Two weeks, two successive recoveries from two goal deficits and Wycombe Wanderers continue to desperately cling to the one remaining automatic promotion place in npower League Two.
Arguably, the Blues' ability to rescue themselves from seemingly hopeless positions displays encouraging resolve however the trite obviousness of the necessity to claim as many of the twelve remaining points available, beginning with the Good Friday trip to promotion rivals Torquay United, is apparent.
Whilst Wycombe have remained defiant in their quest to secure a quick-fire return to League One, familar signs of the end of season implosions that have featured throughout the past decade raise tangible fears of anti-climatic misfortune.
In evaluating the final four fixtures of the season, Arm Chairs & Deck Chairs reflects on a few of the comparable run-ins from recent years where success and failure at the telling denouement have manifested themselves in differing ways.
1998/1999: (Notts County, Blackpool, Wigan Athletic, Lincoln City)
The merits and subsequent deteoriation of Lawrie Sanchez's tenure as Wycombe manager have been much discussed recently following comments made by attendees at a club dinner to commemorate the heroic FA Cup run that culminated in the semi-final against Liverpool.
Sanchez's personal skills may have been scrutinised as the team he inherited and built upon became stale at the turn of the new century however most Wycombe Wanderers historians now seem to prefer the revisionist approach to assessing the Northern Irishman's time at the helm.
Hired to replace Neil Smillie during the 1998/1999 campaign, Sanchez's Wycombe adventure began with one of its finest hours as he helped to save the club from
relegation to the former 'Division Three'.
With only two defeats in the final eleven games of the season, one of those a dispiriting 1-0 reverse at Meadow Lane to Notts County, the Wanderers embarked upon the 'Great Escape' and they would enjoy another five seasons in the third tier of English football before falling down the ladder in 2004.
Losing in Nottingham meant that defeating Blackpool at Adams Park appeared even more imperative. One of Sanchez's most astute purchases was striker Sean Devine, who had initially joined on-loan from Barnet. He netted his seventh goal since his arrival a few months previously as Wycombe twice took the lead before the visitors claimed a point, meaning that the Chairboy's fate was no longer in their own hands.
Contained within similar tales of triumph over adversity, there are quirks of fate that aid the victorious party. It was perhaps fortunate that when Wigan Athletic made the long trip south to Buckinghamshire for the penultimate game of the season, they had played six games in two weeks in their own pursuit of glory, namely achieving play-off qualification.
As the visitors threatened to extinguish Wycombe's survival hopes with a Simon Hawarth opener, two heroes of the battle to beat the drop combined to ensure that the Chairboys could at least attempt to look forward to the pivotal trip to Sincil Bank to meet Lincoln City for a relegation decider as the Latics tired.
A Sean Devine effort and a first Wycombe goal for striker Paul Emblen, a £60,000 signing from Charlton Athletic, completed the home side's comeback.
Merely three days later, 2,643 Blues fans travelled north to witness the ushering in of a new era of hope following a period of stagnation post-Martin O'Neill.
The aforementioned Emblen sent a looping header into the top of the Lincoln net with just seven minutes left to send the Blue hoardes wild with delight. The 1-0 victory completed an incredible final four games for Wycombe, a microcosm of a season full of emotions encapsulated by defeat and just enough success to stay above the condemned.
2002/2003: (Cheltenham Town, Port Vale, Colchester United, Plymouth Argyle)
If the culmination to the 1998/99 season represented the re-birth of Wycombe's Football League ambitions then the manner in which the 2002/2003 campaign crawled to a disappointing finale surely achieved the opposite.
It has been described as 'one of the worst seasons' in living memory, a turgid campaign characterised by a lack of fluidity in Wycombe's play and an outmoded focus on strength over technical ability. The winds of change that were sweeping through the club as Lawrie Sanchez approached his personal endgame are perfectly evinced by this quartet of harrowing encounters.
In the dewey-eyed haze of the FA Cup run, Wycombe had made a credible charge for the play-offs during the first-half of the 2001/2002 season however a traumatic 4-1 home defeat to Blackpool on a drizzly Tuesday night put paid to any legitimate hopes of promotion.
That evening is widely regarded as a watershed moment in Wycombe's recent history and that of Sanchez's reign.
Where Wycombe had previously dispatched of most visitors to Adams Park, the fortress was now far less impregnable. Memorable scalps of the 'giants' of the division were replaced by ignominous defeats where the strength of the squad was questioned.
Although still full of endeavour, the notable victories of the previous season, such as those over Stoke City and Wigan Athletic, were replaced by a 4-0 hammering against a rampant Cardiff City side and even a disastrous 4-1 collapse at home to Stockport County having taken a 1-0 lead in the 65th minute.
A 1-1 draw against Cheltenham Town at Adams Park, who would eventually fall to the Football League's basement division, effectively secured Wycombe's place amongst the twenty-four sides in Division Two for at least another year.
The depressing nature of the contest lives long in the memory. The Gloucestershire side deservedly equalised one minute from time through the diminutive journeyman, Tony Naylor, to cancel out Steve Brown's opener from the penalty spot.
This encounter was a 90-minute summation of the ineffective, dreary percentage football that the Blues had resorted to. Although Cheltenham's attempts to avoid relegation were ultimately in vain, they travelled to Buckinghamshire full of purpose and were it not for the woeful finishing of Damien Spencer and Kayode Odejayi in front of a disbelieving Valley End, they could have emerged comfortable victors.
The erstwhile squad were fading with left-back Chris Vinnicombe in particular, often regarded as the team's 'Mr Consistent', suffering at the feet of Port Vale on the Easter Monday.
The Blues earned a point from Vale Park courtesy of a headed goal from maligned striker, Richard Harris, whose ability to dispatch rocket-like long-throws into the opposition penalty area became symbolic with the team's desperate malaise.
If the Chairboys faithful were hoping for some end of season cheer at home to old rivals, Colchester United, there was more disappointment.
The U's could have left with more than just one point following a drab 0-0 draw however Kemal Izzet's header smacked back off the crossbar. Wycombe could only fire tame efforts towards the Essex side's goal as the season continued to peter out.
By the time Wycombe meekly finished the 46th league game of a forgettable season with defeat to Plymouth Argyle, most were past caring.
2008/2009: (Aldershot Town, Luton Town, Port Vale, Notts County)
As divided as opinion remains on the 'wow factor' of only the second Football League promotion that the Wanderers have achieved, it's worth mentioning that Taylor's charges only lost once in the final four games of this particular season.
It could be argued that the opposition in question had less to play for than those in upcoming fixtures, however Taylor's Blues did just about enough to win a place in League One despite a last-day setback.
Current Wanderers incumbent Gary Waddock and his former employers, Aldershot Town, were enjoying their first season back in the Football League since their resignation in 1992. The Hampshire club had the worst away record in the division and probably travelled to Adams Park on Saturday 18th April 2009 with more hope than expectation, as the Wanderers ran out 3-0 winners.
There was still immense pressure on the Blues to not falter at the final hurdle and as yours truly anxiously huddled around a laptop, whilst frantically clicking the refresh button from the comfort of an undisclosed Dorset location, history was being made.
