June 21 2003

Nationwide Division One

It seems only yesterday that Jamesey was watching the World Cup on Portuguese TV. This year a barren football-free desert has opened up after the last Euro nations cup qualifiers, so the focus switches to Palace's fixtures for 03-04

First, can I say that I was surprised at the reaction of some HOL members to our friendlies against PSV and Chelsea.

The chairman was accused of the heinous sin of wanting to make a few bob. Er, well, yes...that's fine with me and if the club can rake in some cash and provide some attractive games, what's the problem?

Anyhow a joint ticket for both games is a great option at a very reasonable price and I will be there for both.

So looking at next season's fixture list, the first smack in the gob is, of course, to be away, yet again, for our first game. The FA computer usually guarantees this state of affairs and I am afraid Burnley (Aug 9) will not be top priority for me.

Wimbledon away on Aug 23 would be an automatic must-see at Selhurst...but will it be at Selhurst or Milton Keynes? Nobody seems to know, as I write, but Milton Keynes is again a No.

Away to Millwall (Aug 30), I might even break my vow to never visit The Den again. Millwall's chairman has forced the club to make great progress from a safety point of view, and I am encouraged that away fans might even be able to venture down Cold Blow Lane without danger of a Millwall brick splattering their brains onto the pavement (those who don't know what a Millwall brick is, should ask their dads or grandads).

The Hammers away (Oct 1) looks unmissable...first time I will have been to Upton Park since 94-95. And three days later Cardiff City at home could be a tense afternoon as the "new Millwall" invade our territory (flak jackets at the ready, please).

Millwall again but at home, on Boxing Day, could be fun although this time of year is traditionally when the ground is frozen over and the game is held over.

Stoke City have returned to our division and they visit on Feb 14. Chance to see a once-great club fallen on hard times (does that remind you of anything?).

Well we are well into the future now but the visits of Sunderland (April 3) and West Ham (April 12) will be two massive games for CPFC.

Last game of the season against Coventry (May 9) is also, as usual, away. But it's not that far to celebrate our promotion to the Premiership? Or maybe not?

Anyhow kalenikta kirie and kiria. I'm very shortly off to the Greek islands for a little restorative sun, sea and taverna therapy!

Email Jamesey with any of your comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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