On The Ponty End

And The Genie Said...

Ian Wilkinson at 10:47:00 0

Spending the festive season in a corner of The Lamproom Theatre, Barnsley, you may be surprised to hear that events at Oakwell are never far from mind.

In a small corner of the theatre, we found ourselves at the stage in the story where Aladdin is trapped in the cave, locked in by his evil nemesis, Abanazar. Grasping the magic lamp, Aladdin releases The Genie.

The Genie appears and announces to Aladdin, "Aladdin, I may grant you three wishes, but before you make your first wish I must explain that there are three things that I cannot do". He paused for a moment.

"I can not grant you any more wishes, even my magic is not that powerful"

"I can not make somebody fall in love with you"

Before finally turning to the audience, The Genie Said, "and I can not get Barnsley promoted". The crowd chuckled.

One heckler screamed out, "But Mark Robins can!"

Suddenly for one moment, I've forgotten all about poor Aladdin's plight and I'm moved to agree with the heckler, becoming heckler No. 2 by retorting, "Yeah, he's right, Mark Robins will!".

Perhaps, the Reds have been under the radar for some time now. Maybe we might have become far more noticeable, but many Championship bosses could be forgiven for not listening when they were told, "He's behind you". Maybe that might not be the case in the second half of the season.

According to the Star, "Unbeaten run signals play-offs bid says Foster". The games in hand are critical in reducing the gap between us and seventh, but I believe Fozzy is speaking absolute sense.

Oh yes he is!!

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Merry Christmas fellow Barnsley fans

Ian Wilkinson at 16:27:00 0

Thanks first to everyone who has contributed to the Blog and the Podcast this year.

But without an audience it would all be pointless. This week we were able to verify over 10,000 downloads have been achieved via iTunes, the Blog and other distribution channels. We are amazed and grateful for your support.

Have a fantastic Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Now we have Shotton and Dickinson, what next? A shot at the Play-Offs anyone?

All the best,

OnThePontyEnd.com

"Zelda The Incredible" and "Dial A Hero" Review Barnsley FC through the "Noughties" and more ...

Ian Wilkinson at 11:00:00 0

Zelda The Incredible and Dial A Hero review Barnsley FC through the "Noughties" and more.

Well, who else did you think would do it?

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E09

Ian Wilkinson at 15:44:00 0

Nearly live from the Legends Lounge, The Full House, Monk Bretton, Barnsley. Free subscription service for Barnsley FC fans. Regularly updated, featuring fans views, comment and opinion on current events and news coming out of Oakwell concerning Barnsley Football Club.

In this episode we look back at some of the highs and lows concerning Barnsley Football Club over the last decade with some of your feedback too.

More of Geoff's stats and recollections.

And discover which local ground, according to Mick, could become more profitable by growing taties on it.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Click HERE > and provide us with your comments either on this episode or to submit your views on events at Barnsley Football Club - as you see things. Get something over now, we would love to give you a voice in the next Episode.

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Got an iPhone? Get in touch with iPadio

Ian Wilkinson at 13:10:00 0

Over numerous Podcast editions, we've asked our audience to get in touch with OnThePontyEnd.com via many sources including email. Now through the launch of a free application, ipadio (available on iTunes), you can now record and send in your match reports or comments directly to the team.

ipadio allows anyone to broadcast from any phone to the Internet live. Phone blog, collect audio data, record and update the world, or simply let your mates know what you're doing - ipadio is integrated with Social Media & Blogging platforms.

Simply download the application via iTunes HERE >
Register your details either via the application or at ipadio.com
Record and upload your first Phlog (Phone Log)
Send us the link to your hosted files HERE >

We will aim to feature as many of your Phlogs in each Podcast edition. Also the "Phlog of the Week" will be embedded on this site, distributed throughout the internet including NewsNow as a featured article.

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E08

Ian Wilkinson at 01:20:00 0

Nearly live from the Legends Lounge, The Full House, Monk Bretton, Barnsley. Free subscription service for Barnsley FC fans. Regularly updated, featuring fans views, comment and opinion on current events and news coming out of Oakwell concerning Barnsley Football Club.

In this episode we have a "cracker" reviewing the contrasting differences between the two games since we last got together.

