A Classic Headline

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Sheffield United 1 SAFC 0

Went down to Sheffield with Mr Chairman Woodward and his two boys. Met up with Miller, Chris and the gang who had come down in a limited sports edition Post Office sherpa van. Clive D and the Sedgefield branch were also in the Howard Arms so it was just like old times again; even the beautiful Christine was laughing at some of my antics and even said that I had to keep her a seat on the Liverpool coach!!!
Mr Chairman left early to grab some fish and chips - the sandwiches on the way down must not have filled his tum tum. This turned out to be the highlight of the day as the fish and chips he said were fantastic.
The match again was a non event. Words cannot describe what we saw ... inept, horrendous, crap, shite, fucking rubbish, laughable, complete set of wankers, waste of space you guess my drift.
It's worrying that we haven't scored for over 100 + minutes now, okay some fans were saying that they were not bothered as these games don't have any bearing on the real games and we will be okay on the day. However having witnessed two very poor performances now I am starting to look for my pray mat I bought in Istanbul!
We need to strengthen the team further with quality before the start of the season before we get in the mire and can't get out.

Bring on the big boys ???? We couldn't even put up a show against the little uns!

Jim Gilling
FTM


"Romeo and Juliet" outside the Howard Arms Sheffield.

Young "The Mag" Griff greets me with contempt in the Howard Arms in Sheffield. 

Miller and the "sherpa van mob" outside the Howard Arms pub Sheffield centre - notice the Magpie in black - young Griff from Kella. 

What do u think of this guys??

Check this out Sunderland crew!! i found at safc.com. I cant believe it yet!!

Another disappointment Jim?

Should've come to Killhope lead Mining Centre with me. Heavy going but not in comparison to Sheffield I bet>
The Coxhoe Cameraman

Roughy on Radio 2

While making my way to Hull last night at about 5.30pm heard the dj on Radio 2 discussing if anyone had to step in and do their bit unexpectantly and what was the result. He asked for people to phone in and give their experiences. After about 5 minutes heard the dj say "Mark Rough from Leigh just phoned into say that he had to step in at a party when the turn did not come (or something like that - I can't remember) and he told a few gags .... and remained a professional comedian for the past 20 years" Fame at last for our favourite comedy act.

Jim Gilling
FTM

Tall Ships 2005. Gateshead,Newcastle

A selection of pictures available from today by clicking the title bar.

As promised took a days leave and headed up to South Shields at 6:30 this morning, arriving about 7:10 am. Parked up in the beach front car park on the South Beach and had a leisurely stroll over to the pier.

Surprisingly there was quite a lot of people already staking their claim to the best viewing points. I headed for Littlehaven, near the Red Lighthose, opposite N Shields Fish Quay and got myself a great viewing spot on the wall of the hotel gardens which overlooks the Tyne. Crowds could be seen gathering on the other side of the water from every point Tynemouth up river.

Got chatting to a fellow from Gateshead who had been down on the Quayside last night for the festival but said it was absolutely chocker but he'd enjoyed the fireworks. Him and his Mrs had walked home to Gateshead and had to go via the Swing Bridge cos the Millenium Bridge was closed cos it was open, if you catch me drift.

Pleased I took the brolly cos there was a few spots before the first boat arrived so I shared it with me new found mate and kept him dry too. Notice of the first tall ship arriving was given by the arrival of the Royal Navy Mine Sweeping vessels which provided the escort. The photograph attached is of the very first Tall Ship, the Dar Wlodziezy, to head for sea and the start line. That was at about 9:30 this morning, it having left it's berth at Spillers Quay at 8:00 am.

From then on there was a steady procession of ships, big and small right up until 12:30pm by which time the heavens had truly opened, my friend had left to meet up with others and the brolly saved the day, keeping my powder dry so to speak.

Made my way back to the car park to join the jams leaving Shields, believing the last one had gone through, then as I entered Coxhoe Radio Newcastle was reporting one more leaving. It had engine trouble and was the one with green sails which features on the posters.

Only minus point from what was a great spectacle was a North Easterly Wind which prevented the biggest ships of all from setting their sails. Never mind though, it was a great morning well worth getting up early for.

Incidentally I spotted Captain Moncur, our ex skipper powering his boat full of corporates into the mouth of the Tyne to get a real close up view. Bet they paid a canny wedge for that pleasure.

Enjoy the pics.


The Coxhoe Cameraman

Hull City 1 SAFC 0

Well it was my first away game of the season and one that I wish I hadn't gone to!

I was on business in Leicester during the day so made the short trip over to Hull - set the sat-nav for Hull City FC and yes you've guessed the directions took me to the old ground. After asking in the local Asda I was only about 5 minutes away so I arrived about 6.30pm. parked the car in a street just near to a great fish and chip shop - better than at West Ham but Hull have the advantage of being a fishing port. Pub across the road as well and full of SAFC supporters singing songs about Bobby Robson - do they not know he was sacked!

Short walk to the ground impressive from the outside as well as the inside - see pictures below.
There was a poor turnout from Hull supporters and about 2,000 SAFC loyals in the ground when kick off started. I did not meet up with Clive D and his merry band of men as they were in a different boozer near to the main car park but did see them in the ground but not to talk to them so don't know what they thought of the ground and the match.

Not much to say about the game really as it was a pathetic show from the lads. First half I think only Carl Robinson shone for me, Julio and Macca teamed up well until Macca went off injured. Centre of defence Breen and Caldwell still look shaky and will not stop the big players in the premiership - a worry that must be addressed. Breen was at fault with their goal letting the forward through on his left side to strike a good shot that the keeper had no chance. Our first shot at the goal was at 8.25pm - 5 minutes till the end of the first half - Julio blazing a shot about 3 foot over the bar. Just before this Jon Stead missed a clear header about 3 yards to the right of the goal and Brown well he is not a premiership striker plenty of effort but missed headers / passes etc. The first half was a case of not enough shots on goal, loose passing, shaky centre of defence and no structure at all.