John Akinde, an explosive loan signing from Bristol City, had breathed fresh life into a season where Peter Taylor's model of efficiency had at times failed to tighten its grip on claiming all three points when called upon.
The Nigerian striker's 56th minute winner at Kenilworth Road against Luton Town ensured a 1-0 victory that seemed to draw the Wanderers tantalisingly close to a return to the third tier following a five year absence.
A win in the following game against Port Vale would have sent the 1,000 travelling Blues contingent into raptures and sealed automatic promotion however Wycombe could only escape with a point after Lee Sawyer's late equaliser.
Requiring only a draw from their final game at Adams Park against Notts County, a team who had in the past been home cannon fodder, Wycombe performed the inevitable and slipped to a 2-1 defeat.
A Football League record attendance of 9,625 fell into deadly silence following the away side's 90th minute winner before news finally filtered through that the Blues had prevailed by the narrowest of margins, a superior goal difference of just one.
The repercussions of the half-hearted pitch invasion that ensued were deemed by some to be more noteworthy than the nature of the promotion itself.
As the Blues prepare to face fierce promotion rivals Torquay United and Bury, sandwiched between equally as crucial games against Crewe Alexandra and Southend United, it will take another herculean effort to persevere.
Seventy-eight points in 2009 were barely enough to start the party. You get the feeling it will take at least that total and perhaps a couple more to raise the roof two years on.
Peter Taylor's side left their slip-up to the final day. Gary Waddock's version of Oxford and Cambridge blue might not even have that luxury.
Showing posts with label 2010/2011 season. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2010/2011 season. Show all posts
Monday, 18 April 2011
Sunday, 2 January 2011
Wycombe Wanderers Poised for Memorable 2011
Wycombe Wanderers ushered in 2011 with a New Year's Day victory against Cheltenham Town. The Blues recorded a 2-1 win courtesy of two stunning goals from Stuart Beavon and Gareth Ainsworth. The result has propelled the Blues to third position in the npower League Two table.
In the past, much has been made of the significance of the number '1' in relation to the previous successes of Tottenham Hotspur, notably their last League title win in 1961 and FA Cup triumph in 1991.
A 2001 FA Cup semi-final defeat to arch-rivals Arsenal poured scorn on this erroneous piece of football nostalgia, even if there was some solace in the Gunner's defeat to Liverpool at the crucial juncture of the competition.
If Wycombe were to apply the same superstition, they can justly use their own statistics to make a case for a successful 2011 as they pursue promotion to League One.
After all, the Blues like Spurs were a 2001 FA Cup semi-finalist whilst only a Division Two side. Ten years prior to that historic occasion, Wycombe enjoyed FA Trophy success defeating Kidderminster Harriers in the 1991 final.
Delving further still into the annals of Wanderers history, there was an FA Amateur Cup triumph in 1931. In addition, a poignant reminder of the significance of the digit in relation to past success and the current stadium debate ruckus, is that former Wanderer and Loakes Park benefactor Frank Adams joined the club as a player in 1911.
The upcoming year could be memorable for a variety of reasons, good and bad. Wycombe District Council are expected to announce the outcome of their consultation with residents regarding proposals to build Wycombe Wanderers and tenants London Wasps rugby club a new stadium in the Booker area of High Wycombe. The results of the consultation are expected to be delivered in January.
Thus far, no concrete details have been released by the football club with regards to how the stadium plan would specifically benefit the Wanderers.
A potential promotion could propel the club a step closer to the promised land of the npower Championship. Those more cynical than myself may argue that achieving this feat would have questionable benefits, especially after the false dawn following Wycombe's last promotion and quick-fire relegation in 2010.
Some may take a dim view of having the chance to be the next Scunthorpe United or being able to replicate the feats of clubs like Bury, Stockport County and Grimsby Town. The latter three grimly clung onto their second tier status during the late nineties and early noughties before succumbing to their inevitable slide down the leagues.
Was the last game against Cheltenham a vintage performance to kick-off a year of achievement? It was certainly a win to savour over a bogey team, Wycombe's first in nine Football League encounters with the Robins.
By all accounts, the team awoke from their initial slumber to break with purpose and although there were elements of fortune, the Blues had chances themselves to secure the three points by a greater margin.
The rivalry of sorts with Cheltenham is a peculiar one, online animosity stoked by tedious banter and fanned by the tangible bitterness of Wycombe's 2006 play-off semi-final defeat. The Blues had battered Cheltenham in the return leg before bowing out on aggregate (2-1) after a very one-sided 0-0 draw in Gloucestershire where Wycombe did everything but score.
There are certainly valid reasons for Wycombe fans to be cheerful heading into the new year:
1. We are sexy. At least in a footballing sense. We have a midfield capable of industry and creativity and strikers scoring goals after a slow start to the season for the forward line. That we possess a defence that can sometimes resemble an articulated lorry trying desperately to turn quickly enough to avoid a South Ruislip bridge strike only adds more excitement for Blues fans and neutrals alike.
2. We are managed by an ambitious man of principle and integrity. Wycombe manager Gary Waddock wants the club to progress and to do so playing football the right way. This involves a ball predominantly zipping across the turf rather than the turgid hoofball of c.2002-2003 and other fitful periods of the last decade.
Despite the additional pressure from the men in suits to achieve promotion at all costs, our Gaz has largely managed to keep his focus on the team rather than Brand WWFC with exciting additions such as midfielder Scott Donnelly on a loan deal from Swansea City.
3. Wycombe fans of the world, unite!
You are more likely to see Wycombe fans delivering cutting online insults to one another or cursory glances across the Vere Suite as opposed to a mass conga snaking its way through the Frank Adams stand.
That said, a vociferous number are in agreement in their opposition to sketchy plans to move the club to a new stadium in Booker. Although the proximate cause is unpleasant, the unifying effect of the opposition, epitomised by the 'Black and White' movement, is refreshing.
There have been moments where results and performances have triggered murmurs of dissatisfaction. Defeat to Macclesfield Town at home was cause for concern, swiftly erased by a six match unbeaten run that included a welcome win against rivals Colchester United.
Torquay United's classy 3-1 victory at Adams Park had some questioning how good or otherwise this Wycombe team is compared to some of its promotion rivals.
Defeating Rotherham United, who now top the table, besides victories against fellow promotion hopefuls Bury and Cheltenham in recent weeks, are enough to dispel any accusations that the Blues are incapable of beating the top sides in the division.
Depending on your standpoint, this year is going to be memorable, for good or for ill. Not everyone is opposed to the construction of a new stadium. It is a lingering shiny promise representative of investment in the club and the wider community and has been proposed through worthy enough soundbites.
Their content though fails to answer pertinent qustions as to where exactly there is a need for a larger stadium to suit Wycombe Wanderers Football Club. How will it financially benefit WWFC and what plan, if any, exists to reverse the effects of years of debt accumulation?
As When Saturday Comes writer Paul Lewis noted in 2005, "How a club previously known to be financially stable had amassed debts of more than £2 million by 2003 was never made clear, especially given that players’ wages were always kept as less than 40 per cent of total turnover and that rugby tenants London Wasps have paid £300,000 a year since moving to Wycombe in 2002."
Six years later and these debts have increased to circa £6 million with no transparent plans to stem annual losses of around £1 million.