We also wind up the Rumour Mill once more and debate who should have been the "Man of the Match" versus Newcastle.

Plus, as always we feature your feedback "In off the Post"

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E07

Ian Wilkinson at 12:51:00 0

Nearly live from the Legends Lounge, The Full House, Monk Bretton, Barnsley. Free subscription service for Barnsley FC fans. Regularly updated, featuring fans views, comment and opinion on current events and news coming out of Oakwell concerning Barnsley Football Club.

Welcome back. In this edition, the panel discuss and look forward to "the Toons" coming to Tarn. We've also got more Geoff-tastic facts for you in store.

Also, we ask if Barnsley are planning a Palace smash and grab.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E06

Ian Wilkinson at 01:13:00 0

Nearly live from the Legends Lounge, The Full House, Monk Bretton, Barnsley. Free subscription service for Barnsley FC fans. Regularly updated, featuring fans views, comment and opinion on current events and news coming out of Oakwell concerning Barnsley Football Club.

Que Sera! Doesn't quite fit, eh?

In this particular episode we wonder; Where is Duckworth Lewis when "rain stops play"?

Geoff is back with the answer to last week's riddler and the rumour mill is reviewed once again regarding the potential incoming / outgoing Reds.

Plus, did "Banksey" get "nobbled"?

Confused? Maybe. Decide for yourself after this edition of OnThePontyEnd.com | The Podcast

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Blackpool Vs Barnsley: who will win on 5 December?

Ian Wilkinson at 18:57:00 0

Blackpool Vs Barnsley: who will win on 5 December?

Plymouth Deluge Prevents The Reds Climb Up

Ian Wilkinson at 13:22:00 0

Given yesterdays deluge had not led to the match being abondoned, the Reds would now be sitting (joint) 13th in the league and within striking distance of climbing in to the top ten. Not forgetting, a victory at Home Park of the proportion it was becoming would have also massively reversed the negative goal difference we have.

Instead, the Reds remain in 15th place and another referee makes a name for himself against the lads from Oakwell. Even the normally reserved Patrick Cryne can't hide his frustration on this occasion.

Do events like this simply make the club stronger and more resolute in its efforts to achieve even more this season? Only time will tell. But on yesterday's evidence, Barnsley look capable of being the Championship's surprise package and a result against Blackpool next week may confirm this.

Who would believe that Nathan Doyle is now banned as a result of a booking received in a void game and Anderson has now not served his suspension due to the abandonment. How can supporters seriously respect referees and the rules of the FA, when they consistently appear to effect our club this way?

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

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Match Abandoned

Ian Wilkinson at 16:46:00 1

What happens now? Maybe this is a case for Geoff? Surely there is a means test that occurs, perhaps carbon foot-prints count alongside litres of rain. To expect it all to happen again isn't exactly "Green" Army.

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E05

Ian Wilkinson at 23:52:00 0

Robins' Reds go marching on! We review last weekend's win against Cardiff. Gerrin' theer Barnsley! Everything continues to roll.

Perhaps there's still debate in light of Anderson's ban, how will we play in midfield on Saturday and what has happened to JCR is on the panel's lips tonight.

Also, we introduce a new spot. Our own Mr. "Statto" (Geoff) looks at some of the fascinating facts relating to to previous Plymouth Vs Barnsley encounters, would you care to contribute too?

For the Podcast with more front than Jordan, you're in the right place, it's all here in this edition of OnThePontyend.com | The Podcast.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Plymouth Vs Barnsley: who will win on 28 November?

Ian Wilkinson at 13:15:00 2

Plymouth Vs Barnsley: who will win on 28 November?

Barnsley Vs Cardiff City, who will win on 21 November?

Ian Wilkinson at 01:05:00 0

Barnsley Vs Cardiff City: who will win on 21 November?

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E04

Ian Wilkinson at 00:30:00 0

Yes, we're finally back. Our disappearance is not owed to an alien abduction, but hey - you'll never get to know the truth!!