Second half - all change just Breen staying on the pitch - still not much to say other than Tommy Miller looked strong but unfit - no names on shirts so difficult to make out the new from the old and the kids - there was a player number 17 on his back looked like David Milburn playing at left back - not sure who he is, I must look up the squad numbers after I finish the posting. The keeper made his first save of the match half way through the second half - about 15 minutes to go some SAFC loyals were heading for the exits.

Well I see McCarthy on safc.com says the team looked tired after the long flight home on Monday - so why arrange to play a friendly on the Wednesday? It's just us daft loyals that foot up the money to watch garbage - it's going to be a very long season unless he makes a move in the transfer market for a known effective striker and a rock as central defender.

Hope things improve against Sheffield United on Saturday - I will report on this on Sunday.

Jim Gilling
FTM


OOH ITS A CORNER - EXCITEMENT AT LAST!

The Main Stand 

Front Entrance 

Tall Ships........ It's on

Days holiday arranged for tomorrow.

I'm going to be up and out early, flask, sandwiches and cameras to hand, and make my way to South Shields for about 6 a.m. to get a good spot to watch them sail out.

Weather fprecast not good so I'll take me brolly.

Tall Ships Newcastle Quayside 2005 - selection of pictures to wet Huytons appetite!

The highest anyone will get in Scumland!

More pictures from Tall Ships 2005 

A Russian Tall Ship Newcastle Quayside July 26th 2005 

Tall Ships

Jim talks in an earlier post about visiting the Tall Ships in Newcastle today and I am a tad envious. Steph and me popped down to Hartlepool on Saturday evening and there were a couple in Middleton dock.

Linda and me drove up to South Shileds on Sunday afternoon and watched a few move into the Tyne and very impressive they are too, althouigh we watched from the Marsden area.
I'd really like to see them close up but don't know if I'm going to get the time to do it. Steph is 21 tomorrow and we toyed with going to Newcastle in the evening by train, having a meal and staying for the firework display, but by the time Rob finishes work, and bearing in mind the last train back to Durham is 10:44pm then it doesn't leave much time.

Perhaps I'll take a day off on Thursady drive up ( Very early) to Tyne Dock or Shields harbour wall and watch from there. I bet it's something to see, as HMS Invincible and HMS Bullwark lead them out to the start line in full sail and getvthem away from 4 miles off shore.

Jim. I'm envious.

The Dark Side

No doubt I will be castigated by Jim for posting about the dark side but 'll try not to make reference to them by name.

Now isn't it interesting that talk of take overs is on the cards and the subsequent increase in the share price. The pitman from Ashington has seen his stake rise by about £11m or 15.8% in total by yesterday and no doubt the pitlad's lad will be a beneficiary too.
Is there any substance to it? Talk of Malyasian business men and casino's would fit in well with the ethos that has developed on the other side of the force.

To hear talk of the return of the King KK conjours up images of dummies being spit out and all talk of winning this thatand t'other. The servants of the empire that is evil speak of sucess but i can't recall him winning anything and there is no prizes for second best.

Listen to your feelings Annekin. resist.

Next season's points total

What do you reckon bloggers? Published below is a graph showing our points in our last three Premiership seasons.

2000/1 when we finished 7th
2001/2 when we finished 17th and just avoided relegation
2002/3 the 19 point relegation season

I'll plot the graph as we go through this next season and see how we do compared with the other seasons.

How many points would you be satisfied with/do you think we need?

Sheffield United v SAFC

Sedgefield branch are now going down by car and not a mini bus as first reported by Miller. I am still going by car with one spare place in my car - Brian have you made up your mind yet - only £10 for a ticket if you show your season ticket? We will leave about 10.00am and get back about 7.30pm meeting up with Miller and/or Clive D in Sheffield.

Jim Gilling
FTM

The Clarke Family

In a rough answer to the special quiz posed by Billy with the picture of a cap as a clue, I was looking at the England fans forum after purchasing my Wales v England ticket and saw a question about what ticket to choose for this match when one answer read:-


Posted: 21 July 2005 10:41:12

Rank: Championship Joined: 10/01/2005Posts: 302 Location: Orpington, Kent, UNITED KINGDOM

Doesn't matter where you select, you're highly unlikely to be sat in the Wales section !!

Beware the Clarke family !! They're out to get us !!Edward, Edwin and Adrian.........


Perhaps we should all be careful what we say to Mr. Clarke next year it appears his family are notorious

Jim Gilling
FTM

Quiz 6 - The Answers

Times up on Quiz 6 here are the answers. Due to lack of interest the weekly quiz will be suspended and may return as a monthly quiz during the season if there is any interest shown.

1) At the end of the 1986/87 season SAFC were relegated to the old third division. What was the team that beat SAFC in the play-offs to put us down?
Gillingham

2) Staying with the third division in the 1987/88 season who were SAFC first opponents in the old third division?
Brentford

3) Signed from Hull City in 1988 for £400,000 this SAFC player became a regular on the beat ?
Tony Norman

4) From Dundee to Sheffield to York to SAFC to Hartlepool. Name this tough defender?
John McPhail

5) Charlie Hurley's nickname with the club was "King Charlie" but which player had the nickname "Sleeves"?
Stephen Elliott

6) In 1969 he was allowed to leave on a free transfer as a thank you for his loyalty to SAFC. He negotiated his own contract when he joined Bolton Wanderers then went into club management. Name this loyal SAFC player?
Charlie Hurley

7) Sporting Lisbon knocked SAFC out of the European Cup Winners Cup in 1973/74 season but who did SAFC beat in the first round?
Vasas Budapest

8) How many times have SAFC appeared in the FA Charity Sheild and name the years?
1936 and 1937

9) Who is the most capped SAFC player for Scotland?
Jim Baxter

10) Who is the most capped SAFC player for England?
Terry Butcher

BONUS QUESTION: - What year was the first International match held at Roker Park. The score is still an England record so for the second part of the question what was the score?
1899 13:2 England beating Ireland

Jim Gilling
FTM

Special quiz

1. How many buses will be on next season?
2. Where will they be picking up?
3. What time will they be leaving?
4. Will they be full?
5. Will the double-deckers be back on?
6. Will Ralphy be driving again?
7. Will we be parking in Dundas Street?
8. How much will the fares be?
9. Is Jack back in charge?
10. How many buses will we be taking away?

