Ethan Hoijord

Liverpool v Manchester United – a history of rivalry, this rivalry will spark once again this Sunday.

Manchester and Liverpool, two great North West cities who hold a lot of resentment towards each other. The areas are steeped in great success, created by the people that have grown up there. When we think of music, we think of Oasis and the Beatles. When we think of television, we think of Coronation Street and possibly even Brookside. However, when we think of English football .. It is Manchester United and Liverpool that sink into our minds. Two great clubs who host successful histories and many trophies. This weekend, the game may decide who will win another trophy .. the league title in four months time. The two cities, as well as clubs, continue to compete against each other.

The first meetings between the club came in 1894, two years after the Reds were founded by John Houlding. Newton Heath, as United were called then, travelled to Anfield for a ‘Test match’ and they returned to Manchester disappointed with a 2-0 defeat.

The two other most iconic games in this decade were fixtures that held many goals. A league division two tie in Liverpool, Heath winning 5-2. Revenge for what occurred a month previous, a 7-1 league defeat for the Red Devils in Manchester.

This rivalry has existed ever since, as both clubs have gone on to put their name into global lights. Liverpool have won six European cups, their last being in 2019, as well as nineteen league titles. On the other hand, United have won three European cups and twenty league titles but haven’t been awarded a trophy since 2017.

Considering they won the league last season, you may be in good mind to say that Jurgen Klopp’s reds have better league form. However, since Bruno Fernandes’ arrival to Old Trafford in January 2020 no club has managed to pick up more points than Ole’s devils.

Before we take a look at the upcoming league encounter at Anfield, let’s first take a look at what truly separates the cities and clubs.

Cities:

• The Manchester ship canal.

The North West cities, separated by 56 km, have since the industrial revolution been also separated by a rivalry based on economic and industrial competition. Manchester were originally the more populated city which held a position of significance. However, due to Liverpool’s major seaport growth they had grown to supersede their counterparts and were often described as the British Empire’s second city. 

The construction of the Manchester ship canal, was opposed by Liverpool politicians and a great sense of resentment grew from this. The canal would mean that less money would come into Merseyside and Manchester would thrive, cotton was rife here. Thus, tensions between Scouse dockers and Mancunian labourers was heightened in 1894 just three months before the first meeting of the clubs. A fixture that would see Newton Heath relegated. 

Clubs:

• Success. 

Before Shankly came to Anfield, he was questioned by the Liverpool owner if he would like to come to Merseyside to take charge of ‘the best club in the country. The Scotsman replied ‘Is Matt Busby packing in?’. Shankly would soon sign on the dotted line to become the Red’s head coach and four years after the Munich air disaster he would take the club up to the first division. It is here where we can see a rise of resentment as Liverpool would dominate the 70s and 80s before United took charge in the 90s and 00s.

• 1977 FA Cup final.

The two clubs met, in a final, for the first time when they reached the 1977 cup final. United ended Liverpool’s treble dreams with a 2-1 win, with goals from Stuart Pearson and Jimmy Greenhoff.

• 2003 League Cup final.

Liverpool won the league cup final, academy graduates Steven Gerrard and Micheal Owen were the two scorers that day.

• March 2009.

In the 2008/09 season, the two clubs fought against each other in a title race. The Reds were managed by Rafa Benitez and the Red Devils were managed by Sir Alex Ferguson. Prior to this fixture, Benitez gave an impassioned compiled speech to the press about ‘facts’. The fact of the on-field matters was that Benitez’s team would win 4-1 but would lose out on the league title to their great rivals.

• Suarez v Evra.

Liverpool’s star man Luis Suarez was declared as ‘guilty’ for racially abusing United full-back Patrice Evra in 2012. In the aftermath of this game, the Merseyside club’s players wore shirts to signal their respect for their team-mate as he declared to them that he was innocent. Time and the truth soon caught up on this team and when the pair met again, the phenomenal goalscorer would refuse to shake hands with Evra. United’s key player would celebrate the victory in front of his abuser, in an acceptable but controversial style.

• Penalties.

Going into this weekend’s fixture, a game which sees two clubs that are fighting for the title come head to head, one sense of resentment is Klopp’s recent comments about United’s penalties. Following a defeat on the South coast, to Southampton, the Liverpool manager stated that he was unsure how the Red Devils had been awarded so many penalties. Last season, the Old Trafford club were awarded 14 spot kicks and from this position Bruno Fernandes is so clinical. Ole hit back saying ‘I don’t know why he has said that, maybe it is to influence future officials’. A Facebook ‘meme’ has joked this week saying that a potential start of World War 3 is if United are to win 1-0 with thanks to a penalty, this is funny, whilst also being not too far away from the truth.

• Hooliganism.

The rivalry is one that steps off the field, as seen in these instances as well as many others. The abuse is, in my opinion, sickening and uncalled for as both clubs and their respective tragedies should be honoured. 

1966 cup final – An unidentified Liverpool fan spat at Eric Cantona and threw a punch at Alex Ferguson as a victorious Manchester United walked up to the royal box to collect their awards.

2006 cup match – Liverpool fans threw objects at United fans, including human excrement.

2011 youth cup game – A match was called off due to disgusting Hillsborough and Heysel chants from United fans. John Aldridge, talking to the Liverpool Echo, said that ‘the level of abuse was sickening’.

• However, despite all of this, some players have played for both clubs.

Paul Ince, Peter Beardsley, Micheal Owen.

• Quotes from club legends, who shared a dressing room with one or two of the above names.

Gary Neville: ‘I can’t stand Liverpool, I can’t stand the people, I can’t stand anything to do with them’.

Steven Gerrard: ‘A mate owned a Bryan Robson, Manchester United shirt, I wore it once on the estate and my dad screamed at me. He said no one should take the family name through the mud like that. I thought we’d have to move house’ 

• The Manchester ship canal, you could argue that this is the start of the resentment between two great North West cities.

This Sunday, as both clubs aim for victory in their respective title charges, this rivalry is about to spark yet again. It should be a very interesting league encounter and you can watch it on Sky Sports.

