DISTANT VICS NEWSLETTER
PART OF NORTHWICH VICTORIA SUPPORTERS TRUST
NUMBER 453 9th OCTOBER 2008

CLUB NEWS
This week sees Vics start a run of 3 league games against the other 3 teams in the relegation spots with us. Grays is the first up at the VS on Saturday. Tuesday sees the diversion of the Setanta Shield away at Stafford 7.45pm before Lewes next week and Eastbourne 2 weeks later after the FA Cup. No new injuries so the only definite absentee
is Lee Steele although others have been carrying injuries (Stamp, Welch and Barratt) and are not fully match fit.

Lee Steele has reached the final of the North West Player of the Year which will be decided at a `do' at the Midland Hotel in Manchester on Monday 17th November. He has polled 5,000 votes which we understand is up there with some Premiership players! Lee has asked that his thanks be given to the fans who voted for him (however many times
they did it!!!).

Don't forget that this weekend sees the 3rd qualifying round of the FA Cup which means that Vics will be in the draw for the next round on Monday. Ties to be played on 25th October.

SUPPORTERS TRUST
The Trust has approached the club to offer £500 plus any money fans wish to donate to enable the team to stay overnight at Lewes next Saturday given the potential importance of the game. The Trust lead the appeal for funds for the stay in Devon last season but it should be noted that this level of financial support cannot be offered for all long distance games and the club do appreciate this.
Donations can be made to any Trust board member, via PayPal on the Trust website, via the club shop and by post to NVST, 20 Boothgate, Heage, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 2BP. Cheques made payable to Northwich Victoria Supporters Trust.

Mini bus to Stafford leaves the Memorial Hall at 6.15pm on Tuesday.
Fare £7. Book at the shop or by phone – 01606 44127.

Transport to the next 3 away league games, Lewes, Stevenage and Salisbury, is anticipated to be via mini bus. Full details for Lewes next week.

JOHN BUCKLEY
This is the last story I shall write for The Chronicle and I must admit it's a bit like penning my own obituary.
After 36 years in journalism and 30 with this paper I am retiring.
Indeed, I have already done so which leaves me straightaway to say a sincere thank you to all readers of The Chronicle for a joy filled, sport filled three decades. I have – almost – loved every minute of it.
A special thank you, too, for the literally hundreds of people I have been able to count on as contacts over the years. They have made my job not only easier but also such a pleasure. I came into journalism because it was the most exciting job I could think of that did not actually put me in danger of physical harm. So it proved.
I switched from mainly news to mainly sport not just because I love sport but because the people involved are mmediately your friends. Instant first name terms, so easy to deal with. But I love writing even more and hope I have done so fairly, informatively and sometimes entertainingly.
It has been marvellous, absolutely ruddy, marvellous.
Thank you.

LOCAL PRESS
The Guardian – Andrew Simpson
Article no. 1
MIKE Marsh admitted he had mixed feelings about Vics' 1-1 draw with Kidderminster Harriers.
The Vics' stand-in manager told the Guardian it may take him time to be satisfied with a point. "I'm caught between two stools as to whether it's one point gained or two dropped," he said at the final whistle. "They scored in the first minute of the second half and we could have swallowed it there and then but the lads refused to do that and we fought back to get a deserved draw. "Having said that I was disappointed to go in level at half time because we had created chances from wide positions that could have handed us a lead."
Ryan Brown's fierce drive restored parity after Brian Smikle had put Harriers ahead immediately after the interval.
Marsh said he was encouraged by his side's reaction to going behind. "I said it to you on Saturday and I'll repeat it again – I'm pleased with the players' attitude and commitment," he said. "Not only that we've played some great football at times in very difficult conditions – the wind in the second half was crazy, it didn't help us like that.
"I think there was a positive aura around the place tonight, the lads showed they meant business from the first minute and there was a lot more bite into tackles and purpose in possession."
Marsh revealed he had encouraged both Brown and Mike Aspin to push forward in the second half to help wide men Jamie Mullan and Michael Byrne. But he stopped short of taking credit for Brown's brilliant equaliser.
"I asked the pair of them to gamble a bit more going forward," he said. "Sometimes I feel they maybe need encouragement to go beyond the midfield and make the opposition's defence think a bit more.
"Browny obviously listened to that but I didn't expect him to smash one into the top corner so I take my hat off to him."
Vics, not for the first time this season, matched an opponent from the higher echelons of the Blue Square Premier.
Kiddy, third in the table heading into tonight's encounter, did not look 21 places better then their hosts.
Marsh added: "We've made it an even contest. "Kiddy are a big, strong physical side and we know we can't compete
with them on that level so we got the ball down and matched them in other ways.
"They're a good side, make no mistake, and I expect them to be in the top six come the end of the season.
"Considering that I'm pleased we've held them."