Bonus question: Quess who posted these quiz questions?

Tie breaker in the event of a draw: Who is Tania Hide?

Clue above. 

HAPPY FRIENDS DAY AND MY POINY OF VIEW

Guys,

Firstly of all i'd like to greet all of you on Friends Day (at least we celebrate this in Argentina today) even though i've not met any of you in flesh and bones i think all of you are cool people that deserved this..

Secondly, to add my opinion of what Jim set as a "hot topic", i think Sunderland could avoid relegation but i know it will be dead hard. I'm waiting to experience those last season unforgettable afternoon logged to the internet following the matches and watched them sometimes when the argie tv show them. To avoid relegation on goal difference will do 4 me as long as we could stay.Who shares Alan Pardell's (ckeeky) point of view??

SUNDERLAND FOREVER!!
Walter

Time is nearly here

Monday morning season ticket dropped through the post so we must be getting near to the big kick-off. R we all looking forward to the new adventure or shitting ourselves at what might happen.
I will be pleased if we finish 4th from bottom but would like it if we could top one of the other so called North Eastern giants. Realistically I predict we finish in the bottom half about 14th or 15th then strengthen again for next season. Again I hope that some of the stay away fans will return but this will depend if we get a good start; expect some good attendances at the big name matches but no so for Brum, WBA etc.

Mystery posting

Just been on the Coxhoe RTG message board to see if any activity. This is the posting

Hi Billy ( you little scallywag)

Posted by Tania Hyde on 18 July, 2005 at 10:02:20:

Please inform your Father that he should rest in his reclining chair and take a regular glass of one of the the finest reds. A glass of Red Burgundy Chambertin Grand Cru de Beze - Domaine Louis Jadot would be nice. He semms to be stressed. You are not the cause by any chance, are you Billy?

Click on the title to take you to RTG Coxhoe message board. Is this posting for Billy (Beavers) or for Billy (me) ?? Bit of a mystery really.

The use of the term "you little scallywag" implies a familiarity with the intended Billy and obviously Tania has a knowledge of fine wines so that must rule out a number of bloggers who are devotees of libations such as cider, lager and bitter (apart from the chairman who has been known to consume exotic cocktails of fine liquers on special occasions and the secretary who apparently has a secret stash of numerous bottles of whisky in his private cellar)

Who is Tania Hide? Reveal your true identity please Tania and come and join us on the Blog page. It would be good to have a lady poster on the site although I must warn you in advance that sometimes the postings are a little uncouth. However the Coxhoe Cameraman can be relied upon to 'raise the tone' with his tasteful scenic views of historical sights.

Coaxed down

A snippet from the local news section of todays Northern Echo

COAXED DOWN
Police used a chip butty and a packet of cigarettes to help coax down a man who was threatening to jump off the Transporter Bridge in Middlesbrough. The 37 year-old, who had spent more than two hours on top of the bridge, was arrested after the incident on Saturday.


So there you have it. Never mind "Give me a £1m, take me to the airport, and fly me to Brazil or I'll jump". All it takes to get a smoggy down is a chip butty and a packet of fags!!

Where Am I ? No 3

Yes, it's Wish You Were here time again with Judith Hoofer.
But where am I as I journey around the North of England in search of history and culture.
The Coxhoe Cameraman

Will Scottish football survive after this?

What d'you think about Strachan's view. In my opinion, Scottish football will experience an upheaval if Scot giants join the premierleague. What would happen with Falkirk, Dunfermline and that kind of teams. No one would be willing to invest in a league where its two more powerful teams have moved... I say no to Celtic and Rangers in the Premierlague.

What's your opinion about it..

Walter

SAFC Off To A Winning Start

Lads off to winning start
BC All Stars 0 - 1 Sunderland
The lads got their tour off to a winning start, beating the British Columbia All Stars Team by a single goal yesterday.
The team was almost completely changed at half-time with all of the following players getting a run-out:
DavisAlnwick/Wright/NosworthyNCollins/Caldwell/Lawrence/Arca/Robinson/Whitehead/Piper/
Elliott/Stead/Woods/Welsh/Brown/Murphy/with young Ben Christensen also making a 2nd half appearance.
The single goal came from one of our newcomers - Martin Woods who recently signed from Leeds
Attendance : 2381

Have you learnt guys?

I wanted to post this to tell you about the argentine presence on the British football. For instance, a guy named Nieto lands RANGERS (even though he last season he played for a strugglinh side Almagro that were finally relegated)!!!, Walter Pandiani, an uruguayan is about to defenetely join Birmingham from Deportivo; Liverpool's bid for argentine top-class defender Gabriel Milito who is playing for Spanish Zaragoza; Crespo is back to Chelsea; Spurs are playing Boca next Saturday.. and more.

Guys, that fight among those Sunderland players left me thunderstruck. Would you please tell me more about that coz you know, since i live live in Argentina , many facts are unknown for me..

Sheffield United

Is anybody going to Sheffield United for the friendly?

There are 13 of us going down for a weekend on the piss and thought it would be nice to take in the game and see what our new signings are like. Jim, with your position as secretary of an established supporters branch and your links with the club do you think you could sort some of the special £10 tickets out???? I would give you a couple of vouchers but we aint got our season tickets yet!

Not being tight.....honest

SAFC prepare for game against the Mags

Extract from Arca's diary in Canada reveals the following:-

"Sunderland are training at Trinity Western University during the first week of their pre-season tour.
And after completing the second of two tough training work-outs today they watched the Trinity university side take on UBC (university of British Columbia)

Sunderland had two sessions - including 40 minutes of boxing training - as they prepare for their first game."

