Grounds Visited 2016/2017 Season

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Sandhurst 3 Attenborough 5


Brian Clough anecdote by Ben Robinson, chairman of Burton Albion: When [Clough’s son] Nigel took the player-manager job in October 1998, Brian Clough became a regular visitor to the club. He bought a vice president’s ticket and attended virtually every home match and he also attended some away matches. The fans loved him; for every game he was inundated by people wanting to shake his hand and get his autograph. Lots of fathers would bring their sons to meet him and they’d introduce him as their hero, he was a legend.

Generally he didn’t try to offer too much advice, sometimes he’d shout from the sidelines but usually he just let Nigel get on with it. On one occasion though, when we’d beaten Torquay United away in the FA cup we were travelling back on the coach when Nigel’s mobile phone rang. After a bit he said it was his dad and he wanted a word with me. Brian came on the phone and said, 'You should take a lot of credit for this win,’ I asked why and he explained that he thought it was important that I’d taken the players down to Torquay the night before and prepared them well rather than making them have an arduous journey before the match. I said, 'Well, I think that win proves you’ve now got two geniuses in your family.’

He said, 'When you find the second one let me know.’

It’s been over a month since I last visited a new ground and wrote a blog. I’ve been coaching my team on Saturday afternoons and have thoroughly enjoyed it. Midweeks have been either wet or frozen.

I did take in the Alfreton Town versus Cambridge United fixture at North Street on Tuesday. The standard of play was high and so was the admission; £18 for Conference Football, you are having a laugh.

It’s Friday evening. There’s a howling wind and the sound of rain pitter pattering on the lounge window. I’m so proud of my boys. They abandon their X Box for a night’s dossing on Budgens wall. Top dossing lads; a commitment to the cause.

That bloody Rioja was on offer again; it doesn’t mix well with Stella. I wake up with a thumping headache. I shower and shave and head out to West Bridgford early doors. I park up outside Slades the florist on Melton Road. I collect a winter mixed bouquet of flowers. No, they’re not for Murphy, but for Mrs P, of course.

My Twitter timeline suggests there’s Bob Hope of a game on this afternoon. Please God, no. I’ll settle for anything within a 160 mile round trip. Murphy is whistling his little head off to Chris Rea’s ‘Driving Home for Christmas’ as I scour the non league fixture list. There seems to be a small micro climate up in the north Notts/Lincolnshire border. Lincoln United and Gainsborough Trinity both confirm that games are on. I’ve already blogged from both.

A tweet from legendary Notts groundhopper Rob Hornby catches my eye. He says that NSL Premier Division side Sandhurst never gets hosed off – not been there, book me in Danno. A quick phone call to Sandhurst Jack-of-all-trades, Bob Crawford, confirms that the game has got the go ahead.

I’m driving the ‘Rolls Royce’ towards the old mining village of Cotgrave. Water gushes down the hill from the village of Clipston on-the-Wolds. They won’t be doing much trade at the award-winning Harker’s Farm Shop.

Wigan versus ‘The Arsenal’ is on the radio. It’s 0-0 ‘in the most exciting league in the World.’ The worst manager in Premiership history – Paul Jewell - is summarising. He’s waxing lyrical about James McCarthy, the Latics one million pound signing from Scottish club Hamilton Academical.

I sweep through Cotgrave and head out towards Stragglethorpe. The roads are flooded and the weather is atrocious. Stuart Pearce once had a lucky escape on this very road when he wrote off his car after colliding with a dustcart.

There are speed cameras all the way up the A614. I don’t think the chuffing things work but decide to stick at 50mph. A police car comes hurtling down the road. Those boys in blue won’t have time for card schools today.

Bloody hell, I haven’t the foggiest idea where the ground is. I turn left at the Carpenter Arms and take a sharp right hand turn. A paperboy, with probably the easiest round in Notts, redirects me back up the road.

Sandhurst play in the village of Walesby, which has a population of just over 1000. It’s famous for its International Scout Camps. I only joined the cubs because they had a football team. I had the athletic prowess of Billy Casper from Kes.