Thank you very much for reading,

Stay safe,

Ethan Hoijord

Stevenage FC – ‘meeting the opposition’.

This weekend, Tranmere Rovers will travel to Stevenage for a league two encounter at the Lamex Stadium. With that in mind, I placed questions towards Reece ‘@BoroFCCentral’ who supports the ‘Boro’. I thought it would be interesting to see the thoughts of a fan who’s club will soon face Rovers, to get his opinions of the Whites as well as his thoughts on the position of the Hertfordshire club at the moment, on and off the pitch; amongst other subjects.

How long have you been a supporter of Stevenage. How did you discover the club?

My first game was actually the first ever final at Wembley. Stevenage 3-2 Kidderminster, FA Trophy. From 2-0 down too. Not a bad game to kick off with! It’s been on and off since then and now I go every game home and away and wouldn’t have it any other way.

Where did Stevenage finish last season?

We finished rock bottom. Much like Tranmere we felt a little robbed with the PPG system and then just three weeks before the new season after court battles, appeals and arguments between Macclesfield and the EFL we got the mightiest reprieve of all time and against all odds here we are in League Two.

What are your thoughts on your current manager?

Alex Revell had/has a very difficult job. A player as early as the January of last year so he understands the demands of a modern athlete and he cares deeply. It’s hard to argue he hasn’t been thrown under a bus thus far but there have been good things. He’s learning a lot. Hard to argue that his inexperience is leading to some failures so far though.

What are your expectations for this season? What are your thoughts on the start of Stevenage’s season?

More wins than managers this season would be a start! I think this year for Stevenage is all about building again. Building trust and the connection  from the supporters and building a team. We don’t have lots of money for this level. If you don’t have wealth at this level, stability gets you competing. We have everything to prove this year but nothing to lose. Refreshing in many ways. 

This season has been rough. It appears we didn’t learn certain lessons and it’s cost us. Every game has fine margins. But not getting relegated is the aim so i suppose we have to expect rough moments. We’ve had a good period of form going into this game.

Which one player is your danger man, why?

Tom Pett has been outstanding since coming in. Drives the team forward and his incisive passing have been important in getting us some kind of results and some attacking threat.

What is your score prediction for the game against Tranmere?

I think Tranmere are struggling to put together some consistent performances at the minute and I’m yet to be convinced by the midfield under Keith Hill yet this weekend’s visitors to the Lamex Stadium are clearly still a dangerous side. Boro have one loss in seven, the performances are improving and unlike when our first game was going to be our confidence is at a good point. I just have to edge it to the Boro 2-1, I fancy a good game.

Random fact about Stevenage? (Famous fans, something about the town etc)

We are the first team ever to win a trophy at the New Wembley. That’s pretty unique.

Do you support/like any other clubs other than Stevenage , why?

Not anymore. Used to be a Chelsea follower because my family but have since fallen in love with Stevenage and the feeling of supporting my local team.

Proudest moment as a supporter of Stevenage ?

Has to be the FA Cup moments we’ve had. Deservedly beating high flying Newcastle 3-1 at the Lamex. That was special. Forcing Spurs to a replay was up there. I think many Stevenage fans would tell you the pride they felt at our boys walking out at White Hart Lane was special. Beating Sheffield United 4-1 and Sheffield Wednesday 5-1 are also contenders.

What is your opinion of Tranmere Rovers?

Tranmere are a big club for this level. A proper football club with proper values. Very unlucky to be at this level this year but doubt anyone ever looks forward to playing you. The supporters are some of the best I’ve seen in recent times, to add.

I would like to thank ‘Reece’ @BoroFCcentral for his time answering the questions that I placed towards him, this league encounter should be an interesting occasion and I hope that readers enjoyed this Q+A.

Thank you for reading,

Stay safe,

Ethan Hoijord

• Stevenage’s home ground, the ‘Lamex stadium’.

‘Meeting the opposition’ – Leicester City F.C

Tranmere progressed into the knock-out stages of the ‘Papa Johns’ trophy, following a successful group stage. Their reward? A home tie against Leicester City’s Under 21s. The contest will take place on Wednesday night and it should be a good test  for the Whites against a young and energetic opposition.

I thought it would be necessary to speak to a Leicester City supporter to get their views on the club’s on and off the pitch matters and get an insight into the club’s promising talents; amongst other subjects. I placed questions towards Nathan Hobill to do so.

How long has Nathan been supporting the Foxes?

‘I have been supporting Leicester since around 2007ish, my uncle took me to the Walkers Stadium (the name at the time) and I’ve not looked back since’

Leicester’s last campaign:

‘In the last campaign, our academy reached the Quarter Final of the Leasing.com trophy. League Two Newport County beat us at the Rodney Parade stadium’.

Thoughts on the academy and first-team managers:

‘A lot of our fans have been very critical of our Academy manager Steve Beaglehole, some feel like he hasn’t got the best out of the squad which is a very fair and true piece of criticism in my opinion. However, first team manager Brendan Rodgers is top notch. He can make some strange substitutions which either make or break our games but overall I think he’s the one that can lead us to a trophy’.

Expectations for this campaign:

‘My realistic aim at the start of the season was top 4. We’re currently sitting in 3rd so we’re on track, we’ve been very inconsistent throughout and our home form is a huge letdown’.

The visitors ‘one to watch’:

‘Our main danger man was probably Admiral Muskwe but this week in the January transfer window he’s headed out to Wycombe Wanderers on loan. It’s a very good move for him if he’s promised game time but definitely a big blow for the academy team. Other than him I’d probably say Thakgalo Leshabela as he’s been knocking on the door of the first team. Thakgalo has been on the bench for a couple of Premier League and Europa League fixtures this campaign’.

Score prediction:

‘I’m honestly not too sure as it is always difficult to predict a game where a senior team is coming up against an academy. I suppose it all depends if Tranmere go full strength or not. I’m gonna go for 2-1 Leicester though, just to back my team (laughs)’.