Or was it a case of preparing for the Tyne - Wear derby games this season???

FTM

Jim Gilling

Out walking today

And coming down the old railway line from Kelloe to Coxhoe, bumped into Steve Walton, dog and pushchair in hand who in his unique style asked me.

"lad, can thou tell me summat?" When do we play Liverpool away? It's on Sky isn't It? Jimmy Gilling is telling me its not a Sunday match but it's a daft KO time."

Now something at the back of my mind made me a little unsure. I knew that originally it had been scheduled for Sunday at 2 pm but something said to me " I think its' changed"

Being ever the diplomat I said to Steve I'll find out for you.

Well Steve I've found out and I'm sorry to say Jim as usual is 100% correct. However, you may have become confused with the home match which is scheduled for SKY and is in fact a 17:15 KO, but that's a long way in the future.

So there you have it, can't go anywhere without SAFC influencing your day in one way or another.

Quiz Round 6

Here we go again, as usual 2 points for questions 1 to 10 and 5 points for the bonus question.

Answers to: safcsa2004-coxhoe@yahoo.co.uk

Deadline 20th July 2005.

1) At the end of the 1986/87 season SAFC were relegated to the old third division. What was the team that beat SAFC in the play-offs to put us down?

2) Staying with the third division in the 1987/88 season who were SAFC first opponents in the old third division?

3) Signed from Hull City in 1988 for £400,000 this SAFC player became a regular on the beat ?

4) From Dundee to Sheffield to York to SAFC to Hartlepool. Name this tough defender?

5) Charlie Hurley's nickname with the club was "King Charlie" but which player had the nickname "Sleeves"?

6) In 1969 he was allowed to leave on a free transfer as a thank you for his loyalty to SAFC. He negotiated his own contract when he joined Bolton Wanderers then went into club management. Name this loyal SAFC player?

7) Sporting Lisbon knocked SAFC out of the European Cup Winners Cup in 1973/74 season but who did SAFC beat in the first round?

8) How many times have SAFC appeared in the FA Charity Sheild and name the years?

9) Who is the most capped SAFC player for Scotland?

10) Who is the most capped SAFC player for England?

BONUS QUESTION: - What year was the first International match held at Roker Park. The score is still an England record so for the second part of the question what was the score?

Quiz 5 - The Answers

How many did you know?

) Born Ashington, began his league career with Burnley later to become Manager of SAFC. Name him.
Jimmy Adamson

2) In 1880 SAFC played their first competitive match on November 13th, but who were the opponents?
Ferryhill

3) In 1890 SAFC played their first football league match on 13th September, but who were the opponents?
Burnley

4) Signed from Irish Club Glentoran for a fee of £4,500 in 1957 and went on to score 44 goals in 174 league and cup games before transferring to Hartlepool in 1963. Name the player.
Ambrose Fogarty

5) A former Parkhead ball-boy this player went to Leeds United in the summer of 1970 signing professional in 1971. He then moved to Nottingham Forest later returning to Leeds before being transferred to SAFC. Name the player.
Frank Gray

6) During the two world wars "guest" players were allowed. Name two of SAFC "guest" players during this period.
Jimmy Seed / Jackie Milburn / Stan Mortenson / Harry Potts

7) Started his career with SAFC then joined Derby County after a brief spell on loan with Portsmouth. Then moved to Wolves and Gillingham. Name this hard tackling defender.
Rob Hindmarch

8) Played the last of his SAFC 354 league and cup matches on 4th September 1971 against Millwall. Name this English Schoolboy International full back.
Cecil Irwin

9) SAFC entered this cup competition on two occasions winning the trophy both times in 1983 and 1984. Name the cup competition.
Isle of Man Cup

10) Played for Arsenal South East Counties as an amateur during 1972/73 season made his league debut for Arsenal against Newcastle in 1975. In 1977 joined SAFC for a fee of £30,000 later joining Watford in 1979. Later went on to play for both Sheffield sides then joined Brentford. Name the player.
Wilf Rostron

BONUS QUESTION:-What year and who were the opponents when SAFC played their first game under floodlights?
1933 against Racing Club De Paris the match was played in Paris

QUIZ 6 COMING UP SHORTLY

Looks who's on the front page of the Northern Echo Great North Walk supplement this morning

None other than Huyton Hoofer. That's him, right in the middle, to the bottom of the picture, with the baseball hat on. Quality of the picture is not up to our Coxhoe Cameraman standards but's it definitely him.
Fame at last!

Number 2563 powers his way through the field and about to overtake the lad with the headache, number 2272.  

Player / Fan Rage - what would you do?

SAFCSA Dinner marred by trouble
A dinner to mark the 40th anniversary of the SAFC Supporters' Association (SAFCSA) was marred by violence last Friday night, culminating in Richard "Dickie" Ord being arrested, and Phil "Tippy" Gray receiving hospital treatment.
The Sunderland Echo reports that the trouble began at the function when former player Gray was criticised by fans at the dinner for talking while Charlie Hurley was giving a speech. Gray answered back, and ended up being restrained by Kevin Ball when events got out of hand, and security were eventually called to help calm things down.
Gray and Ord left the Stadium in the early hours and headed to the Marriott Hotel in Seaburn but became involved in another incident outside the hotel, allegedly with supporters who had been at the dinner.
Ord says the fight was sparked by the supporters, angry at Gray's behaviour at the dinner, who then ran off when Ord called the police - police who subsequently arrested Murton resident Dickie on a charge of being drunk and disorderly (he was later cautioned and released).
Gray was taken to hospital for treatment as a result of one of the supporters biting his ear.
Richard Ord said, "Phil had an argument at the stadium where we had this do. When we came out of the taxi they've been waiting for him. There were seven or eight of them and they've jumped on him like maniacs - biting his ear.
"By the time the police came they had scarpered. The police came in and saw me and victimised me, put me straight into cuffs without waiting for an explanation.
"It was a tremendous night. It was nice to see some old friends. It's just been spoiled by some idiots and the police. I'm disgusted by the whole thing - I've never been arrested or in trouble in my life."
George Forster, chairman of the SAFCSA, said he was "very cross, and sad, about the whole thing."

