A Traveller’s Tale
Morning,all.
A week ago,I headed up to Scotland for the latest batter in the mouth from my dentist. Fair play to her,she’s playing a blinder-the dentists down here didn’t even know where to start. Finish a nightshift and jump on a bus for about eleven hours,reverse on Sunday-eleven hour trip back,couple of hours kip then out on a mercifully short shift.
Why the bus,that sounds a nightmare? Well,Swindon is nowhere near an airport and North/South rail travel isn’t nearly as good as East/West. About eight hours each all told,£200 and £180 respectively. £40 on the bus,no brainer.
And I get a 100 minute stopover in Birmingham on the way up,ideal for sampling the Guinness in The Irish Centre,Digbeth. Highly recommended if you are ever there,and not too far from The Bullring. Take the missus shopping,bugger off to the Irish Centre when she’s not looking-you know it makes sense!
The bonus is getting a bit of time with my family. Not enough of course,but they’ll be sick of the sight of me after three weeks in September!
So why am I telling you this? Well,some people make trips like this all the time for fun! Or to be more precise,for Celtic. A couple of my mates in Swindon get the bus to London about 6pm the night before a match then the overnight bus from there to Glasgow. Have a few beers and some grub,watch the match,catch the overnight bus back to London and another one to Swindon. They arrive back about 10am. They do it about a dozen times a season,with a slightly different pattern for evening European games.
Another couple of them catch the bus to Birmingham about 7am then a train to Wolverhampton then to Glasgow. It gets them to Glasgow about 230 pm apparently,which is a bit tight for me. Overnight stay and a train around noon back to Wolverhampton then Birmingham bus. They also like The Irish Centre on the way back.
Some of my friends in the London area take an early train to Glasgow,around 9am,and the last train they can get back is around 630. It gets them into Euston around 0030. Sounds much more fun,right? Aye,but they don’t live beside Euston Station,so there’s another hour or so each way added to the trip on average.
My friends from Ireland have it worse,of course. My wee Guinness-guzzling pal from Lurgan and her husband set off by coach about 4am to Belfast,ferry to Cairnryan followed by the beautiful but hardly direct drive up the Ayrshire coast. No time for the craitur,the craic nor grub after the game,and not much before it either. They are rarely if ever home before midnight.
A Dublin-based mate flew over for the Hearts “Trophy Day” a couple of weeks back.
To Edinburgh-because Glasgow flights were about £250 each way!
He got back with a little help from our mutual friend above who dropped him off at Belfast Bus Station-I hope he was in time for a pint in Brennan’s or The Crown!-where he caught a bus to Dublin. Home for around 2am-on a schoolday! And he’s a teacher,so for once,I’m not being facetious…
I’m sure you all have tales like this,friends who travel in the most trying circumstances yet still make the game. Our contributor FOOLTIMEWHISTLE takes a bit of beating though. Three generations of his family made the trip in August so that his grandson could be the mascot on Flag Day. He’s never been so proud as when he stood beside “Mr McGrain”
FOOLTIMEWHISTLE is based in North Carolina. Didnae stop him.
MELBOURNEMICK and PADDYMACOZ are gradually turning the city Green and White. MACJAY et al turned Cheers in Sydney from a bar Where Everybody Knows Your Name to a bar Where Everybody Knows They’re All Tims.
The Las Vegas convention of North American CSC is another case in point. Mobbed,everyone having a good time,and I’ll bet plenty are hatching their plans to be over for a match or two next season.
Etc,etc,etc. You will all have tales of your own.
So what’s my bloody point then,you ask?
“Look at them,Jim. They’re there,and they’re ALWAYS there!”
No matter how pissed off we are with events off the pitch or on it,Celtic Park is like a magnet for us. We will ALWAYS be drawn to it,nothing and no-one can ruin that feeling for us,no matter how hard they try.
And it sure beats getting your teeth pulled!
*
In other news,it’s great to see George Connelly looking fit and well as he launches his autobiography. There have been a number of books written about the flawed genius but none will ever really explain to us the whys and the wherefores of his time and eventual departure from Celtic.
I’m not sure that this book will either,if I’m honest. George is famously shy and diffident. To explain his reasons,he would have to name names,and that isn’t his style.
But boy,did he have style! He had it in spades,and it’s hard to think that he really only displayed his quality for us in full for about three or four years in the early 70s. That was more than enough for anyone who watched him to know that we were watching one of the finest players ever to wear The Hoooooops.