Random fact about Leicester City:

‘There are a few interesting facts about Leicester City. One, Gary Lineker is a massive Leicester fan and he was born here too which is the same with the legend that is Emile Heskey. A very good fact, as well as a flex, Peter Shilton was a Leicester City player when he won the World Cup with England in 1966’.

Proudest moment as a supporter of the club:

‘Silly question really (laughs), the infamous 2015/16 campaign where we lifted the Barclays Premier League trophy. This would end up by being Quarter Finalists in the Champions League the following season, being knocked out by the great Atletico Madrid’.

An opposition fan’s views on the Whites:

‘I don’t really have an opinion on Tranmere to be fair, all I can really say on the hosts is that I have a few friends from Tranmere and they’re a decent bunch. Good luck tonight 😉 ‘ 

• The Foxes’ promising academy talent  Thakgalo Leshabela, the 21-year-old midfielder may feature at Prenton Park in tonight’s Papa Johns trophy cup tie.

I would like to thank Nathan Hobill for his time answering the questions that I placed towards him. This cup tie should be an interesting occasion as youngsters come up against strong seniors. I hope that readers enjoyed this Q+A.

Thank you very much for reading,

Stay safe,

Ethan Hoijord.

‘Ole’s at the wheel, tell me, how good does it feel?’ – The most iconic games of Solskjaer’s first two years in the Old Trafford hot-seat as the Norweigan continues the search for his first trophy win as the Red Devils’ manager.

Ole’s time at Old Trafford has been a mixed one so far, experiencing both periods of upset and victory. The media has seen the Norweigan as someone to pick at after most defeats and the lack of a trophy win has been a cause for concern. However, the quality of the side has evidently been built on. 

I personally believe that he has been a successful appointment and some of the games that he has managed has made his desired game plan of attacking entertainment evident. From the iconic Champions League comeback in Paris to the defeat at home to Tottenham, it has certainly not been boring as United look to improve themselves on and off the pitch.

Cardiff City (A) won 5-1 – @CardiffCityStadium – 22nd December 2018. Ole’s first game as United manager. The freedom that the Norweigan would aim to bring to the Manchester club was put on display, it became obvious that Mourinho’s replacement would set out to win games positivily by using their attacking flair. Marcus Rashford, Ander Herera, Anthony Martial and Jesse Lingard put all their names on the scoresheet. Lingard with a brace. The victory in South Wales was the start of a twelve game unbeaten run, including a victory at Tottenham and a draw at home to Liverpool. Great FA Cup victories in London were also a part of this successful period, beating Arsenal and Chelsea respectively.

PSG (A) won 3-1 – @ParcDesPrinces – 6th March 2019.

One of Ole’s greatest games as United manager. A last-ditch penalty on French soil by the striving academy product Marcus Rashford saw the club progressing to the Quarter-finals of the Champions League. A game to remember as progress didn’t seem possible.

Wolves (A) defeat 2-1 – @Molineux – 16th March 2019. 

The Norweigan’s ‘honeymoon period was brought to a halt as cracks started to show in what had been a really successful time at the club for Ole. A disappointing end to the season was brought on by a cup defeat in Wolverhampton and the need for a great recruitment process became obvious, if it hadn’t already been. 

Everton (A) defeat 4-0 – @GoodisonPark – 21st April 2019. 

Cracks became ‘cancerous’ as Gary Neville’s frustrations were put into an passionate rant on Sky Sports, this game made it distinct that there were MAJOR problems. 

Chelsea (H) won 4-0 – @OldTrafford – 11th August 2019. 

Ole’s Manchester United smashed the new Chelsea manager Frank Lampard’s Chelsea. It was a very fluid game and the red forwards continued to run with pace at the visiting defence.

Manchester City (A) won 2-1 – @EtihadStadium – 7th December 2019. 

When United travelled to the Etihad in the December of 2019, few would have predicted that the Reds would win the league encounter. However, much to the pleasure of the many travelling supporters, they did. Academy product Marcus Rashord and Anthony Martial got their names on the scoresheet as United won a ‘big’ game, a win that meant a lot to Ole as it showed the capabilities of his managerial qualities and the quality of his team.

Manchester City (H) won 2-0 – @OldTrafford – 8th March 2020.

The last game with fans in the stadium was a Manchester derby, what a game for supporters to go out on. United did what they did best and Scott Mctominay pounced on a free ball after a loose goal kick from Ederson to make sure that the hosts won, it was an emotional moment for the club’s faithful. Ole looked up to Sir Alex whilst academy product Mctominay celebrated in front of many delirious fans, a moment to remember.

Manchester City (H) lost 3-1 – @OldTrafford – 7th January 2020. Chelsea (N) lost 3-1 – @WembleyStadium – 19th July 2020. Sevilla (N) lost 2-1 – @RheinEnergieStadion.

Ole’s side would lose all of their cup semi-finals, which was a devastating blow to what had been a relatively successful season. United would finish in the top four but missing out on a trophy win was a great blow, the media placed criticism on to the Norweigan back for this.

Tottenham Hotspur (H) lost 6-1 – @OldTrafford – 4th October 2020.

Disastrous performance by the red devils at Old Trafford. Doubt, major doubt was placed on Ole and his side as it should have been. It was a devastating start to the campaign for the red devils. Three defeats in the opening six, losing to Arsenal and Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. This performance was symbolic of the start, a lot had to be done to change the way that the season was looking to pan out.

Everton (A) won 3-1 – @GoodisonPark – 7th November 2020.

Ole’s job was seen by the media as being ‘on the line’. All doubts were put to bed with a sparkling performance by the Norweigan’s team. Bruno Fernandes, again, showing his quality scoring two goals and assisting Edinson Cavani late on.

Southampton (A) won 3-2 – @StMarys – 29th November 2020.

An ability to comeback was again shown on the road, Cavani was linked to the league winning robin Van Persie with two goals late on to be victorious. This game showed a lot about the manager that Ole is as he made the substitutions that would win the game and the side’s quality of going until the last minute was proven.

