All Ready for WBBL|09 | Squads, Signings, and Season Preview
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All Ready for WBBL|09 | Squads, Signings, and Season Preview
https://hkcricketfestival.com/all-ready-for-wbbl-squads/
🥍 The Tufts University Men’s Lacrosse team has released its schedule for the 2022 season, and it promises to be an exciting one. The Jumbos will face off against some of the top teams in the country, including several conference rivals and non-conference opponents. 🏆 The Jumbos are coming off a successful 2021 campaign, where … Read More »
🥍 The Tufts University Men's Lacrosse team has released its schedule for the 2022 season, and it promises to be an exciting one. The Jumbos will face off against some of the top teams in the country, including several conference rivals and non-conference opponents. 🏆 The Jumbos are coming off a successful 2021 campaign, where they finished with a 7-1 record and made it to the NCAA quarterfinals. With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, they are poised to make another deep run in the postseason. 🗓️ The schedule features 15 regular-season games, with the Jumbos playing eight at home and seven on the road. Some of the marquee matchups include games against defending national champion Salisbury University, as well as conference foes Wesleyan University and Amherst College. Stay tuned for a breakdown of the schedule and what to expect from the Jumbos in 2022.1. Tufts Lacrosse Team Announces 2022 ScheduleThe Tufts Lacrosse Team has just released its 2022 schedule. The season will begin on February 26th, with a game against Colby College. The team will play a total of 14 games, including 7 home games and 7 away games. The Jumbos will face off against some tough opponents this season, including Amherst College, Bowdoin College, and Bates College. They will also compete in the NESCAC tournament, which will take place in late April. Fans can look forward to some exciting matchups, such as the annual rivalry game against Middlebury College on March 26th. The team will also play its final regular-season game against Williams College on April 30th. Overall, the 2022 schedule looks promising for the Tufts Lacrosse Team. With a mix of challenging opponents and exciting matchups, the Jumbos are sure to put on a great show for their fans. 🥍👏2. Key Matchups to Watch in Tufts Lacrosse's 2022 Season Attack vs. Defense: Keep an eye on how Tufts' attack unit fares against the opposing defense, especially in games against top-ranked teams. Faceoff Battle: The faceoff X will be a crucial matchup to watch, as possession is key in lacrosse. Tufts' faceoff specialist will need to be on top of their game. Goalie Duel: The goalie matchup will be an exciting one to watch. Tufts' goalie will need to make crucial saves to keep the team in the game. Midfield Battle: The midfield matchup will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the game. Tufts' midfielders will need to be strong on both offense and defense. Rivalry Games: Keep an eye on Tufts' rivalry games, as they are always intense and highly competitive. These games could make or break the team's season. Young Guns vs. Veterans: Watch how Tufts' young and inexperienced players match up against more seasoned veterans. This could be a key factor in the team's success. 🔍🥍🔥3. Tufts Lacrosse's 2022 Schedule: Home vs. Away Games🥍 Tufts Lacrosse's 2022 schedule has been released, featuring an exciting lineup of home and away games. 🏠 The Jumbos will kick off their season with a home game against Colby College on February 26th. 🛣️ They will then hit the road for a series of away games, including matchups against Bates College, Middlebury College, and Williams College. 🏟️ The team will return home on April 2nd for a highly anticipated game against rival Amherst College. 🌟 Other notable home games include matchups against Wesleyan University and Bowdoin College. 👊 The Jumbos will finish off their regular season with an away game against Trinity College on April 30th. 🏆 With a challenging schedule ahead, Tufts Lacrosse is ready to compete and make a run for the championship. Go Jumbos!4. Tufts Lacrosse Set to Face Tough Conference Opponents in 2022Tufts Lacrosse will face challenging conference opponents in 2022. The team will need to be at their best to come out on top. Opponents include: Wesleyan University Amherst College Williams College These teams have consistently been top contenders in the conference. Tufts will need to bring their A-game to compete. The Jumbos have been working hard in the off-season to prepare for these tough matchups. They are determined to come out on top. With a strong roster and experienced coaching staff, Tufts is ready to take on the challenge. 🥍💪5. A Closer Look at Tufts Lacrosse's Non-Conference Schedule for 2022Tufts Lacrosse's non-conference schedule for 2022 is packed with tough opponents. Here's a closer look: February 26: vs. Wesleyan March 5: vs. Amherst March 12: vs. Williams March 19: vs. Bates These games will test Tufts' skills early in the season. The team will need to bring their A-game to come out on top. March 26: vs. Cortland April 2: vs. RIT April 9: vs. Middlebury April 16: vs. Bowdoin Cortland and RIT are perennial powerhouses, while Middlebury and Bowdoin are always tough competitors. Tufts will need to be at their best to win these games. Overall, Tufts Lacrosse's non-conference schedule for 2022 is a challenging one. But if the team can rise to the occasion, they'll be well-prepared for the conference season and beyond. 🥍🔥6. Tufts Lacrosse's 2022 Schedule: Dates, Times, and Locations🥍 Exciting news for Tufts Lacrosse fans! The 2022 schedule has been released, and it's packed with thrilling matchups. 📅 The season kicks off on February 26th with a home game against Bates College. 🏟️ The Jumbos will play 5 of their first 6 games at home, including matchups against Wesleyan and Trinity. 🛣️ On March 26th, Tufts hits the road for a showdown with Amherst College. 🔥 The team will face off against NESCAC rivals Middlebury and Williams in April before finishing the regular season with a home game against Bowdoin on May 7th. 🏆 With a tough schedule ahead, the Jumbos are ready to compete for another championship. Don't miss a game!7. Tufts Lacrosse Looks to Build on Success in Upcoming 2022 SeasonTufts Lacrosse is gearing up for another exciting season in 2022, following their successful 2021 campaign. The team is looking to build on their accomplishments and continue their winning ways. With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, the Jumbos are poised to make a deep run in the NCAA tournament. The team's focus on hard work, dedication, and teamwork will be crucial to their success. Key players to watch include senior attackman Ben Connelly, junior midfielder Nick Shanks, and sophomore goalie Mason Pollack. Their skill and leadership will be essential to the team's success. The Jumbos will face tough competition in the NESCAC conference, including rivals Amherst and Williams. However, the team is confident in their abilities and ready to take on any challenge. Off the field, the team is committed to giving back to the community through volunteer work and fundraising efforts. Their dedication to service is a reflection of the values instilled by the Tufts Lacrosse program. As the season approaches, the Jumbos are excited to take the field and showcase their talent. Fans can expect high-energy games, thrilling moments, and plenty of 🥍🔥. In conclusion, the 2022 Tufts Lacrosse Schedule promises to be an exciting season for fans and players alike. With a challenging lineup of opponents, the Jumbos will have to bring their A-game to every match. 🥍🏆 From the season opener against Wesleyan to the final game against Williams, Tufts will face tough competition in the NESCAC conference. But with a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, the Jumbos are poised for success. 🏅👊 Don't miss out on the action! Follow Tufts Lacrosse on social media and stay up-to-date on game times and locations. Go Jumbos! 🐘🔥 https://lacrossee.com/2022-tufts-lacrosse-schedule/?_unique_id=64946884c656e
🥍 The Ithaca College Women’s Lacrosse team has a rich history of success. With a record of 416-183-1, the Bombers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division III. 🏆 Led by head coach Karrie Moore, the team has won 11 conference championships and made 16 appearances in the … Read More »
🥍 The Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team has a rich history of success. With a record of 416-183-1, the Bombers have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the NCAA Division III. 🏆 Led by head coach Karrie Moore, the team has won 11 conference championships and made 16 appearances in the NCAA tournament. Their most recent championship came in 2019, where they defeated St. John Fisher College 11-10 in the Empire 8 Championship. 👏 The Bombers are known for their strong defense and high-powered offense, with several players earning All-American honors over the years. Keep reading to learn more about the current roster and their outlook for the upcoming season.1. Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse: A Brief History of the Team🥍 Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team was founded in 1977. 🏆 The team has won 14 Empire 8 Conference Championships and made 16 NCAA tournament appearances. 👩👧👧 The team has had numerous All-American players, including three-time All-American, Ally Runyon. 👩🏫 The team is coached by Karrie Moore, who has been with the team since 2006. 🌟 The team's most successful season was in 2018, where they made it to the NCAA Division III Final Four. 👏 The team has a strong tradition of community service, including volunteering at local schools and hospitals. 💪 The team prides itself on hard work, dedication, and a strong team culture. 🎉 Go Bombers!2. The Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse Roster: Key Players to Watch🥍 Meet the key players of the Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team. These athletes are sure to impress on the field. 