George,I could never be mad at you. You gave us all so much pleasure wearing our colours. I’m delighted for you and yours that everything is for the best in your best of all possible worlds. You fought long and hard to get there,and you have the best wishes of all who witnessed your brilliance.
http://m.thecelticwiki.com/m/page/George+Connelly+-+%22Scotland%27s+reluctant+Beckenbauer%22
*
I’ll finish off this article with a rare-for this site-political observation.
GIRUY,Farage!
*
Above article by BMCUWP. If you want to save us from dross like this,mail your article to Mahe,we will make it Article of the Day
sentinelcelts@gmail.com
Not our favourite publication,but a lovely piece on George.
https://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/george-connelly-celtic-guilt-taming-16263285
Mick
Yer last comment
Dross?
Now it’s maybe just me but these stories I find fascinating. I’ve been there, but not quite as bad as some of those good folks you mention.
I moved to Oxford . Well I was working in Oxford but I lived in various places around the area.
Swindon, Steventon , Abingdon, Harwell village and Chilton to name just a few . I actually flitted 13 times in my time down there.
My first year down there I thought I’d better get a car that would be reliable given the trips I’d be making to see the hoops and the family.
I bought a brand new car. Nothing too grand . A Mazda 626. Good spec, nice leather seats, comfy enough. Good mpg.
As you’ll know yourself , the trip from Oxford to Glasgow, especially on a Friday, can be absolute torture. I once left Oxford on a Friday morning at 9am. It would normally be a 6 hour trip.
That particular day ( bank holiday weekend) I moved 12 miles in 4 hours on the M6. It was a car park that day! Ran out of fags. Nae water left. No food in car. Blood pressure going through the roof ?
9am I left. What time did I get home? Well I’ll tell you… I phoned the good lady at 10-30pm to tell her I was 30 mins away and to phone the pub and order me a couple drinks before the bar closed. Yep. 14 hours!!
I don’t recall who it was we played the next day, but, for the umpteenth time in months I found myself driving back to England on the Sunday and thinking ? ;
That’s it. I’m not renewing. It’s not worth it. The performances were becoming absolutely dire. That particular year I put 35,000 miles on my car. Midweek games I’d leave work at 11am. Reach Glasgow at 6 ish.
Head home after the match getting in at 4am and 2 hours sleep and back to work.
The long drives gave me plenty of time to ask myself “ wtf are you doing this for?”
I’d go into work next day, and tell everyone, “ that’s it. I’m giving up my book now”
The response was usually
“ Again “?
I never did.
It makes no sense. It’s crazy. Costs a fortune. Leaves you exhausted. Physically and mentally drained. An emotional wreck. Moody after a loss.
You can’t escape it. Well I can’t . I’ve accepted it. Celtic have got me by the proverbials.
Welcome to the Glasgow Celtic Supporters club. Come on in. Introduce yourself to the group.
“ Hi my name is Twisty and I’m an addict”
My da raves about the talents of George Connolly and on his left arm has a tattoo of a player in a dark blue shirt with my name at the top and my siblings name at the bottom. I always thought it was Jinky but its Connolly. I asked him why its dark blue and my faither told me that in the 70’s he had to have it coloured in to the Scotland national team colours as he was having all sorts of sectarianism directed at him including violence in the workplace and his social life due to having a Celtic player in the hoops as a tattoo.
BMCUWP,
I concur with you regarding Farage, tosser of a man.
TWISTSNTURNS
Yep,you got it!
The M6 from about J10 to J18 is now a 50mph dual carriageway,has been for about five years. A bloody disgrace.
My family didn’t believe me about the North/South and East/West thing. They didn’t get that it was the biggest town in the country without an airport within fifty miles-or a University within 30 miles,btw.
Then my nephew came down to visit,July,about six years ago. After I’d given him alcohol poisoning for a week,I had to drive him to Bristol Airport on the Friday.
Correct. Last day of school Friday. We have to loop round Bristol to get there,M4/M5 and not normally a problem. It jammed between Chippenham and Bath,with overhead warnings that the M5 was closed between the sections I needed for the airport!
I came off at the M32 into Bristol City Centre. Drove through the back streets with a panicking 21yo asking if I knew where I was going!
Aye,I said. I’m following that big disc in the sky. That’s where the airport is,and I just need to cross the A4 to pick up the A37/A38. Easy going after that,and it’s the route I always take now when my Dad comes down.
No such handy options on the M6,even the old A6 is a joke now. Though I did once come off at Stafford and take the A34 all the way down to Newbury to get back to London.
Tell you,mate-loved driving lorries way back when,I couldn’t do it now. Though I still manage 70,000 miles a year driving in circles!!!
NOELSKYTROT
Your Dad was a fine judge of a footballer,and you are a fine judge of a ‘politician’
As for his workmates,I’d have shit in their pieceboxes.