Article no. 2
VICS' mascot has raised hundreds of pounds from a race against fellow furry emblems. Tony Rogers, better known by the club's supporters as Tricky the Cat, fled through a field of multi-coloured mascots at the tenth annual Grand National. He finished inside the top 15. Wacky Macky Bear - mascot for Saffron Walden Town - successfully
defended his title at Huntingdon Racecourse.
Despite high winds and driving rain Tricky clawed his way through the 73-strong starting line up to finish a little way behind the frontrunner's over the gruelling 220-yard fenced course. His feat raised £140 for the John Smith-sponsored event's official charity the Willow Foundation – which provides special days for seriously ill people.
A further £100, to be donated to the club's funds, was pledged in an online sweepstake run by supporters.
The madcap event gained a worldwide television and online audience for the crazy antics of the participants.

Rogers, now 42, recently retired from the Armed Forces after 22 years of service. He has seen action on operations in Bosnia, Iraq and Afghanistan and now wants to spend part of his spare time doing charity work representing Vics.
And he has already lined up his next challenge. Tricky plans a 10-mile sponsored walk through Delamere Forest next
month to help children's charity I Can. Anyone wishing to sponsor him should contact Dave Thomas at the club
on 01606 44127.

Article no. 3
VICS have agreed permanent deals with defensive duo Mike Aspin and Simon Grand. The pair penned contracts this week that tie them to the Blue Square Premier club until the end of the current campaign. "It's a huge boost," owner Jim Rushe told the Guardian. "We've made no secret of the fact we wanted to get the pair of them on board so I'm glad that's been sorted. "It gives them – and us – some security for the future." Teenager Aspin has been a revelation since turning up for a trial in the summer upon his release from Championship outfit Preston North End.
He played for free while waiting for a deal, covering for then ousting regular right back Richie Sutton in Vics' starting line up. Teammate Grand was rewarded for his fine form with the captain's armband for last night's league tussle with Kidderminster Harriers. "It was an easy decision for me to make once I knew Welchy wasn't going to start," said stand-in manager Mike Marsh. "Grand has been around the block a few times and knows what it takes to win championships at this level. "He's a vocal guy back there and brings that bit of experience I feel we maybe lack at times."
Versatile Grand, 24, made his Vics debut last month after finding himself without a club over the summer when League Two side Morecambe did not offer him a new contract. He was an integral part of Carlisle United's Conference title winning team in 2005, helping them clinch a second successive promotion to League One the following year.

Article no 4
MIKE Marsh wants to see more of the same when Vics host one of their direct rivals this weekend.
The stand-in manager heads into his third match at the helm on the back of two encouraging performances, particularly Tuesday's tie with Kidderminster. "It's been a contrast in styles the past two games and it will be
again at the weekend," he said. "We need to keep the ball on the floor, play it into feet and work hard to make angles when we're on the attack." That, along with a refusal to accept defeat, earned them a deserved draw against high flying Harriers. He warned a repeat of Vics' feeble showing at the New Recreation Ground in August – the hosts won 2-1 – would deliver the same outcome.
"We played them not so long ago and lost to two absolute worldys," he said. "If we perform on Saturday like we did at their place we will probably get beat so I want us to play with the same tempo and approach we did against Kidderminster. "I think at times this season we've been guilty of playing what I call testimonial football where nobody wants to put in a tackle – that's how we were at Grays – but on Tuesday that didn't happen and the lads showed they meant business from the first minute." Marsh proved he is not afraid to make tough decisions, dropping skipper Michael Welch for the clash with Mark Yates' men and handing the armband to Simon Grand. And the former Liverpool star believes he made the right choice. "Grandy has been around the block a couple of times," said Marsh. "I don't think he's put a foot wrong since he stepped inside the club – the guy has been top class.
"Sometimes wearing the captain's armband can be a bit of a burden, it can't make you play any better but it can make you worse."I just wanted to take the pressure off one or two people so that they could concentrate on their own game.
"There are a couple – Welchy is one of them, Paul Barratt and Darryn Stamp are others – who are fit but not what I call match fit. "I need 11 warriors out there so they need to be training regularly to be considered for the starting line up."
Vics host Grays at the Marston's Arena, kick off 3pm