👀 Keep an eye on junior midfielder Sarah Smith. She's a force to be reckoned with, scoring 20 goals last season. 🏆 Senior defender Emily Davis is a standout player. Her leadership and defensive skills earned her All-American honors in 2019. 👑 Sophomore attacker Mia Jones is a rising star. She led the team in points last season and is expected to have another impressive year. 🔥 Junior goalie Molly Brown is a force in the net. Her quick reflexes and strong saves make her a key player to watch. 🎖️ Senior midfielder Rachel Green is a versatile player. Her ability to score, assist, and defend earned her All-Conference honors in 2019. 🌟 Freshman attacker Ava Johnson is a newcomer to watch. Her impressive skills and determination make her a valuable addition to the team. 🤝 These key players, along with the rest of the team, are ready to take on the competition and bring home a championship for Ithaca College.3. Coach's Corner: The Leadership Behind Ithaca College Women's LacrosseThe Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team is led by a strong and dedicated coaching staff. Their leadership is the driving force behind the team's success. Head Coach, Karrie Moore, has been with the program for over 20 years and has led the team to numerous conference championships. Assistant Coaches, Kaitlyn Cook and Kelsey Schwan, bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. The coaching staff emphasizes the importance of teamwork, discipline, and hard work. These values have helped the team achieve success both on and off the field. They focus on individual player development, helping each player reach their full potential. They also prioritize team bonding and creating a positive team culture. The coaching staff's dedication to the team extends beyond the lacrosse field. They prioritize the academic success and personal well-being of their players. They provide academic support and resources to help their players succeed in the classroom. They also prioritize mental health and wellness, providing resources and support for their players' overall well-being. The coaching staff's leadership has helped the Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team become a dominant force in their conference and beyond. 🥍💪4. Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse Schedule: Upcoming Games and OpponentsThe Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team has a packed schedule ahead. They will be facing some tough opponents in the upcoming games. 🥍 On March 20th, they will be playing against the Elmira Soaring Eagles. 🥍 The next game is on March 27th against the St. John Fisher Cardinals. 🥍 On April 3rd, they will be facing off against the Nazareth Golden Flyers. 🥍 The team will be playing against the Utica Pioneers on April 10th. 🥍 The final game of the season will be on April 17th against the Stevens Ducks. The team has been working hard to prepare for these games and is ready to give it their all. Come out and support the Bombers!5. The Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse Training Regimen: Preparing for SuccessThe Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team trains hard to achieve success. Their training regimen is designed to prepare them physically and mentally for the challenges they will face on the field. Strength training is a crucial part of their regimen, with exercises that focus on building core strength, agility, and endurance. Cardiovascular training is also essential, with drills that include sprints, shuttle runs, and long-distance running. Flexibility and mobility exercises help prevent injuries and improve overall performance. In addition to physical training, the team also focuses on mental preparation. They use visualization techniques to imagine themselves succeeding in different scenarios and practice mindfulness to stay focused and calm under pressure. Team building exercises help build trust and communication among team members. Film analysis is used to study opponents and identify areas for improvement in their own gameplay. Nutrition and hydration are also emphasized to ensure the players are fueling their bodies for optimal performance. The team's dedication to their training regimen has paid off, with numerous conference championships and NCAA tournament appearances. 🏆🥍6. Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse Achievements: Past Accomplishments and Future GoalsIthaca College Women's Lacrosse has a rich history of success. 🏆 In the past, the team has won 7 Empire 8 Conference Championships and made 12 NCAA Tournament appearances. 🥍 They have also produced multiple All-Americans and Academic All-Americans. 🎓 The team's success is due to their hard work and dedication. 💪 They have a strong coaching staff and a supportive community. 🤝 The team is always striving to improve and reach new heights. 🚀 In the future, the team has set ambitious goals. 🎯 They want to win more conference championships and make deeper runs in the NCAA Tournament. 🏆🥍 They also want to continue producing successful student-athletes both on and off the field. 🎓💪 The team is always looking for ways to improve. 🔍 They have a rigorous training schedule and are constantly working on their skills. 🏋️♀️ They also prioritize team bonding and building a strong team culture. 🤝 The Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team is a force to be reckoned with. 🌟 Their past accomplishments are impressive, and their future goals are even more so. 🏆🥍 With their hard work and dedication, there's no doubt they will continue to achieve great things. 💪 In conclusion, the Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team is a force to be reckoned with. Their impressive record and dedication to the sport make them a top contender in their division. 🏆 With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, the team is poised for continued success in the upcoming season. Fans can expect to see thrilling games and impressive performances from these skilled athletes. 🥍 Overall, the Ithaca College Women's Lacrosse team is a shining example of hard work and determination. We can't wait to see what they accomplish in the future! 👏 https://lacrossee.com/ithaca-college-womens-lacrosse-team-overview/?_unique_id=647ac0a97842e
🥍 The Yale Lacrosse Men’s Roster is ready to take on the competition this season. With a team full of talented athletes, the Bulldogs are poised for success. 🏆 Led by head coach Andy Shay, the team boasts a strong lineup of returning players and promising newcomers. The roster includes several All-Americans and players with … Read More »
🥍 The Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is ready to take on the competition this season. With a team full of talented athletes, the Bulldogs are poised for success. 🏆 Led by head coach Andy Shay, the team boasts a strong lineup of returning players and promising newcomers. The roster includes several All-Americans and players with professional lacrosse experience. 👀 Keep an eye out for standout players such as Jackson Morrill, Matt Brandau, and TD Ierlan. With a deep bench and a winning mindset, the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is a force to be reckoned with.1. Meet the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: A Comprehensive Overview Get to know the players that make up the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster. From seasoned veterans to promising freshmen, this comprehensive overview covers it all. Attack: Meet the top scorers who lead the team's offensive charge. Midfield: Learn about the players who control the game's tempo and transition. Defense: Discover the stalwarts who protect the goal and shut down opponents. Goalie: Meet the last line of defense who keeps the ball out of the net. Discover the team's strengths, weaknesses, and key players to watch out for. With a talented roster and a winning tradition, the Yale Lacrosse Men's team is a force to be reckoned with. 🥍🔥 2. The Top Players on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: A Closer LookMeet the top players on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: Lucas Cotler: Attackman, 2019 All-Ivy League Second Team, 2020 Preseason All-American. Jack Starr: Goalkeeper, 2019 Ivy League Rookie of the Year, 2020 Preseason All-American. Chris Fake: Defenseman, 2019 All-Ivy League First Team, 2020 Preseason All-American. Other notable players on the roster: TD Ierlan: Faceoff Specialist, transfer from Albany, 2019 Tewaaraton Award finalist. Matt Brandau: Midfielder, 2019 All-Ivy League Second Team, 2020 Preseason All-American. Brian Tevlin: Midfielder, 2019 All-Ivy League Honorable Mention, 2020 Preseason All-American. These players have contributed significantly to Yale's success: Ben Reeves: Attackman, 2018 Tewaaraton Award winner, 2018 NCAA Championship Most Outstanding Player. Conor Mackie: Midfielder, 2018 All-Ivy League First Team, 2018 NCAA Championship All-Tournament Team. Chris Keating: Defenseman, 2018 All-Ivy League First Team, 2018 NCAA Championship All-Tournament Team. With such a talented roster, Yale Lacrosse is a force to be reckoned with. 🥍🔥3. The Fresh Faces on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: Who to Watch Out ForThe Yale Lacrosse Men's team has some exciting new players to watch out for this season. Here are a few: Jack Smith: A talented midfielder with impressive speed and agility. 🏃♂️ Max Brown: A strong defender with excellent stick skills. 💪 Sam Johnson: A skilled attacker with a keen eye for the goal. 👀 These fresh faces bring a new level of energy and enthusiasm to the team. They have already made an impact in pre-season games and are eager to prove themselves in the regular season. 🏆 Coach Andy Shay has high expectations for these newcomers and believes they will contribute greatly to the team's success. 🙌 Be sure to keep an eye out for these rising stars on the field. They are sure to make some exciting plays and help lead the team to victory. 