Mark Stuart-Wood CEN article - 19 Nov 2010

It would appear that this season would appear to be taking on the form of a particularly long roller coaster minus the adrenalin rush. After a run of poor results the siren voices of doom and gloom were calling for Martin Ling's head. Indeed, this very column suggested that something needed to be done... and for once it was. Tuesday's narrow, brave, fighting defeat by a team some 58 league places ahead of the U's was the first defeat in eight outings by Cambridge United.  Although the current league position is far from advantageous let us hope that the team can build upon its cup adventure and start to climb the Blue Square table to a point where a play off position can be within our grasp rather than a distant dream.

Those who braved the cold on Tuesday to watch a scintillating nights football are obviously of a hardy disposition. I mention this in connection with that equally hardy perennial that comes around every year at this time - the Winter Break. I'm going to take a partisan approach here and say a resounding no to the idea. At Conference level, unfortunately, the idea of a winter 'rest' to benefit the England team is hardly going to take hold of the imagination. As if the poor little darlings need any more pampering.

Football is a winter sport and fixtures around this time of year come with their own rituals and rites that add to the on pitch experience. The no standard mug of Bovril, the favourite old coat, the rather fetching scarf and hat combo are all part and parcel of attending games during the cold season. Christmas just wouldn't be the same without the opportunity to get out, shake off the cobwebs on Boxing Day and New Years Day and cheer on the lads. Sure enough the late postponement of games can be a tedious and expensive hassle but in this day and age is it beyond the resources of the football authorities to match a decision on whether a game goes ahead with sufficient notice being allowed for away supporters? Or are the leagues just indulging in a little power play? Whatever the answer, winter is very nearly here so wrap up warm and enjoy!

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