Let the mocking words of those in power not unduly disparage the genuine concerns of those who remain the lifeblood of an institution supported and maintained by their loyal devotion. Here is to a year to remember, for all the right reasons.
In the past, much has been made of the significance of the number '1' in relation to the previous successes of Tottenham Hotspur, notably their last League title win in 1961 and FA Cup triumph in 1991.
A 2001 FA Cup semi-final defeat to arch-rivals Arsenal poured scorn on this erroneous piece of football nostalgia, even if there was some solace in the Gunner's defeat to Liverpool at the crucial juncture of the competition.
If Wycombe were to apply the same superstition, they can justly use their own statistics to make a case for a successful 2011 as they pursue promotion to League One.
After all, the Blues like Spurs were a 2001 FA Cup semi-finalist whilst only a Division Two side. Ten years prior to that historic occasion, Wycombe enjoyed FA Trophy success defeating Kidderminster Harriers in the 1991 final.
Delving further still into the annals of Wanderers history, there was an FA Amateur Cup triumph in 1931. In addition, a poignant reminder of the significance of the digit in relation to past success and the current stadium debate ruckus, is that former Wanderer and Loakes Park benefactor Frank Adams joined the club as a player in 1911.
The upcoming year could be memorable for a variety of reasons, good and bad. Wycombe District Council are expected to announce the outcome of their consultation with residents regarding proposals to build Wycombe Wanderers and tenants London Wasps rugby club a new stadium in the Booker area of High Wycombe. The results of the consultation are expected to be delivered in January.
Thus far, no concrete details have been released by the football club with regards to how the stadium plan would specifically benefit the Wanderers.
A potential promotion could propel the club a step closer to the promised land of the npower Championship. Those more cynical than myself may argue that achieving this feat would have questionable benefits, especially after the false dawn following Wycombe's last promotion and quick-fire relegation in 2010.
Some may take a dim view of having the chance to be the next Scunthorpe United or being able to replicate the feats of clubs like Bury, Stockport County and Grimsby Town. The latter three grimly clung onto their second tier status during the late nineties and early noughties before succumbing to their inevitable slide down the leagues.
Was the last game against Cheltenham a vintage performance to kick-off a year of achievement? It was certainly a win to savour over a bogey team, Wycombe's first in nine Football League encounters with the Robins.
By all accounts, the team awoke from their initial slumber to break with purpose and although there were elements of fortune, the Blues had chances themselves to secure the three points by a greater margin.
The rivalry of sorts with Cheltenham is a peculiar one, online animosity stoked by tedious banter and fanned by the tangible bitterness of Wycombe's 2006 play-off semi-final defeat. The Blues had battered Cheltenham in the return leg before bowing out on aggregate (2-1) after a very one-sided 0-0 draw in Gloucestershire where Wycombe did everything but score.
There are certainly valid reasons for Wycombe fans to be cheerful heading into the new year:
1. We are sexy. At least in a footballing sense. We have a midfield capable of industry and creativity and strikers scoring goals after a slow start to the season for the forward line. That we possess a defence that can sometimes resemble an articulated lorry trying desperately to turn quickly enough to avoid a South Ruislip bridge strike only adds more excitement for Blues fans and neutrals alike.
2. We are managed by an ambitious man of principle and integrity. Wycombe manager Gary Waddock wants the club to progress and to do so playing football the right way. This involves a ball predominantly zipping across the turf rather than the turgid hoofball of c.2002-2003 and other fitful periods of the last decade.
Despite the additional pressure from the men in suits to achieve promotion at all costs, our Gaz has largely managed to keep his focus on the team rather than Brand WWFC with exciting additions such as midfielder Scott Donnelly on a loan deal from Swansea City.
3. Wycombe fans of the world, unite!
You are more likely to see Wycombe fans delivering cutting online insults to one another or cursory glances across the Vere Suite as opposed to a mass conga snaking its way through the Frank Adams stand.
That said, a vociferous number are in agreement in their opposition to sketchy plans to move the club to a new stadium in Booker. Although the proximate cause is unpleasant, the unifying effect of the opposition, epitomised by the 'Black and White' movement, is refreshing.
There have been moments where results and performances have triggered murmurs of dissatisfaction. Defeat to Macclesfield Town at home was cause for concern, swiftly erased by a six match unbeaten run that included a welcome win against rivals Colchester United.
Torquay United's classy 3-1 victory at Adams Park had some questioning how good or otherwise this Wycombe team is compared to some of its promotion rivals.
Defeating Rotherham United, who now top the table, besides victories against fellow promotion hopefuls Bury and Cheltenham in recent weeks, are enough to dispel any accusations that the Blues are incapable of beating the top sides in the division.
Depending on your standpoint, this year is going to be memorable, for good or for ill. Not everyone is opposed to the construction of a new stadium. It is a lingering shiny promise representative of investment in the club and the wider community and has been proposed through worthy enough soundbites.
Their content though fails to answer pertinent qustions as to where exactly there is a need for a larger stadium to suit Wycombe Wanderers Football Club. How will it financially benefit WWFC and what plan, if any, exists to reverse the effects of years of debt accumulation?
As When Saturday Comes writer Paul Lewis noted in 2005, "How a club previously known to be financially stable had amassed debts of more than £2 million by 2003 was never made clear, especially given that players’ wages were always kept as less than 40 per cent of total turnover and that rugby tenants London Wasps have paid £300,000 a year since moving to Wycombe in 2002."
Six years later and these debts have increased to circa £6 million with no transparent plans to stem annual losses of around £1 million.
Let the mocking words of those in power not unduly disparage the genuine concerns of those who remain the lifeblood of an institution supported and maintained by their loyal devotion. Here is to a year to remember, for all the right reasons.
Saturday, 25 December 2010
Merry Christmas from Arm Chairs & Deck Chairs!
Another year has flown by and we are now preparing to usher in 2011! Merry Christmas and a happy New Year from Arm Chairs & Deck Chairs, the blog that covers news and opinion relating to the towns of High Wycombe and Bournemouth.
At the beginning of this year, I was busy with The Collected Thoughts of Nobody Special before the transition to the blog in its current form. By focussing on localised and specialist content, including issues relating to Wycombe Wanderers F.C and Bournemouth news, I have been able to concentrate on matters close to my heart. It has also enabled me to participate in active discussions, including those surrounding the tense developments in Wycombe Wanderers' proposals to build a new stadium in Booker.
I am delighted to have been able to contribute to the club fanzine, The Wanderer, and express my views on all things WWFC.
Throughout 2011, the remit of this blog will continue to be to provide news and opinion from the same locales with a strong emphasis on the travails of Wycombe Wanderers too.
If you have an opinion on any matter relating to High Wycombe or Bournemouth, whether it be the stadium plan, the High Speed Rail Link (HS2) through Buckinghamshire or Bournemouth's ever changing news landscape, then I'd love to publish your contributions to the debate. Please feel free to tweet me @williwycombe, email me at willgeldart@hotmail.co.uk or phone the newsdesk through Skype by searching for williwycombe.