🥍4. The Strengths and Weaknesses of the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: An Analysis🥍 The Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster has a mix of strengths and weaknesses that can impact their performance on the field. Let's take a closer look at their roster: Strengths: 🔥 Experienced players with strong skills in offense and defense. 🏆 Talented freshmen who can bring fresh energy and skills to the team. 👑 Strong leadership from the team captain and senior players. 💪 Good physical condition and endurance to play at a high level. Weaknesses: 🤕 Injuries to key players can weaken the team's performance. 👎 Limited depth in certain positions can lead to fatigue and lack of options. 🚩 Lack of experience in some players can lead to mistakes and inconsistency. 🧐 Lack of diversity in playing styles can make the team predictable to opponents. Overall, the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster has the potential to be a strong team, but they need to address their weaknesses and play to their strengths to succeed.5. The Impact of Coaching on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: An Insightful PerspectiveCoaching has had a significant impact on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster. Here are some insightful perspectives: 🥍 The team's record has improved since the arrival of Coach Andy Shay. 👨👦👦 The team's camaraderie has increased, leading to better teamwork. 🏋️♂️ The team's physical fitness has improved, leading to better performance on the field. Coach Shay's emphasis on mental toughness has also had a positive impact on the team: 🧠 Players are better equipped to handle pressure situations. 💪 Players are more resilient and able to bounce back from setbacks. 👊 Players have a stronger sense of self-belief and confidence. Coach Shay's coaching style has also led to individual player growth: 🌟 Players have developed their skills and improved their game. 👨🎓 Players have become better students and leaders. 🏅 Players have received recognition for their achievements on and off the field. In conclusion, coaching has had a significant impact on the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster, leading to improved performance, better teamwork, increased mental toughness, and individual player growth.6. The Future of the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: A Look AheadThe Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is looking promising for the future. Here's what we can expect: Recruiting: Yale has secured commitments from top high school prospects, including midfielder Jack Schirtzer and attackman Jake Taylor. Returning players: Key players such as Matt Brandau and Brian Tevlin will be back for another season, bringing experience and leadership to the team. Team chemistry: With a strong bond on and off the field, the team is poised to build on their success and continue to improve. Coach Andy Shay has a proven track record of developing players and creating a winning culture. He will continue to push the team to reach their full potential. Strength and conditioning: The team will continue to work hard in the weight room and on the field to improve their physical abilities. Game strategy: Coach Shay will analyze opponents and develop game plans to give the team the best chance of success. Goal setting: The team will set high goals and work together to achieve them. The future looks bright for the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster. 🏆 With a strong recruiting class, returning players, and a dedicated coaching staff, the team is poised to continue their winning ways and compete for a national championship. 🥍7. The Legacy of the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster: A Historical Retrospective🥍 The Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster has left a lasting impact on the sport. Here's a look back at their legacy: 🏆 The team won the NCAA Division I Championship in 2018 and 2019. 🌟 Several players went on to play professionally, including Ben Reeves and Matt Gaudet. 🎓 The team had a strong academic record, with many players earning All-Academic honors. 👨👦👦 The team also had a tight-knit bond, with players remaining close even after graduation. 💪 This camaraderie was evident on the field, with players supporting and pushing each other to succeed. 👥 The team also made efforts to give back to the community, participating in charity events and youth clinics. 📚 The legacy of the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster extends beyond the sport. 👨🎓 Many players have gone on to successful careers in a variety of fields, including law, medicine, and business. 🌎 They have also become ambassadors for the sport, promoting lacrosse and inspiring future generations of players. 👏 The Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster will always be remembered for their championship wins, academic achievements, and strong bonds. In conclusion, the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is filled with talented and dedicated players. With a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, the team is poised for success in the upcoming season. 🥍🔥 As we eagerly await the start of the season, it's clear that the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is one to watch. Their impressive skills and teamwork make them a formidable opponent on the field. 🏆👀 Overall, the Yale Lacrosse Men's Roster is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the players and coaching staff. We can't wait to see what they will achieve in the upcoming season. 🙌🏼💪🏼 https://lacrossee.com/yale-lacrosse-mens-roster/?_unique_id=6473495142ccb
FOM BLOG: GILLINGHAM SUPPORTERS SEASON PREVIEW FOR 2020 / 2021
Looking ahead to the start of The 2020 / 2021 Season, And With Gillingham kicking off the league campaign with a home game against relegated Championship Opposition in Hull City At Priestfield Stadium, I have asked several Gillingham Supporters for there thoughts and opinions on a number of different subjects, Including Gillingham’s Transfer Activity, The Salary Cap For League’s One And Two, Fixture Congestion, And Where Will Gillingham Finish At The End Of The 2020 / 2021 Season.
Answering these questions are the following Gillingham Supporters,,,,, Luke, Colin, Gills Anorak, The Rainham End, Loonpotter, Shane, RichardS, Smithy, BQGillsFan, Rob, And Gills Debate - I want to thank everyone who has participated in the latest Gillingham Supporters Blog, as well as thank those who participated in The Gillingham Supporters Blogs throughout The 2019 / 2020 Season, It is because the involvement of everyone who has participated in the previous blogs which have made these blogs so successful, so once again, thank you, Now on to the questions and answers……..
1. GILLINGHAM ENDED THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON TENTH IN LEAGUE ONE WITH FIFTY ONE POINTS FROM THIRTY FIVE GAMES, HOW WOULD YOU SUM UP THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON FOR THE GILLS ???
Luke - Good progress from what we had previously. I think the biggest improvement for me was home performances and results were much more positive than they were under the two previous regimes. The long unbeaten run we had from November was also a breath of fresh air for something we haven't had for a long time.
Colin - We did marginally better than I was expecting. We relied on defensive solidity and picked up points when we didn’t play that well. That said I think overall it was a poor division last season.
Gills Anorak - A steady season. The unbeaten run in the middle part showed signs of consistency that need to be built on but difficult with so many new faces again.
The Rainham End - It was a much better season than what we have witnessed for the last few since Edinburgh.
Loonpotter - It was an excellent season and could have been even better but for the pandemic.
Shane - I think it was a good season for The Gills. There wasn't the usual threat of relegation and there was a nice cup run. It is a shame it couldn't be concluded.
RichardS - A vast improvement from last season and without doubt going in the right direction. Disappointing that the season was brought to an early halt as we could have finished even stronger. I would have gladly settled for 10th at the beginning of the season though so quite content with that.
Smithy - I think generally speaking we had a good season. Had we not drawn as many as we did I think we'd have finished comfortably higher but overall last season was better than expected in my opinion.
BQGillsFan - Last season was a huge positive for Gills. Things had been going so wrong for so long under our last three managers, despite the first season positives under Justin Edinburgh. Steve Evans instilled so much belief and passion in both the players and the fans from the get-go, having the team capable of playing both beautiful and s**thouse football when required. Things started to dip off in the month or two pre-lockdown, but play-offs would have been such an extreme ask at the start of the season. Was nice not to be looking over our shoulders at the drop zone for once.
Rob - It was a shame it ended when it did, as we were much better towards the end of the season than the first. My aim for the season was that we'd safely be avoiding relegation all season, but to finish in the top 10 was fantastic.
Gills Debate - I was pleased with what we achieved last season; I think it was a good improvement on our performance in 2018/2019. I was happy to see that our home form improved, picking up 30 points in 17 games, compared to 25 points in 23 games the year before. I think our main strength was in being solid defensively, but our weakness was that we weren’t able to score enough goals ourselves. It would have been good to have seen if we would have been able to break into the top 6 had the season been played to conclusion, although my feeling is that we’d probably have fallen a little short.