I drive down a flood hit Forest Lane and pull into the car park of the Walesby Village Sports Club. I wind down the window to enquire with a linesman if the game is on. He sarcastically points at his kit and looks out towards the pitch. The car park is submerged in water. But not a drop of water is on the playing surface; it must drain like a sieve. I walk passed a couple of hosepipes laid out on the grass – is someone taking the rise?

Sandhurst are named after a local garden centre that recently closed down. They sponsored the club for over 20 years.

I hook up with Rob Hornby and another Hopper from ‘Sunny Scunny’ called ‘Colpic.’ Rob’s a bubbly character and can talk the hind legs off a donkey. He tells me he was born at Radford’s Selhurst Street ground. I said: “What, at half-time?” Apparently the ground wasn’t built then.


The man in black is Sticky Palms all-time favourite official, Andy Rolph. He stubs out a Winston Churchill cigar before entering the field of play. He doesn’t take any shit off anybody, as the young Sandhurst centre forward finds out to his cost.

I recognise a lot of the Attenborough players. I reckon they are going to be a tough nut to crack for Sandhurst. Tobias Richardson, Wes Burke and Justin Whatmore could comfortably play at a higher level.

Attenborough are managed by Roberto Pietrafort. He has had more clubs than Mark Hughes. If you asked him to name his previous clubs on Twitter, then he would struggle to fit them into the 140 character stipulation. He has more tracksuits in his wardrobe than JJB Sports. Roberto – I sound like David Platt – is always up for banter, we exchange hellos.


With Attenborough playing a high line and squealing for offside, Joe Fletcher gives Sandhurst the lead on 10 minutes. One or two hoppers frantically scribble down the goal times and scorer, they have a full list of starters and subs. Sticky doesn’t buy-in to this strange groundhopping ritual. I’ll nick it all off someone’s blog a bit later.

Ireson restores parity for the visitors. A mazy run and smart finish from the classy Whatmore puts them 2-1 up. Andy Cameron pegs it back to 2-2 on the stroke of half time. I venture into the brick-built clubhouse and despite a large queue, a cup of tea is thrust into my hand. Rob is holding court with a group of hoppers from London and Ipswich who have dropped into the ground on their way home from the Blackpool v Wolves game on Friday evening. They must be potty.

I grab a quick word with Attenborough’s Tobias Richardson, who is still stewing over the equaliser. I tell him that his team will push on in the second half.

Whatmore thumps home a third goal on 47 minutes. The impressive and talkative Wes Burke looks to have put the game beyond Sandhurst’s reach. Refereeing legend Rolph points to the spot to give the home side a chink of light. Wes Burke hits another net rippler with ten minutes to go to put the game beyond doubt.

With dark descending, I walk through the mist back to the car. Watford are beating Forest 2-0. The moaning Minnies fill up my timeline. Some folk are never satisfied.

Rob is doing an NSL Groundhop in April. For more details please visit his blog http://aroundthegrounds2012-13.blogspot.co.uk/

Man of the Match: Chris Myton (Unlucky not to score)

Attendance: 30

59 comments:

  1. Hey! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to giνe a quiсk shout out and tеll yοu
    I truly еnјoy reaԁing your postѕ.
    Can you recommenԁ any other blogs/websites/fοrums that deal
    with the same subjects? Many thankѕ!

    Also vіsit my ρage quick loans
    My site ; quick loans

    ReplyDelete
  2. continuouѕly i used to reаd smaller articles oг rеviews thаt also сlear thеіr motive, аnd that is also happenіng with thiѕ
    pieсe of writing which I am reading here.
    Also visit my blog : short term loans

    ReplyDelete
  3. Thіs is my fігst timе pay a vіsit at hеre anԁ i
    am actuallу happy to rеaԁ all at onе place.
    Also visit my blog : Loans for Bad Credit

    ReplyDelete
  4. hmm interesting blog dude

    ReplyDelete
  5. love ur bloging work dude

    ReplyDelete
  6. [url=http://loveepicentre.com/][img]http://loveepicentre.com/uploades/photos/11.jpg[/img][/url]
    dating out of the religion [url=http://loveepicentre.com/]dating and personals in oklahoma[/url] lead dating site
    cheaters dating sites [url=http://loveepicentre.com/map.php]hope wilson dating emmit smith[/url] arkansas ar profile dating ernie 61
    dating free game online sim [url=http://loveepicentre.com/advice.php]troy dizon dating skype personal[/url] dating in the 50 s

