Fans are not to blame for Bristol City's shortcomings
I am writing to you to express how strongly I feel about Gary Johnson's comments in your newspaper on Friday.
I was very disappointed that the fans were held accountable for the fact that our team cannot hold a lead. It should never be the case that you blame your dedicated fans.
As a season-ticket holder I was appalled by Gary Johnson's allegations that the fans had given up. We all knew how important Monday's game was, but you see the fans are not in control of what happens on the pitch, and that seems to be where it all goes wrong.
I ask Mr Johnson to assess himself before he accuses us. He cannot find a striker. Yes, Nicky Maynard has potential and he creates a promising partnership with Dele Adebola (who looks to be heading to QPR), but please explain the point of Stern John. I don't understand what Johnson sees in him – he's expensive , lazy and is not a team player (which is what Bristol City is all about, I'm sure you would agree).
There is also the confusing purchase of Peter Styvar. What possessed Johnson to a buy a 28-year-old (29 in August) player who is not particularly good, has no experience in the English league, and does not really have enough time to improve and adapt?
I know the relationship between Johnson and the players is close, like family perhaps, but this case of nepotism has gone too far.
It's unfair. Let's remember how we got to the play-off final last year – a stunning 30-yard strike from David Noble. Surely he deserved a regular place in the team this season?
I hate to say it, but it just so happens he plays in the same position as Lee Johnson.
It's sad when you can see a player like Noble go to waste.
It's been proved that Bristol City is a great club, after getting automatic promotion in the 06-07 season, fighting its way to fourth place in the championship and then deservedly reaching the play-off final.
But it's upsetting not seeing everyone give 100 per cent, and that's what we're going to need if we're to win the next three games. All the best for the City!
Yours sincerely,
Nancy, 15, Bristol
3 Comments
by DW, Bristol
Monday, April 20 2009, 7:23AM
“Nancy you are talking rubbish to be fair, get over it! Everyone knows that the City fans can be fickle, I thin kGJ was spot on in his assessment to be honest”
by david, bedminster
Saturday, April 18 2009, 9:32AM
“Nancy what a great letter.You;ve done What Johnson doesn't want to admit to, and what we all know is the truth.”
by mike, wexford, eire
Saturday, April 18 2009, 6:25AM
“i think what g j meant was bristol fans are very fickle at aston gate & i for one back him, they should act as if they were the 12th man but no all they do is moan.I was at ashton in the williams stand when i tried to gee the reds on i was told to shut it & watch the game that was from city fans (moaners) & police it appears you can t do anything at aston other than sit & be quiet.I remember when you used to have the old east end that made more noise than the whole of the ground does these days sorry p.c. has come into game &that is something you cant change even gj”