2. LEE HODSON, BARRY FULLER, MAX EHMER, REGAN CHARLES-COOK, MARK BYRNE, BEN PRINGLE, OUSSEYNOU CISSE, TJ BRAMBLE AND MIKAEL MANDRON, HAVE ALL LEFT GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB OVER THE OFF SEASON, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON THE PLAYER DEPARTURES, AND WHICH PLAYER ARE YOU DISAPPOINTED TO SEE LEAVE GILLINGHAM FOOTBALL CLUB THE MOST ???
Luke - I was disappointed with a few leaving. The more experienced heads in Fuller, Ehmer and Byrne probably hurt most. They were all instrumental in our recent successes and experience heads in a rather youthful team are always incredibly important in my opinion. Would have loved RCC to stay but he's got a great opportunity at Ross County so best of luck to him.
Colin - Steve Evans is known for a high turnover of personnel. Of those who have move on I will miss Barry Fuller for his commitment and energy. I have always liked Ehmer too but maybe it was time for a change for both him and the club. Byrne has had a torrid time with injuries and hasn’t been at his best. Pringle was never given a chance oddly for an Evans old boy. The rest weren’t the best at this level.
Gills Anorak - LEE HODSON - Gaffer obviously didn’t want him in the end. Didn’t do anything to make me disagree with his decision. BARRY FULLER - I think it was time for Barry to go as I thought he looked a lot slower as the season progressed. Forever grateful for his service. MAX EHMER - Disappointed but he’s not irreplaceable REGAN CHARLES-COOK - Showed potential but probably best for his career he goes and gets regular minutes MARK BYRNE - Disappointed but he’s not irreplaceable BEN PRINGLE - Would like to have seen more of him after flashes of quality last season. OUSSEYNOU CISSE - Correct decision. Thought it was an odd signing TJ BRAMBLE - Never seen him play AND MIKAEL MANDRON - Disappointed, but he’s not irreplaceable.
The Rainham End - I'm disappointed with the departure of Charles-Cook, Byrne and Mandron. Charles-Cook wasn't given enough chances. Byrne was one of our best players until his injury and Mandron was really starting to show what he could do and was capable of towards the end of the season.
Loonpotter - Most disappointed to see Mark Byrne and Max Ehmer leave. Barry was possibly the right time and the rest were bit part players anyway.
Shane - I feel Barry Fuller had another season in him even if it was from the bench. It is unfortunate the fans were unable to say goodbye properly at the end of the season.
RichardS - The decision to release the players is all part of SE’s plan so I have no problem with that. Max Ehmer, Barry Fuller and Mark Byrne are for me the 3 players that have contributed most and go with good wishes as far as I'm concerned. Not to worried about the rest in truth as they were inconsistent and for me never part of the plan to feature regularly. In a way it also shows the progress we have made to allow these players to move on.
Smithy - By far the player I'm most disappointed to see leave was Max, a valuable asset and one I'd have loved to have kept hold of. Mark Byrne was also another that I'd liked to have kept as I think he's got more to give. Barry Fuller is a legend and I loved seeing him with us again last season but needs must I guess and I genuinely wish him well. I didn't particularly want Regan or Mandron to leave either but for the club maybe it was the right decision. Other than that if I'm completely honest I wasn’t too fussed by the rest.
BQGillsFan - It's certainly been a busy exit door at Priestfield. Let's start with the ones I'm not worried about seeing leave. Hodson, Cisse, Bramble and Mandron were all players that just didn't work for us. Mandron was capable of occasionally being good, but with the other attacking options we have he won't be a big loss. Now for the other four guys. Charles-Cook had a lot of promise about him and whenever he played he seemed to do well. Was my one real issue with Evans last season that RCC wasn't getting enough minutes, so I can understand why he left. I also said at the beginning of the window that losing Ehmer, Fuller and Byrne all at once could be a disaster. A lot of leadership and experience at the club all gone in one fail swoop. Ogilvie now our longest serving player is a possible banana peel when the season gets to the crunch period.
Rob - Hodson was always going to leave after struggling to move such a distance from Scotland, Cisse had been gone for most of the season anyway and Pringle barely featured on his short term deal. I am surprised Mandron left, but after signing Akinde he was deemed surplus to requirements. I'm surprised Byrne left as he'd been a regular before his injury and I was expecting Fuller to remain as a backup. I am, however, surprised that Max Ehmer left. Our captain and one of our best players, it seems Bristol Rovers' financial muscle was being flexed with his capture and the splurging of £100k+ on Hanlan.
Gills Debate - Mixed feelings about the senior players that left the club, I thought it was the correct decision to let some of them leave (Hodson, Pringle and Cisse), and I thought it was the correct decision to not offer Byrne a new deal, but to invite him back for pre-season training. Personally, I’d have kept Fuller, I think that whilst I probably wouldn’t have thought that he’d be the 1st choice RB this season, I think he could have been a useful player to have as a back-up, and a very useful player to have around the dressing room. I agreed with the decisions to offer new deals to Charles-Cook and Mandron, and would have liked to have seen them stay, but I think the one that I was most disappointed to see leave was Ehmer, given that he played well last season and was obviously the club captain. Good luck to all of them in the future.
3. GILLINGHAM HAVE BEEN VERY ACTIVE IN THE SUMMER TRANSFER WINDOW (SIGNING RYAN JACKSON, VADAINE OLIVER, JACOB MELLIS, JORDAN GRAHAM, ALEX MACDONALD, KYLE DEMPSEY, ROBBIE MCKENZIE AND CHRISTIAN MAGHOMA) WHAT HAVE YOU MADE OF GILLINGHAM’S SUMMER TRANSFER BUSINESS SO FAR, AND ALSO, WHICH SIGNING ARE YOU MOST EXCITED ABOUT ???
Luke - Certainly been some shrewd business this Summer by Mr Evans. Getting Graham back was important as another member of last season's squad to add to the stability. Dempsey looks a cracking signing and hopefully can add some extra creativity in the middle. Not convinced by the hype Mellis has been receiving and with a pending court case its certainly going to be some unneeded publicity coming our way again which is disappointing.
Colin - Kyle Dempsey is the standout signing. I think he will be one of our best players this season. The young loanees might work out or they might not. The others are OK signings but nothing to get excited about as far as I can see. Hopefully someone will surprise me.
Gills Anorak - So far so good. I’m expecting big seasons from Graham, Dempsey and Maghoma.
The Rainham End - I think the summer signings have been great and looking forward to see what players like Oliver, Graham and Dempsey adapt. I feel we will be in for some poor games starting off as we need to gel because once more we have an almost new squad.
Loonpotter - The summer signings have been extremely impressive. Kyle Dempsey looks an absolute steal and I cant wait to see Trae Coyle in action.. The CBs look to be be exciting prospects too.
Shane - I think we have made some promising looking signings. I am looking forward to seeing what the pair from Arsenal will bring to the team.
RichardS - It looks as if the signings are all thought through and positive with a good mix in all positions and on paper have great potential. Delighted to have Ryan Jackson back and personally I would not have let him go in the first place. Great pace, good crosser and chips in with goals. Looking forward to seeing what all the new signings can produce but this is a great opportunity for Kyle Dempsey particularly to make a name for himself. My other prediction is Vadaine Oliver will have a good season.
Smithy - I think this summer has been really interesting in terms of the signings and I still feel there's more up Evans sleeves. However so far so very good. Kyle Dempsey is definitely exciting me already, along with Jordan Graham who seems a great guy as well. If I'm honest I'm happy with all the permanent signings we've made so far. Jacob Mellis was also another one that made me ooohh!!
BQGillsFan - Evans has definitely been looking to stamp his mark on the team this window and given the circumstances with Covid-19 and a lack of funds, I think he's done incredibly well to make the signings he has. Shows the power of having a manager with a strong reputation at this level, players want to play for him. It's great to see Jordan Graham back and I'd say he's probably the signing I'm most excited to see once he gets a longer run with the team.
Rob - I think we have made some very promising signings. Jackson was solid in his previous spell at the club but his performances decreased in line with the team's fitness. Oliver looks to be a like-for-like replacement for Mandron, while we have strongly strengthened the midfield with the new captain, Dempsey, and the promising Robertson.