Road rage. What would you do?

Ever witnessed an act of road rage bloggers?

Last night at 6:45 pm I was on the A1M between Carville and Chester le Street intercahnges on my way to newcastle Airport to get mys sister in law on the flight back to Stansted at 8:05, after our Great North Walking day.

I was conscious of a black BMW 6 series coupe on a 05 plate in the overtaking lane tailgating an Astra saloon. headlights full he was really up the Astras arse. When the Astra pulled in the Beamer pulled alongside, braked and threw a bottle out of the passenger side window at the Astra, which hit. It looked like a plastic coke bottle, but more to the point the crass stupididty of this act wanton mindlessness put other road users, at speeds of 70MPH at risk, as there was much hitting of brakes etc.

The beamer then sped off but it left me speechless.

What would you do?

DURHAM BIG MEETING 2005

OK Bloggers.

All you lads with pit village background here are 30 photo's in an album from Saturday 9th July 2005 from the 121st Durham Miners Gala.

Click on the title bar to take you there.

One of the most colourful spectacles on the North East calendar, this years gala was held in baking hot sunshine that saw the largest crowd in years gather in Durham to witness and enjoy the sound of brass and bagpipes.

Generation of former miners and their families filled the streets of Durham as 60 banners marched in to the sound of brass from 9:00 am and march out again from 2:30 pm onwards.

Dennis Skinner MP, the Beast of Bolsover gave a rousing speech to the masses gathered in front of the podium and he took the piss out of the Lib Dems, The Tories and to a lesser extent New Labour.

The pubs were full and the streets filled with everyone enjoying a drink in the sunshine. Never saw any trouble. The police presence was very low key and it was an enjoyable day.

Enjoy the photos .

Half Way There!!

4 miles to go, and it's been a rather hot day to be walking on the top of Weardale. Still a steady stroll saw us back in a little over three hours and that was after agood 45 minutes of rest.
Thoroughly enjoyed this weekend.
The Coxhoe Cameraman

The Home Town Banner.

East Hetton Colliery, Kelloe.
The Coxhoe Cameraman

Durham Big Meeting 2005

The Coxhoe Drift Banner leaves the Racecourse in Durham. A colourful banner featuring two modern day Durham Branch of the National Union Of Mineworkers officials, David Hopper and Dave Guy.
In our day lads ( not that we were pitmen, but from pit stock) the official we all knew and recognised was that Kella Fella, Alfie Hesler. A big big union man in every sense of the word.

The Coxhoe Cameraman

What are you all doing this weekend SAFCSA bloggers?

Me, much the same as last weekend. Have to go in to work (hopefully this will be the last weekend!) then putting up more dog barricades around the garden perimeter and will be on 'dogwatch' for any stray poo or wee. How about you?
Roll on the new football season!

Quiz Round 5

Here we go again, this will take your mind off Judith Huyton Hoofer Chalmers and his world wide wish you were here captions.

As usual 2 points for questions 1 to 10 and 5 points for the bonus question.

Answers to: safcsa2004-coxhoe@yahoo.co.uk

Deadline 13th July 2005.

1) Born Ashington, began his league career with Burnley later to become Manager of SAFC. Name him.

2) In 1880 SAFC played their first competitive match on November 13th, but who were the opponents?

3) In 1890 SAFC played their first football league match on 13th September, but who were the opponents?

4) Signed from Irish Club Glentoran for a fee of £4,500 in 1957 and went on to score 44 goals in 174 league and cup games before transferring to Hartlepool in 1963. Name the player.

5) A former Parkhead ball-boy this player went to Leeds United in the summer of 1970 signing professional in 1971. He then moved to Nottingham Forest later returning to Leeds before being transferred to SAFC. Name the player.

6) During the two world wars "guest" players were allowed. Name two of SAFC "guest" players during this period.

7) Started his career with SAFC then joined Derby County after a brief spell on loan with Portsmouth. Then moved to Wolves and Gillingham. Name this hard tackling defender.

8) Played the last of his SAFC 354 league and cup matches on 4th September 1971 against Millwall. Name this English Schoolboy International full back.

9) SAFC entered this cup competition on two occasions winning the trophy both times in 1983 and 1984. Name the cup competition.

10) Played for Arsenal South East Counties as an amateur during 1972/73 season made his league debut for Arsenal against Newcastle in 1975. In 1977 joined SAFC for a fee of £30,000 later joining Watford in 1979. Later went on to play for both Sheffield sides then joined Brentford. Name the player.

BONUS QUESTION:-

What year and who were the opponents when SAFC played their first game under floodlights?

SAFC ANNOUNCE DETAILS OF AWAY FRIENDLY IN HOLLAND

Sunderland AFC today confirmed that the Club will take on UEFA Cup semi-finalists AZ Alkmaar in their final warm-up game of their pre-season programme this summer.
Mick McCarthy’s men will play the top side, who finished third in the Dutch Eredivisie last season, at their 8,500-seater Alkmaarder Hout Stadium on Saturday 6th August (kick-off 8pm local time) – just six days before their big Premiership kick-off on Saturday 13th August.
Black Cats boss Mick McCarthy said: “Alkmaar have some real quality in their squad, having seen them reach the UEFA Cup semi-finals last season, and they’ll provide us with a very strong test in our final build-up match for the Premiership campaign. It rounds off an extremely demanding pre-season training and friendly programme and I’m delighted they have agreed to this fixture.”
Alkmaar beat Rangers, Shakhtar Donetsk and Villarreal, amongst others, on their way to the semi-finals of last season’s UEFA Cup, but were dramatically beaten by Sporting Lisbon on away goals. They also qualified for next season’s UEFA Cup after their third-place finish in the Dutch top flight last season.
The Club has received an allocation of just over 400 tickets for the fixture, priced at £7.00 with no concessions and season ticket holders will be given priority on purchases. The loyalty system will be in strict operation for this match due to the limited number of tickets available.
Season ticket holders have until Friday 22nd July 2005, 5:30pm to apply. As season ticket books will not be dispatched until week commencing 18th July 2005, season ticket holders are requested to apply in writing, clearly stating their membership number and enclosing payment. Please note, those supporters wishing to be seated together must apply in one application with one payment.
In the event of a general sale, this will commence from 10.00am Monday 25th July 2005 – subject to availability.
The Dutch authorities have advised Sunderland AFC that this is an all ticket match and fans should not travel without a valid match ticket.