Leeds United (H) won 6-2 – @OldTrafford – 20th December 2020.

A game that made the red devils attacking intent evident, this encounter against Marcelo Bielsa’s local rivals was seen by the media and football fans globally as a fight between two sides who set out to attack. This happened. Leeds’ defence was left open to exploit whilst their forwards went up the pitch and Ole’s side showed their quality by exposing the open defence. Scott Mctominay aided the scoreline with two quick-fire goals in the opening three minutes.

Everton (A) won 2-0 – @GoodisonPark – 23rd December 2020.

Manchester United reached their fourth cup semi-final with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer with a good performance in Merseyside a couple of days before Christmas. New signing Edinson Cavani and Frenchman Anthony Martial put their names on the scoresheet with late strikes following a very closely fought out ninety minutes. A performance that brought great optimism for Ole’s side.

Solskjaer will be hoping that tonight’s carabao cup semi-final is another game to remember, for all the right reasons. Even if it isn’t, fans should be optimistic and excited about the possibility of a ‘title charge’.

Thank you very much for reading,

All the very best,

Ethan Hoijord

The recruitment of Manchester United throughout Ole’s reign and what positions should the club look to strengthen to have a positive future moving forwards?

Ole was appointed in the winter of 2018, on a temporary basis following the departure of Jose Mourinho. The Portugese manager’s time at the club hadn’t been as successful as promised, he had failed to replicate what he had displayed in his time at London as he had previously won three titles at Stamford Bridge. Mourinho, aided with a lack of support from the Old Trafford hierarchy, left his successor with a gigantic task to turn around fortunes. Ole has, in my opinion, done this task very well. United now look after seven years, despite rumours that the Norweigan would be sacked for a blip in results, like potential title challengers. Is the red devils’ 21st first-division title on the horizon as they look to also add a carabao cup to their long list of honours?

One major factor that has contributed to the club’s on-field success’ is the successful recruitment that has been made. 

When Mourinho departed from Old Trafford, it was obvious that the squad he had built wasn’t good enough. There was a distinct lack of depth and quality and through many meetings with the press he stated his frustrations. None of his frustrations were voiced more than when he pointed out the lack of quality in the squad that he was able to take on the pre-season tour of the USA.  

Goalkeepers –  

This area wasn’t too much of a problem for the club whilst they searched for a positive way forwards. Even still, it is a position that has been strengthened by the addition of youngster Dean Henderson who had a very bright loan spell at Sheffield United. This is much to the displeasure of Sergio Romero as the Argentine looks for a way out in the search of first team football, it has been made relatively evident that De Gea and Henderson are Ole’s preferred shot-stoppers. The 23-year-old keeper has featured in cup games throughout this campaign. 

Defenders – 

The main reason for Jose’s outburst of emotions towards the press on the tour of the States in 2018 is that there was a great need for a centre half. There were rumours of Diego Godin, Jerome Boateng and Toby Alderweireld signing for the Red’s yet none of these put pen to paper. In fact, four of the nine defenders that travelled on that trip have departed and a few that have stayed are far away from a sniff of first team football. Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones being on that list. Solskjaer has overseen the departures of veteran full-backs such as Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young. The defensive rank has been boosted by the major signings of Harry Maguire (£80million from Leicester City), Aaron WanBissaka (£50m from Crystal Palace) and Alex Telles (undisclosed from Porto). Maguire, who is an experienced England defender has been named captain thus it is obvious that he has been a successful addition as the dressing room was one that lacked leadership in previous times. However, moving on I believe another right back and centre half should be recruited if the club is to be successful during Ole’s reign.

Midfielders – 

What a signing Bruno Fernandes has been! 

Again, I look back on the squad that travelled to the States a few months before Mourinho’s departure. It was evident that there was a lack of quality in the attacking area of play in this position. Lingard, Andreas Periera, Juan Mata and Paul Pogba were the main attackers. Lingard and Periera find themselves out of the team and it is possible that they may never return into the mix of those that start. I believe they should search for another club, David Moyes’ West Ham have been linked with Lingard on a regular basis. 

One of Ole’s first departures was the centre-midfielder Maroune Fellaini and since then Herrera has moved on. Ole has got the best out of the talents of Scott Mctominay and Fred, the £50m signing receiving rave reports for his performances this season whilst the youth academy product has shown his quality with two quick fire goals against Leeds United and a beautiful winner against Pep’s side the last time they made the short trip to Old Trafford. I believe that, if the club is to be successful moving forwards, a defensive midfielder should be recruited. 

The club has been linked with Premier League stars Declan Rice and N’golo Kante and the Ecuadorian talent Moises Caicedo has looked closer and closer to signing on the dotted line in the recent weeks even if United have pulled their noses up at a £10million price tag. Another signing that Solskjaer has made that has great potential to become a world class player is the 2-year-old midfielder Donny Van De Beek. The dutchman has struggled to get much game time, which has put Ole under a great deal of criticism, yet when he has played he has shown his quality and I do believe that it is good to integrate him into the team in games that he is ready for. Sometimes too much too soon is a recipe for disaster. 

• Bruno Fernandes is Ole’s best signing! The attacking midfielder has scored 19 in 30 appearances since signing in the January of 2020 and whether most of these goals have been penalties or not, when you contribute the assists and the boost he has had on the club he probably wins the argument when you’re thinking of the best signing since Sir Alex’s retirement. His contribution has been spoken about by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher, the Liverpool legend claiming that Fernandes has had an effect on the club that is similar to ‘King’ Eric Cantona’s in the early 1990’s.

Forwards – 

Mourinho included four forwards in his plans that summer: Alexis Sanchez, Romelu Lukaku, Marcus Rashford and frenchman Anthony Martial. 

In passionate interviews, for example the one with the press following the away defeat to Everton, Ole said that players that lacked the spirit it took to work hard and impress him would be removed from the club. This was done as Lukaku and Sanchez found new clubs on foreign shores, both at the respective Inter Milan. 

