We're into the 90s, soon be up to date folks. Seriously, issue #91, unbelievable!!!! Where does the time go? 17 years we've been on the go now and it certainly doesn't feel like it.
In saying that there are times when it does, the recent furore over the league structure brings that feeling rushing back. How many times are we going to suffer at the hands of people who have no idea what we fans want? I hesitate to use the term paying customers but that's essentially what we are yet our views are given no credence whatsoever. Mind you, perhaps it's because we can't decide on the format that would suit us best either.
Perhaps, if this current suggestion is voted in we might finally see the death of the game as a spectator sport. I remain convinced that is the only thing that will wake up the eejits in charge of our game. Constant change belittles our 'product' and does nothing to instil confidence in the future prospects of the game. Fans are voting with their feet already, another unpopular decision might push a fair few more over the other side of the hill, never to return. If enough fans turn their back following this change, the benefits of TV (Tunnel Vision?) money could be eroded significantly.
The loyalty of supporters has been played on for too long, how many times has that been said in the pages of a fanzine? But on this occasion there is a different intensity to the threats from many quarters, I sense that many fans are well and truly fed up and that this time it is no idle threat. If enough follow through and turn their back on the game, what then? The powers that be won't recognise it until it's too late that's for sure, do we have a strong enough case to sue for negligence? Of course there would be no benefit there as the game would already be dead.
The opinions contained in this issue are many and varied, but there's a general consensus there that those running our game have got it wrong with the recent proposals for a return to an unpopular 10 team league. No-one who remembers that set-up agrees it is what's required, how can we move forward if we go back? It will remain a major talking point for a while and the pages of OSB reflect that although there are plenty other issues to take up space, Liar Liar Broon & Knox for instance. Our new man at the helm, what shall we call him? Betting scandals, vociferous fan groups who cannae spell, visits to Soccer AM!!!! Pressing issues, have your say or just a wee bog read, only don't read it in the toilets at Fir Park in case it gets soggy.
Up The Well
Mj
P.S. An already small squad has been further depleted due to an unfortunate injury to one of our regular sellers. Anyone with an hour to spare between 2-3pm on Saturday to help us flog this issue outside the Fir Park Club would be most appreciated. Contact JWOK to get in touch if you can help.