HARTLEPOOL v WEST BROM MATCH PROGRAMME NOTES 26-8-08
There is nothing
quite like a midweek cup tie under the floodlights and tonight we have a game that
must have whetted the appetites of all Poolies.
Whatever the result tonight, I am sure that we are guaranteed a fast flowing, open,
attacking game. That is the way Pools play their football and in West Brom, we have a
side who have similar views. That stems from the management team of Tony Mowbray and
his assistant, Mark Venus.
I recall reffing Mark, initially at Blackhall, on a Saturday morning for the Pools
Intermediates before he went on to enjoy a long and successful career in the
professional game.
At the same time, a young man was also experiencing my dubious reffing skills as he
started off, also in the Northern Intermediate League, with the Boro. Both were easy
to handle as players and they kept their discipline, just as their sides do now.
Mogga's leadership qualities were apparent as a youngster as he captained a
very youthful Boro side after they very nearly went out of business. Throughout his
career, he has commanded respect wherever he has been and rightly so. He is one of
football's gentlemen and his sound principles on how football should be played, and
how you should conduct yourself in life in general, are an example to us all.
His sides are brought up in that manner, so tonight expect to see an excellent
football match. Having built up Tony Mowbray and his side tonight, I only hope that
he is concentrating on the League this season and that Pools can get through to the
next round.
Knowing Tony though, that is very unlikely. Not that Pools won't beat them,
I meant Mowbray will be looking for his Baggies side to progress.
As much as Premier League survival is obviously the most important thing this
season, the revenue, and the most likely route into Europe that this competition
brings, means that they will be coming to win tonight. Last season, with promotion
the aim, it did not stop them getting to the FA Cup semi-finals.
A Premiership opponent means that we are likely to see a more experienced
referee in charge. Let me know what you think.
For the second time this season, tonight's cup game follows a Saturday home
game and I know it is a drain on your finances. But make plenty of noise tonight
and help the team to give us all a similar financial headache in the next
round.
Catch me on my Football Phone-in from 6-7 pm every Saturday on
Alpha 103.2. Call me on 01325 25 55 55.
To read my other columns or listen to the shows online go to my website.
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