Grateful thanks to ATHINGOFBEAUTY for that last bit…
As one or two of you may know, I used to be a “long hauler” regularly travelling from the West Midlands to Glasgow for family trips but always making sure they coincided with a home match. I no longer do but that’s another story. One trip, I got talking to a fellow supporter who got on the train on Preston and he told me he could only stay for the first half as he had to get back for a family wedding. I can’t remember which match it was but I’m pretty sure it was goal-less at half-time. Absolutely mental!!!
Intermittently we read in here about folks’ loved ones going through worrying times, with illness or whatever.
I was away for a couple days this week on business. Back last night. Had to go straight to hospital to see my mum in law. Been a routine trip tbh for some time now.
Leaving the hospital I’m always saddened to see so much sorrow, worry on relatives faces, sadness. Part of life’s cycle I know.
So here’s something I’d invite you all to listen to. Only take up 4 minutes of your time but it might make you think a wee bit.
https://youtu.be/ywENwzth42M
HI BOBBY, don’t get me started on the M6, when i was driving for a living every Friday morning coming up from potsmouth, if I did not hit junction 8 by midday, it was a 5 hour trek to Cheshire jct 20, in the end I went down the m54 to telford,and came up the A5,ah happy days.?
M6BHOY
Well named then!
My childhood best pal stays in Preston now,I believe. Long lost touch,of course. He got voted on to the local council and tried to twin it with The West Bank!
George Galloway praised him and his colleagues for their efforts in a Stop The War Coalition which led to George’s dismissal from The Labour Party.
I like to think back to more innocent days,when my Dad took him to his first Celtic matches. He certainly didn’t come from a traditional Celtic background,that’s for sure,but I can be 100% certain that he’s still Celtic daft-and probably drops into The Celtic Emerald pub for a beer while watching The Hooooops.
BIGPACKY
When I was living in and working from Sutton,South London,I would come off there and take the A449/A4123 through Wolverhampton and Dudley. Brought me out at J2,M5. Cut along the M42 after that.
I also had a deal with my boss that if he was daft enough to give me a job which saw me still on the M25 after 3pm on a Friday,he was getting charged till 7pm,plus an overnight and fours O/T on Saturday.
Naturally he asked why.
I asked him if he had ever been on the M25 after 3pm on a Friday and told him he was getting off lightly. I don’t work all week to get in around 8pm on a Friday and have to go to bed.
BMCUWP
I know every inch of the M6 which is getting worse despite the many so called improvements like the managed motorways sections springing up all over the place. The West Midlands stretch just has to be the worst bit. It could however be sorted overnight if the M6 Toll road was nationalised and free to use. As it stands, it’s overly expensive and only used by commercial drivers who can put the toll on their expenses claims. Most times the toll road is empty and looks like motorways used to look when they first built them. You have more chance colliding with tumbleweed than another road users. Would also help if they scrapped HS2 and put the money into freight lines and get the bloody lorries off the roads. Another day of carnage on the M6 yesterday caused by 3 lorries crashing. Won’t happen though as this country is in the back pocket of the road haulage industry:-(
TWISTSNTURNS
Prevarication is the thief of time.
That video reminds us that it steals more from us than that. Great find,great stuff!
TWISTS AND TURNS,lovely video food for thought,hh.
M6BHOY
Congratulations,you win a major prize! Just over ten years ago,I started posting on CQN and then occasionally on other sites. E-Tims being the best of them,mainly because the other ones ignored me!
Anyway,I think that’s the first non-football and non-political post I’ve ever been 100% in agreement with. It would also help if foreign truckers paid a few quid towards the upkeep of the roads. UK based vehicles pay Excise Duty on fuel and also on the registration of their vehicle-Car Tax,etc-while foreign hauliers don’t. If you travel regularly on the motorways,you will know how big a problem that is.
(That’s not a xenophobic comment,btw-it’s a reflection of how dependent we are on imports)
As for freight trains,that day has gone. Never happen. There would need to be an independent network for them as they hold up other rail traffic. And using the network at night has two problems-firstly that is when maintenance is usually done and secondly NIMBYism.
I was parked up for about fifteen minutes a few weeks ago,around 3am in a wee village in Wiltshire called Purton,right beside the rail line. A huge freight load came past,and I swear there was a bloke with a red flag walking in front of it!
One of my mates works on the railway-and the railway is a huge part of the history of Swindon. He told me that freight has to slow in residential areas due to noise restrictions.
These are new-build houses beside a railway line over 150 years old,btw. Work that one out.
TWISTSNTURNS
“I actually flitted 13 times in my time down there.”
You ever thought of paying your rent?
HH
M6BHOY
As an aside re the toll road,look at the route it takes.
