcement is a two fingered salute to everyone outside the clique and I have had enough of it.
When the board can continue to back a man who has behaved as disgustingly as Heathcote did regularly last season and also back him when he has led us to two successive relegations, still referring to him as a "great manager" and licking his arse at every opportunity then it is beyond a joke. I hope the clique enjoy their club because I want nothing to do with it while they are there.
You can keep it.
If that's how you feel, I think you should change your sign-on name. Don't you?
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Circumstances dictate that I cannot get to games anything like as often as I wish these days but as a supporter of 30 years plus (ex-season ticket holder) and someone who follows the fortunes of the club closely I thought I'd give my two penn'orth. Whatever his failings, GH is Alty through and through and I believe should have a role at the club - it is whether that is as manager that can be justifiably debated. I have witnessed both sides of his devotion to Alty - when he was a player a fan on the terraces gave him a bit of stick and as he held off 2 opposing defenders by the corner flag he argued (somewhat abusively) about how he and his teammates had won 2 leagues titles for fans like him and they should get behind the club. On another occasion, during his time in charge with John King, I called into the ground during the summer to renew my season ticket and on my way out as I let on to him he insisted I be shown around the ground to see all the new improvements that were being made at the time - his pride in being part of Altrincham FC was (and still is) undeniable. Given the team's playing record over the past 3 seasons, the time probably is right to let someone else have a go at managing the playing side of things but we should not underestimate what GH has given to Alty for most of his adult life. Those who work at the club day in day out know the value of of people like GH which is why full support will always come from there. We should be careful not to hound out someone who, after all, is an intrisic part of OUR club.
Paul.
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I sympathise with the comments made by Alty365 and can understand where he is coming from. The reason he is considering not renewing his season ticket is because he cares about the club deeply, so in that sense I feel you are being a tad unfair Saughall Robin. I am considering taking the same course of action, but not because GH has been retained as manager, or because of the undoubted clique which exists at the club - I can live with those things. A cumulation of factors have resulted in my general disillusionment ranging from the lack of ambition to compete on the field of play, the apparent fear of change which exists at the club and the despicable decision to play FCUM (the most obvious example of the way the Board have shown two fingers to it's 'workers'). In short, I'm fed up. Perhaps that makes me a part time fan, though I've supported Alty for 20 years, home and often away, through good times and bad? No, like Alty365 I care too, but there is only so much we as fans should be willing to take.
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I think the board and GH take the fans' support for granted. I can't see the fans of any other club being as understanding as we are. If you have a look on the Torquay board, fans are calling for the manager's head because of their failure in the playoffs. We on the other hand, are retaining a manager who has managed to get us relegated 3 seasons on the trot.
As Brian says, there is only so much we can take. I fear that next season, if results start going the same way as in previous years, the fans will start to turn against GH on the terraces - something which he hasn't been subjected to (bar the odd person in the stands). Our patience can only be stretched so far.
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I should point out that although I go to as many games as I can and have been a regular season ticket holder in the past, I have not had one for the last couple of seasons due to not being able to get to 90% of home games. However, three members of my family will not be renewing their tickets (one of whom has watched Alty for more than 40 years) and I will have to think very hard during the summer about whether I will pay to attend games. The way I feel right now I will not, but in fairness to Narcissist's post above he is probably 100% right that I will feel differently by July/August. It doesn't mean I like what's going on one bit but what else am I going to do with my Saturdays?
As for the post about changing my sign on, this is irrelevant because my love of Alty will always remain exactly the same. My issue is with "Heathcote F.C." not the Alty F.C. that I know and love.
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Perhap my attempt at flippancy was misplaced, Brian and Alty 365.
It's the only thing left at the moment.
The club WILL go down and so wil gates and income.
I don't know what the answer is, but I don't think it's getting rid of GH.
Seeing so few victories over the last few years and having so little to cheer about except minor triumphs over Droylsden and Vics has been a very better pill but we've not got to start chucking the baby out with the bathwater.
Personally, I don't think the club should have made the decision over whether GH continued as manager until we knew for definite which league we will be in next year. If we get a reprieve, then probably there would have to be some severe changes in the outlook of the management if we are to move forward. I, like many others on here could never see that happening.
A prime example of the lack of will to be competing in the BSP is the lack of a reserve team. If we can't afford to buy players, where else are they to come from other than if they're other team's cast-offs who are prepared to play for less at Alty.
It seems to me that the management would welcome a move to the BSN as that is in their comfort zone and THAT is the bitterest pill of all to swallow for someone who has dreamed of seeing us compete in the league forthe last 43 years.
I've hated saying all this as I think this acrimony and back-biting blame game is of no use whatsoever but it's all just blurted out.
Having said all that though, I don't think I could ever say that I'd never go again under any circumstances (apart from my ability to afford it). I don't really think you meant it either, 365, or at least you won't do when you've had a bit more time to digest things.
Have a goodwin by way of apology!
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Good post Saughall Robin. There are so many things going on at the moment that I'm in danger of going to the nut house! Getting relegated. Possible reprieve? GH. Being swallowed up by FCUM. My God, why can't life just be dull. This is worse than a death sentence! Think I'll just take up rugby or something!
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Fair play Saughall you make some good points there. I have no axe to grind with any supporters, we're all perfectly entitled to disagree. I'm just feeling very disillusioned at the moment and the FCUM farce isn't helping one iota.
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If the bathwater is stagnating and a putrid smell of failure is starting to fill the room as the baby struggles to come up with anything new, then I think YES, throw the baby out with the bathwater. It IS part of the problem. Nowhere else in business or any other walk of life would failure be so soundly endorsed....and that is what it is, FAILURE.
I've made all of the points before, about how we all appreciate how difficult it is on a shoestring budget, being part-time, how much GH has done for the club in the past, how much he loves the club, etc, etc, but sometimes that just is not enough. They are all excuses, sure there is some validity in there, but they are still excuses. I am not going to say any more on this as I find it all rather disturbing and all we end up doing on here is going around in circles. I hope as many of you as possible can get to the fans forum and voice your concerns (I wish I could).
My main worry, as I've stated elsewhere is that the fans will turn and it will all get VERY nasty if things do not look good on the pitch in the first few weeks of next season. This is a massive gamble by the board and I hope for their sakes it works out, but I fear this is only prolonging the inevitable (I do SINCERELY hope I'm wrong).
There is nothing worse than seeing a man who was one time a hero being lambasted from every quarter and fans calling for his head from the terraces. It happens. I never thought I'd see Irish fans calling for a managers head and being really vindictive, but it happened to Stan Staunton and it is VERY sad to see.
It's going to be a LONG summer.