In this episode, we review Mark Robins' Reds - 10 weeks in to his tenure at Oakwell. The panel also discuss the early runners for "Player of the Season". Like the rest of us, are YOU dreaming now of the possibility of reaching the play-offs? The stats might suggest so. Also, here you can find out why a stock controller from Rotherham has fallen out with Mick. Forget "I'm a Celebrity..." it's all here on this edition of OnThePontyend.com | The Podcast.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Click HERE > and provide us with your comments either on this episode or to submit your views on events at Barnsley Football Club - as you see things. Get something over now, we would love to give you a voice in the next Episode.

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Barnsley Vs Bristol City: who will win on 24 Oct?

Ian Wilkinson at 11:12:00 0

Barnsley Vs Bristol City: who will win on 24 Oct?

Carling and Sky, cock-up: Why?

Ian Wilkinson at 10:57:00 1

According to sources, Carling launch their first "Fan Exchange" schedule on Sky Sports on Tuesday 27th October 2009, in an attempt to celebrate what we've got in common rather than the differences between towns, cities and their supporters.

On this occasion, Barnsley FC host Manchester United and in our ambassadorial role, we apparently get the opportunity to share what Barnsley and the club are all about.

However, in spite of the changes taking place over the last two decades or so, Sky and Carling insist that we go back in time to depict the town and it's club in a negative, stereotypical fashion, which only serves to seperate rather than unite modern fans and modern attitudes.

For example, in contrast to the new Civic Development, the Digital Media Centre, the Mandela Gardens and the notorious - but confusing Barnsley Clock, we could also have seen an introduction (for younger Manchester United fans) to our famous Barnsley Son, Tommy Taylor, his birthplace, his legacy and final resting place. Instead, viewers will see a Working Mens Club, images of Grimethorpe Pit (famed for it's role in Brassed Off) and a moment or two in St. Peter's Church.

Perhaps you will be surprised that they don't wheel out David Bradley and a Kestrel for good measure too.

Whilst it is our heritage, our historical past, would Sky or Carling also insist on the Salford contingent steering along in their clogs for the event - for cultural equilibrium. It stinks that they want to treat our Town, our Club, our Blood - this way.

Sky or Carling, you are welcome to respond !!

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Reader Letter: Oakwell in the 21st Century

Ian Wilkinson at 11:54:00 1

Thanks to those who read and contribute to the Blog and Podcast. In the mail today, the following post arrived, what do you think Reds fans?

Hi Reds Fans,

Is it just me or should Oakwell be now entering into the new season with 21st century technology.

I am a great fan of Mr Cryne and his accomplishments although I think being a technological guy he should have got a LARGE SCREEN last season.

I think that a large screen would be a great asset, not only for the fans but for advertising and promoting Barnsley.

You only have to look a few miles away to the Galpharm Stadium in Huddersfield to see that it is a big success and it draws in crowds.

You may ask that if Barnsley did put a screen up, who would animate it and come up with the goods. Well there is a perfectly good University Centre under a mile away called University Centre Barnsley, who might I add are animating Huddersfields screen, For Free.

Anyway all i wanted to do was to get this idea across and see if any other fans agreed.

Mr Anony-mouse
A Wombwell Red

Also, if Mr Cryne ever sees this message, I went to his old school and saw him on a few occasions visiting. Good lad.

Nottingham Forest Vs Barnsley: who will win on 20 Oct?

Ian Wilkinson at 17:37:00 1

Nottingham Forest Vs Barnsley: who will win on 20 Oct?

Barnsley Vs Ipswich Town: who will win on 3rd October

Ian Wilkinson at 11:32:00 0

Barnsley Vs Ipswich Town, who will win on 3 Oct?

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Twitter Prediction: Barnsley Vs Man Utd

Ian Wilkinson at 12:03:00 0

Mark Robins, has been handed his perfect draw in the fourth round of the Carling Cup, after Barnsley were paired with the club where he spent most of his playing career, Manchester United.

Fans will now be hoping the Reds can replicate their FA Cup run of 2008 when they accounted for two of the 'big four' in the shape of Liverpool and Chelsea.

Perfectly in line with my Twitter prediction on the 24th September 2009, come on you Reds!

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

QPR Vs Barnsley, who will win on 26 September?

Ian Wilkinson at 17:57:00 0

Queens Park Rangers Vs Barnsley, who will win on 26 Sep?

Contraversial: Maybe?

Ian Wilkinson at 21:43:00 2

Give the fans a voice and they will use it. Or will they?