The reason it cuts so much time off a journey is because it skirts round Birmingham. The M6,on the other hand,which is rammed to way above capacity,was built straight through Birmingham.
There is an environmental case for it to be firstly widened then opened to the public.
Just a thought.
If I could get in touch wi my lefty pal I mentioned earlier,I might mention that to him!
M6 bhoy
I travelled up yesterday. A34 M42 M40 M6 and A74
Was certain I’d get delayed somewhere. I cleared the A34 , which around the pear tree interchange used to cause me issue, but ok yesterday. The M42 and all of its “ safety cameras “ didn’t slow me too much either. I was doing well until that bloody stretch of roadworks from around j12 on the M6 up to around 15. In the outside lane and lorries in the middle lane sitting a foot off your car in lane 2, and the central reservation less than a foot from the driver side required 30 odd miles of total concentration!
I could’ve actually headed through Eccleshall and missed those junctions and rejoined at 15, but never thought about it quickly enough.
I came of the M74 at j13 and took the road through Lanark, Carstairs and down through Forth to avoid the Hamilton area as it reaching peak time for works traffic.
Headed along the back roads to St John’s hospital.
Despite that detouring around and 2 stops totalling an hour I done it in 6 hours so not too bad.
The stretch up through the Lake District is great. Quiet and you can make good time through there .
TWISTSNTURNS
Total concentration?
Aye,I know what you mean. Wednesday night,I got dragged off the A34 about ten miles short of the A303,back towards Newbury then through Greenham to Basingstoke.
Obviously,the plan was to pick up the M3,but I had to keep an eye out for the diversion arrow at every roundabout.
Any idea how many bloody roundabouts there are in Basingstoke?
BOBBY MURDOCH’S CURLED-UP WINKLEPICKERS
TWISTSNTURNS
“I actually flitted 13 times in my time down there.”
You ever thought of paying your rent?
HH
——————————————
Bobby
Aye I guess that might’ve helped. ?When I first went to Oxford, I was looking to rent, so I went to a place in Chilton. Nice house. In my head I was thinking “ this’ll be about £650 a month” This was 20 years ago.
The agent showing me around tells me in her extremely polite Oxford accent “ this property is on the market for rental at £975 per calendar month”
I had to try and look unfazed, acting like it was no issue.
“ £975?. Very reasonable. I think I’ll probably take it. I’ve got another one to see but I’ll let you know tomorrow “
I left and the wife asked if I was sorted. “ No I’m not!! £975!!!?? Yer having a laugh. No way I’m paying that for rent. I’ll buy before I pay that. Thieving b********s. Think because they’re in Oxford they can charge what they like. Plummy mouth cow”
Next day I was in work. The guy who owned the company I was working for ( who coincidentally was the grandson of John Rickman the racing commentator ) invited me to what he called a breakfast meeting. He done it regularly for an update and just to see how things were going.
At breakfast he asked me if I was enjoying the challenge . I told him yes it was going well. He complimented me on having heard good things about very quick progress being made and I told him, “ thanks, but I’ll be honest with you, I won’t be here too long.”
He seemed genuinely disturbed asking whatever was wrong?
I was straight with him.
I’m not paying £12k a year to rent and buying might not work out well if I decide in 2 or 3 years to move on.
He told me to leave it with him.
Before the day was out he’d got back to me and said he’d give me the equivalent of 18 months rent as a salary increase, and would gross it up to cover the tax.
Best breakfast I’d ever had ??
I phoned the agent back the same day
“ yes, I’ve decided I’ll take the property.”
She said to me
“ oh that’s great. I knew you would. We get so many time wasters who won’t pay the going rate but I knew you were different. I told the manager when I got back to the office that you’d probably take it. You get a second sense on these things when you’ve been in the job as long as me”
Yep. You got me spot on love ?
Bobby
Basingstoke I’ve never experienced that I can recall
Milton Keynes I found a bit of a challenge.
TWISTSNTURNS
I wish I could find a boss like yours! Or alternatively of course,be so valued to him…
Re Milton Keynes,it’s the only place I’ve ever been to where I couldn’t remember how to get back to! There just weren’t any memorable landmarks,and the naming of the road network as V10,H5,etc,only makes sense when you’re on drugs.
Nightmare. I always made sure one of my colleagues got those deliveries.
One of those colleagues asked me once if I knew where Middlewich was. I asked him if he knew where Northwich was. Yes,he replied. I was there last month.
Well,it’s not as far North as Northwich,I helpfully replied. Just come off at the same place,J18. You have to go through Middlewich to get to Northwich. I always wondered what these guys were doing when they were driving,they sure as hell weren’t paying attention.
