Chairman Phil Wallace addresses Stevenage supporters ahead of tonight's FA Cup First Round replay vs MK Dons...
Welcome to The Lamex today and a warm welcome to the players, management, officials and supporters of MK Dons...
This FA Cup replay should be an exciting affair. We played well in the last game at Stadium MK and were unlucky not to win the tie. But we now get another bite and, although MK will no doubt be favourites again, the FA Cup is all about magic and upsets. Players feel that too, they know what is on the line. Yeovil away will be tough for either side but the Third Round is within touching distance of that round and, with it, a chance to create unforgettable memories that last forever. So, no motivation will be required this evening and a cracking cup tie should be in prospect.
By now most will know that, sadly, we parted company with Alex Revell and Dean Wilkins on Sunday. I say sadly because we have all worked towards a vision of how we wanted our Club to be, but it has not worked out for us. Rarely do you meet a person like Revs, and it was a pleasure and privilege to work with him. We all know football is a savage business and we all know how it works, but that does not make it any easier when people lose their jobs, especially when it is not from a lack of effort or dedication. But something has not been right as seven points from the last twelve games proves, so we got to the point where a change of approach and people was essential. There is no ideal time to make this decision and nobody outside the circle knows what is going on within it. Football careers can change in a heartbeat – balls hit the post and go in instead of coming out, confidence is restored, and long winning runs come into play. I cannot count how many times I have seen that in my 30 years owning football clubs.
So, now we are at a crossroad. The next step is crucial for us, and we need experience in the management team we employ next. We have the squad that Revs and Dean wanted, a technically gifted squad but with perhaps some aspects missing, otherwise past results would have been better. The dressing room is solid and packed full of good characters and great professionals. Something for a new gaffer to build upon between now and the end of December. The January window will provide the opportunity to strengthen, and we are able to provide funds for that.
Academy Manager Robbie O’Keefe will take the game for us today and my thanks to him for stepping in at such short notice. This game is crucial for both clubs so let’s hear you today.
Get behind the lads and let’s see if we can get a place in the Second Round. Enjoy the match!
- Phil Wallace
- Please click here to view or download the Stevenage vs MK Dons Digital Matchday Programme in full.
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Match tickets for Stevenage vs MK Dons are now available from www.borotickets.co.uk.
