Ebbsfleet United v Grimsby Town

The following is the article I wrote for the Ebbsfleet United v Grimsby Town Match-day programme. 

It seems like only a couple of weeks ago that the Blue Square Premier League season 2012/13 kicked off.  But here we are in December and fast approaching the halfway mark of the season.  I am sure that both managers will have differing views about how the season has gone thus far.  As we know, Grimsby Town are flying high at the top of the BSP, whilst Ebbsfleet are just above the relegation zone.

I am sure that the Mariners joint managers, Rob Scott and Paul Hurst, together with our own Liam Daish will agree on one thing – A win today!  At present a mere three points separate the top five teams , and only four points separate the bottom seven teams.  So it is a very tightly contested league at present.

At this time of year the general thoughts of most people turn towards Christmas. In less than a month, a rather portly old man with long white hair and beard, will pay us all a visit and bring gifts to the well behaved amongst us.  Naturally, all football clubs have a Christmas wish list.

For football managers the wish will be for as many wins as possible whilst hoping that the players do not get injured.  Add in a good cup run or two, coupled with a promotion and a victory in a local derby and the season will be deemed a success.

Goalkeepers will be wishing for as many clean sheets as possible.  Not conceding a goal equates to a win, or at least a draw for the team.  A dramatic penalty save or two and they will generally be happy.

The midfield players will be hoping for great performances in the middle of the park.  These players are the engine room of the team.  So keeping fit and not being injured will be high on their list of priorities.  Throw in a goal or two and a few crucial tackles and the season will be complete.

Strikers will be wanting one thing.  No prizes for guessing what that would be – goals!  All forwards will be hoping that Santa provides them with the ability to score lots of goals in the remaining games.  For those that are in a goal scoring slump, the hope will be that the goals return.  A hat-trick or two will also be most welcomed.

Club officials will have a number of things on their wish list.  First and foremost will be that the club continues to survive.  As we all know, a large number of teams in virtually every division are under huge financial constraints, and for some, just managing to keep going is a huge issue.  Naturally, a promotion or a good cup run will be welcomed with opened arms. 

At MYFC, we are keen to ensure that Ebbsfleet United continues to survive and move forward.  Being a part-time team on a small playing budget does make it hard to compete against the bigger teams.  However, MYFC makes regular donations to the club to assist with costs etc.  In addition, there have been a number of initiatives put in place to also assist the club.  These will continue as the season progresses. 

If you are looking for a Christmas present for a loved one, or a treat for yourself, then I can suggest a MYFC membership.  Contact the club or MYFC for further details.

Finally, a big welcome to the fans, players and officials from Grimsby Town.  Let’s hope it is a great game.