Guest Appearance: Kind regards to all that guard the Celtic. A great header, it satisfied my soul because I always had the highest regard for those that sacrificed precious time away from their family and friends to support Celtic. I read a piece on E-Tims once and spoke to London Celtic, hearing of his journey every second Saturday in the “Wee Small Hours” to watch the team in green and white hoops, it filled me with pride as I learned of those who made difficult journey’s from the North of Ireland, the Republic and from the Highlands and Islands of scotia, as well as the deep South. It reminded me of the sacrifice that some supporters make to watch the team they have such great affection for.
George Connelly was a hugely talented player, he and I share the same age and so I watched his career path very closely. I well remember his keepy-uppy at half time at sixteen against Dynamo Kiev, a young man making his way into the game as a young pro. If there is one thing Celtic supporters like to see it is young bhoy’s making it in the game with Celtic. His goal in the the European cup semi and against “Them’s” in the Scottish cup final (4-0) to the Tic. were highlights, but for me it was the pleasure of watching him hitting 40 yard diagonal pass’s that landed softly in front of the forwards, not many football players have that special talent, like a golfer hitting the ball with check. Gutted we were at losing that special talent, none more so than big Jock, who made strenuous efforts to keep him at the club.
My greatest memory in football is having the great pleasure of sharing a pitch with him during a junior game when he played for Sauchie Juniors. I don’t want to speak about why he left Celtic, suffice to say that he was very unhappy.
it was such a shock to learn that FOOLTIMEWHISTLE is actually Shaggy, Oh Carolina “Ching Ka Ching” big fan of Shaggy I am and especially his Burds. Best regards to all…..
I once c&p a post from CQN on here,and my kid sis gave me a deserved rollicking for it.
So I commend the post from CHAIRBHOY 0842
Well worth a read. And if HUNDERBIRDSAREGONE is about,bearing in mind his follow-up,read the article above,old bean.
No-one can ruin that for us!
Mike
I remember when big George was at Sauchie Juniors.
Great read by the way. Your post I mean.
Yes reasons he left Celtic? Someone who once claimed to be quite friendly with George told me a long time ago that he knew the reasons . I’m not going into the detail in case it’s true as it’s such a personal thing , as I say, IF true.
Obviously you know the truth. The story I was told heavily implicated another Celtic player of the era. You’ll know if it’s BS or not.
Anyhow, regardless of all of that, as I said, great post , so, don’t be a guest. ?
Bobby
I can’t use CQN these days. The page just bounces constantly. Only that site. It’s not my phone, it’s not an adblocker thing. It got worse until now it’s impossible.
I’m not turning off JavaScript as I shouldn’t need to.
I made my last contribution to the naps last week as it was the final day of the competition.
Next year I’ll give it a miss. Shame as Fleagle puts a lot of effort in but I honestly cannot deal with the frustration when trying to read a post.
MIKE
Please don’t be a guest or a stranger!
One problem with writing these things on the hoof is that I always forget something important!
The lads from The Isles have a helluva trip,and a friend of mine is from Lewis. Purveyor of Stornaway Puddings to the needy in Swindon,and much appreciated for it of course.
Congratulations on the birth of your granddaughter,L. And best wishes to all involved.
HH
TWISTSNTURNS
It keeps reloading,a problem with this webpage. First time I’d logged in today,which never used to be the case.
I’ll mail it to you. You have to read it-it took me ages to c&p it!
Thanks Bobby
BMCUW
Howzitgaun?!
Yes I’m still alive but just under a year ago it was touch and go! But that’s another story!
George Connelly, eh? A fabulous talent, and in my top three Celtic players I had the great pleasure of seeing. Alongside Jinky and Bobby Murdoch.
Will be in touch. Honest! Promise!
HH!!
TALLYBHOY
Another reason why I need to plan these bloody articles better! You’re just about the only person who loves His Georgeness more than me,and I meant to say that I knew what you would be getting for your birthday!!!
You’ll need to tell me more about the other stuff,mate. Certainly been too long,and just glad you’re ok. I’m having a “sod it,there’s eff all sport on the telly,I might as well get the place tidied up” day tomorrow,so you know my number. Ends in 998.
How’s the girls? Wishing E had gone into nursing,perchance?
This one is for
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YevXTcQD7Lw&list=RDMMYevXTcQD7Lw&start_radio=1
my best pal Packy. Listen to the percussion. 🙂
There’s an excellent article from RALPH at e-Tims over on their site.
http://etims.net/?p=14337#comment-971642
And if you read down to the bottom to discover who won yesterday’s Caption Competition,you will find possibly the best Timternet moniker ever!