Nobody supporting the Reds would necessarily go about undermining or ridiculing the football club they love, but consistency has to be the key. Surely?

Whilst there was absolute division in opinion on Mr. Davey, most Reds fans stuck to a line - support him or sack him. However, it appears disconcerting that when given the privelege to do so, certain aspects of those reporting on Barnsley FC choose to praise but also chastise very quickly.

In respect to SD, the post advised, "Incredibly some fans were already calling for his head after 45 minutes of the season. Give the man a chance – lets judge him after he has made the signings he wants to and can field his strongest side".

To be told this week, "It has also been a refreshing change to listen to Mark’s post match interviews and feel like you’ve been to the same game as him. Not only does he give credit where it is due, but he’s not afraid to criticise if he feels it necessary. This is in stark contrast to Simon Davey who would often speak in bland cliches and rarely reveal anything insightful (which ultimately contributed to his lack of rapport with supporters)".

Make your mind up, it may be a cliche - but "Rome wasn't built in a day", neither was any fan's opinion.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Barnsley Vs Burnley: who will win on 22 September

Ian Wilkinson at 12:03:00 0

Barnsley Vs Burnley, who will win on 22 Sep?

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Podcast Special: Eric Winstanley speaks to OnThePontyEnd.com

Ian Wilkinson at 11:32:00 0

Following a number of requests and also to present these three special editions to our visitors from NewsNow.co.uk, OnThePontyEnd.com has released all three parts of the special Podcast recorded in June 2009 with Reds Legend Eric Winstanley.

We owe a debt of gratitude to the great man himself. In just one evening we were given a unique opportunity to capture a snapshot of the depth of affection, commitment and love Eric has for Barnsley FC and football in general.

Quite literally, we could have continued to talk for days and still we would have only scratched the surface on Eric's illustrious career.

So here they are, all three editions "nearly live from the Legend's Lounge, The Full House, Monk Bretton, Barnsley".

We invite you to listen to the full series right here:

Click the play button* below to listen to Part 1:

Click the play button* below to listen to Part 2:

Click the play button* below to listen to Part 3:

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

(the cost to call from a BT landline is 5p per minute, mobile operators may vary)

Full Time: Barnsley 0 - 0 Swansea

Ian Wilkinson at 16:42:00 0

The Reds held on for a point in a difficult encounter against the Swans at Oakwell this afternoon.

Swansea dominated posession throughout the match against Robins' Reds and were possibly unlucky not to have taken all three points at the death when Dyer was through and couldn't convert an almost inevitable goal.

Preece saved Barnsley with a solid display in which the Reds offered very little in response to a versatile handful of chances that the opposition sprung.

Overall it has been a disappointing afternoon, on any other day the Swans would easily have put Barnsley to the sword. Not today though.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

First Half: Barnsley Vs Swansea

Ian Wilkinson at 14:50:00 0

The Reds took their first outing under Mark Robinson stewardship at Oakwell today.

First impressions were of a very capable oposition in the shape of Swansea City, the first quarter of an hour being ruled by the Swans sharp, one touch passing.

On 15 minutes, Hume was cut as a result of what appeared to be an elbow. The Ref failed to act.

Just four minutes later, Hume reappeared back on the turf 'mended'.

It would be fair to say the Ref appeared to be watching more events with 'white' eyes on more than just a few occasions with a potential call for a penalty when Gray went through on goal on 27 minutes. The worrying thing being that if the Europa League experiment is proven to work we may end up with three 'slack-oils' at the 'well rather than just one on a regular basis.

The atmosphere has been superb with the Red Army in vociferous support. None more so than the Ponty End.

Chances for both have been limited, but the Reds are putting in a shift today. Gray coming close on half time with a deflected effort from a drilled ball via Hammill.

Half Time: Barnsley 0 - 0 Swansea

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Or leave your comments via the Podcast Callinbox voicemail number: 0844 579 6949 Mailbox 85308

Barnsley Fans: Get your voice on the Podcast

Ian Wilkinson at 11:56:00 0

It's Mark Robins first taste of management at Oakwell today, hopefully the ground will be swelling with support for the Reds in this new management era.