Gills Debate - Overall, I think the recruitment has been reasonable, in terms of the permanent signings Kyle Dempsey’s probably the one that excites me the most, with his good pedigree at this level and having played nearly 200 league games at the age of 24. I watched our first competitive game against Southend, and he was probably our best player in my opinion – He looks very comfortable on the ball. I think we are still a bit light in numbers at the time of writing, but Evans is clearly still working on deals – I think a smaller/faster/’fox in the box’ type striker is definitely one signing that I’d like us to make.
4. GILLINGHAM HAVE SIGNED ZECH MEDLEY AND TRAE COYLE ON LOAN FROM ARSENAL, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON BOTH PLAYERS SIGNING FOR GILLINGHAM ON A SEASON LOAN LOAN ???, AND ALSO, DO YOU THINK THE SIGNINGS OF ZECH MEDLEY AND TRAE COYLE IS THE START OF A SUCCESSFUL LOAN AGREEMENT BETWEEN BOTH CLUBS, AND GILLINGHAM WILL SIGN YOUNG PLAYERS ON LOAN FROM ARSENAL WHO NEED TO GAIN EXPERIENCE PLAYING COMPETITIVE FIRST TEAM FOOTBALL ON A REGULAR BASIS ???
Luke - Excited about both of the Arsenal youngsters. Medley being a Medway boy and having had Europa League experience is a good positive for the team. Coyle being nominated for the golden boy award where players like Erling Haaland have also been nominated shows there is incredible potential there. In terms of a permanent link with Arsenal I'm not overly sure, we developed two Southampton youngsters well last season but haven't seen any other players come in from St. Mary's yet.
Colin - Given our budget we have to play the loan market. These two seem to be well regarded. I would rather we developed or signed young prospects with a sell on value but that’s not easy to accomplish.
Gills Anorak - Both players seem to have a lot of potential so good business. I don’t think it’s the start of anything otherwise we would have signed players from Southampton this season instead.
The Rainham End - The signing of these two Arsenal youngsters in loan is some great business. Having gone to school with Medley we know here at The Rainham End he will give it his all and will put in 100% effort as all he wants is to play football and his attitude is honestly one of the best towards the game. I hope this is the start to a great agreement and friendship between us and Arsenal!
Loonpotter - It would be great for us if we struck a lengthy friendship with a club like Arsenal. These 2 lads look exceptionally talented and can only help us in a push for promotion.
Shane - I think bringing in players on loan from clubs higher up the football pyramid is beneficial for all parties involved. It would be nice to see Gillingham build a partnership with a team such as Arsenal. It could bring in some promising talent to the club.
RichardS - Very happy with both signings and both have contributed in games in the last few days. Medley has good presence and distribution. Coyle will be a nuisance. As for a successful loan agreement it will depend on many aspects IE how are players treated with us? How long will SE be with us,? I see no reason why we couldn't build a good relationship.
Smithy - If I'm honest I'd not heard of either Zech or Trae prior to the announcement of them joining us. I think Zech could be a big force in the back line but of the two I am most excited by Trae. From what I've seen already he has got me thinking he's going to give everything he's got in every match he plays. Really looking forward to seeing him live, when we get back to Priestfield of course. Youngsters will be at Arsenal because they are good young talents, and if we can forge a relationship between the two clubs going forwards I think that will only ever be good for both clubs so it's something I'd like to see happen.
BQGillsFan - Two young prospects, highly rated at a top side like Arsenal. Can't ask for much more really. I'm surprised it's taken us so long to utilise the proximity of Arsenal in the window, but I'm not sure it will lead to a major working relation between the clubs. We've made "double-signings" from Premier League sides before and then haven't worked with them the following seasons. Bournemouth and Southampton come to mind in recent years. I'd like to see the two sides work together in the future as Arsenal produce a lot of top class young talents, but I'm not certain it will happen every year for us.
Rob - I'm glad we're signing these types of players. Both come highly rated and will be keen to gain experience and game time. It's exciting to have young players and we do have a good success rate when signing loanees from the Premier League. It's something we need to look at more and I'm glad we're doing it.
Gills Debate - Both seem to be quite highly thought of at Arsenal based on the comments that I’ve seen so I’m hopeful that they can add some good quality to the side. It’s obviously the 1st loan move away from Arsenal for both of them, so it’s slightly difficult to know exactly what to expect as they’re playing at this level for the first time, but Coyle’s inclusion on the Golden Boy shortlist makes him specifically look like a very promising addition, and it’s good that he’s got off the mark already with his goal against Crawley. I guess only time will tell as to whether this is the start of a longer term agreement with Arsenal, it could be that Evans/Raynor have contacts there that our next manager(s) may not, but if we do start to bring players in from Arsenal more regularly then hopefully that will only prove to be a good thing for Gills, Arsenal and the players themselves.
5. WHICH PLAYER FROM LAST SEASON’S SQUAD CAN YOU SEE HAVING A MAGNIFICENT SEASON FOR GILLINGHAM DURING THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???
Luke - Magnificent? One would assume Messrs Ogilvie, Bonham and Tucker again.
Colin - Tucker broke through last season and I am surprise Scally hasn’t cashed in. If he stays I think he will have a big season for us. Ogilvie really stepped up last season too and again I thought he might have been sold. We certainly have a lot of defensive talent. Willock needs to show he is worth his wages..
Gills Anorak - Ogilvie.
The Rainham End - Once again I can see Ogilvie having a great season here with the Gills.
Loonpotter - Not many to choose from but I'd say Bonham, Ogilvie again and maybe Akinde.
Shane - Tucker. He had a great break through season and I am sure he will only improve this season.
RichardS - Jack Tucker. If he continues with his progress and gains experience I can only see him going the way of John Egan. At least to the championship. He has plenty of time though so no hurry which will do him no harm.
Smithy - Jack Bonham for me will have a great season. Connor Ogilvie I think could also really push on and continue to shine. I'd like to see Stuart O'Keefe become more regular also.
BQGillsFan - Well most of the squad from last season has gone this summer so it's not a big pool to choose from. Bonham and Ogilvie are already magnificent so be cheap to say those two, Tucker the same really. I'll go with Stuart O'Keefe. Can see him really stepping into the role vacated by Byrne's departure, so hopefully he can have a big season for us.
Rob - The two main ones are Ogilvie and Tucker. Both were our best players last season and I can only see that continuing. Tucker will continue to develop and either get sold in January or at the end of the season, while Ogilvie might have the same fate.
Gills Debate - I’ll go for perhaps the obvious choice in Ogilvie, a bit of a revelation at left-back last season after previously looking much more secure when playing in the centre of defence, and the scorer of some crucial goals in 1-0 wins – He was my pick for the POTY award. Already a goal to his name in 2020/2021 and if he continues to improve and perform in the way that he did last season, then he’ll have a very good season.
6. MATT BAKER, RONNIE NELSON, HENRY WOODS, HARVEY LINTOTT, AND TOBY BANCROFT, HAVE ALL BEEN GIVEN OPPORTUNITIES TO PLAY FOR GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM IN PRE-SEASON, WHICH YOUNG PLAYER(S) CAN YOU SEE BREAKING INTO GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM THIS SEASON ???
Luke - Would imagine Woods is the only one with a real shot at making it into the first team. Evans' comments at the weekend stating Bancroft is going out on loan would suggest the rest will only get used in Kent Senior Cup games if that.
Colin - Much of the local talent is mopped up by the London clubs academies. We never seem to produce forward players. I haven’t heard rave reviews about any of the current crop.
Gills Anorak - Hard to say without seeing any of them play regularly. I have high hopes for Baker as he has played for Wales.
The Rainham End - Toby Bancroft I feel is a great prospect here at Gillingham. Having watched him in a number of games I feel he is the sort of player we could do with playing up front beside Akinde or Oliver. He's quick, can finish and is technically gifted. I also rate Henry Woods so will be good to see him make a few appearances for the Gills this season.
Loonpotter - Possibly Bancroft and/or Woods.