Bobby, who plays the best music on here? Packy or me?
Nadal v Federer live on ITV 4,the Messi and Ronaldo of tennis
Infinite respect to all the Celtic supporters who travel far to a place where their heart belongs.
When i lived in London i did the journey for around two seasons.
I often left around 3 or 4 in the morning and returned straight after the game.
With two young kids the wife wisnae pleased as on a Sunday i was a Zombie.
We were not even very good then but felt it was important to show defiance to the cheating hun scum and the best wee country.
From then on it was phone then supporters clubs and new media.
Whenever back in Scotland i have always managed to get tickets and Celtic park still gets to me like nowhere else can.
Some little seen coverage of the last hoot … including Big Packy (the animal lover, or just animal for short) doing a turn on the drums
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=eooJYess3nc
I would like to thank everyone who wished my wife and I well yesterday. I am quite emotional typing this as the mark of a genuine person is showing concern for strangers. I am proud to be amongst you.
Yesterday I saw some serious cases…….women who are on a long journey, some supported by loved ones, some not.
As you sit there waiting, you wonder what motivates the people that work in that environment, day after day. I saw only caring people who did their very best to cheer everyone up. Our pre-op nurse was a treasure. As she looked for a vein to insert the IV she told a story. She said she liked to sing and as she was doing the IV for a young man in his twenties, she said I am going to be Canada’s next sensation on Canadian Idol. The youngster replied is there not an age limit on that show? She could not believe that someone faced with someone holding a large needle over them would be so daft to say that! Needless to say she did not tell him he would not feel a thing as she inserted the needle!
The Rebusette is resting comfortably after a good night and pain is at a minimum. Give those you care about an extra hug. It is worth it.
Rebus
Rebus67
Glad the wife is doing fine.
Take care.
As for that young naive chap?
BMCUWP
I’m in awe of the dedication of match going supporters, without them there can be no Celtic to follow. But (and there is always a but) surely Celtic have a responsibility to them to ensure the game they pay a fortune to watch is clean?
That point links to a current CQN discussion that contains info that Sentinel Celt readers might want to read. Apologies for length of a copy and paste but I think it easier to follow and it gives an idea of the different thinking.
CHAIRBHOY on 7TH JUNE 2019 8:42 AM
HENRY JOY @ 1:17 AM,
Why some Celtic supporters continue to pour scorn on our PLC that have delivered is a mystery to me.
Well, I’m not in the scorn business and of course by many measures our PLC is an efficiently run corporate and up Lenny’s first tenure I was pretty much a happy clapper.
In those days there were many mineshafters who were critical of the business. Three in particular come to mind.
Neganon
Mike in Toronto
Madmitch
Neganon was very critical of how the Board worked and suggested the Board’s claim that All the money made by the Company would be reinvested in the Football Club was Bunkum. Of course he was right.
MiT was critical of the Board’s handling of the Rangers Scandal, he felt they should have acted swiftly, decisively and ethically. I and others argued that the Board were being canny, not being pulled in to making it an “old firm” thing and that we should keep our “powder dry” and strike at the opportune moment. MiT suggested that the Board had no intention of doing anything about the situation and were going to be compliant and let them away with it. MiT as we now know was right.
Madmitch suggested, and still does, that Celtic PLC were not a highly efficiently run business as many, including me believed, and in many aspects fell far short of that and the PLC were not running the business to anything like it’s full potential. Of course with hindsight we can see that he too was correct.
For my part as I said, My view was the Board was doing a good job but have long argued we were not ambitious enough, that by endeavouring to become a UCL Pot 3 side we could be producing much better football, footballers and more money. Many argued that strategy was too risky. I believe Brendan Rodgers tenure proved me correct also.
Now as we see more of how our business structure and infrastructure operates, we can see quite clearly, even though after Rangers died our PLC kept the business afloat and on an even keel, it is not fit for the purpose of running a modern, ambitious Football Club.
They also don’t seem to be aware that Celtic are more than a Club.
Hail Hail
======
HUNDERBIRDS ARE GONE on 7TH JUNE 2019 9:30 AM
CHAIRBHOY
Great post. Hard to argue with your cogent evidence. Re. the Scottish Football authorities’ collusion with old Rangers, and now Sevco. I had hoped that Auldheid was correct, and that the Celtic PLC would pounce at the most opportune moment, with maximum effect, and leaving no wriggle room for the authorities. Alas, this truly feels like a forlorn hope today.
To me, the PLC’s inaction on this matter can only mean one of two things. Either 1) The PLC really does pursue a permanent strategy that has us portrayed as one half of Scottish Football’s “Ugly Sisters”, and we will forever be hogtied to Sevco. Or 2, our own financial history and relationship with the authorities is not wholly above board, and someone with knowledge/evidence of this, is holding us to ransom.