Ole has brought a few attackers to the club whilst also aiding the careers of starman Mason Greenwood, who played his first senior match in 2018. Daniel James has been recruited after the youngster impressed for Swansea City. Uruguayans Edinson Cavani and Facundo Pellestri were both signed in the summer of 2020, Cavani showing what he is capable of scoring goals against Southampton and Everton before cruelly being suspended for the usage of an alleged ‘racist’ word on his social media. 

I believe that a right winger should be signed. Jadon Sancho has been linked with a move to Old Trafford for a while now and it is about time that he signed for the red devils, despite a blip in form at the WestFalenStadion.

• Arguably Manchester United’s greatest signing in the post-Fergie era Bruno Fernandes. The dazzling Portugese playmaker has had a lot to celebrate as he continues to change the fortunes of the Old Trafford club. 

The squad:

GK – David De Gea, Dean Henderson, Sergio Romero, Lee Grant, Joel Perriera.

DF – Aaron Wan Bissaka, Brandon Williams, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Eric Bailly, Phil Jones, Axel Tuanzebe, Teden Mengi, Marcos Rojo, Alex Telles, Luke Shaw.

MDF – Paul Pogba, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard, Andreas Perriera, Facundo Pellestri, Daniel James, Bruno Fernandes, Fred, Nemanja Matic, Donny Van De Beek, James Garner.

FW – Edinson Cavani, Anthony Martial, Marcus Rashford, Mason Greenwood, Odion Ighalo, Tatith Chong.

Thank you very much for reading,

All the very best,

Ethan Hoijord

‘Meeting the opposition’ – Barnsley F.C

Tranmere’s first game of the new year will follow a long journey to Barnsley. The fixture will be a FA Cup tie and it will be played at the Tykes’ Oakwell Stadium. This game will be a real test of the Whites’ quality and character as the hosts sit 9th in the Championship table, is a miraculous cup knock-out possible?. I thought it would be essential to speak to a Barnsley fan to get their views on the club’s on and off the pitch matters; amongst other subjects. I placed questions towards @mattdogbfc to do so.

How long has @mattdogbfc been supporting the Tykes’?

• ‘I’ve been a supporter of the club since 2010, ever since my Grandad started to take me to the games. It made me fall in love with football.’

Why are the hosts called the ‘Tykes’?

• ‘The name comes from a traditional and hard working Yorkshire character I do believe. Our mascot is also nicknamed ‘Toby Tyke’.

Barnsley’s last season:

• ‘ We finished 21st last season, a 91st minute winning goal away at Brentford meant that we escaped relegation on the final day of the season. It was a very dramatic moment but you experience plenty of them as a Reds’ fan’

Thoughts on manager Valerien Ismael:

• ‘Our current manager Valerien Ismael has been a breath of fresh air ever since his appointment in the October of last year. He has helped us to find a formula that makes the team win games. We have struggled badly under previous managers hence why we are high in the table with a new manager. You could argue that we are surprising everyone’.

Expectations for this campaign:

• ‘We have been absolutely exceptional this season. I expected us to sit in a comfortable mid table position or even just avoid a relegation battle in an attempt to better ourselves from the last campaign. However, we have gone further and sit 9th three points away from the playoffs. So if we get this January transfer window spot on then who knows where this young, fearless side could go’.

The hosts’ ‘One to watch’:

• ‘In terms of a danger man, if he starts, I would 100% have to say Callum Styles. He is dangerous running up and down in the left wing back position and has even managed to contribute three goals of his own. I have never been as confident about a Barnsley player going to the Premier League than I have about Styles. I feel as though he will run your right back ragged, should he start’

Score prediction:

• ‘I’m not expecting an easy game whatsoever. Tranmere will come to Oakwell with a game plan and it could be very hard to break them down and of course Keith Hill will be looking to get one over on his former side so we have that to consider too. I wouldn’t exactly put it past us to lose this type of game but I feel as though realistically we should have enough to win the cup tie. My prediction is a 2-0 win for Barnsley.’.

Random fact about the hosts:

• ‘It’s difficult to think about a random fact considering we are a relatively small club. However, the first that springs to mind is that the cricket umpire Dickie Bird supports Barnsley. He is in hot water with the fans after saying on camera he wanted Sheffield United to beat us in 2017 (laughs)’.

Proudest moment as a supporter of Barnsley F.C:

• ‘Erm, my proudest moment has to be last season I think. When lockdown hit , we were 7 points adrift of safety with 9 games left to play. Myself and so many other Tykes’ fans had just accepted that we would be relegated once football returned. However, the players didn’t accept this. We picked up 15 points from them in 9 games and we won the final two games with injury time winners. The club managed to somehow escape relegation and remain a Championship side. The players cared about it as much as the supporters did. Never have I ever been as proud of a set of lads.’.

An opposition fan’s view on the Whites:

• ‘I don’t know too much about Tranmere but it seems that the Whites have been a bit inconsistent this season. The club currently sits in 13th which does seem to be a position of underachievement, I thought you might be up near the top seven at the very least. However, in fairness Rovers were very hard done by as I felt they could have survived relegation as the team hit a good patch of form before the campaign was stopped by the COVID outbreak and the league table was decided by PPG. I feel like if a good run of form is put together then it is a team that should be challenging for promotion. You should give us a run for our money on the weekend’.

I would like to thank @mattdogbfc for his time answering the questions that I placed towards him. This FA cup tie should be an interesting occasion between two clubs who have a good contrast of quality and form. I hope that readers enjoyed this Q+A.

Thank you very much for reading,

All the very best for the new year,

Ethan Hoijord.

Colchester United F.C – ‘Meeting the opposition’

Tranmere’s first game of the new year will follow the Whites’ long journey to Colchester. The fixture will be a league two encounter and it will be played at the Us’ JobServe Community Stadium. It is a must win for Rovers, the hosts have failed to win any of their past five. Thus, I thought it would be essential to speak to a Colchester United fan to get their views on the club’s on and off the pitch matters; amongst other subjects. I placed questions towards @TheLatestColU to do so.