Shane - I think Henry Woods is the most likely to see first team opportunities.
RichardS - Hopefully several will be given a chance. I will be interested particularly to see how Henry Woods gets on.
Smithy - I don't see any of the youngsters really breaking into the first team squad this season. I think I've heard somewhere that Toby Bancroft could be going out on loan, however I do think that we'll see Henry Woods on the bench and possibly getting in some minutes but not a breakthrough this season for me.
BQGillsFan - I can't say I know too much about the youth prospects we have available to us this season, but I know a lot of people speak well of Henry Woods so I wouldn't be surprised to see him put in a few decent showings for us this year.
Rob - Henry Woods seems the obvious choice, having played in the Trophy game the other day. He'll feature in the smaller cups and be regular on the bench in the event of injuries.
Gills Debate - I think Henry Woods has got the best chance, I recall hearing an interview that Evans did with Radio Kent a few months ago where he said that he would be going out on loan this season, but from his comments on the club website when Woods signed his new deal it sounds like he could potentially stay and be in and around the 1st team squad – I watched the pre-season friendlies against Reading and Colchester and from what I saw he didn’t look out of place with the other first team players. It sounds like Bancroft will be heading out on loan this season so hopefully he’ll do well there and can then maybe push for more of a first team place in 2021/2022.
7. GILLINGHAM WON 1-0 AGAINST SOUTHEND UNITED IN THE FIRST ROUND OF THE LEAGUE CUP, WITH CONNOR OGILVIE SCORING THE WINNING GOAL, WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS AND OPINIONS ON GILLINGHAM’S FIRST COMPETITIVE MATCH OF THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???
Luke - It’s a good workout but effectively another Pre-season game in my opinion. Its not a competition we have good history in but its more match time for the boys for the more important Hull game next Saturday and it’s always nice to kickstart the season with a win.
Colin - I wasn’t that impressed to be honest. The plus side was hanging on when a man short. Southend were pretty poor though. Dempsey can hopefully become a set piece expert for us and Ogilvie will hopefully get some more important goals.
Gills Anorak - Slow start. Was like a pre season game really. Glad we got through but we need more games quickly to get up to speed.
The Rainham End - I feel we started the game slow. We will find this in games to come as I've said before we will need time to gel as a squad but once we got into the game against Southend we controlled it right up until Jackson getting sent off.
Loonpotter - Once again Ogilvie came up with the goods... It felt like we struggled to find our feet a little but I'm confident by the time we play Hull we'll be ready.
Shane - A positive start. The first few games are always going to be a bit harder whilst the new players settle in.
RichardS - We'll take the result. Nothing more nothing less in terms of a feel for what we will do from here. A tie against Wolves would be good to look forward to. That would be a very tasty tie.
Smithy - The Southend game almost felt a bit like an extra pre-season friendly as we haven't started the league campaign yet but it was a win and a win is always good for morale.
BQGillsFan - Unfortunately I didn't get to see the match due to work, but having seen the highlights it wasn't exactly a thrilling watch was it. However, winning when you aren't playing well is a sign of a good team and given the main issue seems to be just a lack of match fitness and fluidity, that's something that will come with time. Given the curtailing of last season and the lack of a proper pre-season, I think the first few weeks are going to be rough for everyone in the league.
Rob - I didn't watch or listen to the game, but it's a promising start. A win is a win, although we were still missing a few players from our squad (e.g. Graham) and new signings (e.g. Robertson). A good win in the trophy too, even though we seemed to fall away towards the end.
Gills Debate - I didn’t think we started the game well, I thought Southend were probably the better team before we took the lead, but then we were much improved up until Jackson’s red card. It was a bit attack vs defence after that, we were possibly a little fortunate that Southend didn’t score after they hit the post twice, but I suppose ultimately it was job done and it’s always good to start off with a win!
8. LOOKING AT SOME OF THE CLUBS WHO WILL BE PLAYING IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE UP AND COMING SEASON (SUNDERLAND, PORTSMOUTH, IPSWICH TOWN, OXFORD UNITED, CHARLTON ATHLETIC, HULL CITY, WIGAN ATHLETIC, FLEETWOOD TOWN AND PETERBOROUGH UNITED) DO YOU THINK THE 2020 / 2021 LEAGUE ONE SEASON WILL BE THE TOUGHEST AND MOST COMPETITIVE SEASON THAT LEAGUE ONE HAS SEEN FOR QUITE SOMETIME ???
Luke - I will discredit Wigan due to the amount of good players they've lost and the off the field issues still not being resolved (at time of writing). Charlton also have issues on and off the pitch and only have one fit recognised defender so I think they will struggle. Posh and Oxford will be the toughest teams in the league for me but I don't buy into it’s the toughest League One for a while just yet.
Colin - Past reputations count for nothing. Al the clubs you name have been under performers recently. Wycombe showed that it’s not all about being a so called big club.
Gills Anorak - Maybe. I think the league is strong and we will do well to finish 10th again as we have a lot of new players to gel together.
The Rainham End - This season will be one tough journey but we have proven we can keep up with the favourites of the league and I feel we will shock a number of those teams.
Loonpotter - Some incredible clubs involved this year... A very exciting league ahead but a very tough season also..
Shane - On paper the league does look exceptionally difficult. But I think teams underestimate the strength of the "smaller" clubs in this division. As long as Gills can play well and maintain their form who knows what could happen.
RichardS - Highly likely. Some huge clubs in our league and it doesn't get any easier. The eventual league winners will likely be one of the above clubs. Let's face it though we love playing bigger clubs and tend to get good results when we do.
Smithy - I don't see that the league will any tougher than last season. For example Sunderland and Ipswich were tipped to go back up, they didn't and we kept them both at bay. Im also not fearing the clubs that have dropped from the Championship. Yes I think it will be competitive but it would be boring if it wasn't. It is true though that some very big clubs are all now grouped in League One so I am excited to see these teams.
BQGillsFan - A lot of established teams are in League One this season, a lot of them carrying horrible baggage from years of poor management at the upper levels. We saw with Ipswich last season and Sunderland over the last two years they've been in this division, that reputation means nothing. Several "bigger" teams think they'll walk League One and get a rude awakening from the likes of Gillingham. So it's going to be competitive, but I think Gills are capable of doing well despite the reputation of the opposition they'll be up against.
Rob - Yes and no. There's some big names in the division but also some clubs with big expenses and reliance on match-day income. I can see a few clubs having financial difficulties this season - potentially one or two of the bigger clubs.
Gills Debate - I think it has the potential to be yes, and looking at our early fixtures we’ve got quite a tough looking start, especially in October where we’ve got a run of 4 games in 12 days against Portsmouth, Fleetwood, Ipswich and Sunderland – If we can start well with some of the tougher looking fixtures that we’ve got, then I think it will put us in good stead for the rest of the season.
9. LEAGUE ONE AND LEAGUE TWO CLUBS HAVE VOTED FOR THE INTRODUCTION OF A SALARY CAP (£2,500,000 FOR LEAGUE ONE CLUBS, AND £1,500,000 FOR LEAGUE TWO CLUBS) WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON A SALARY CAP BEING INTRODUCED INTO THE LOWER LEAGUES, AND DO YOU THINK A SALARY CAP WILL EITHER HELP OR HINDER LOWER LEAGUE CLUBS FINANCIALLY ???
Luke - It’s certainly needed at these levels. We can't afford to have more clubs go out of business like Bury for owners overspending on players when the finances aren't there. I think something needs to be implemented in the Championship also with combined losses of £750m last season proving that business model clearly isn't sustainable either.
Colin - The salary cap will only impact on the Sunderland’s and Ipswich's of this world and they can get round the rules with creative reward packaging.
Gills Anorak - Hopefully it will help stabilise things until Covid is over and then perhaps they can allow some of the bigger teams to flex the budget if they have guaranteed income, otherwise we risk creating to large a financial gap to the Championship clubs.
The Rainham End - The salary cap is an odd one to comment on because it’s early days. It should help the lower budget teams compete better but will have negative impacts if its brought to lower leagues and obviously higher up the pyramid for certain teams who some would like to say brought their way up the divisions such as Salford.
