Author Archives: Mark Chalcraft +

About Mark Chalcraft

I've been watching football since before 1992, when it was actually invented. I keep watching it even though I don't like what certain parts of the game have come to represent. A huge fan and proponent of non league football, you can often find me waffling on about all things to do with the semi-professional game. And moaning about the Premier League, FIFA and all things to do with money in the game.

Administration Again, But Portsmouth Fans Savour a Victory

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The media will doubtless focus on the entry into administration and the subsequent 10 point deduction, the court’s decision on the identity of the administrator represents a victory for those with Portsmouth’s best interests at heart. Whilst many more victories will be required, this is an important first step along the road. Meanwhile, should the Football League be looking closer to home for somebody to punish over the fiasco? Continue reading →

Fabio Capello resigns

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The foreign man has gone. Fabio Capello’s resignation as England manager in the aftermath of the John Terry captaincy affair will not prompt too many tears amongst fans and media alike. With the FA sure to appoint an Englishman, there are few candidates besides Harry Redknapp to accept a poisoned chalice leading a team which is far less than the sum of its parts. Continue reading →

Terry, Ferdinand, Racism & a Sporting Handshake Obsession

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With John Terry’s trial for racist abuse yet to begin, Chelsea take on Anton Ferdinand’s QPR in the FA Cup on Saturday. The pre-match ritual of shaking hands has taken on a whole new meaning as pressure is brought to bear on Ferdinand to be seen to make an act of reconciliation with his alleged abuser. What really lies behind the moves to encourage an essentially meaningless act, and why is English football so obsessed with such a gesture? Continue reading →

Farnborough and Lewes experience a week to forget

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Farnborough’s announcement of the repayment of an unpaid tax bill, which had resulted in a transfer embargo, is the latest twist in a story every bit as intruiging as those of other, higher profile, non league clubs. In addition there is also a connection to another southern club experiencing a difficult week. Continue reading →

FA Plan Puts Sussex Clubs at Risk

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An FA proposal to reduce the number of leagues competing at Step 5 of the non league pyramid may meet with approval of many, but for the Sussex County League it could mean an end to 90 years of history, and for its clubs there are likely to be tough choices to be made, with the risk of financial oblivion on the agenda. Continue reading →