So with a little less than a quarter of the season gone, what’s the verdict so far?

Well, the early season enthusiasm and atmosphere at the Vic has somewhat evaporated, however in terms of league position there are as usual a cluster of teams all within a few points of each other eyeing at least the play-offs of which we are no exception.

And what of the team, the manager and the performances?

I am of the opinion that with the quality of the squad we have compared to other clubs, we probably could or should have done better, but the Championship is simply a league where there is just no easy game.

There are as always conflicting opinions as to why the results haven’t gone our way, but I think that one of the pundits on Three Counties Radio summed it up when he said there are still too many Premiership/International players in the squad who expect to walk over teams with their supposed superior skills but that of course is a complete fallacy in the heat and thrust of the championship.

Another view I picked up was that the new manager hasn’t quite cut it yet, some also saying he’s a bit out of his depth.

My view is that Rob Edwards is giving it “his best shot”. I’m sure he knew from day one with recent past history he was inheriting a dressing room which had been previously accused of being toxic but which he described soon after his arrival as a “great group”. I think his after match comments in the main have been frank and truthful.

The team has for so long only played for short periods with the consistency and intensity required and Rob has addressed this and clearly is hoping for an extensive improvement in these areas.

So finally what about the remainder of the season? Well as I’ve stated previously this league is a complete lottery in terms of results, so I’m afraid I can’t wave a magic wand and predict too much. However away performances have been disappointing and I honestly believe that at best we can aim for a place in the play-offs.

My final words are as always addressed to the board. Please do not follow tradition and sack the manager if we aren’t in a play-off position by Xmas. Rob Edwards must be given the time and freedom to do things “his way”. Sadly with the Pozzos still at the helm nothing is guaranteed.

Neil Frais

Hazeldene Drive, Pinner