Have a great Christmas and an even better New Year.
williwycombe
At the beginning of this year, I was busy with The Collected Thoughts of Nobody Special before the transition to the blog in its current form. By focussing on localised and specialist content, including issues relating to Wycombe Wanderers F.C and Bournemouth news, I have been able to concentrate on matters close to my heart. It has also enabled me to participate in active discussions, including those surrounding the tense developments in Wycombe Wanderers' proposals to build a new stadium in Booker.
I am delighted to have been able to contribute to the club fanzine, The Wanderer, and express my views on all things WWFC.
Throughout 2011, the remit of this blog will continue to be to provide news and opinion from the same locales with a strong emphasis on the travails of Wycombe Wanderers too.
If you have an opinion on any matter relating to High Wycombe or Bournemouth, whether it be the stadium plan, the High Speed Rail Link (HS2) through Buckinghamshire or Bournemouth's ever changing news landscape, then I'd love to publish your contributions to the debate. Please feel free to tweet me @williwycombe, email me at willgeldart@hotmail.co.uk or phone the newsdesk through Skype by searching for williwycombe.
Have a great Christmas and an even better New Year.
williwycombe
Sunday, 3 October 2010
Wycombe Enter the Dark Season Seeing the Light
As darkness falls and sometimes even the ball changes colour, Wycombe Wanderers enter the winter months illuminated by consecutive victories.
It has been the week manager Gary Waddock's players had been hoping for. The potential of the squad has finally shone through following an indifferent start to the season.
If the midweek 4-2 victory against a poor Barnet side served to reinvigorate the Wanderers camp, Saturday afternoon's 2-0 success at the newly named Stevenage FC represented an indicator of the team's tangible intentions. The short trip to Hertfordshire was a litmus test which could shape the future direction of both clubs, for this season at least.
Stevenage began the day two places above Wycombe however by the final whistle; it was the Chairboys who had usurped the hosts to climb into the final play-off position.
In truth, the Blues had made the game safe by half-time with a relatively comfortable margin. Kevin Betsy's header at the far post following a cross from Gareth Ainsworth opened the scoring with Stuart Beavon's converted rebound in reaction to the tireless Ainsworth's initial shot just before the break securing the three points.
The aforementioned 'Beaver', Stuart Beavon, received a standing ovation from the away contingent when replaced by Scott Rendell with six minutes remaining. He epitomised Wycombe's approach, defending from the front and displaying touches of class. The Blues were resolute in defence, swiftly switching to attack with a refreshing diversity of play.
Stevenage were mainly restricted to hopeful balls into the box, although the complexion of the game could have been changed had Jon Ashton converted and steered his header on target with Nikki Bull's goal gaping with around twenty minutes remaining. On the balance of play though, the home side displayed enough to be comfortable towards the upper echelons of League Two.
Wycombe striker Ben Strevens tried desperately hard to get on the scoresheet only to be thwarted by a smart reaction save down low from goalkeeper Chris Day.
Scott Davies, Wycombe's enfant terrible after a frustrating start to his second spell with the club and supposed online reaction (dissatisfaction) to being benched against Barnet was introduced late on.
Like Strevens, he was eager to impress. At times his attempted link-up play was overcooked and too intricate although a few smart switches of play aimed at the industrious Betsy re-affirmed his ability, even if there are unanswered questions about his temperament.
The Stevenage fans were silenced, partially by the travelling Wycombe faithful's mimicry of their 'ultra' style chanting and by their side's inability to penetrate their opposition. Wycombe fans were even treated to a fairly original rendition of 'Twist and Shout', perhaps a welcome addition to the terrace songbook.
The overarching cloud that encompasses the new stadium debate has not dissipated however on the pitch if this momentum can be sustained, there could be plenty more to twist and shout about come the end of the season.
It has been the week manager Gary Waddock's players had been hoping for. The potential of the squad has finally shone through following an indifferent start to the season.
If the midweek 4-2 victory against a poor Barnet side served to reinvigorate the Wanderers camp, Saturday afternoon's 2-0 success at the newly named Stevenage FC represented an indicator of the team's tangible intentions. The short trip to Hertfordshire was a litmus test which could shape the future direction of both clubs, for this season at least.
Stevenage began the day two places above Wycombe however by the final whistle; it was the Chairboys who had usurped the hosts to climb into the final play-off position.
In truth, the Blues had made the game safe by half-time with a relatively comfortable margin. Kevin Betsy's header at the far post following a cross from Gareth Ainsworth opened the scoring with Stuart Beavon's converted rebound in reaction to the tireless Ainsworth's initial shot just before the break securing the three points.
The aforementioned 'Beaver', Stuart Beavon, received a standing ovation from the away contingent when replaced by Scott Rendell with six minutes remaining. He epitomised Wycombe's approach, defending from the front and displaying touches of class. The Blues were resolute in defence, swiftly switching to attack with a refreshing diversity of play.
Stevenage were mainly restricted to hopeful balls into the box, although the complexion of the game could have been changed had Jon Ashton converted and steered his header on target with Nikki Bull's goal gaping with around twenty minutes remaining. On the balance of play though, the home side displayed enough to be comfortable towards the upper echelons of League Two.
Wycombe striker Ben Strevens tried desperately hard to get on the scoresheet only to be thwarted by a smart reaction save down low from goalkeeper Chris Day.
Scott Davies, Wycombe's enfant terrible after a frustrating start to his second spell with the club and supposed online reaction (dissatisfaction) to being benched against Barnet was introduced late on.
Like Strevens, he was eager to impress. At times his attempted link-up play was overcooked and too intricate although a few smart switches of play aimed at the industrious Betsy re-affirmed his ability, even if there are unanswered questions about his temperament.
The Stevenage fans were silenced, partially by the travelling Wycombe faithful's mimicry of their 'ultra' style chanting and by their side's inability to penetrate their opposition. Wycombe fans were even treated to a fairly original rendition of 'Twist and Shout', perhaps a welcome addition to the terrace songbook.
The overarching cloud that encompasses the new stadium debate has not dissipated however on the pitch if this momentum can be sustained, there could be plenty more to twist and shout about come the end of the season.
Monday, 13 September 2010
Are Wycombe Fans Guilty of Believing Too Much of the Pre-Season Hype?
"There ain't nuthin' more powerful than the smell of mendacity!", so said Harvey 'Big Daddy' Pollitt during the 1958 film Cat on a Hot Tin Roof. It's an obscure reference but perhaps a pertinent one in relation to the disjointed start to Wycombe Wanderers' 2010/2011 Npower League Two campaign.
During the summer, the WWFC spin machine cultivated an image of high expectations unsurpassed by the build-up to previous seasons. A new team, a brave attacking new dawn and the near promise of promotion at any cost were the tenets fed to the light and dark blue masses.
Wycombe manager Gary Waddock was well aware of the pressure internally and externally being exerted upon his fledgling side.
Following the immediate aftermath of relegation, owner Steve Hayes was quick to assert himself and candid in revealing his aims for 2010/2011. He told the Bucks Free Press, "We have to go up next year. Gary knows it and everyone knows it. We don’t want to wait around another year in that division, the aim is to go up automatically and we want to do it in a blaze of glory."
Returning to the original quote, it would be a little unfair to say the club were guilty of a dishonest approach in their assessment of the newly assembled squad and their verdict on the chances of success this season.