Where am I. No 2.

The first photo was all too easy for you lot, though I reckon Jimmy took his lead from Miller who correctly named South Street in Durham City. Glorious views.

Miller wins the Speed boat.

This one is a little tougher and may just stretch you a little more.

This scenic view is set amongst some of our most spectacular countryside.

Where am I ?
The Coxhoe Cameraman

Night Shift. What fun!!

How people work night shift on a regular basis is beyond my level of comprehension. I know that in the public sector it is a necessary evil but it is a totally alien concept to me. So here I am at 3:40 am trying desperately to keep myself awake by writing utter rubbish.

Looking forward to my holidays in Canada I;ve checked out the exchange rates and it's getting more expensive by the day and I thought the pound was strong. I've looked at www.katkam.ca to get an idea of what's going on in Vancouver and the surrounding area. It has a good webcam of the Burrard Bridge and English Bay plus links to other webcams around British Columbia and the Greater Vancouver area.

The Chubb Security man checked in on site about 11:45 pm ( 6/7) and is due back for his second round of the night anytime now. I've had me bait, 2 ham salad sarnies, a peach and maraguay yoghurt ( Mueller of course) a bottle of Coke and a packet of Rowntrees fruit pastilles. I've also had two cups of tea since I came on duty. Checked me emials, sent 3 off. Checked me post, nowt much in there other than a letter from the deputy director telling me to get a poster display done for the Nursing Conference at Darlo's Stadium in September ( Pity I'm in Canada) sent her an email telling her that but I;ll still have it to do. I just won't get to see the fruits of my labour ..... awww.

Sounds like the staff are getting ready to do a bed round so I best get off my backside and show willing. Me back is killing me anyway and I need to keep mobile and awake.

Soon be 7:00 am. Got the notes to write up and handover shifts before I'm off to me bed. Mrs HH will be out by the time I get home so can't warm meslf up with her. Young Master HH has got holidays so he'll be lying about all day. Better do it quietly.

Keep the guesses for South Street coming in. Somebody'd sure to get it right.

A Little Fun. Where are we?

From time to time I'll publish a photo of a local scene. Just to stop the boredom creeping in have a guess at where it was taken. I'll reveal the answer Friday.


The Coxhoe Cameraman

The Brits stuff the Froggies

London beat Paris to host 2012 Olympics

SINGAPORE (Reuters) - London beat favourites Paris for the right to stage the 2012 Olympic Games on Wednesday in a final showdown after Moscow, New York and Madrid were eliminated from the five-city contest.
International Olympic Committee President Jacques Rogge announced the British capital as the winner in a globally televised ceremony after a day of presentations at the IOC session in Singapore's Raffles City complex.
The news was greeted by screams of joy from the London team, long seen as Paris's strongest rival but always thought to be trailing until IOC members gathered in Singapore this week.
The 2008 Olympics will be held in Beijing.
The victory of London will inevitably be seen as a personal triumph for Prime Minister Tony Blair who spent two days in Singapore wooing IOC members.
Blair flew back to Britain to host the G8 summit in Gleneagles, Scotland, after attending the formal opening of the IOC session on Tuesday evening.
French President Jacques Chirac appeared in person at the French presentation and made an impassioned plea to the IOC to choose Paris, but in vain.
He flew to join the summit before the decision was announced.
London has twice hosted the Olympics before, in 1908 and 1948.

Coldplay at the Reebok

After seeing Coldplay at Live8 I wasn't really bothered about going but last night I attended one of the best concerts ever. After standing in the rain trying to get a better view than I did of Oasis the sun came through just as The Doves began their "supporting band" act. But, Coldplay were absolutely superb and got the crowd going in every way imaginable. Chris Martin, like a young Freddie Mercury at times, wowed the capacity crowd and we left happy.

Only downside is when you leave a stadium at 10.30pm, you dont expect to still be sat outside it at 12.45am! Walking around work like a zombie after my 3 hour sleep but it was all worth it! I know a better place to park when the Lads visit next season.........

Quote of the Day!!!

Barry Davies on the BBC Olympic Bid coverage when London's winning bid was announced.

"Tony Blair who spoke so brilliantly in support of the bid will now have the pleasure of greeting Jacques Chirac at Gleneagles this afternoon"

He He He

LONDON 2012

Brilliant!!!!

The opportunity to attend the games in our country with a legacy that will last for years and years.

Steven Gerrard

"Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has made an amazing U-turn by deciding to stay at the club"

Just when we were about the launch a multi-million pound enquiry!


FTM
Jim Gilling

Quiz 4 - The Answers

How many did you get right?