Why not get your comments to the Podcast team via our brand new Call-In service?

What are your feelings on events at Oakwell? Did the manager select the correct tactics? Which players performed best on the day and who were the villians?

Simply call our local rate number 0844 579 6949 and enter our mailbox number 85308. Leave a message for us there.

The best calls will be featured in the very next edition, due out next week.

For information about callinbox please visit www.callinbox.com

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Barnsley Vs Swansea, who will win on 19 September?

Ian Wilkinson at 11:52:00 2

Barnsley Vs Swansea City, who will win on 19 Sep?

Watford Vs Barnsley: Who will win?

Ian Wilkinson at 19:40:00 0

Watford Vs Barnsley, who will win on 12 Sep?

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E03

Ian Wilkinson at 19:56:00 0

Recorded on Tuesday 8th September 2009, an announcement was imminent on Mark Robins appointment. Would the Reds fan base delight in the news that was released the following 24 hours later?

In this Episode, we look back at the Reading game once more, which was the pre-cursor to the departure of Simon Davey and the Oakwell vacancy. There were early "runners and riders" for the post and other names mentioned too. The panel discuss the options that were available to the club. As always, we bring in your feedack "In off The Post", keep sending us your comments and feedback.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Click HERE > and provide us with your comments either on this episode or to submit your views on events at Barnsley Football Club - as you see things. Get something over now, we would love to give you a voice in the next Episode.

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Can we dream? Yes we can!

Ian Wilkinson at 19:46:00 1

After days of seemingly protracted negotiations, the announcement has finally arrived and Mark Robins alongside his staff now takes the helm at Oakwell.

What will Mr. Robins and his team find? Just what expectations do fans of Barnsley FC have and how can this era in the football club's history be regarded as one of the most positive periods we have had since the heady days of Danny Wilson and the Premiership?

Can we dream? Yes we can!

The fans

With an average of just 52% of the ground inhabited on a typical match day, "fickle" or "care-less" could easily be directed at Barnsley's fan base, but the potential has been demonstrated on more than one occasion in recent times.

Take the Play-Off final as just one example, where 20,000 Reds fans hit the road in support of their heroes; to see Barnsley return to the Championship.

Versus Chelsea, Oakwell achieved an attendance of just over 22,400 with the proportion of visitors supporting Chelsea at maybe 6,000. That's around 16,000 Barnsley supporters (who could gain tickets) eager to see the Reds fulfil a fantasy.

Fans will not simply flood back in to the Ponty End and elsewhere over night, but giving them something more than three points is where fans dreams lay. Yes, results dictate almost everything in the modern game but the Oakwell faithful crave for clear evidence that the playing staff and management share our passion for the club. They demand total effort and uncompromising flair.

Expectation

The goal need not be survival for a club like Barnsley, who in comparison to other clubs in this league may seem relatively small in stature. Presently, only Scunny, Blackpool, The Posh, Donny and Plymouth rank lower than Barnsley on their average attendances. Statistically though, Barnsley have spent more seasons in the second tier of English football than any other club in history. Call it our "natural" home.

Would mid-table obscurity suffice then? Possibly, but fans expect to see cohesion amongst the playing staff and fondly remember the team assembled by Danny Wilson. On paper they were not "the cream" of the division as individuals, but they knew and went about their job as a team.

Further evidence of this was shown at Eric Winstanley's testimonial; when a star studded Manchester United side arrived including the likes of Ryan Giggs and Dwight Yorke, against Steve Parkin's BFC squad. From memory it was a lacklustre performance to say the least and an easy going (fruitless) 0 -0 by half time. In the second half however, Danny Wilson and Eric led their "promotion eleven" to replace Parkin's men and the fluidity of play between players and the understanding they had as a team made it clear for all how a unit ought to play.

That day, Barnsley won 1 - 0, but it was more than a result. It was an example of how a Barnsley team could and should play. It was a poignant reminder of what Barnsley had lost after Wilson.

League position is important, especially at this moment in our season. Clearly, fans will expect more than they have had dished up over the last few games, but in fairness they deserve more anyway than an annual relegation scrap. They want to be entertained and excited, not bewildered an alienated by the team they love.