    ReplyDelete
  7. read the greed ebook http://audiobookscollection.co.uk/Trademark-Legal-Care-for-Your-Business-and-Product-Name/p137499/ theory of knowledge ebook [url=http://audiobookscollection.co.uk/How-to-Do-Everything-with-Adobe-Acrobat-6-0/p109694/]learning windows xp ebook[/url] limites a los hijos ebook moreno

    ReplyDelete
  8. Depending on what type of business you have you should build a fan base that consists of your target
    audience. If it is a new product, a gift, the introduction of a new group or even the details of the products and services, Facebook provides an easy
    field of advertising. This is the reason why most of organizations are now being into contact
    with social networking solution providers.

    Feel free to surf to my homepage - http://socialbears.com/facebook-fans/
    Also see my web site :: rv-journalyse.blogspot.fr

    ReplyDelete
  9. Oils, beverages and Paleo sweets should also be used
    in moderate quantities and also keep in mind that Paleo diet food list does
    not contain in it all processed foods made out
    of dairy products, powdered milk, ice creams, cereal grains and legumes and should be avoided.
    Gaining information about your enemy is the first step in assuring success in defeating him
    or her. Nuts(non processed) - Nuts are cholesterol free and eating one ounce per day reduces the risk of heart disease and type 2
    diabetes.

    my weblog :: the paleo diet and crossfit

    ReplyDelete
  10. Then, cells that destroy bacteria and cell debris wipe
    out the yeast. Because of its anti-fungal properties,
    it is also sometimes recommended for vaginal yeast infections.
    Although the treatment has been successful for many people with Candida, be warned
    that some of the side effects may include excessive vaginal
    discharge, discomfort and burning in the vaginal area.


    Stop by my site :: yeast infection and bleeding Between periods
    my page: yeast infection after period

    ReplyDelete
  11. DJ spins out on Saturday nights. I believe my exact words
    were "I don't want to be your dirty little secret. 8.

    my site :: pub quiz amsterdam

    ReplyDelete
  12. Password protection is an ideal way to protect sensitive information you prefer only those authorized have access to.

    Instead of sending your scanned invitation, it would be
    great if you create your own wedding website and invite your friends and relatives.
    If you don't have time, think about hiring someone for Best wedding website.

    my weblog: wedding website affiliate program

    ReplyDelete
  13. Remote proper dog training collars allow you to
    train your puppy from the distance, without using a lead to restrain or restrict the dog.
    You should teach your dog and talk to him during training sessions.
    With the Easy Walk Harness, if your dog attempts to pull forward the straps across
    the chest and shoulder blades begin to tighten.

    Here is my homepage; guard dog training Articles

    ReplyDelete
  14. They buy Twitter followers as Twitter is an effective marketing platform as much as it is a social networking media.
    Last year, our team expanded our team's total followers by approximately 200,000 targeted followers. net -- the web traffic company that became infamous for selling votes on social bookmarking sites like Digg, Propeller and Yahoo.

    Check out my blog increase Twitter Followers

    ReplyDelete
  15. ' Satanic Ritual - Decorate the space with human sacrifice, goblets of blood, pentagrams, and things draped in black. At the end of the party all of the papers write down who they think was the prohibition agent. You Divide everyone at the party into two groups, or tribes.

    My site :: sponsor a child

    ReplyDelete
  16. In other words, they go against the grain of the careers their parents
    had. You must definitely be planning to make it special and memorable by keeping a good theme,
    ordering the best food and choosing the best games.
    The buccal cavity is a small cavity that has neither jaws nor
    teeth.

    Visit my homepage: Pub Quiz Austin Texas

    ReplyDelete
  17. For those who are unaware, Vistaprint is a website that has
    been around for years, and it offers a variety of personalized
    products that can be used for businesses, gifts, weddings,
    and more. What is even more exciting is that you will be able to keep this wedding website for one year, at no cost to you.
    Out of town guests will feel especially welcome
    if you give them special attention at the reception.