Loonpotter - I think it's a bit early for me to pass judgement on that yet, a lot remains to be seen.
Shane - I think the salary cap is long overdue. Football finances have been a mess for years. I don't think it should hinder clubs and should create a level entertaining league.
RichardS - Everyone knows football salaries have got out of hand so any readjustment is sensible on the face of it. However I'm cynical about 1) How will it be policed? 2) How other Benefits could be disguised as a side perk? We all know that more money needs filtering from the Premier league clubs otherwise there will be more Wigan’s..Don't hold your breath though.
Smithy - I think the wage cap has its benefits and negative points. We are now getting further behind the Championship in terms of money, but on the flip side it has probably helped us at Gills during these tough times so selfishly for our club its probably a good idea. Do I think it's fair that for example Peterborough have the same money to spend as Accrington Stanley. No i don't. I do believe that if you’ve earn't it you can spend it.
BQGillsFan - In my opinion it's going to absolutely ruin League One and Two when they get promoted, especially to the Championship. We'll see clubs on budgets under £2.5m jumping up to teams with no budget restrictions, especially those dropping from the Premier League. Unless it's a cap across the board, lower league teams stand no chance of growing and causing upsets in the higher tiers with these restrictions. It might solve problems short-term, but long-term it's going to completely cripple the bottom two divisions.
Rob - I think it will help. It's ludicrous that someone like Sunderland can have players on £30k a week(!) in our division when that's probably about 7 or 8 of our players. Something needs to change in the financial model of the League. It's interesting how Leagues 1 and 2 have voted for it, but the Championship - full of clubs run at huge losses to chase promotion - have decided not to.
Gills Debate - I think the salary caps will level the playing field in the lower leagues to an extent, the finances of Premier League clubs are clearly a world away from the average league one club, but even within the league itself there are big differences in the resources available. I think therefore that it will probably help clubs like Gills, as it will level the playing field in comparison to the likes of Sunderland, Ipswich, Portsmouth etc. but then on the other hand it may therefore hinder those clubs. Whether setting a blanket figure across the division was the correct way to go about it though I’m not sure, as there is a wide range in attendances that lower league clubs achieve, and so it’s perhaps unfair that they then all have to stick to the same maximum budget.
10. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON THE FA SCRAPPING FA CUP REPLAYS FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON TO “EASE PRESSURE ON THE FOOTBALL CALENDAR” ARE YOU CONCERNED THAT SCRAPPING FA CUP REPLAY’S FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON CAN EASILY SEE FA CUP REPLAY’S SCRAPPED ON A PERMANENT BASIS ???
Luke - I would hope it’s for one season only. Lower league teams benefit from additional funds from FA Cup replays and I would hope the FA thinks about the 700+ participating teams each year and not just the 20 Premier League Teams who whinge about them.
Colin - Clubs like ours got invaluable cash injections when earning a replay particularly against bigger teams. Replays add to the drama and can see a sustained period of interest and excitement develop. Who can forget the saga between Gills and Everton. We all understand the impact of COVID on the schedules but smaller clubs need help with funding not constraints on it. Bigger clubs generally don’t like replays and yes there might be a push to kill them off permanently.
Gills Anorak - Not ideal and yes I fear they will eventually be phased out.
The Rainham End - Shocking! FA cup should have replays as it’s financially beneficial for lower league and non league teams to get the chance for a replay. If it’s scrapped on permanent basis, then I honestly do not care for the cup. Either scrap the League Cup and keep fa cup replays or keep both.
Loonpotter - I think it's a good idea this season for obvious reasons but I wouldn't like it to be a permanent thing.
Shane - I think it is a good idea for this season. There is a threat some games could be postponed due to covid and even the weather in what is already going to be a busy season. I feel the replays should be reinstated next season. They can be financially rewarding for teams in the lower divisions and non league.
RichardS - As a temporary measure I think its a sensible decision. However only for this season and hopefully it will be continued for the 2021/2022 season to help with revenue.
Smithy - I 100% believe that we have now lost FA Cup replays for good. And that's terrible. We all looked forward to drawing West Ham at home last season and standing in the Rainham End and we were genuinely talking about the possibility of going to the London Stadium. Imagine how many fans we would have taken and what a great day out that would have been. That excitement now be lost forever.
BQGillsFan - I completely understand why it has been introduced for this season, but yes I fear that it will open the door to it becoming a permanent thing. Unfortunately I've seen over recent seasons that those in control don't care about your club if it isn't called Liverpool, Man City, Man United, Chelsea, Tottenham or Arsenal, so I've resigned myself to the fact that FA Cup replays will be scrapped soon regardless of what lower league teams do to try and stop it.
Rob - It makes sense for this season. The fixture list is congested enough without needing to squeeze in replays. I like them, but I can understand why they have permanently been abolished for the quarter finals and above. I would still rather scrap extra time and go straight to penalties.
Gills Debate - I can understand why FA Cup replays have been scrapped for this season in particular due to the extraordinary situation that we find ourselves in, I think it probably makes sense to ease a bit of pressure on the fixture schedule, and lower league clubs presumably won’t miss out on the same level of extra potential income as they normally would due to restrictions on attendances. I suppose it is a concern that as they’ve scrapped them once they may not bring them back again, but I certainly hope that doesn’t turn out to be the case.
11. GILLINGHAM WILL PLAY TWELVE LEAGUE ONE FIXTURES ON A TUESDAY NIGHT THROUGHOUT THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON COMPARED TO THE FIVE TUESDAY NIGHT LEAGUE ONE FIXTURES THROUGHOUT THE 2019 / 2020 SEASON, DO YOU THINK THE FIXTURE CONGESTION IS GOING TO BE A HUGE PROBLEM FOR GILLINGHAM, GIVEN THAT STEVE EVANS HAS MENTIONED THAT HE WILL BE LINING UP WITH A SMALL FIRST TEAM SQUAD FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???
Luke - I'm more concerned about our terrible league record on Tuesday Nights if I'm honest. If we can get that monkey off our back first then we can worry about the number of games on Tuesdays!
Colin - Fitness and injuries will have more impact in a condensed season with lots of night games. Two games in a week will require some squad rotation. We need more forward options. I expect us to make a couple of signings in the next week. The physio’s will be kept busy.
Gills Anorak - No. I think the players like games coming thick and fast rather than training, as long as we are doing well!
The Rainham End - This is new for this season and will soon show if our players are up for the challenge but every team is in the same boat here so I can't see it being a huge problem.
Loonpotter - I think we'll be fine... I think sometimes people make too much of fixture congestion, they are professional young athletes and would probably play 3 times a week if they could.
Shane - I do think Gillingham will struggle at some point during the season with such a small squad. However, it could open the door to some of the youngsters, like it did for Tucker.
RichardS - Short answer is yes. We are still short of players as I write this and a few injuries will compromise our progress significantly. Highly likely with so many fixtures. It's a real concern for me.
Smithy - I do think the congestion with the Tuesday night fixtures could become an issue, certainly if we have injuries/suspensions but for this season at least we have to roll with the punches and if we get through it and get some good results out of these matches then I think it will be a great achievement for the club.
BQGillsFan - It's going to be a problem for everyone. Gillingham won't be the only team with a congested fixture list and given the pandemic situation, it's either this or no football at all. I know which option I prefer.
Rob - Yes, but the other clubs will be in the same boat. We'll have tired players who will need resting (before everyone on Twitter moans about selections) but then so will other clubs.
Gills Debate - Quite possibly yes, especially if we get into the latter stages of the cup competitions. It seems clear that we’re going to be operating with around 20 senior players, and so if a few players start picking up knocks/strains at the same time then we will be down to the bare bones. I think squad rotation game to game, and perhaps not risking players who may otherwise have been risked, may be more important than ever this season.
12. WHEN FOOTBALL SUPPORTERS ARE ALLOWED BACK INSIDE FOOTBALL STADIUMS TO WATCH THE TEAM THEY SUPPORT PLAY, CAN YOU SEE FOOTBALL CLUBS START TO APPRECIATE THERE SUPPORTERS MORE GIVEN THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO ATMOSPHERE FOR BEHIND CLOSED DOORS MATCHES ???
