So, the season is 6 games old and we sit in 2nd place, surely a start even the most optimistic of Spireites did not see coming. Just how good are we exactly? I think it is difficult for us to judge because not only is it still early days, we simply aren’t used to seeing this type of football at Saltergate. Yes the results so far have been good, but the style is there for all to see – something we haven’t had at the Rec for a generation, by my reckoning.
We have FOUR good strikers (count them!) who are creating chances and/or scoring goals, right and left backs who are not scared of crossing the half way line, a flying winger, a combative and imaginative midfield and two rock hard centre backs. These have all combined to produce some superb early season results and performances.
But is it such a surprise? Rico hit the nail on the head when being interviewed on Radio Sheffield on Tuesday night – when you look at our results from 2004 as a whole, our form has been excellent. From Boxing Day 2004, we have garnered 49 points from 30 games, almost half of those being wins. When you compare it to the frankly horrendous 2003, the improvement is obvious. The base was there and the management have successfully managed to build on it, so praise where it is due to Roy MacFarland and Lee Richardson.
It may last, it may not. I have been watching the Blues too long to get carried away. But I think it is important that we make the most of it while we can. After all, football is a business these days and we should be advertising the fact that the ‘product’ is pretty good quality at the moment. And those of you who have been to pay the bookies a visit will no doubt be watching our progress with extra special interest! And watching Town of course too…