"And where we are met with cynicism and doubts and those who tell us that we can't, we will respond with that timeless creed that sums up the spirit of a people: Yes, we can."

- Barack Obama (November 2008)

Come on you Reds !!

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Mark Robins: Reasons to be cheerful

Ian Wilkinson at 18:48:00 2

According to the popular press, it now seems almost inevitable that Mark Robins will be unveiled soon as the new boss at Barnsley FC.

Presently it seems that this appointment will receive a mixed reception, with many soothsayers likening this appointment to the doomed tenure of Steve Parkin et al from Rochdale in the earlier part of this decade.

It's worth pointing out that as first team coach at (Premier League) Hull, Steve Parkin was cited by Sir Alex Ferguson, alongside Phil Brown and Brian Horton as being a key component in that success.

Whilst I appreciate that there may be some similarities in appointing a young Manager from League Two, there are many more positives to note.

Championship Managers

Firstly, amongst those Championship managers who have retained their position in excess of two years at their present clubs, only Dave Jones and Gareth Southgate have worked at a higher level than the Championship. More often than not, dues have been paid first at lower league level.

Gary Johnson, one of the most charismatic Managers presently in our league, served at Cambridge United, Kettering Town, via Latvia and Yeovil Town before finding his role at Bristol City. Would any Reds fan have turned up their nose at that appointment?

Sean O'Driscoll at Donny, spent six years at Bournemouth before taking the reigns at Rovers. Brian Laws served an apprenticeship of sorts at Grimsby, spending almost a decade with Scunny before moving on to Hillsborough. Nigel Adkins has done a fair job at Scunny too, with the only prior experience of football management gained exclusively at Bangor City.

Mark Robins may be arriving from Rotherham United, but the experience seems to have served him well over the last two and a half years, winning nearly 43% of the games in which he has been in charge, losing just 43 games out of the 128 on his record.

Player Network

Robins is often noted as the player who scored the goal which "saved Alex Ferguson's job" in 1990. Perhaps Sir Alex may now feel at Championship level, he may now be in a position to reciprocate.

Currently both Steve Bruce and Mark Hughes also manage at high profile clubs respectively. Robins was an integral part of the same squad for a large period in their playing days at Old Trafford. On that level alone, appointing Robins has to be good if this improves our player network and scouting reach.

As a fan, it feels good in my opinion to be on the cusp of bringing a winner in to the ranks at Oakwell. Especially for the youngsters who should aspire to reach the top of their game, what better example could we realistically have?

Mark Robins has the credibility, the honours (FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup Winners Cup) and the experience to make this potential appointment a success. I look forward to hearing the club confirm this news soon.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Who will be the new Barnsley FC Manager?

Ian Wilkinson at 19:04:00 1

Who will be the new Barnsley FC Manager?

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E02

Ian Wilkinson at 00:16:00 0

Oops, it's all going horribly wrong. The team have got together once more, almost live from The Full House at Monk Bretton in Barnsley to attempt to make sense of it all.

In this Episode, we review the recent games and discuss a new book which On The Ponty End's listeners have been invited to contribute to. Mick discusses the Pies at the `well and it wouldn't be a complete episode without reference to the departure of Mr Davey, recorded in an unplanned but not necessarily unexpected extra segment of this edition of the podcast.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Click HERE > and provide us with your comments either on this episode or to submit your views on events at Barnsley Football Club - as you see things. Get something over now, we would love to give you a voice in the next Episode.

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Simon Davey leaves Oakwell

Ian Wilkinson at 18:24:00 1

Media organisations are currently going in to overdrive, reporting on an official statement from the club.

It reads:

"It is with regret that Barnsley Football Club and first team manager Simon Davey have mutually agreed to part company. We would like to place on record our sincere thanks for all the hard work Simon has put in during his two-and-a-half tenure as manager and wish him every success in the future."

Barnsley Vs Reading, who will win on 29 August?

Ian Wilkinson at 00:41:00 0

Barnsley Vs Reading, who will win on 29 August?

On The Ponty End Readers | A message from the Football Supporters’ Federation:

Ian Wilkinson at 19:38:00 0

The Football Supporters’ Federation is now offering free membership to all fans from across the UK and beyond. We’re offering free membership because we’re geared to creating a larger, more vocal campaigning force for fans of all clubs up and down the country. If you’re worried about the direction the game is heading, whether it’s the way that fans are policed week-in, week-out, ticket prices being prohibitively expensive or club ownership issues, then join our existing 140,000+ individual and affiliate members and stand up for fan interests.

