It occurred to me recently that RIOA was conceived on the terraces during the disappointing 1995/96 Division 2 Relegation season. Hmm. This also coincided with the finishing of the East Stand. Have we been mistaken in blaming Mr Knighton? Am I to blame for the rollercoaster ride we have endured over the last 5 seasons? Is it the East Stand?
Ian Atkins continued to strenghten both his playing staff and coaching staff with additions during August. In particular, the addition of David Lee as a player-coach was popular with fans. We are now starting to see the fruits of these shrewd signings with our first league win against Shrewsbury and several good performances after going behind. The main difference noticed by fans this season is a team that tries to get back into a game, rather than giving up.
Last month I said I was fairly confident about our chances this season. I still believe we will be in the top half of the table by the end of the season, provided that Ian Atkins is left to do his job. Although we are now sitting mid-table, with the squad still fairly new to each other, I would still not be surprised to see us in the bottom three at the end of September. I am beginning to believe we are play-off material this season.
I wrote a letter to Mr Doweck on 20 May 2000. I have still not received a reply and have now sent another letter from the group of Season Ticket Holders I sit with.
Finally, have a look at my review of "Singin' The Blues", a new book about one man's Carlisle United supporting life by Neil Nixon. Neil will be signing copies of his book in Thins, Carlisle from 11-00 - 1-00 on Saturday 9th September.
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