    Here is my website :: wedding website advertising

    ReplyDelete
  18. hello!,I like your writing so much! share we communicate more about your post on AOL?

    I need an expert on this area to solve my problem. Maybe that's you! Looking forward to see you.

    Review my website facebookofsex

    ReplyDelete
  19. Thanks for the thoughts you have shared here.
    Also, I believe there are many factors which will keep your car insurance policy premium
    down. One is, to think about buying autos that are inside good
    listing of car insurance corporations. Cars which can be expensive more at risk of being snatched.

    Aside from that insurance is also using the value of
    your car or truck, so the more expensive
    it is, then higher the actual premium you spend.


    Also visit my web blog; datin g

    ReplyDelete
  20. Hello! Someone in my Myspace group shared this website with us so
    I came to look it over. I'm definitely loving the information. I'm book-marking and will be tweeting this to my followers!
    Outstanding blog and terrific style and design.

    my page international dating services

    ReplyDelete
  21. Thank you so much for giving everyone an extraordinarily remarkable possiblity
    to read from this blog. It is often very pleasant and
    as well , packed with a good time for me and
    my office peers rch your site at least thrice in one week
    to find out the latest tips you have. And
    of course, I'm also at all times contented with your amazing tips you serve. Some 2 tips in this posting are honestly the very best we have ever had.

    Here is my blog post :: european dating

    ReplyDelete
  22. So you are looking to rid your girl of these unwanted stalkers when you are drawn to
    Willow Creek's Black Mirror Castle. At the end of the party all of the papers write down who they think was the prohibition agent. You Divide everyone at the party into two groups, or tribes.

    Here is my weblog: sexycollegegirl

    ReplyDelete
  23. Thanks for enabling me to get new strategies about pc's. I also have belief that certain of the best ways to keep your laptop computer in perfect condition is a hard plastic case, or even shell, which fits over the top of one's computer.
    These types of protective gear usually are model specific since
    they are manufactured to fit perfectly in the natural casing.
    You can buy these directly from the owner,
    or from third party sources if they are designed
    for your mobile computer, however don't assume all laptop will have a covering on the market. Just as before, thanks for your recommendations.

    Feel free to visit my web site find dating men

    ReplyDelete
  24. What i don't realize is actually how you are not really much more well-liked than you might be now. You're so
    intelligent. You realize thus considerably relating to this subject, produced me personally consider it from
    a lot of varied angles. Its like women and men aren't fascinated unless it is one thing to do with Lady gaga! Your own stuffs outstanding. Always maintain it up!

    My webpage ... da ting

    ReplyDelete
  25. Thanks for another informative site. Where else could I get that type of info
    written in such a perfect way? I have a project that I am just now working on, and I have
    been on the look out for such info.

    My webpage ... free on line dating sites

    ReplyDelete
  26. What�s Happening i'm new to this, I stumbled upon this I've found It positively helpful and
    it has helped me out loads. I hope to contribute & assist
    other users like its aided me. Good job.

    Review my page; chinese dating

    ReplyDelete
  27. F*ckin� amazing issues here. I�m very glad to see your post.

    Thanks a lot and i'm looking ahead to touch you. Will you kindly drop me a mail?

    Here is my web-site ... facebookofsex

    ReplyDelete
  28. This really answered my downside, thank you!


    my homepage - adult facebook

    ReplyDelete
  29. I have not checked in here for a while since I thought it was getting boring, but the
    last several posts are good quality so I guess I will add you back
    to my daily bloglist. You deserve it my friend :)

    My page social dating

    ReplyDelete
  30. I do agree with all of the ideas you've presented in your post. They are very convincing and will certainly work. Still, the posts are too short for newbies. Could you please extend them a bit from next time? Thanks for the post.

    Here is my blog post: smpn1lebaksiu.net

    ReplyDelete
  31. I have learned some new things by your weblog.
    One other thing I would like to say is the fact newer computer operating systems
    tend to allow more memory for use, but they in addition demand more storage simply to work.
    If your computer can't handle additional memory and the newest software package requires that storage increase, it is usually the time to shop for a new Laptop. Thanks

    Look at my web page; facebookofsex

    ReplyDelete
  32. It's a shame you don't have a donate button! I'd certainly donate to this excellent blog! I guess for now i'll settle for bookmarking and adding
    your RSS feed to my Google account. I look forward to brand
    new updates and will talk about this website with my Facebook
    group. Chat soon!