There has never been a more important time to ensure your voice is heard, and it’s never been easier to get involved. All you need to do to become a member is give us your name and email address – it’s that simple.

JOIN HERE >

All newly joining members are entitled to a free issue of The Football Supporter magazine delivered straight to your door, absolutely free of charge, as well as receiving a £5 discount from TOFFS, the UK’s largest retailer of retro football shirts, just as our thank-you to you for getting involved. You can use the code as many times as you like between now and the end of the year, too. You can’t say fairer than that, surely?

Everyone who signs up before 31st August will also be entered into a free prize draw to win a retro shirt of their choice, so you’ve really got nothing to lose.

These are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of deals and offers that you’ll receive as an FSF member, but we know that you’re not in it for the freebies, but because you’re interested in the issues which concern fans, and want to make sure that someone is looking out for you and your interests – remember the ‘No to Gam£ 39’ campaign from 2008, or the Stoke fans who won compensation from the police after they illegally served them with Section 27 notices earlier this year? The FSF are instrumental in fighting for fans’ interests in these, and other campaigns - LINK >

Get involved today – visit and give us 30 seconds of your time, and become part of something. Feel free to pass this on to family, friends, colleagues or other messageboards, blogs or email lists.

If you’ve got any questions at all about free membership, or anything the FSF get up to, then get in touch with us – leave a message below, or email us HERE >

Full House: Supporters Trust Meeting

Ian Wilkinson at 05:06:00 0

The inaugural meeting of the Official Full House branch of the Barnsley FC Supporters Trust will be held on Thursday 27th August 2009, starting at 7:00 p.m.

This is a general meeting open to members only. The purpose of the meeting is to elect officials and set any follow up agenda amongst it's members.

Mick Lewis, organiser, informs me that the meeting will be held in "Jokers" at the Full House, Monk Bretton. Guests may include Alan Bloore, the current Chairman of Barnsley FC Supporters Trust.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

First Goal: Reading Vs Barnsley

Ian Wilkinson at 19:30:00 0

What time will the 1st goal be scored
"Reading Vs Barnsley" 25th August?

Barnsley fans can contribute to a new book

Ian Wilkinson at 13:08:00 0

OnThePontyEnd's community have been invited to contribute to a new book called "Around the Grounds: The Essential Fans Guide to the Clubs of the English Football League” to be published Christmas 2009 by Footprint Books.

The book aims to gives a unique insight into the life and personality of each team and those who support them. There's loads of questions which they want us to contribute answers for. For ease, I've posted them on our Podcast Facebook Page in the discussions section, which you can reach via this link >

If you would like to contribute to this project, simply add your comments to the various discussion topics that have been posted there.

Podcast

On The Ponty End.com | The Podcast: S02 E01

Ian Wilkinson at 19:07:00 0

After an encouraging pre-season for the Reds, is it starting to go horribly wrong down at the `well?

Barnsley fans have not been treat in the league to the standard of performance that many may have been drooling over after the confident draw against the Billionaires from Eastlands.

Transfer activity has been thwarted by red tape and protocol (and possibly by one old lady within the Italian FA, if press claims are to be believed).

Simon Davey could be forgiven by being unable to play his "improved" first eleven. Do you agree?

In the meantime, the Podcast is back. Get involved with OnThePontyEnd.com and join the magnificent Super Reds debate. Tell your mates about it, listen to the latest episode now. This is for and all about YOU !!

In this Episode, we get straight to some of the comments our listeners have been feeding in to the team. We look at the pre-season performances and our recent encounter with our arch-rivals in S6. We talk about a new system where clubs and societies can build stronger links with fans of the club, before we start a thorough review on the season to date and how SD and the Reds may fair.

Click the play button* below to listen to the latest episode right now

Click HERE > and provide us with your comments either on this episode or to submit your views on events at Barnsley Football Club - as you see things. Get something over now, we would love to give you a voice in the next Episode.