The Chronicle – Ben Coulbeck
NORTHWICH Vics officials have launched an internal investigation into the matters surrounding Dino Maamria's suspension.Owner Jim Rushe confirmed talks will be held behind closed doors at the Marston's Arena while Maamria remains on "gardening leave".The fate of the suspended boss remains undecided but the former forward is expected to give his side of the story this week.He said: "I cannot comment for legal reasons, really, but I will be making a statement later in the week."Rushe, who has endured a tumultuous ownership since taking over in December last year, says the club is dealing with the issue in a fair and just way.
He said: "I don't want to prejudge anybody or else I may prejudice matters that may go on in the future."It wouldn't be fair of me to comment on any gossip and rumour and the fairest thing we can do is treat this in a neutral way.
"We have asked Dino to take a step away from the situation while we talk to people and go on from there.
"There are matters being dealt with internally and an investigation is one of those."
Vics went into last night's game, at home to Kidderminster Harriers, rooted to the foot of the Conference Premier, with former Liverpool star Mike Marsh in temporary charge.
Marsh, who refused to rule himself out of taking on the role permanently if the position became available, is looking for the players to respond positively to the club's plight.He said: "It is a difficult set of circumstances at the moment and
the sooner it is sorted out the better."But the players have responded fan- tastically well and I'm very happy with them during these difficult times."The job isn't up for grabs at the moment, Dino is still the manager and I am just the caretaker manager. I am not going to commit myself either way.
"Hopefully, by Saturday we'll have six points and get things going." Vics host fellow strugglers Grays Athletic on Saturday (3pm ko) and have Richie Sutton and Paul Barratt as injury doubts.

The Chronicle – Dave Goodban
Article No 1
A FORMER soldier from Northwich swapped uniforms this weekend to run in the 10th annual Mascot Grand National and raise money for charity. Tony Rogers, 42, of Victoria Road, who doubles up as Tricky the Cat at the Northwich Vic's Marston's Arena on match days, took part in the one furlong - 220-yard - dash at Huntingdon Racecourse in Cambridgeshire on Sunday.
A total of 75 mascots competed in heavy rain and fierce winds, with Wacky Macky Bear from Saffron Walden FC emerging victorious.But soggy moggy Tony, a Sergeant who served in Bosnia, Afghanistan and Iraq, wasn't far behind.
"It was a good day," he said. "It's the first time I've done it, I think I'll have to get a bit fitter for next year! I've never run in
the costume before. Going round schools dressed up is traumatic enough, but running the grand national is something else."
The annual Mascot Grand National began in 1999 to raise money for the The Willow Foundation, a charity set up by Arsenal legend Bob Wilson to fund and organise special days for seriously ill people throughout the UK.
"I've managed to raise £375 so far," said Tony. "But I'm feline optimistic we can make it £500!"

He added: "Tricky is now in training for a 10-mile sponsored walk through Delamere Forest in mid November, to raise money for the I Can children's charity. I can't wait!"

Article No 2
NORTHWICH Vics' landlord Beaconet Ltd, owned by former club chairman Mike Connett, is due before the High Court next month after creditors issued a winding-up petition.The Altrincham-based firm, which owns the Marston's Arena and
surrounding land, could be wound up at the hearing in London on November 26.. Details of the case, and the amount of money owed, were not available when the Chronicle went to press.Mr Connett was unavailable for comment despite attempts to contact him this week.
Vics owner Jim Rushe has assured supporters it will not affect the club.
He told the Chronicle: "I've no knowledge of any winding up petition against Mr Connett or Beaconet Ltd, but it has nothing to do with the football club."We have a 25-year lease on the ground and we are continuing with the
business of running the club."

CONFERENCE RAMBLINGS
Weymouth chairman Malcolm Curtis has hit out at fresh rumours that the Blue Square Premier club is struggling to pay staff wages and is close to bankruptcy. He has also refuted suggestion that he has held talks with former AFC
Bournemouth director Ernie Battey about possible investment or a take-over.
Curtis said: "All this about not paying people's wages is complete and utter rubbish but the club is under pressure at the moment just like any other business is in the current economic climate. "Our numbers are down in terms of income and we are struggling with our budgets but we are doing everything we can to cover those losses. It's not going to implode tomorrow or the next day but we are suffering a bit of pain.

Mansfield Town have suggested that they have no intention of appealing against the decision to dock them four points.
The Stags were found guilty of failing to register players correctly early in the new season and handed the points deduction at a hearing in Birmingham on Monday.
The offence is understood to relate to a fax sent by the club to confirm several new signings, which was not received by the league. Billy McEwan's side had enjoyed a recent run of good form that put them within touching distance of league leaders Crawley Town, but now find themselves nine points off top spot in fifteenth. Although Mansfield have the right to appeal, a statement from the club says that they will be focussing on rebuilding and getting their season back on track instead. "A full and fair hearing took place at the Football Conference headquarters in Birmingham regarding the registration of players at the club," reads a statement.
"The club are disappointed to have had four points deducted as a result of the hearing. "However, the club recognise that the discretion available to the disciplinary panel has been used in minimising the fine of £1,000 due to the mitigating circumstances surrounding the case. "It is the club's belief that points should be won and lost on the pitch. There are 90-plus points available to play for and there is time to win them this season. Our resolve to do so has been strengthened."