) In 1987/88 season SAFC beat Scarborough, Rotherham and Crewe to go out of the competition with a 1:0 defeat by Hartlepool. Name the competition.
Sherpa Van Trophy

2) Previous clubs included Nottingham Forest, Manchester United, Middlesborough then SAFC in 1990/91 season. Name the player.
Peter Davenport

3) As centre forward for SAFC in 1971/72 he scored 15 league and cup goals but moved to a new position in the team that kick started his career and played some of his best games for SAFC in this position. Name the player.
Dave Watson


4) Who represented Chester-le-Street boys before joining SAFC in July 1964?
Colin Todd

5) He began his league career with SAFC before moving on to WBA, Norwich and Newcastle. Name the player.
Colin Suggett

6) Tranferred to SAFC from Cardiff in 1984 for £65,000 and became a legend with SAFC, now plays in the SAFC masters team. Name the player.
Gary Bennett

7) Joined SAFC from Prescot Cables and later went on to become SAFC manager. Name the player.
Lenny Ashurst

8) Have SAFC ever played in Newcastle colours of black and white stripes?
Yes

9) From Boro to SAFC to Crystal Palace back to SAFC then to USA. Name the player.
Stan Cummins

10) Name the SAFC player who had his best performances in the third division 1987/88 scoring 20 goals.
Eric Gates (Marco scored 21 that season in case any disagreement)


Bonus Question:Name the player who joined SAFC in 1994 played 15 games in his first season, then become an ever present making 112 consecutive league appearances, then lost his place to Gareth Hall in 1996/97 season then later played a few more games before moving on.
Darius Kubicki

Another Quiz coming tomorrow!

SAFC MAKE 6TH SIGNING OF THE NEW SEASON

SUNDERLAND SIGN LEEDS YOUNGSTER MARTIN WOODS
Mick McCarthy secured his sixth summer transfer today when he clinched the signing of Leeds youngster Martin Woods from Leeds United.
The 19-year-old midfielder signed a one-year contract at the Stadium of Light and joins the club on a free transfer from Elland Road.
“I’m delighted to move here,” said Woods. “Sunderland is a massive club and the set-up here is fantastic. Although I spent three-and-a-half good years with Leeds after joining their Academy, it’s an exciting time for me to be coming here.
“My aims right now are just to force my way into first team and hopefully I’ll be able to do that in the Premiership next season.”
Woods, a left midfielder, earned himself a place on United's pre-season trip to Dublin last summer after some good displays for the juniors and reserves. He played one game for United last season, ironically in their 3-2 win at the Stadium of Light on Boxing Day.
MARTIN WOODS – THE RECORD
Born: Motherwell, 1.1.86.
Nationality: Scotland.
Position: Midfielder.
Height: 5ft 11ins (180cm).
Weight: 12st (76kg).
LEAGUE AND CUP APPS GOALS
Leeds United (2003-05) 1 0
Hartlepool United (2004, loan) 5 0
TOTAL 6 0

New Ticket Hotline Phone Number

Sunderland AFC has implemented a new hotline number for ticketing enquiries and bookings.
The number, 0845 671 1973, (in recognition of Sunderland’s historic 1973 FA Cup victory) can be used by supporters to purchase match tickets, for general ticketing enquiries or season ticket purchases/information.
The change has been made to allow more calls to be dealt with, prevent engaged tones and to make the whole telephone booking process easier and simpler for supporters.
Unlike many clubs who use premium rate numbers for ticketing enquiries and reservations, calls to the SAFC number are charged at local rate only, and the Club is therefore reducing call costs to a large number of fans.
Telephone ticket bookings are subject to a booking fee to cover postage costs (all tickets are posted first-class to ensure swift delivery) and credit card transaction charges. The booking fee is levied at £1.00 per ticket transaction for the forthcoming season.
The implementation of the new 0845 number will allow the Club to make more operators available at busy times and ensure a more efficient call-waiting operation.
The Club is encouraging all supporters to use the new number with immediate effect as the 0191 5515151 will gradually be phased out.
Chief Executive Peter Walker said:
“Many clubs have introduced premium rate phone-lines for ticketing enquiries, however we are keen to ensure that our supporters who purchase tickets by telephone can do so easily and without incurring significant call costs.

As Huyton stated - here we go for the first round of changes

DERBY GAMES SELECTED FOR SKY TV
Both of Sunderland’s North-East derby games in the first half of the 2005-06 season have been selected as live Sky TV matches.
Sky have announced their televised games for the first half of the Premiership campaign, picking out three Black Cats’ games.
Sunderland’s trip to Middlesbrough on Saturday 24th September has been put back to Sunday 25th September for Sky Sports, kicking off at 4.05pm.
Meanwhile, the home clash with fellow Premiership new boys West Ham United on Saturday 1st October will kick-off at 5.15pm as a pay-per-view game.
Sunderland’s first Wear-Tyne derby of the new season at St James’ Park has been put back a day and will now be played on Sunday 23rd October, another pay-per-view match kicking off at 1.30pm.
Finally, Sunderand’s home game with European champions Liverpool on Saturday 17th December has been put back to a 5.15pm kick-off (pay-per-view).
All fixtures are provisional and subject to change (evening fixtures at the Stadium of Light will kick off at 7.45pm).
SAFC Fixtures 2005-06:
Sat Aug 13 Charlton Athletic H
Sat Aug 20 Liverpool A
Tue Aug 23 Manchester City H
Sat Aug 27 Wigan Athletic A
Sat Sep 10 Chelsea A
Sat Sep 17 West Brom H
Wed Sep 21 Carling Cup 2
*Sun Sep 25 Middlesbrough A (4.05pm)*
*Sat Oct 1 West Ham United H (5.15pm)*
Sat Oct 15 Manchester United H
*Sun Oct 23 Newcastle United A (1.30pm)*
Wed Oct 26 Carling Cup 3
Sat Oct 29 Portsmouth H
Sat Nov 5 Arsenal A
Sat Nov 19 Aston Villa H
Sat Nov 26 Birmingham City H
Wed Nov 30 Carling Cup 4
Sat Dec 3 Tottenham Hotspur A
Sat Dec 10 Charlton Athletic A
*Sat Dec 17 Liverpool H (5.15pm)*
Wed Dec 21 Carling Cup 5
Mon Dec 26 Bolton Wanderers H
Wed Dec 28 Blackburn Rovers A
Sat Dec 31 Everton H
Mon Jan 2 Fulham A
Sat Jan 7 FA Cup 3
Wed Jan 11 Carling Cup Semi-Final (1)
*Sun Jan 15 Chelsea H (4.00pm)*
Sat Jan 21 West Brom A
Wed Jan 25 Carling Cup Semi-Final (2)
Sat Jan 28 FA Cup 4
Tue Jan 31 Middlesbrough H
Sat Feb 4 West Ham United A
Sat Feb 11 Tottenham Hotspur H
Sat Feb 18 FA Cup 5
Sat Feb 25 Birmingham City A
Sun Feb 26 Carling Cup Final
Sat Mar 4 Manchester City A
Sat Mar 11 Wigan Athletic H
Sat Mar 18 Bolton Wanderers A
Wed Mar 22 FA Cup 6
Sat Mar 25 Blackburn Rovers H
Sat Apr 1 Everton A
Sat Apr 8 Fulham H
Sat Apr 15 Manchester United A
Mon Apr 17 Newcastle United H
Sat Apr 22 Portsmouth A FA Cup Semi-Final
Sat Apr 29 Arsenal H
Sun May 7 Aston Villa A
Sat May 13 FA Cup Final
Copyright © and Database Right 2005 The FA Premier League Ltd / The Football League Ltd.
All rights reserved. Fixtures are subject to change.
Compiled in association with Atos Origin.