As option two seems a bit fanciful, disappointingly, I am moving towards the conclusion that option one must be the case.
That fact leaves me with a very heavy heart, and for the first time in my life, unsure about my feelings towards the one thing on this Earth that, until now, I had loved unconditionally – Celtic.
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 10:46 AM
Hunderbirdsaregone.
I’m not sure if I was in the “keeping the powder dry” school of thought as gathering the powder is still in progress.
I tend to be cautious about saying anything I cannot back up with some evidence to support it.
I cannot recall thinking that powder was being kept dry and in fact at one meeting 3 years ago walked away in disgust at Celtic’s lack of action on information provided prior to a later AGM.
There was also reason to suspect Celtic did not want to pursue the matter before the 2013 AGM but the adjournment provided the requisitioners with some authority to dig , but had Res12 been passed UEFA could have done that.
Why the reluctance to go to UEFA was always puzzling but to keep the investigation door open we accepted Celtic’s request to deal with SFA only.
That is still going on but I ‘m afraid that as the powder gathering process reaches its end the powder could blow up in faces it was never meant to.
The next couple of weeks will tell if that fear is real or not as the SFA have been asked to clarify what was reported in the press.
If an acceptable answer is given we can all stand down but wonder why it took nearly 6 years for a stand down answer.
If no acceptable answer provided or worse, no answer to the latest and earlier questions made last June then I’m afraid the powder trail will turn towards Celtic .
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CHAIRBHOY on 7TH JUNE 2019 10:37 AM
HUNDERBIRDS ARE GONE @ 9:30 AM,
Yes, it’s important for those who feel any criticism is disloyal that this comes from a true passion for our Club and a deep sense of disappointment.
Auldheid suggested there could be blackmail involved but I believe he meant more in a financial sense. Yet what ever motivated the inaction, if that makes sense, it is hugely disappointing, especially the way the Res12 ghuys were treated.
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:29 AM
Chairbhoy.
Yes,financial as in Sevco say, “you dont do this we walk away.”
I think the fear of the loss of the blue pound by ALL clubs made them willing to accept conditions that took form in the 5 Way Agreement.
Conditions that call into question all domestic attempts at football justice since 2012 whether it was the LNS Commission or the current case of non compliance with 2011 UEFA licensing rules that has required CAS involvement.
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THELURKINTIM on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:52 AM
Auldheid…u and the Res12’rs hav my utmost admiration…but even you’ve got to admit that yer getting to the straw clutchin stage…unfortunately
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ItsjistbusinessCSC
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ERNIE LYNCH on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:57 AM
AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:17 AM
‘It is the thinking that needs changed – by everyone.’
***
Whilst I am indefatigable in saluting your (plural) indefatigably on this issue I can’t help wondering whether it isn’t your thinking that needs changing.
You are too ready to extend the benefit of the doubt to those who don’t deserve it.
Perhaps the schools are to blame.
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HUNDERBIRDS ARE GONE on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:58 AM
AULDHEID
What was the nature of the most recent question asked of the SFA?
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 12:53 PM
HUNDERBIRDS ARE GONE on 7TH JUNE 2019 11:58 AM
Details will be posted in Res12 Archive once SFA have been given reasonable time to respond as answer might explain the situation.
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Ernie
You don’t know how I think. Hope for the best in folk, be ready for the worst.
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Lurkin Tim
It’s that kind of thinking that can be self fulfilling.
If nothing comes of it then it’s because the values that I think matter don’t.
THELURKINTIM on 7TH JUNE 2019 1:02 PM
Auldheid…your moral compass is sure…not convinced it jibes with business practice
nauticalCSC
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ERNIE LYNCH on 7TH JUNE 2019 1:14 PM
Auldheid on 7th June 2019 12:53 pm
‘Ernie
You dont know how I think. Hope for the best in folk, be ready for the worst.’
****
Fair enough.
But, if at the outset you have a fair idea, or even a suspicion, about how things might turn out, (and others are suggesting from the start that you are on a fools errand), how long can you leave it for your hope to remain unsatisfied before it begins to look like you may unwittingly have been used as a useful idiot by those you are dealing with?
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 1:51 PM
Ernie
It’s not me and fellow requistitioners alone who might have been played as a fool, it’s all the supporters and shareholders whom we represent and justifiably sought answers.
I’m only a fool if it’s only 4 of us, but what does that say about the wise – and the player?
I knew as soon as Celtic said Res12 was unnecessary in their official response that someone was at it.
That card has still to be played.