How long has @TheLatestColU been supporting the U’s?

• ‘I’m only 19, so I’ve been going regularly for about ten years now. My first game was in 2007 when we were in the Championship but I remember pretty much nothing about it!’

Last season:

• ‘Under former Tranmere striker John McGreal, we finished 6th which is a playoffs position. However, we lost 3-1 to Exeter in the second leg after the game went to extra time’

Thoughts on manager:

• ‘It’s a difficult one, Steve Ball was our assistant for the last four years and became head coach in the summer. A lot of the on-pitch decisions (transfers, style of play etc) are influenced by the chairman and director of football so it can be difficult to judge managers at times. Right now it’s fair to say that he’s not pleasing fans too much as the quality of football isn’t as good as it was last season. However, he should be given the time to turn it round’.

Expectations for this campaign:

• ‘The feeling of both the fanbase and the players/staff is that we should be able to challenge for the top seven and that we are very capable of becoming a league one club again. So far, we are 12th and two points off the playoffs but I’d say most of the fans aren’t that confident right now. We are on a poor run of form. Most of the points gained have been down to hard thought defensive performances and brilliant saves by our keeper. We need to be on top of more games’.

The hosts’ ‘One to watch’:

• ‘Midfielder Noah Chilvers. The academy graduate had only made a handful of appearances before this season but has become a regular starter. He’s able to play in central midfield or in an attacking midfield role and has certainly shown his quality to play at a higher level .. for when we inevitably sell him!’

Score prediction:

• I think it’ll be a tight game, think we will have a few key players out injured but we do have a decent home record. I wouldn’t be surprised if Tranmere had most of the possession and chances. I’ll go for a 1-1 draw’.

Random fact:

• ‘The town has a rich Roman history, with a castle and an ancient wall in and around the town centre. Colchester is also the oldest recorded British town’.

Proudest moment as a supporter of Colchester United:

• ‘It definitely has to be last season’s carabao cup run. Each game was so special: winning against Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur. Also, the trip to Manchester United was unforgettable. We were drawing at half time but unfortunately went on to lose. Looking back, I feel grateful that it happened whilst fans could attend’.

An opposition fan’s view on the Whites:

• ‘I’m not an expert on other clubs, but I know you are a big club for this league and you should be in league one. Tranmere were very unfortunate to go down last season with the circumstances, so I hope you do well this year and get back to where you belong’.

I would like to thank @TheLatestColU for their time answering the questions that I placed towards them. This league encounter should be an interesting occasion between two clubs who are in need of a successful result as they aim to gather positive momentum. I hope that readers enjoyed this Q+A.

Thank you very much for reading,

All the very best for the new year,

Ethan Hoijord.

Ronnie Moore – The interview.

Ronnie Moore was born in Liverpool in the year of 1953. It was 18 years later that Tranmere fans would become familiar with his name, becoming a professional player at Prenton Park as a Striker. He would go on to play for Rovers for 11 years, across two spells as the Whites would be his first and last club. In the midst of these spells he had played in the USA for Chicago Sting. John King would give the Liverpool-born forward his pathway into management and he would go on to become a successful football league head coach. This is his story, told in his words, with the aid of my questions …

What was it like coming back to Tranmere to manage the club in 2012?. 

It was brilliant coming back to Tranmere as a manager, I’ve had so many good times at the club in many different roles: player, coach, caretaker manager and manager. To be honest, we were so close to reaching the play-off final the last time i was at the club it was a joke i got the sack when we finished 7th.

You had spent twenty years at the club in various roles before taking over from Les Parry. If you were to name three of your favourite moments prior to your time back at the club in 2012, what would these be?

There are lots of favourite times, too many to mention really.

1) 1975|76 Scoring 37 goals also scoring 4 goals in the games against Brentford, Stockport, and Newport a nice 12 goals in 3 games.

2) 1990 Wembley win in play-off Final v Bolton,we had 4 Wembley appearances in just over a year Fantastic time to support the White Army.

3) Beating Arsenal 1-0 at Highbury in 1973 when Ron Yeats was manager

What was Palios like as a teammate? 

Mark Palios is a winner and a very disciplined mid-field player. He was a hardman who could also play a bit.

What was your aim as you came into the club? The first few months were exceptional.

Why did the team suffer such a reversal of form from December 2012? It seemed to begin with the Wallace injury but was there more going on?

My aim when I came into the club was to get us promoted as soon as I could. We started like a house on fire but too many injuries to key players and some of the better loan players being recalled to their parent clubs brought a huge halt to the team’s progression.

You were assistant manager under Johnny King in Tranmere’s most successful period. I bet this was a really interesting time as you moved from playing to coaching. What were your experiences like? What was Johnny King like as a man and what lessons did you learn from him?

Moving from player to coach was very hard but it was something I had always thought of doing and working with John King was special. He was a sincere man never afraid to kick you up the backside but also never afraid to praise you, a great leader of men never one to scream and shout at players. He also had the gift to attract quality players to the club. The next few years were fantastic for me and everyone connected with Tranmere Rovers we had so many highs and got so close to playing at the top level, the losses in the play-offs hurt us all so much it still hurts now when I think about the semi-final game against Aston Villa, a game we should have won.

What player did you find the most difficult/best player to manage?

I was very lucky with the players I had at the club. They were good honest players and I never had a difficult player to deal with. There were a lot of diamonds and winners, players like Andy Robinson, Ian Goodison,Ryan Lowe,Owain Fon Williams I could go on all day naming the players I loved and worked with.

What is your favourite game during your time at Tranmere?

My favourite game would be so hard so I’ve mentioned a few, Exeter when we had to win to stay in the football league we won 1-0. I also loved playing in the Mercantile Centenary Trophy at wembley in 1988,Chris Malkin’s winner at Wembley, the 4 games at Wembley .

What is the ground that you most loved going to as a player and a manager?

In the early years i loved playing at Chester City in fact one year i ended up playing in goal when Dick Johnson was injured and came off at half time. We were losing 1-0. I kept a clean sheet but we ended up losing 1-0. Oldham was another place I loved going to.

