Saturday 23 December 2006
a boro fan's view
Just 150 Addicks at The Riverside today - they each deserve a bloody medal in my opinion.
I stole this from a Boro fan on Netaddicks:
"Whilst obviously relieved (but not carried away) with the 3 points today, I felt I had to e/mail regarding your fans today. Yes - there were less than 100 (later estimated at nearer 150) at the match - but don't forget you brought the highest number of away fans ever to The Riverside less than a year ago for the FA Cup Q-F replay - and that on a night match (which even allowing for free travel was an incredible turn-out).
Anyway, to those that were there today I'm only sorry that I couldn't shake everyone of them by the hand and give them credit for making the trip. I've followed Boro for 30+ years home and away and had some pretty depressing and long trips back from away matches over the years and can relate to how they must have felt tonight.
Most Boro fans without doubt see Charlton as their "favourite" London club. An honest, well run and friendly club who, like Boro, have punched well about their weight for some years now.
Sadly, from a Charlton perspective, from what I've witnessed today the bookies odds of 1/5 for relegation even seem generous. There didn't appear to be even a glimmer of hope. I wish the club and the fans well - and those there today should hold their heads high - looking at them they were in many cases 40+ years old - probably lifelong fans but one Dad and his very young son (with a Santa hat on) made me smile and sad at the same time.
If Boro go down I'll be at The Valley next season and look forward to the usual friendly welcome. Either way, keep the faith and the "Spirit of The Valley" going. Cheers - Boro"
It breaks my heart. ¶ 18:36
I stole this from a Boro fan on Netaddicks:
"Whilst obviously relieved (but not carried away) with the 3 points today, I felt I had to e/mail regarding your fans today. Yes - there were less than 100 (later estimated at nearer 150) at the match - but don't forget you brought the highest number of away fans ever to The Riverside less than a year ago for the FA Cup Q-F replay - and that on a night match (which even allowing for free travel was an incredible turn-out).
Anyway, to those that were there today I'm only sorry that I couldn't shake everyone of them by the hand and give them credit for making the trip. I've followed Boro for 30+ years home and away and had some pretty depressing and long trips back from away matches over the years and can relate to how they must have felt tonight.
Most Boro fans without doubt see Charlton as their "favourite" London club. An honest, well run and friendly club who, like Boro, have punched well about their weight for some years now.
Sadly, from a Charlton perspective, from what I've witnessed today the bookies odds of 1/5 for relegation even seem generous. There didn't appear to be even a glimmer of hope. I wish the club and the fans well - and those there today should hold their heads high - looking at them they were in many cases 40+ years old - probably lifelong fans but one Dad and his very young son (with a Santa hat on) made me smile and sad at the same time.
If Boro go down I'll be at The Valley next season and look forward to the usual friendly welcome. Either way, keep the faith and the "Spirit of The Valley" going. Cheers - Boro"
It breaks my heart. ¶ 18:36