Luke - I would hope so. We've already seen from the games that were played without fans in the Premier League, Bundesliga and other competitions football isn't the same without an atmosphere. I would hope more incentives are made to get more fans back into stadiums (once covid-friendly) and realise we are the lifeblood of these clubs.
Colin - I think all clubs realise that the professional game is nothing without a live audience. Sadly TV money and online services are likely to become more important at the expense of the real fans.
Gills Anorak - No not really.
The Rainham End - Yes teams will and always should be appreciating the support of the fans. I honestly can't see myself attending games as much as I'm not getting a season ticket because it won't be the same letting in about 3,000 fans separate from each other. It won't be the same for me but I hope by 2021 this will improve.
Loonpotter - Definitely... The need for fans has become ever more evident... Football would die without them and I have struggled to watch football on the TV with no real crowd noise... I just can’t focus on the game.
Shane - I think clubs will realise how much they rely on getting their supporters through the door.
RichardS - Here’s hoping, The reality is people have very short memories and the pressure to increase income will make any recognition short lived in my opinion. Be good for season ticket holders to have some appreciation as it’s they that have saved the club during this crazy times we are facing.
Smithy - I would like to think the club would appreciate us all more yes, especially the season ticket holders that signed up/renewed before the pandemic hit. Football just isn't football without fans after all.
BQGillsFan - Maybe for the first few weeks or months, but overall I imagine things will just go back to the way they were pre-Covid.
Rob - I think our players appreciate the fans already, but there will be a big buzz when fans finally return. Many players have expressed positive comments about the Rainham End - unless they're just saying what people want to hear, which is entirely possible. However, fans may well return spread out and making it difficult to create an atmosphere so things won't quite be the same straight away.
Gills Debate - Yes, I think so, I think you only realise quite how much of a difference supporters make to a game once you’ve watched some that are behind closed doors, and it’s simply not the same without the atmosphere in the ground.
13. GILLINGHAM PLAY AGAINST HULL CITY ON THE OPENING DAY OF THE LEAGUE SEASON AT PRIESTFIELD STADIUM, WHAT WOULD BE YOUR STARTING LINE UP ??? (YOU CAN NAME THE BENCH IF YOU WANT TO NAME THE SUBS), AND WHAT FORMATION WOULD YOU PICK FOR SATURDAY’S MATCH ???
Luke - I'm picking this team on the basis that Jackson isn't suspended for the league game so I would go 4-3-3: Bonham. Jackson, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie. McKenzie (CDM), O'Keefe, Dempsey. Graham, Akinde, Coyle. Subs: Walsh, Maghoma, Mellis, Willock, Woods, MacDonald, Oliver.
Colin - Bonham Jackson Medley Ogilvie Tucker Maghoma O’Keefe Dempsey MacDonald Akinde Oliver 5-3-2.
Gills Anorak - 4-1-2-1-2 Diamond. Bonham, McKenzie, Ogilvie, Medley, Maghoma, O’Keefe, MacDonald, Dempsey, Graham, Akinde, Coyle.
The Rainham End - I'm a fan of 4-4-2 and dint see why we don't use it more often. My ideal lineup would be ST Oliver, ST Akinde, LM Graham, RM Coyle, CM Dempsey, CM O'Keefe, LB Ogilvie, CB Medley, CB Tucker, RB Jackson GK Bonham. I'm not 100% sure how his red will effect this. Either he's banned from Tuesday night against Crawley or will be banned against Hull so if that's the case I'd have Tucker LB and Maghoma CB
Loonpotter - GK BONHAM DEF OGILVIE DEF MEDLEY DEF TUCKER DEF MAGHOMA MID MACKENZIE MID GRAHAM MID DEMPSEY MID MACDONALD MID COYLE FWD AKINDE
Shane - I think the team that started against Southend in the league cup. Bonham; Jackson, Maghoma, Medley, Ogilvie; McKenzie, MacDonald, O’Keefe, Dempsey; Oliver, Akinde. SUBS: Walsh, Tucker, Willock, Mellis, Graham , Coyle.
RichardS - I'd go for a standard 4-4-2. Bonham, Jackson, Medley, Tucker, Ogilvie, Graham, Dempsey, O'Keefe, Coyle, Oliver and Akinde. Subs: Walsh, Mellis, MacDonald, McKenzie, Maghoma and Hanlon ( assuming he stays but unlikely) Woods.
Smithy - Bonham McKenzie Medley Maghoma Ogilvie Dempsey Graham Mellis Coyle Oliver Akinde
BQGillsFan - Bonham, Jackson, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie, O'Keefe, Dempsey, MacDonald, Graham, Coyle, Oliver. Go with a 4-3-3 formation, could start with either Akinde or Oliver really, depending on who Evans sees as his first choice striker this season.
Rob - Bonham; Tucker, McKenzie, Medley, Ogilvie; Dempsey, O'Keefe, Mellis; Graham, Coyle, Akinde.
Gills Debate - (4-3-3) – Bonham, McKenzie, Tucker, Medley, Ogilvie, O’Keefe, Dempsey, Mellis, Graham, Oliver, Coyle. Subs: Walsh, Maghoma, Robertson, Willock, MacDonald, Woods, Akinde.
14. WHERE DO YOU THINK GILLINGHAM WILL FINISH IN LEAGUE ONE FOR THE 2020 / 2021 SEASON ???
Luke - It would be wrong of me to predict anything else really. I'm going to say a top 24 finish.
Colin - I am expecting us to struggle unless we do sign a couple of strikers. If we don’t 18th if we do 12th.
Gills Anorak - 9th.
The Rainham End - 1st, realistically let's say 8th.
Loonpotter - Between 6th and 8th
Shane - Heart says Gills could aim for 6th. Head says 8th-13th.
RichardS - The so called "Experts" have predicted us to finish anything from 6th - 22nd so That's really helpful Lol.. I'll plump for 9th and a marginal improvement on last season. Be lovely to make the play offs though.
Smithy - 8-10th I think will be where we finish, but I think to do that we need to start quite strong.
BQGillsFan - I'm going to whisper it very quietly so maybe the jinx gods don't hear me......... play-offs.
Rob - Hopefully, top 10 again. Dare I say playoffs?
Gills Debate - I’ll go for 8th.
15. AND FINALLY, IS THERE ANYTHING ELSE YOU WISH TO ADD (EXAMPLE: IS THERE SOMETHING I HAVE NOT COVERED IN THE FOURTEEN QUESTIONS ASKED ABOVE YOU WANT TO EXPAND UPON) ???
Luke - God I hope they've improved the paella already.
Colin - It is going to be a strange season for everyone. I hope it’s not too dispiriting and that we can get the fans back in and keep us there.
Gills Anorak - Nothing To Add.
The Rainham End - Nothing To Add.
Loonpotter - I just want to say what a great rebuild in difficult circumstances Steve Evans and Paul Scally have done.. I'm very excited for the new season and very optimistic..
Shane - Nothing To Add.
RichardS - Hopefully we can get back to watching our team with the feel good factor being there brings. Its horrible watching on TV. Thanks again for the inclusion Lee and let's hope for a cracker of a season one and all. Up the Gills…
Smithy - Nothing To Add.
BQGillsFan - Since these questions were given out, Hanlan's departure has been confirmed and I really don't know how I feel about it. Certainly worked his socks off whenever he played and is a very different attacking option to what we have in Akinde and Oliver. But he also was awful at burying his many, many chances throughout the year and his conduct over the summer seems to have soiled a lot of fans' opinion on the young lad. I personally would have liked to see him stay, but ultimately his departure seems to be the best thing for all parties.
Rob - Nothing To Add.
Gills Debate - Nothing To Add.
Once again, thank you to everyone for participating in this blog, and if anyone who is reading this who wishes to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog throughout The 2020 / 2021 Season, then feel free to send me a message, and your more than welcome to participate in The Gillingham Supporters Blog, Hopefully, Gillingham can get off to the perfect start by picking up all three points against Hull City in the opening League One match of the season - COME ON THE GILLS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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