After all, a team that contains players of the calibre of Kevin Betsy and Gareth Ainsworth, combined with the additions of proven lower league goalscorers Ben Strevens and Scott Rendell, was rightly tipped for glory.
What's clear from the opening weeks of the season, however, is a need to keep those high expectations in check. This has become especially apparent following last Saturday's disappointing 2-1 reverse at home to unfancied Macclesfield Town. Wanderers slumped to defeat in front of their lowest Football League home attendance for a Saturday afternoon game of just 3.789.
The manager himself, was honest in his criticism, both this past weekend and the preceding Saturday where Wycombe dropped two points when conceding a last-minute equaliser away at Accrington Stanley.
Following their first defeat of the season, Waddock told BBC Three Counties Radio: "On the evidence of how we performed, we didn't deserve anything.
"We didn't compete, we didn't get close to them. They have hit two fantastic strikes to go 2-0 up.
"In the second half they sat deep and it was very difficult to open them up. Credit to them, they have done their homework."
For an attacking purist such as Waddock, these are worrying early season sentiments. The last manager to opt for flair over efficiency, John Gorman, at least found his team half-way through a season before opponents had fathomed a way of stopping his side from steamrollering them.
In fairness to the Blues, despite only mustering only one meaningful effort on goal (their consolation from the penalty spot), they were undone by two wonder strikes early on in the match and then forced to chase the remainder of the game against obdurate opposition.
Losing talismanic striker Jon-Paul Pittman in the warm-up did not help preparations and it should be noted that this loss will not affect the outcome of the rest of the season.
As appears customary following a disappointing result, the reaction has been fierce with controversial owner Steve Hayes once again attracting the chagrin of a vocal contingent.
Add to that, a warring fanbase tearing itself apart over numerous issues at the club including recent bans handed out to a select few and the atmosphere, though largely non-existent during games, has become poisonous off the pitch.
Let's not forget that there are positives to be taken from the first half a dozen games. Scott Davies has returned on-loan from Reading following a relatively successful spell at Adams Park last season. Midfielder Lewis Montrose, so often on the periphery last season, has emerged from the shadows and looks set to further his career with the Blues. New goalkeeper Nikki Bull has also starred as the last line of defence.
Goals have been hard to come by with Scott Rendell coming in for the bulk of criticism however as the gentlemen pointed out during the inaugural 'Wanderer Podcast', it took a fair amount of time for former strikers Jermaine Easter and Alex Revell to truly find their goal scoring touch whilst wearing the quarters.
The Blues visit Aldershot Town next weekend in what will be a difficult and emotional encounter for their former manager Gary Waddock and a host of former Shots players including the aforementioned Davies and Andy Sandell.
A bear-pit atmosphere awaits with Wycombe fans hoping their team can take this perfect opportunity to put down a marker of their promotion credentials. The fans believed before the start of the campaign, it's time to keep that flame alive.
During the summer, the WWFC spin machine cultivated an image of high expectations unsurpassed by the build-up to previous seasons. A new team, a brave attacking new dawn and the near promise of promotion at any cost were the tenets fed to the light and dark blue masses.
Wycombe manager Gary Waddock was well aware of the pressure internally and externally being exerted upon his fledgling side.
Following the immediate aftermath of relegation, owner Steve Hayes was quick to assert himself and candid in revealing his aims for 2010/2011. He told the Bucks Free Press, "We have to go up next year. Gary knows it and everyone knows it. We don’t want to wait around another year in that division, the aim is to go up automatically and we want to do it in a blaze of glory."
Returning to the original quote, it would be a little unfair to say the club were guilty of a dishonest approach in their assessment of the newly assembled squad and their verdict on the chances of success this season.
After all, a team that contains players of the calibre of Kevin Betsy and Gareth Ainsworth, combined with the additions of proven lower league goalscorers Ben Strevens and Scott Rendell, was rightly tipped for glory.
What's clear from the opening weeks of the season, however, is a need to keep those high expectations in check. This has become especially apparent following last Saturday's disappointing 2-1 reverse at home to unfancied Macclesfield Town. Wanderers slumped to defeat in front of their lowest Football League home attendance for a Saturday afternoon game of just 3.789.
The manager himself, was honest in his criticism, both this past weekend and the preceding Saturday where Wycombe dropped two points when conceding a last-minute equaliser away at Accrington Stanley.
Following their first defeat of the season, Waddock told BBC Three Counties Radio: "On the evidence of how we performed, we didn't deserve anything.
"We didn't compete, we didn't get close to them. They have hit two fantastic strikes to go 2-0 up.
"In the second half they sat deep and it was very difficult to open them up. Credit to them, they have done their homework."
For an attacking purist such as Waddock, these are worrying early season sentiments. The last manager to opt for flair over efficiency, John Gorman, at least found his team half-way through a season before opponents had fathomed a way of stopping his side from steamrollering them.
In fairness to the Blues, despite only mustering only one meaningful effort on goal (their consolation from the penalty spot), they were undone by two wonder strikes early on in the match and then forced to chase the remainder of the game against obdurate opposition.
Losing talismanic striker Jon-Paul Pittman in the warm-up did not help preparations and it should be noted that this loss will not affect the outcome of the rest of the season.
As appears customary following a disappointing result, the reaction has been fierce with controversial owner Steve Hayes once again attracting the chagrin of a vocal contingent.
Add to that, a warring fanbase tearing itself apart over numerous issues at the club including recent bans handed out to a select few and the atmosphere, though largely non-existent during games, has become poisonous off the pitch.
Let's not forget that there are positives to be taken from the first half a dozen games. Scott Davies has returned on-loan from Reading following a relatively successful spell at Adams Park last season. Midfielder Lewis Montrose, so often on the periphery last season, has emerged from the shadows and looks set to further his career with the Blues. New goalkeeper Nikki Bull has also starred as the last line of defence.
Goals have been hard to come by with Scott Rendell coming in for the bulk of criticism however as the gentlemen pointed out during the inaugural 'Wanderer Podcast', it took a fair amount of time for former strikers Jermaine Easter and Alex Revell to truly find their goal scoring touch whilst wearing the quarters.
The Blues visit Aldershot Town next weekend in what will be a difficult and emotional encounter for their former manager Gary Waddock and a host of former Shots players including the aforementioned Davies and Andy Sandell.
A bear-pit atmosphere awaits with Wycombe fans hoping their team can take this perfect opportunity to put down a marker of their promotion credentials. The fans believed before the start of the campaign, it's time to keep that flame alive.
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
Countdown to Wycombe's Big Kick-Off!
Willi's Wycombe
The new English Football League season is set to begin this Saturday (7th August) with Wycombe kicking off their 2010/2011 Npower League Two campaign at home to Morecambe. The visitors will be desperate to erase the memories of last season's play-off semi-final heartbreak when they were thrashed 7-2 on aggregate by winning finalists Dagenham and Redbridge.
The Blues are priced at 5/2 to win promotion with some bookmakers following a decent pre-season that included a scintillating display in their 5-1 demolition of a young Chelsea XI and a creditable performance against Championship side, Reading.