    Feel free to surf to my web-site; bencomun.org

    ReplyDelete
  33. It's perfect time to make some plans for the longer term and it is time to be happy. I've read this publish and if I
    may I desire to suggest you some fascinating things or tips.

    Perhaps you can write next articles referring to this article.
    I want to learn more things approximately it!

    Feel free to surf to my web-site :: mediawiki.metageny.com

    ReplyDelete
  34. We are a gaggle of volunteers and starting a new scheme in our community.
    Your website offered us with valuable info to work on.

    You have performed an impressive activity and our whole neighborhood will likely be thankful
    to you.

    Here is my web site http://wiki.master-test.net

    ReplyDelete
  35. hello there and thank you for your info � I have definitely picked up anything new from
    right here. I did however expertise several technical points using this website,
    as I experienced to reload the site many times previous to I could get it to load properly.
    I had been wondering if your web hosting is OK?
    Not that I am complaining, but sluggish loading instances times will very frequently affect your placement in
    google and could damage your quality score if ads and marketing with
    Adwords. Well I am adding this RSS to my e-mail and could look
    out for a lot more of your respective fascinating content.
    Ensure that you update this again soon..

    Feel free to surf to my web blog facebook of sex

    ReplyDelete
  36. After study a number of of the weblog posts in your website now, and I truly like your approach of blogging.
    I bookmarked it to my bookmark web site record and might be checking
    back soon. Pls take a look at my website online as nicely and let me know what you think.


    Look at my site; facebook for sex

    ReplyDelete
  37. You made some decent points there. I appeared on the web for the difficulty and found most
    people will go together with together with your website.


    Take a look at my blog: adult fun

    ReplyDelete
  38. Good � I should certainly pronounce, impressed with your
    site. I had no trouble navigating through all
    tabs as well as related information ended up being truly simple to do
    to access. I recently found what I hoped for before you know it at all.
    Quite unusual. Is likely to appreciate it for those who add forums or anything, web site theme .
    a tones way for your customer to communicate. Excellent task.
    .

    My page gratis dating online

    ReplyDelete
  39. I would like to express appreciation to the writer for rescuing me from this type of condition.

    Because of browsing through the online world and finding proposals which were not productive,
    I my entire life was gone. Being alive minus the approaches to the problems you've fixed through the report is a crucial case, as well as ones that would have adversely affected my entire career if I had not discovered the website. Your personal expertise and kindness in taking care of every aspect was precious. I am not sure what I would've done if I hadn't come across such a point like this. I can also at this moment look ahead to my future. Thank you so much for the high quality and sensible guide. I won't think
    twice to endorse your web site to anybody who requires assistance on this issue.


    Look at my web site: community.shalombaptistchapel.org

    ReplyDelete


  40. Also visit my web site ... facebook for sex

    ReplyDelete
  41. Its like you read my mind! You seem to know so much about this, like you wrote the book in it or something.
    I think that you can do with a few pics to drive the
    message home a bit, but other than that, this is magnificent blog.
    A great read. I'll certainly be back.

    Feel free to visit my website woman dating sites

    ReplyDelete
  42. Someone essentially help to make seriously articles I would state.
    This is the first time I frequented your web page and thus far?
    I amazed with the research you made to create this particular publish
    amazing. Great job!

    Here is my page ... top 10 dating websites

    ReplyDelete
  43. By dividing up the party at several peoples houses you
    make it easy on yourself. Even Halloween parties with the very best Halloween costumes can
    get dry after everyone's seen the costumes to be seen and passed out the candy to the beggars. Every Halloween party that people remember later in the year by saying things like "Do you remember so-and-so's
    Halloween party last year.

    Here is my page; sacramento hotels

    ReplyDelete
  44. Since marriage is a permanent bond between two love ones, roses are very much preferred for dcor of wedding
    place. Many styles of flowers are available
    at the marketplace especially doomed for ornamentation prospect.
    4.