To create a subscription via iTunes to all future episodes of the Podcast, Click HERE >.

Follow us on Twitter HERE >

*Player may require the latest version of Adobe Flash Player - Free Download Available HERE >

Leicester City Vs Barnsley, who will win on 22 Aug?

Ian Wilkinson at 23:45:00 0

Leicester City Vs Barnsley, who will win on 22 Aug?

Under Scrutiny: Binocular Football

Ian Wilkinson at 20:58:00 0

Perhaps after last nights result, fans and commentators will obviously have Barnsley under the microscope, seeking to answer whether the Reds are prime fodder for the drop this season.

The following clip ought to provide some caution to those people who may be looking into things in far too much depth. IMHO - It's three games in and SD has yet to field his best eleven.

For those of you who are less supportive, you may feel that this example is an action replay of Coventry all over again. I can assure you, it isn't !!

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Barnsley Vs Preston North End: 18th August

Ian Wilkinson at 21:03:00 0

Barnsley Vs Preston North End, who will win on 18 Aug?

Barnsley 0 - 2 Coventry City

Ian Wilkinson at 17:00:00 0

Match Report by WILKY

Whether the scoreline should really read Referee 1 - Coventry 1 - Barnsley (minus) 1, I don't know, but Oakwell was a glum arena for Reds fans once again and there were hardly any signals that things will get better.

First, Barnsley Captain "Fozzy" was judged to have brought down Coventry striker Clinton Morrison, just outside of the area. In reality, Foster had reached the ball with his head, but his momentum knocked Morrison to the ground. It was a bad decision on the referee's part and probably sparked the beginning of a frustrating afternoon for the Oakwell faithful and Reds players.

The resulting free-kick was fired with pace and precision in to the Barnsley goal with Steele having no chance of getting anyway near it.

Barnsley enjoyed plenty of possession in the first half, but they failed to really do much with it, the midfield were wayward in their passing and their was a disappointing lack of quality in their final ball with poor crossing being the consistent problem.

The second half didn't fair much better for Barnsley. Rob Kozluk receiving a second yellow card in the space of just two minutes on the back of a seemingly one-way refereeing performance, but perhaps that's the view you take when performances were poor right across the park.

Luke Steele toiled with his distribution today, almost from every re-start the only shirt he could find was sky blue. Possession was never built from the back and as a result Coventry continued to retain possession for long periods and were constantly threatening in the second half.

On a brighter note, Iain Hume finally made a return to Championship action but the Reds were always going to struggle at the stage he made his appearance.

With just 10 minutes or so left, Coventry wrapped up the points with a goal from Morrison. The Reds were easily brushed aside in this encounter.

It's just two games in to the season. Barnsley have just one point from a possible six. They occupy 22nd position in the Championship with Preston ahead in two days time. Is this early season Deja Vu? Let's hope not.

Simon Davey and the lads have got a further opportunity to put it right very quickly at the `well. Tuesday night can do a great deal to put the season on the right footing. The Reds simply must improve at home.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

Barnsley Vs Coventry City: 15th August

Ian Wilkinson at 23:06:00 0

Score prediction. Play with pretend cash - just for fun.

Barnsley Vs Coventry, who will win on 15 Aug?

BFC: Latest Transfer Rumours

Ian Wilkinson at 19:05:00 0

It's that time of year when transfer rumour and speculation is rife. Perhaps you've recently heard something via a friend of a friend or work colleague, but almost always, it's the kind of story that is not necessarily in the mainstream press or via the club's arm of communication.

How much of this has any truth or basis is obviously questionable, but like many other fans it's nice to dream and wonder, we love the banter as much as any other group of fans.

To this aim, OnThePontyEnd has created a stream of such stories via Twibes, gained from numerous sources. These "mini-releases" may contain further player information or reveal the rumour source in more detail, but will be updated (permitting) during the transfer / loan window.

So, what is a Twibe?

A twibe is a group of Twitter users interested in a common topic, i.e. BFC Transfer Rumours, who would like to be able to communicate news they hear* with each other. On each Twibe's page, there is a list of Twibe members.

*We take no responsibility for the accuracy or otherwise of published rumours.

Barnsley FC Fans, add your comments HERE > | Submit your Barnsley News to this site HERE >

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