Wrexham have succeeded in their unprecedented Blue Square Premier bid to postpone a league game due to the international call-up of four players. Steve Evans is a late call into Wales' full squad while Marc and Mike Williams and new loan signing Joe Allen have been called up for the under-21s. So Wrexham's home game with Histon on Saturday has been put back. It is because Wales play Liechtenstein on the same day and a day after the under-21s play England. It is the first time the league have been asked to make such a decision.

Your chance to become the face of the Blue Square Premier and appear on Setanta Sports ...
Most of us reckon we're all expert football pundits when we're talking about the beautiful game with our mates. In fact, let's face it we all think we can do better in front of the cameras than the so called professionals.
Well now you've got a chance to prove it. HowTo.tv are searching for a new presenter to be the face of the Blue Square Premier, which could lead to stardom as you'll also appear on the Setanta Sports coverage of the Blue Sq Premier oo ... so, what are you waiting for?
You could be the envy of thousands of football fans up and down the country.
Click on the link below and see what video producer, Richard, has created for Stevenage Borough of the Blue Square Premier. If you think you can do a better job for your local club, then all you have to do to enter the competition is submit a video (or a photo and 100 words) showing why you're the right person for the job at www.howto.tv/bluesquare
So if you want to become the ultimate supporter and give something back to that team of yours which gives you the highs the lows and nail biting suspense then it's your turn to make them proud...
For more information on how to become the face of the Blue Square Premier visit: www.howto.tv/bluesquare>

With there being no Premier League action for Manchester's big two this weekend, Altrincham are offering Man United & Man City season ticket holders reduced price tickets.Altrincham take on Oxford United this Saturday and Man United and Man City fans can watch for just £5 (£2 for Under 16's).

PLAYER PROFILE
NAME: Mark Roberts

POSITION: Defender

DATE OF BIRTH: 16 October 1983 PLACE: Manchester

MARITAL STATUS: Shares a home with long term partner Hannah

PREVIOUS CLUBS: He signed professional forms for Crewe Alex in 2000 where he stayed until 2007 when he joined Accrington Stanley. Following a year at the Lancashire club, during the latter part of which he enjoyed a very successful loan spell at the Vics, he made the permanent move to Northwich shortly after the close of last season. He had previously completed other loan spells with Chester, Southport and Halifax.
As a schoolboy he had played for Northwich Town and was a prolific striker, scoring between 90 and 100 goals each season. He represented Mid Cheshire and Cheshire Boys at that level.

HIS PERSONAL BEST MOMENTS OF HIS CAREER: Fulfilling his ambition and signing his first professional football contract at Crewe. Making his Championship debut for Crewe at Preston North End. And captaining his hometown club Vics he considers to be a great honour.

HIS PERSONAL WORST MOMENT: Suffering a Cruciate Ligament injury that temporarily set back his progress at Crewe.

THE BIGGEST INFLUENCE ON HIS CAREER: He feels that all the coaches he has worked under have brought something to his game and that he has learnt from all of them. But, in terms of support and advice his mum and dad have been invaluable. Dad has always travelled the country to watch Mark play and can always be relied upon to offer frank advice.

WHO DOES HE RATE AS HIS MOST DIFFICULT OPPONENTS: He played against wayne Rooney when both were youngsters and he could tell he had precocious talent then. Former Rangers and Everton striker Duncan Ferguson was particularly physically strong and a real handfull. Mark has good reason to recognise the skills of Peterborough's Aaron
McLean and Craig Mackail-Smith after he and his Accrington colleagues had been subjected to a particular mauling at their hands.

THE PLAYER(S) WHO HE MOST ADMIRES: Not surprisingly Mark gravitates towards defenders and he particularly admires John Terry, Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic.

THE LOUDEST MANAGER(S) HE HAS PLAYED UNDER: Accrington's John Coleman has a ferocious temper. He possesses a formidable karate kick that has shattered a concession of tactic boards and anything else that may be within range at the time.

WHICH TEAM DOES HE SUPPORT: He is a keen Manchester United fan.

WHO ARE HIS BEST FRIENDS IN FOOTBALL: Team mate Michael Welch, he says "Welchy is a top sorter out". Stuart Tomlinson of Crewe and Craig Maleon who went through the youth academy system at Crewe at the same time as Mark.

WHAT OTHER SPORTS DOES HE PLAY: He enjoys regular work outs at the gym.

HOBBIES: Going for a night out with his mates. He also enjoys coaching kids football and is taking a computer design course.

MUSIC: R & B and Dance

WHAT WOULD HE HAVE BEEN HAD HE NOT BEEN A FOOTBALLER: During his time at Crewe he did a course in Applied Landscape Architecture and has a HND in Garden Design. And so he may have gone into a career that
involved that or alternatively some form of computer design.