Did you enjoy winning more as a player or as a manager?

Both really only difference is scoring a goal you just can not beat that feeling.

Your most influential player whilst manager of Tranmere?

Ian Goodison was a great leader. Andy Robinson was one of the best players I have managed.

Were there any players that you let go, whilst you were manager, that you would’ve liked to keep?

Not really, I remember having to make a decision on a young lad turning pro. I decided not to sign him and let him go, he now plays for Wales (Will Vaulks).

Is it true that we were close to signing Jamie Vardy on loan in the 12/13 season?

No that is not true we could have done with him though.

What was it like to manage your son?, Ian Thomas-Moore. I thought he was a great forward.

Not easy you tend to pick on him more than you should do so the lads didn’t give him any stick. He did his talking on the pitch. I’m so proud of him, he’s a brilliant player.

Tranmere dismissed you of your duties after it became apparent that you put a small bet on. Tranmere were, at the time, in a relegation scrap and would eventually go down. What were your feelings towards your dismissal and do you believe that you would’ve been able to keep Tranmere safe?

I was out of work at the time we set up a family betting group in my name: me and my wife, her sister, and her Dad  we all put £5 each in every week and picked a team ,it’s called ‘£20 Accumulator’. The problem was when I got back into management I should have cancelled the betting app. I do believe if we had been in the top 6 I would have kept my job because we were struggling so it gave Peter Johnson the chance to sack me, I honestly believe we would not have gone down. I have never been relegated as a manager. It was my mistake so I gave him the chance to sack me .

How big of an achievement was it to keep Hartlepool United in the football league? This meant Tranmere would be relegated, did this achievement feel somewhat bittersweet?

I think it was one of my greatest achievements right up there with my back to back promotions. I was out of work and they showed a great passion to get me to come and save them, they were 10 points adrift in December and we ended up staying up with a game to spare. At the time yes it felt bittersweet but not for the club, just the one person running the club, the supporters were brilliant to me when I was there so it was a sad day for Tranmere.

You are currently out of a managerial role. However, you have done some television work since being manager of Tranmere. Do you wish to go back into the game in some managerial capacity or do you want to continue with your television appearances?

I’ve tried to get back into management but never get any replies back, at 67 people think you are a dinosaur. I am a level 5 coach. I have to attend coaching sessions to keep me up to date with the modern game. I am trying to get back in as a Chief Scout or doing some recruitment work but as one door closes another one hits you in the face. I’m doing a bit of radio work for radio sheffield on the Rotherham games as The Expert Summariser.

• ‘I had a lot of great times. Too many to mention really’

Thank you very much for reading,

Stay safe,

Ethan Hoijord 

‘Where are they now?’

Barrow 3 Tranmere 4

Saturday 9th January 2016

@Holker Street

National League (5th tier).

One of Tranmere’s most memorable games, between 2015 and 2018, was when the Whites travelled to Cumbria to face Barrow A.F.C. Gary Brabin was manager of the club at the time and a win was needed as Rovers searched for promotion. Many had made the journey to witness that league encounter, quite a few left with regrets. The Whites trailed 3-1 in the 90th minute and considering that the supporters had seen little to believe that a positive result was possible, quite a few left to catch the early train or to get on a warm supporters coach and wait for the engine to run. On the pitch, the Merseyside club’s engine began to run. Louis Maynard and Jeff Hughes brought the scoreline level by the 92nd minute. The search for another was sealed by a strike from academy product forward Jake Kirby. ‘Scenes’ …

So, who was involved for Tranmere in that fixture and what ‘bluebird’ faces would soon continue their careers in a positive manner at Prenton Park? This article aims to answer all.

Manager – 

Rovers’ manager at the time was of course, Gary Brabin. This league encounter took place halfway through Brabin’s first season. He would be given more time, even though he failed to guide the Whites to the play-offs in his first campaign. However, this time was cut short as in October 2016 he would be replaced by Micky Mellon. Mellon would guide the Merseyside outfit to back-to-back promotions, both times giving credit to Brabin who he claims ‘put the club into a comfortable position and signed the players to build around’ including James Norwood and Andy Cook. Brabin is now, I believe, assistant manager of Luton Town. 

GK – 

The only squad member to remain at the club is goalkeeper, Scott Davies. The miraculous comeback came in Davies’ first season at the club, after signing from Fleetwood Town. He has since been made Rovers’ captain and throughout his five seasons at the club he has been in net for two promotions and an unfair relegation in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Iain Turner was the keeper on the bench that cold January afternoon, the former Everton shot-stopper signed for the Whites in 2015 and would spend two years at the club before departing to join fellow non-league club Southport. I believe that the 36-year-old can still be found at ‘The Merseyrail community stadium’ as a goalkeeping coach.

DF – 

Six defenders were named in the squad that would travel to Cumbria. Full-backs Lee Vaughan, Matt Hill and Martin Riley. Centre-halfs Steve Mcnulty, Micheal Ihiekwe and Ritchie Sutton. All of these players were relatively successful at Tranmere, no one was more successful at the club than Steve Mcnulty. The liverpool-born veteran defender was signed on loan in 2015, being named captain for Tranmere’s promotion season to the football league in 2017/2018 after signing a permanent deal. He spent another year at the club, Micky Mellon being manager and although the 37-year-old would struggle with injuries and a lack of match fitness, a pivotal part for the club’s promotion to league one was played by him. McNulty can now be seen at Witton Albion.

Lee Vaughan – 32 years old – Currently at AFC Telford.

Matt Hill – 39 years old – Currently at Stafford Rangers.

Martin Riley – 34 years old – Currently at Stourbridge.

Michael Ihiekwe – 28 years old – Currently at Rotherham United. 

Ritchie Sutton – 34 years old – Currently at Altrincham.