Much has been made of the attacking style that the team have adopted since the arrival of manager, Gary Waddock. Encouragingly, strikers Ben Strevens, Scott Rendell and Jon Paul-Pittman have all been amongst the goals whilst new 'keeper Nikki Bull is showing signs of being the imperious permanent netminder fans hoped for following loanee Tom Heaton's return to Manchester United at the end of last season.
A re-jigged defence, added to by the acquisition of influential young centre-back, Dave Winfield, combined with a rejuvenated and punchy midfield completes an exciting array of talent.
Expectations are high and growing further still so a victory on Saturday is vitally important to maintain the momentum. Morecambe will not be a straightforward game though. The Shrimpers' squad includes the prolific lower league striker Phil Jevons, who is no stranger to Wycombe fans after his spell at Yeovil Town.
His possible strike partner, Paul Mullin, spoilt Wycombe's opening day in 2007 when he netted the only goal in a 1-0 defeat to Accrington Stanley.
Gary Waddock is aware of the hype surrounding his team prior to the season opener and he's just as excited as the fans about beginning the new campaign. He told the official website,
"Hopefully the fans have enjoyed what they've seen so far and there's more to come from us. It'd be great to see a big crowd for the first game and more importantly, we want to give them something to cheer about by collecting all three points."
Hopefully the Blues will guard against complacency and get three points on the board early on before a Carling Cup hiatus against Millwall, followed by a difficult trip to bogey ground Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County. Then there is the small matter of the 'M40 derby' against newly-promoted Oxford United. Real football is back.
The new English Football League season is set to begin this Saturday (7th August) with Wycombe kicking off their 2010/2011 Npower League Two campaign at home to Morecambe. The visitors will be desperate to erase the memories of last season's play-off semi-final heartbreak when they were thrashed 7-2 on aggregate by winning finalists Dagenham and Redbridge.
The Blues are priced at 5/2 to win promotion with some bookmakers following a decent pre-season that included a scintillating display in their 5-1 demolition of a young Chelsea XI and a creditable performance against Championship side, Reading.
Much has been made of the attacking style that the team have adopted since the arrival of manager, Gary Waddock. Encouragingly, strikers Ben Strevens, Scott Rendell and Jon Paul-Pittman have all been amongst the goals whilst new 'keeper Nikki Bull is showing signs of being the imperious permanent netminder fans hoped for following loanee Tom Heaton's return to Manchester United at the end of last season.
A re-jigged defence, added to by the acquisition of influential young centre-back, Dave Winfield, combined with a rejuvenated and punchy midfield completes an exciting array of talent.
Expectations are high and growing further still so a victory on Saturday is vitally important to maintain the momentum. Morecambe will not be a straightforward game though. The Shrimpers' squad includes the prolific lower league striker Phil Jevons, who is no stranger to Wycombe fans after his spell at Yeovil Town.
His possible strike partner, Paul Mullin, spoilt Wycombe's opening day in 2007 when he netted the only goal in a 1-0 defeat to Accrington Stanley.
Gary Waddock is aware of the hype surrounding his team prior to the season opener and he's just as excited as the fans about beginning the new campaign. He told the official website,
"Hopefully the fans have enjoyed what they've seen so far and there's more to come from us. It'd be great to see a big crowd for the first game and more importantly, we want to give them something to cheer about by collecting all three points."
Hopefully the Blues will guard against complacency and get three points on the board early on before a Carling Cup hiatus against Millwall, followed by a difficult trip to bogey ground Edgeley Park, home of Stockport County. Then there is the small matter of the 'M40 derby' against newly-promoted Oxford United. Real football is back.
Monday, 12 July 2010
In Focus: Wycombe's Summer Signings
Football players these days don't tend to hang around at a club much longer than a Wycombe Wanderers finance director. That aside, we'll be hoping that our new charges stick and are in it for the long-haul, just like messrs Ryan, Brown, Cousins and Carroll were.
With the help of the fans of Aldershot Town, Brentford and Yeovil Town, we're running the rule over the new recruits and garnering opinion from those who have witnessed their performances first hand. Were they sad to see them leave or completely indifferent?
Brentford were the most accommodating lot once I'd been instructed to sign up for their message board. The Aldershot moderator invited me to join however it seems he/she can't be arsed to verify my membership and the comments from Aldershot and Yeovil are thusly the result of me scouring their forums.
So, we’ll start with the contingent from Brentford. Goalkeeper Nikki Bull played for the Bees and the general consensus was he is 'short as shit for a goalie' as one fan put it. I'm not entirely sure what you can read into that. Manchester City's Shay Given isn't too shabby for a relatively short goalkeeper.
Their thoughts on defender Danny Foster and striker Ben Strevens delved deeper than the previous gem although there was one useful reply to clarify opinion on Bull.
A Bees fan wrote: "Bull had an unlucky season. Having just displaced Lewis Price in goal in September, he suffered an injury that kept him out until April. By that time we had Szczesny, so Bull was never going to get a look in. He was called upon off the bench though at Southend in April and a couple of great saves meant we got a point when we were effectively playing with 9 men given the number of injuries we suffered in that game."
One poster had these opinions: (On Foster) "He isn't the greatest defender and certainly not ambitious in crossing the half-way line, but if you are looking for a steady, decent league two full-back - he'll be fine. (sic)
"I don't think we ever saw what we expected from Ben Strevens - he's quite a neat and tidy front-man but the one thing in his favour is that he doesn't stop working. And he scores his goals from inside the six-yard box, so you'll need to get balls in there for him!"
Should Wycombe win promotion and re-ignite the master plan of reaching the Championship, it will be interesting to see how many of the new contingent would be still be included given some Bees fans misgivings on our signing's supposed limitations further up the football pyramid.
As one Bees fan said: "I was very pleased that they all moved on, they are not bad players but also they are not what you need for where we hope to go. I would say that honest sums up Strevens and steady is good for Foster. I would suggest that Bull is short for bullshit but he's your average lower league keeper."
So, Strevens is going to need Kevin Betsy to dribble around the opposition team and then generously pass him the ball, good luck there Ben. Meanwhile Danny Foster will defend his territory bullishly without making too many inroads into the attacking half of the pitch. Bull might be another run of the mill goalkeeper.
Scott Shearer was a good shot-stopper however what we need is a commanding presence, something Bull can hopefully provide to a defence that for large swathes of last season was woefully disorganised.
Our friends in Hampshire, Aldershot Town, have a vociferous contingent who were none too pleased by the manner of defender Dave Winfield's departure.
Some feel that Winfield, who had allegedly agreed in principle to sign a new contract with the Shots upon his return from a holiday, has turned his back on his boyhood club, displaying a lack of class. Others are more forgiving. Politics aside, here's what they say about the lad.
One fan isn't too fussed he's left: "Waddock has just smooth talked him. Simple really. He will be on the bench for most of the season."
Another wished him all the best: "Those who have ever met, spoken to or spent time with Dave will all agree, I'm 100% sure, that the guy is a true gentleman, as polite as you could ever expect a footballer to be..and a true professional in terms of the way he approaches the game. If you believe the parting shot of a manager bitterly disappointed that he has lost a "potential future captain" and allow it to tarnish the view that you have of Dave, then so be it." (sic)
In signing a potential future captain and already having a former Shots captain in Adam Hinshelwood (subject to contract agreement), we should have a few leaders amongst the squad.
