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I have to take my hat off and confirm I felt the same way as fans in all of the above comments. However, there is a reason for everything and if you all listen to Phil's summing up of the game yesterday, they are not excuses for the defeat, but they do make me feel a little harsh in my criticism of the team and management yesterday.

Phil speaks of the long journey to Bromley, injuries picked up and also of playing a match with 10 men for the majority of the game, then a long journey home, arriving in the early hours. I'm not surprised there was very little left in the tank, the team did not have time to rebuild after that game, and Elliott was still carrying the blow to his ribs from Michael the Cheek.

I think we should just lay off them, put it behind us and go again on New Year's Day, and appreciate what a good speaker Phil is. I never saw things that way yesterday, but Phil is closer to the team than we are, knows his players well, and is vastly more experienced than we are. The points he made in his interview never crossed my mind during the game. He does support his team well, and I like the way we will still chanted for them and applauded them after the game. That alone could turn New Years Day into a win.

Don't be too disheartened by yesterday's result.

Bringing another 7 to this game on Boxing Day. Not been to Boxing Day game for a few years now, usually a pub session in the afternoon, but having one at the club now.

I can't forget that it was Dan Mooney's goal that put us in this league in the first place. The squad is strong with or without him, but with him would it be stronger than it is now? If we cannot keep Alex Newby, it may be worth a shot, but I am really happy with Justin Amaluzor.

Think it more likely he will get a gig at Rochdale or Oldham, but we will see, Scored twelve for us last time he played for us, if I remember rightly and was our top scorer at the time.

On the upside, Rochdale lost to Bromley, would have gone abovbe us if they'd won. We're still 7th.

He did well today, scored after 15 minutes, being in the right place at the right time and took his opportunity well, immediately indearing himself to us. Great player and was an absolute menace, giving our other forwards free reign. Held the ball up well, and his headed knock-ons were superb. Good debut.

While on the subject of referees, I thought the one yesterday was the best we have had this season. None of Alty's players were booked or sent off, and to my knowledge neither were Southend's players. Yes there was some discreet pushes, but the referee seemed to feel there were two disciplined and well-drilled teams and therefore let the game flow, and the players to just get on with it.

There were the minimum of stops and interruptions and this made the game very enjoyable for both sets of fans. All in all, a good day for everybody but well done to the officials for letting the game flow with minimal interruptions.

 

May I through this site appeal to Phil Parkinson and Neil to stay as our current manager and assistant.

All the good work you have both done will be undone as we are definitely a team on the up. We are all aware of the interest from Grimsby Town currently, but you are both able to take this club much, much further. The board have supported you and you have never let us down in your career with us. We would really like you to stay and achieve what you, Neil and our beloved club are more than capable of.

Think the grass is always greener on the other side and your job here is secure, and local to you and your family.

KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK, PHIL AND NEIL.

Thanks to the club for changing the timing of the away coach to 1pm. And the management board and players for the coach. Lacie is playing for the Under 12's Sapphires on Saturday but will be finished and back home by 1200pm. Therefore, we can now make the game and indeed have booked the coach and tickets at the Chaddy End with the away fans.

Can someone advise as I have limited mobility, where the coach drops us? Is it actually close to the ground as I have a walking stick.

Thanks and see you all tonight and on Saturday, our first away game this season.