MDF – 

A wide range of experience and quality was found in the Tranmere team that could be found at Holker Street that day. Lois Maynard, Jeff Hughes, Adam Mekki, Jake Kirby, Steve Jennings, Jay Harris. I believe that the two most successful Rovers players in this period were Jeff Hughes and Jay Harris. The Northern Irish midfielder Hughes joined the club in 2016 and would return home to Larne F.C, after sealing promotion at Wembley in the summer of 2018. Strong tackler Harris joined Rovers a season prior to Hughes, he would leave a year later as well. Harris played a pivotal role in the Whites’ promotion to the football league, he would find himself away from the team more often than not in the season that the club would get promotion to the third tier. The 33-year-old now plays his football at Wrexham, the club that he would leave when he signed for Tranmere.

Lois Maynard – 31 years old – Currently at Stockport County.

Adam Mekki – 28 years old – Currently at Ebbsfleet United.

Jake Kirby – The Rovers academy product is now 26 years old – He announced an early retirement due to his bad experiences with many lengthy injuries, breaking his leg in an FA Trophy game at home to Barrow in 2017. His most recent club was Stockport County.

Steve Jennings – The Rovers academy product is now 36 years old – Across the course of his footballing career he appeared for the Merseyside outfit around 250 times, three different spells at the Whites – His most recent club was Warrington Town, he did feature for Barrow in the 2018/19 season. Jennings is now retired.

ST – 

Cole Stockton and Ben Tomlinson were the Tranmere forwards that day. Looking back, the team lacked quality up top.

26-year-old Stockton is a Tranmere academy product, signing a professional deal in 2011. He spent six professional years at the Whites, making 97 appearances and scoring 14 goals. However, across these years he had two loan spells at Morecambe which is the club he currently plays for. Mellon would re-sign the club’s academy product in 2018 when there was an evident need for a striker, in the aim of finding the form of when he had linked up brilliantly with Norwood in the later stages of the 16/17 season. However, this form couldn’t be found. One goal in sixteen appearances, according to Wikipedia.

Ben Tomlinson – The 31 year old forward currently plays for Alfreton Town, this season he is on loan at Frickley Athletic. During his time with the Whites he made ten appearances and failed to score, he would spend one year in Merseyside. The year was the 2015/16 season, Brabin’s first as Tranmere manager.

Barrow:

Andy Cook.

Former Tranmere promotion winner Andy Cook has featured for both clubs.The Bishop Auckland born forward signed on a permanent basis for Barrow in 2011, following two loan spells. He would spend a season at the club, scoring just under 20 goals before signing for Grimsby Town. He would re-sign for the ‘Bluebirds’ in 2014 and would have an amazing two campaigns, scoring 47 in 87 appearances according to Wikipedia. This would please the Tranmere manager at the time, Gary Brabin, who signed the forward to partner James Norwood up top. This is easily the best strike partnership I have seen. He scored 49 times in 85 encounters and would fire Rovers up to the football league. Great times for the Merseyside club. He would resign for the Whites in the winter of 2020, he didn’t play much as James Vaughan excelled and earnt his place in the team alongside Morgan Ferrier.

Thank you very much for reading,

All the very best for the new year, 

Ethan Hoijord.

‘Meeting the opposition’ – Barrow A.F.C

This upcoming Tuesday night, Tranmere Rovers will travel up north to face Barrow A.F.C in a fourth division fixture at Holker Street in what should be a very entertaining game. With that in mind I placed questions towards a supporter of the hosts, Taylor Nelson. I thought it would be interesting to see the thoughts of a fan who’s club will soon face Rovers, to get his opinions of Tranmere as well as his thoughts on the position of the Cumbrian club at the moment, on and off the pitch; amongst other subjects.

How long has Taylor been supporting Barrow?

• I’ve supported the club since I was six years old, attending my first game in 2007 against Hucknall Town in the Blue Square Conference North.

Last season:

• Last season, we were promoted as champions, finishing in first place prior to the season being cut-short due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Thoughts on new manager, Micheal Jolley:

• Tough one to answer given this will be his first game in charge! He seems to be a well-spoken individual with plenty of knowledge. His experience at Grimsby will hopefully prove to be of great use.

Expectations for this campaign:

• Following promotion, I think the supporters just wanted to use the momentum from last season to propel us up the table and see where we ended up. Lower mid-table would suffice. Unfortunately we didn’t enjoy the start we would have hoped and have fallen short in many games. Fine margins have been the difference and we now need to ensure we end up on the right side of results to ensure we can enjoy another season in the Football League. We have waited a long time for this return and many supporters haven’t been able to experience a Football League game just yet. It would be a shame to immediately drop back down but I’m hopeful we’ll steer clear of the bottom two.

The hosts’ ‘One to watch’:

• Scott Quigley would be the first name to spring to mind. The National League’s leading goalscorer last season, Quigley has begun to find his confidence and feet in the EFL as of late and will be a handful for the Tranmere defence throughout.

Score prediction:

• 1:1.

Random fact:

• Barrow are the first club to win the FA Trophy at both the old and new Wembley having won the Trophy in 1990 and 2010 against Leek Town and Stevenage, respectively.

Proudest moment as a supporter of the Bluebirds:

• I think last season as a whole would have to be up there. The feeling of immense pride just seemed to grow as the season went on and the unlikely slowly began to look more and more likely. It was a surreal season and although we didn’t get to celebrate as we would have liked, the day the news broke that we would be promoted will always have a special place in my heart.

An opposition fan’s view on the Whites:

• We’ve enjoyed some entertaining games against Tranmere in the past, I’m sure one game in particular will spring to mind for most Tranmere supporters. Initially, it was clear they made the wrong appointment with Jackson, perhaps looking to the cheaper option rather than the best available. Under Keith Hill and prior to his appointment following the sacking of Jackson, Tranmere looked a much more stable and improved side. It’s bound to be a tricky night for us.

I would like to thank Taylor for his time answering the questions that I placed towards him. This league encounter should be an interesting occasion between two clubs who are in need of a successful result as they aim to gather positive momentum. I hope that readers enjoyed this Q+A.

Thank you very much for reading, 

All the very best for the new year,

Ethan Hoijord.