Football Talk at Fir Park

The Centenary Suite had over a hundred in the audience when the referee introduced the panel: Jane Lewis, Phil O’Donnell, Bobby Jenks and Willie McSeveney.

Hugh's in charge...

Questions from the audience were answered honestly and with a fair element of humour. Hugh Dallas handled the proceedings with ease and seems a natural for the after dinner circuit when he hangs up his whistle. He ensured that all panel members were able to make contributions and several of his own anecdotes had the audience in stitches.

Hugh let it be known that he is not in favour of instant replays being introduced to assist referees, that he fears many referees would give up in the face of the hassle and allegations of impropriety and the coin throwing which seems to be making an unfortunate return. He also found time to make several references to the forthcoming nuptials to be enjoyed by Jane Lewis.

The only lady in the panel expressed her views on sectarianism and on the role which the madia played in Berti Vogt’s downfall. She also gave an insight into the many boring hours which reporters sometimes have to invest just waiting for a story to happen.

Bobby Jenks gave a comprehensive summary of Motherwell’s current youth set up (or academy!) and revealed a few tales relating to some of his best signings for the club.

Willie McSeveney had the audience in nostalgic mood when he relived the famous 5-2 win at Ibrox and the 9-2 win against Flamenco. He is an advocate of summer football and he also mentioned that the Ancell Babes used to train on asphalt – do moaning about a lack of training facilities in his day!

Phil O’Donnell let us know that the players hate the East End Park surface and that it takes players much longer to recover after a game on the plastic. His most memorable game was, of course, the ’91 final and he seems to appreciate it more as time passes! Phil also welcomed the team’s next fixture being against Rangers at Fir Park. He felt that it will be exactly the type of game the players need to get their spirits up. He also pointed out that Terry Butcher has an excellent ability in raising the morale – and that was needed after the Hampden defeat.

A good night was had by all.