March 27 2006

Steve Bruce

As the FA Cup Final reconstruction draws ever nearer (April 6), Jamesey is disturbed by some CPFC fans' reactions.

While prowling the message boards for inspiration for this column (well, after five years, you start writing the same column for each stage of the season (Yes, we've noticed that - Ed)), I was perturbed to see a few postings concerning the Geoff Thomas fundraiser next month.

As far as we know, nearly all the participants in the 1990 Cup Final have agreed to turn up at Selhurst and give their time and talent towards raising money for leukaemia research.

As, I am sure, all HOL members know by now, Geoff Thomas is recovering from that disease and has been putting a lot of effort into helping produce cash for what is a truly deserving cause.

However the problem (and hopefully it won't turn out to be a problem) is that one of the participants (if he turns up) will be Birmingham City's current manager (as I write!), Steve Bruce.

Now Steve Bruce is not the most popular fellow in the Selhurst region. As we all know he walked while we were looking like sure-fire promotion contenders in 2001.

Well that was quite a few years ago and, in the mellow autumn of my years, I can't get that worked up about it any more. And if we are going to demonise ex-players and ex-managers who really dumped on us I can think of many more worthy candidates than Steve Bruce.

So when the teams run out on their now-rickety and ageing legs on the evening of April 6 and Steve Bruce is among them, rather than abusing him you should give him a standing ovation.

He will have had the bottle to come to Selhurst to give his services for an outstandingly good cause and I, for one, respect him for it.

So let's show that Palace is a true family and humanitarian club which doesn't always go for the malicious option.

I appeal to everyone don't spoil what should be a wonderful night... don't boo Bruce...

Email Jamesey with any comments to Jevans3704@aol.com

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