Yeovil Town fans didn't seem to say much about midfielder Kieran Murtagh other than that he will be a "quality player at this level". Likewise, Shots fans didn't appear to dwell too much on the departure of defender Andy Sandell. Either that or I’m just too lazy to dig deeper. Meh.
With the help of the fans of Aldershot Town, Brentford and Yeovil Town, we're running the rule over the new recruits and garnering opinion from those who have witnessed their performances first hand. Were they sad to see them leave or completely indifferent?
Brentford were the most accommodating lot once I'd been instructed to sign up for their message board. The Aldershot moderator invited me to join however it seems he/she can't be arsed to verify my membership and the comments from Aldershot and Yeovil are thusly the result of me scouring their forums.
So, we’ll start with the contingent from Brentford. Goalkeeper Nikki Bull played for the Bees and the general consensus was he is 'short as shit for a goalie' as one fan put it. I'm not entirely sure what you can read into that. Manchester City's Shay Given isn't too shabby for a relatively short goalkeeper.
Their thoughts on defender Danny Foster and striker Ben Strevens delved deeper than the previous gem although there was one useful reply to clarify opinion on Bull.
A Bees fan wrote: "Bull had an unlucky season. Having just displaced Lewis Price in goal in September, he suffered an injury that kept him out until April. By that time we had Szczesny, so Bull was never going to get a look in. He was called upon off the bench though at Southend in April and a couple of great saves meant we got a point when we were effectively playing with 9 men given the number of injuries we suffered in that game."
One poster had these opinions: (On Foster) "He isn't the greatest defender and certainly not ambitious in crossing the half-way line, but if you are looking for a steady, decent league two full-back - he'll be fine. (sic)
"I don't think we ever saw what we expected from Ben Strevens - he's quite a neat and tidy front-man but the one thing in his favour is that he doesn't stop working. And he scores his goals from inside the six-yard box, so you'll need to get balls in there for him!"
Should Wycombe win promotion and re-ignite the master plan of reaching the Championship, it will be interesting to see how many of the new contingent would be still be included given some Bees fans misgivings on our signing's supposed limitations further up the football pyramid.
As one Bees fan said: "I was very pleased that they all moved on, they are not bad players but also they are not what you need for where we hope to go. I would say that honest sums up Strevens and steady is good for Foster. I would suggest that Bull is short for bullshit but he's your average lower league keeper."
So, Strevens is going to need Kevin Betsy to dribble around the opposition team and then generously pass him the ball, good luck there Ben. Meanwhile Danny Foster will defend his territory bullishly without making too many inroads into the attacking half of the pitch. Bull might be another run of the mill goalkeeper.
Scott Shearer was a good shot-stopper however what we need is a commanding presence, something Bull can hopefully provide to a defence that for large swathes of last season was woefully disorganised.
Our friends in Hampshire, Aldershot Town, have a vociferous contingent who were none too pleased by the manner of defender Dave Winfield's departure.
Some feel that Winfield, who had allegedly agreed in principle to sign a new contract with the Shots upon his return from a holiday, has turned his back on his boyhood club, displaying a lack of class. Others are more forgiving. Politics aside, here's what they say about the lad.
One fan isn't too fussed he's left: "Waddock has just smooth talked him. Simple really. He will be on the bench for most of the season."
Another wished him all the best: "Those who have ever met, spoken to or spent time with Dave will all agree, I'm 100% sure, that the guy is a true gentleman, as polite as you could ever expect a footballer to be..and a true professional in terms of the way he approaches the game. If you believe the parting shot of a manager bitterly disappointed that he has lost a "potential future captain" and allow it to tarnish the view that you have of Dave, then so be it." (sic)
In signing a potential future captain and already having a former Shots captain in Adam Hinshelwood (subject to contract agreement), we should have a few leaders amongst the squad.
Yeovil Town fans didn't seem to say much about midfielder Kieran Murtagh other than that he will be a "quality player at this level". Likewise, Shots fans didn't appear to dwell too much on the departure of defender Andy Sandell. Either that or I’m just too lazy to dig deeper. Meh.
Sunday, 4 July 2010
Dust Settles Following Wycombe's Relegation Campaign
Willi's Wycombe
Following a dismal 2009/2010 season, where Wycombe Wanderers succumbed to relegation from League One, the dust is beginning to settle ahead of their pre-season preparations. Manager Gary Waddock has already begun the re-building process with numerous out of contract players not being offered new terms.
Unlike the build-up to last season, the management team have acted promptly and decisively to bring in a glut of new faces. Gary Waddock was always keen to mould a side in his own image with new signings cherry-picked from his former club, Aldershot Town, amongst a host of others, coming in.
The flurry of news emanating from Wycombe doesn't merely make reference to changes amongst the playing staff. Local news outlets have also reported on a proposal to lay a plastic pitch at Adams Park.
Wycombe owner Steve Hayes espoused the benefits of a fourth generation artificial pitch back in May, citing examples from rugby, namely the pitch of Guinness Premiership side, Newcastle Falcons. Aside from being advantageous to the playing side, Hayes is convinced switching to an artificial pitch could have commercial benefits too.
He told The Bucks Free Press, “The amount of money it costs to keep a really good pitch is way in excess of £75k a year, and all you can do is play football and rugby on it. With an artificial surface we could be staging all sorts of events – concerts, you name it – every night."
Although should changes be made to the playing surface, the club would have to negotiate some way around Premier League and Football League regulations that forbid surfaces that are not predominantly natural grass. In addition, should the club wish to host non-football events, they would be subject to the agreement of Wycombe District Council.
In the end of season fall-out, Hayes was also quick to publically set his targets for the upcoming campaign, with anything but promotion seen as a professional and financial failure.
"We have to go up next year. Gary knows it and everyone knows it. We don’t want to wait around another year in that division, the aim is to go up automatically and we want to do it in a blaze of glory" he told The Bucks Free Press.
With regards to the playing personnel, there has been a radical shake-up. Kevin Betsy, Alex Revell, Matt Bloomfield, John Mousinho, Adam Hinshelwood and Steve Arnold were all offered new deals with utility man Mousinho deciding to join Stevenage Borough whilst striker Alex Revell has opted to join Leyton Orient instead.
Midfielder cum forward Kevin Betsy has signed a new deal in his second spell with the club and the Blues' longest-serving player, midfielder Matt Bloomfield, has also signed new terms following his resurgence at the end of last season.
Meanwhile those released are Scott Shearer, Joe Cobb, Lewis Hunt, Luke Oliver, Lewwis Spence, Dean Keates, Kevin McLeod and Matt Harrold. First year pro George Daly has also been released without making a First Team appearance and Tom Heaton, Julian Kelly and Alan Bennett have returned to their parent clubs.
Arriving at Adams Park are 28 year-old goalkeeper Nikki Bull from Brentford. Waddock is familiar with Bull with the 'keeper previously playing for Aldershot Town. Central defender Dave Winfield, 22, has also joined from Aldershot.
Wycombe have also swooped to bring in Brentford duo, Danny Foster, 25, and experienced striker, 30 year-old Ben Strevens. Foster is seen as the ideal replacement for the outgoing Lewis Hunt whilst Strevens is a familiar face, having played against Wycombe for Barnet and Dagenham and Redbridge.