    Feel free to visit my website ... wedding website amanda isgate and brandon hicks

    ReplyDelete
  45. The players would begin as members of the SCA, going to Phoenix for
    the Estrella War. A murder mystery game is a fun way to
    pass the time during the twenties theme party. You Divide everyone at the party into two groups, or tribes.


    Check out my web blog; houston hotels

    ReplyDelete
  46. If your tween is into paint-ball you can take everyone to play paint-ball.
    Even Halloween parties with the very best Halloween costumes can get dry after everyone's seen the costumes to be seen and passed out the candy to the beggars. You Divide everyone at the party into two groups, or tribes.

    Here is my page houston home insurance

    ReplyDelete
  47. On Sunday nights Erin Jaimes hosts a blues jam where anyone from Alan Haynes to Gary Clark, Jr.

    *Rounds table format. The buccal cavity is a small
    cavity that has neither jaws nor teeth.

    My web blog :: pub quiz archive

    ReplyDelete
  48. The only hurdle to accessing this is of course human limitations and the fact that the brain does not function solely as a learning tool for the human being.

    *Rounds table format. Her father, Bruce Paltrow, produced the critically acclaimed TV series that is considered the precursor to many medical shows today, St.



    Also visit my web-site ... free pub quiz and Answers

    ReplyDelete
  49. buy tramadol buy tramadol echeck - buy tramadol online overnight

    ReplyDelete
  50. In that case, this kind of question should not be taken from any show
    telecasted in specific country. * Team answer sheets - Basically a grid lined
    A4 type sheet with answer write in numbered boxes and a line on top
    for the team name. 8.

    Also visit my webpage ... pub quiz names

    ReplyDelete
  51. If all players are wrong the murderer gets away and everyone loses.

    A murder mystery game is a fun way to pass the time during the twenties
    theme party. You Divide everyone at the party into two groups,
    or tribes.

    Review my homepage ... renters insurance

    ReplyDelete
  52. The players would begin as members of the SCA, going to Phoenix for the Estrella War.
    I won't spoil your surprises and give away any more details. Cranberry studios developed this sequel while publisher Anaconda brings it to you in stores.

    Here is my webpage ... business credit card

    ReplyDelete
  53. ' Satanic Ritual - Decorate the space with human sacrifice, goblets of blood, pentagrams, and things draped in black. I won't spoil your surprises and give
    away any more details. That is the new craze in on the internet gaming, and numerous girls and teens are possessing a blast.


    Check out my web site: san diego california

    ReplyDelete
  54. Food has become the most overused drug and the most underused form of nutrition.
    The fact is, most grains are quite high in glycemic index, meaning that they make your
    blood sugar go up rapidly, and send you crashing down soon thereafter.

    Grains, salt, processed oils, legumes, and any other food that is not available
    yet during the said era are not including in this special type of diet.



    My web site :: paleo diet and weight loss

    ReplyDelete
  55. There are many different websites that offer kayaks
    for sale, and these kayaks come in a wide range of sizes, from five feet to twelve feet, and are built
    of materials according to their usage. Kayaks are usually categorized firstly by their framework,
    and secondly by their function. Activities such as these are
    played as games where a fisherman catches fish utilizing bait,
    fishing rod and lure.

    Also visit my page mcmaster carr

    ReplyDelete
  56. (Thank you rounds are always welcome, of course. Brazenhead is
    a great place to go with your family or for a business lunch or dinner,
    but if you are looking for a party atmosphere, this isn't it. 28.

    Feel free to surf to my web page; pub quiz and answers

    ReplyDelete
  57. Narrow blood vessels lie alongside the intestines of the earthworm and
    they absorb the nutrients from the alimentary canal feeding the rest of the body.

    You must definitely be planning to make it special and memorable by keeping a good theme,
    ordering the best food and choosing the best games.
    The decline of the East side blues scene was disheartening, but, it also gave rise
    to the need for a fresh start, which came in the form of the next blues-only venue,
    Antone's, founded by the late Clifford Antone, during the summer of 1975.

    Feel free to visit my webpage free pub quiz answers

    ReplyDelete