WANT TO REALLY STAND OUT AT THE MATCH?

Click the title and have a look at this.

100% pure Coxhoe history.

Only trumpets for us proddy dogs Jimmy, none of your tinkling bells.

How about that hanging round your neck and a good blow to greet the lads.

All in a good cause too.

Live8 London. After the ball...

Right bloggers, it's over. Over ran by 2 and a half hours, so who, at the end of the night and in the cold light of day, did it for you? Who rang your bells? Made them little hairs prickle ? Lets see the reviews.

Here are mine.

Pink Floyd:- Quite simply, BRILLIANT. Who would believe that they haven't played together for 24 years. If there is a reunion on the cards I WANT A TICKET!!!! That was the single most memorable event, musically, of the day.

Annie Lennox:- The tightest, most polished musical performance of the day. Note perfect and passionate.

The Stereophonics:- Raw power and just what the crowd needed to get them going at that stage of the day. A very good showing.

Robbie Williams:- I'm no fan, I think he is a knobhead of the highest order, but what showman and he sure knows how to play a crowd. Freddie Mercury for the 21st Century.

The Killers:- Only one song but delivered expertly. A little less mascara for Brandon Flowers yesterday.

Razorlight :- Have had great reviews but I must have been doing summat else at the time cos they just passed me by.

Snow Patrol:- The perfect setting for that classic stadium athem Run, which didn't get what it deserved because the singer was so wrecked with nerves that he bottled it. Still a great band though.

The Who:- Pure nostalgia and nowt else. There is a world of difference between an original line up ( witness Pink Floyd) and a one that lost half it's line up to drugs and booze and the crematorium. Townsend and daltrey still have it, but it leaves me cold.

Madonna:- Polished professional performance. Tried to steal the show but will never be anything other than a foul mouthed slapper as far as I'm concerned. Will be remembered for uttering the first 'F' word of the day than for her music.

Elton John:- Past it, washed up and to collaborate with that cocaine and booze soaked tit Peter Docherty just summed him up for me.

Coldplay:- Like them a lot, but left me cold . Ashcroft was good though

U2:- my favourite band, but being first up didn't do them justice. Playing big global events in the middle of concert tours can never hit the spot.

Mariah Carey:-

Paul McCartney:- Like a Rembrandt he's an old master. Great songs, Great delivery, but the Beatles can never be recreated so stick to your own stuff. It might be what the public want but not me.

Velvet Revolver:- Different.

REM:- A great showing, Stipe was a tad different with his blue stripe, but thje songs were tight, well delivered and got the crowd up.

I'm sure to have missed someone out, more because the were ordinary or just not famous enough as yet.

Biggest embarrasment of the day: DAVID BECKHAM. Couldn't string two words together when introducing Robbie Williams

So there you have it. Lets have a few comments of your own or even a review of the singer in Coxhoe Club last night.

Live8, halfway through

Best acts for me so far have been The Stereophonics, REM and Annie Lennox who performed by far the tightest most polished set upto now.

Lets see what The Who and Pink Floyd get up to.

It's good upto now but not a patch on the Stanley Blues festival on 6th August in the Kings Head field.

It's free too.

New Home Strip On Show

Robbo shows off the new strip


BLACK CATS UNVEIL NEW HOME KIT
Sunderland AFC today unveiled the design of the home kit the Black Cats will sport during their 2005-06 Premiership campaign.
The new shirt, in Sunderland’s traditional colours, features a round neck with a red insert and red piping on the shoulder and sleeve area. The shorts are black with red piping and a white side flash and the socks are black with a large red panel and white stripe on the back.
The reverse of the shirt replicates the design of Sunderland shirts from the 1890s as featured in the famous Thomas M.M. Hemy painting, which hangs in the main reception of the Stadium of Light.
As in the days of ‘The Team Of All The Talents’ the red and white stripes are topped on the back of the shirt by a horizontal red and white hoop.
The painting, which depicts a game between Sunderland AFC and Aston Villa, dates back to 1895 and is the oldest known oil painting of Association Football in the world.
Marketing and Communications Director Lesley Callaghan said: “The new design reflects the tradition of the club while also looking to the future. It incorporates traditional elements from shirts of the past with a modern twist and we hope it will prove to be popular with our fans.”
The shirt will be worn by the Black Cats for the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons.
The new home strip will be launched in mid-September, with a confirmed date and pre-order details to be confirmed shortly.

What are you all doing this weekend SAFCSA bloggers?

Me, I'm putting up dog barricades around the garden perimeter and will be on 'dogwatch' for any stray poo or wee. How about you?
Roll on the new football season!