Young midfielder, Kieran Murtagh, 21, has signed from Yeovil Town. Murtagh scored against the Wanderers last season and the Blues reportedly fought off competition from a number of clubs to secure his signature.
Replacing former captain Craig Woodman, who has since moved to Brentford, is another signing from Aldershot, left-back, Andy Sandell.
Wycombe have moved to form a potent strike force having struggled for goals last term. Aside from the addition of Strevens, the Blues have brought in striker Scott Rendell from Peterborough United. The 23 year-old failed to secure a starting berth at Posh but has enjoyed some successful loan spells, including last season at Torquay United where he scored 12 goals in 35 League Two games.
Wycombe will begin their pre-season campaign of friendlies barely a few days after this summer's World Cup has finished. The Blues face local outfit Chesham United at The Meadow before facing other non-league sides including Hayes and Yeading and Uxbridge.
Marquee home games include friendlies against Championship side and local rivals, Reading, on Saturday 24 July (kick-off 3pm) and a highly anticipated match against a Chelsea XI on Thursday 29 July (kick-off 7.45pm).
The beginning of the Football League season sees Wycombe open their League Two campaign against Morecambe on Saturday 7 August. The following week the Blues travel up north to meet old sparring partners, Stockport County. The Blues will renew another rivalry with Oxford United arriving at Adams Park on Saturday 21 August.
Refreshingly, Wycombe have moved fast in the transfer market to bolster the squad. There look to be some exciting additions with Ben Strevens, Scott Rendell, Jon Paul-Pittman and Stuart Beavon set to fiercely compete for starting-places up-front.
Willi's Wycombe will be analysing the ins and outs besides looking ahead in earnest to what will be a crucial 2010/2011 season.
Expectations are high as Wycombe seek automatic promotion to avoid more potential play-off heartbreak. Steve Hayes and co. will not tolerate another five seasons in the Football League's bottom tier. The fans will not accept financial meltdown in the pursuit of glory. It's imperative that this precarious balance is achieved.
Following a dismal 2009/2010 season, where Wycombe Wanderers succumbed to relegation from League One, the dust is beginning to settle ahead of their pre-season preparations. Manager Gary Waddock has already begun the re-building process with numerous out of contract players not being offered new terms.
Unlike the build-up to last season, the management team have acted promptly and decisively to bring in a glut of new faces. Gary Waddock was always keen to mould a side in his own image with new signings cherry-picked from his former club, Aldershot Town, amongst a host of others, coming in.
The flurry of news emanating from Wycombe doesn't merely make reference to changes amongst the playing staff. Local news outlets have also reported on a proposal to lay a plastic pitch at Adams Park.
Wycombe owner Steve Hayes espoused the benefits of a fourth generation artificial pitch back in May, citing examples from rugby, namely the pitch of Guinness Premiership side, Newcastle Falcons. Aside from being advantageous to the playing side, Hayes is convinced switching to an artificial pitch could have commercial benefits too.
He told The Bucks Free Press, “The amount of money it costs to keep a really good pitch is way in excess of £75k a year, and all you can do is play football and rugby on it. With an artificial surface we could be staging all sorts of events – concerts, you name it – every night."
Although should changes be made to the playing surface, the club would have to negotiate some way around Premier League and Football League regulations that forbid surfaces that are not predominantly natural grass. In addition, should the club wish to host non-football events, they would be subject to the agreement of Wycombe District Council.
In the end of season fall-out, Hayes was also quick to publically set his targets for the upcoming campaign, with anything but promotion seen as a professional and financial failure.
"We have to go up next year. Gary knows it and everyone knows it. We don’t want to wait around another year in that division, the aim is to go up automatically and we want to do it in a blaze of glory" he told The Bucks Free Press.
With regards to the playing personnel, there has been a radical shake-up. Kevin Betsy, Alex Revell, Matt Bloomfield, John Mousinho, Adam Hinshelwood and Steve Arnold were all offered new deals with utility man Mousinho deciding to join Stevenage Borough whilst striker Alex Revell has opted to join Leyton Orient instead.
Midfielder cum forward Kevin Betsy has signed a new deal in his second spell with the club and the Blues' longest-serving player, midfielder Matt Bloomfield, has also signed new terms following his resurgence at the end of last season.
Meanwhile those released are Scott Shearer, Joe Cobb, Lewis Hunt, Luke Oliver, Lewwis Spence, Dean Keates, Kevin McLeod and Matt Harrold. First year pro George Daly has also been released without making a First Team appearance and Tom Heaton, Julian Kelly and Alan Bennett have returned to their parent clubs.
Arriving at Adams Park are 28 year-old goalkeeper Nikki Bull from Brentford. Waddock is familiar with Bull with the 'keeper previously playing for Aldershot Town. Central defender Dave Winfield, 22, has also joined from Aldershot.
Wycombe have also swooped to bring in Brentford duo, Danny Foster, 25, and experienced striker, 30 year-old Ben Strevens. Foster is seen as the ideal replacement for the outgoing Lewis Hunt whilst Strevens is a familiar face, having played against Wycombe for Barnet and Dagenham and Redbridge.
Young midfielder, Kieran Murtagh, 21, has signed from Yeovil Town. Murtagh scored against the Wanderers last season and the Blues reportedly fought off competition from a number of clubs to secure his signature.
Replacing former captain Craig Woodman, who has since moved to Brentford, is another signing from Aldershot, left-back, Andy Sandell.
Wycombe have moved to form a potent strike force having struggled for goals last term. Aside from the addition of Strevens, the Blues have brought in striker Scott Rendell from Peterborough United. The 23 year-old failed to secure a starting berth at Posh but has enjoyed some successful loan spells, including last season at Torquay United where he scored 12 goals in 35 League Two games.
Wycombe will begin their pre-season campaign of friendlies barely a few days after this summer's World Cup has finished. The Blues face local outfit Chesham United at The Meadow before facing other non-league sides including Hayes and Yeading and Uxbridge.
Marquee home games include friendlies against Championship side and local rivals, Reading, on Saturday 24 July (kick-off 3pm) and a highly anticipated match against a Chelsea XI on Thursday 29 July (kick-off 7.45pm).
The beginning of the Football League season sees Wycombe open their League Two campaign against Morecambe on Saturday 7 August. The following week the Blues travel up north to meet old sparring partners, Stockport County. The Blues will renew another rivalry with Oxford United arriving at Adams Park on Saturday 21 August.
Refreshingly, Wycombe have moved fast in the transfer market to bolster the squad. There look to be some exciting additions with Ben Strevens, Scott Rendell, Jon Paul-Pittman and Stuart Beavon set to fiercely compete for starting-places up-front.
Willi's Wycombe will be analysing the ins and outs besides looking ahead in earnest to what will be a crucial 2010/2011 season.
Expectations are high as Wycombe seek automatic promotion to avoid more potential play-off heartbreak. Steve Hayes and co. will not tolerate another five seasons in the Football League's bottom tier. The fans will not accept financial meltdown in the pursuit of glory. It's imperative that this precarious balance is achieved.
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