I think others might have been played or might even have been willing players, but in either case chucked it.
Mixed evidence on that issue but I could produce a plausible narrative to that effect.
That doesn’t mean its accurate so until there is more to support it, I’ll leave it at that.
For now.
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 2:00 PM
The Lurkin Tim
It’s more than business whose moral compass is facing the wrong way.
Its government too and why when a ship is heading for the rocks it appoints as captain Trump or Boris or Farage to make sure it doesn’t go off course.
As Paul67 once said to me ” you must be doing something right.” I put that down to my compass that steered me through rocky storms.
THELURKINTIM on 7TH JUNE 2019 2:28 PM
Auldheid…totally agree…although how we got here is a massive question…and why we accept it is even bigger…keep on keeping on ?
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ERNIE LYNCH on 7TH JUNE 2019 2:41 PM
AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 1:51 PM
Well I hope it all pans out the way you hope it might.
But I very much doubt it will.
I’m reminded of Keynes, ‘In the long run we are all dead’.
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AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 2:50 PM
ERNIE LYNCH on 7TH JUNE 2019 2:41 PM
AULDHEID on 7TH JUNE 2019 1:51 PM
Well I hope it all pans out the way you hope it might.
But I very much doubt it will.
I’m reminded of Keynes, ‘In the long run we are all dead’.
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Indeed we are but Id like to leave the party in a better mood than I found it. 🙂
.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/48554743 Mesut Ozil and fiancee to fund surgery for 1,000 children
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=_6MwzSaBBQY I Travel Simple Minds. BMCUWP Well said. Massive Respect to all those supporters who travel huge distances in all weather to follow Celtic. Hh
Howdy folks and a big happy Friday from a gloriously sunny and warm central Cali.
Well done to the Ozils, what a gesture and he has went way up in my eyes. Not my type of footballer one bit but at least he has some heart.
Delighted for those kids and their families.
Travelling ,, my da said its a very long day but you go because you’re scared of missing something !
For those on the West coast the derby games present a particular difficulty in that they are always 4.30 on a Sunday morning / Saturday evening .
Its probably the worst time you could pick,, to much to stay awake , to early to have a normal day. And thats without the drink.
Getting slammed at that time and the day is done ,, having a regular Sunday just cannot happen.
I recall one time we decided to all just meet very late and start drinking then and just stay awake on through . Of course it went to crap no one can stick to a plan , or you cant sleep and think ill just have a few I will be fine .
Theres a Fresno Arsenal supporters club that are there regular which shows devotion isnt just a Celtic thing .
Bobby 70k a year on the roads sounds like a nightmare but I gotta say in this country with them big 7 or 8 lane freeways that never end its not that stressful at all.
The side of the freeway is billboard after billboard , mostly fast food , to fuel you up and keep on cruising . Maybe we will hit route66 on your visit?
Im getting what they call a van here next , I think you call them a people carrier.
Hopefully by then its self driving . Or at least Im not needed at the wheel all the time.
OLd timer next door drove lorries coast to coast for 30 years and boy he has some stories to tell. These new lorries have showers and a bedroom in them.
Believe it or not wee planes are dirt cheap , 1500 bucks gets a wee kit plane you put together yourself and the stats do say its safer than driving . Not that I would try myself.
Till later Hail Hail
Hi Mike
Mahe I recall being asked a few years ago when i was following Celtic home and away including regular European trips how much supporting Celtic cost me. Although i’ve been fortunate to be able to fund my addiction the mental calculation i carried out at the time was scary. And i stay less than 5 miles from CP. Hh
Gordy
My pal has a pair of front row tickets for the raptors. He sold his tickets to the first game of the final to a friend for 6,000 .. and that was below market value, becuase it was his friend.
If the raptors win tonight, they can clinch the title at home on Monday. Another friend told me her friend paid 12,000 each for two tickets (and not even front row!). I just checked, and Court side seats are going for about 27,000 per ticket! More money than sense, if you ask me.
https://mobile.twitter.com/focusonceltic/status/1136769995151687681 On this day in 1967 Celtic beat Real Madrid 1-0 in the Bernabeu stadium with this goal from the Buzz bomb after a great run by Jinky.
Gordon my families go to gifts ( like a lot of us Im sure ) is a strip or something and when I said no more as I fell out with them they were lost. Then they ask what Ive been doing . A website about Celtic,, and cue the blank faces. Were on a break I tell them.
Hard to put into words but Ill never love another thats for sure.
Hail Hail
This boy Turnbull,,
Its quite a name but I don’t recall seeing him play.
Can anyone tell me which player he reminds them of so I get a bit of idea pls .
Bid rejected I read.
Hail Hail