Originally Posted by
Nardendee
We are where we are I’m afraid. Whether that’s a good or bad thing depends on your point of view.
We have always been in the shadow of the bigger Sheffield clubs. Sure we have given them a bloody nose along the way, even been in higher divisions, but this will never make us a bigger club. Typically even under Anton Johnson, we survived just two seasons in the second tier, and Emlyn Hughes got sacked.
Even 30 million would only extend our stay by a season or two. Ronnies was the best attempt, where we survived four seasons before eventually descending.
There is now much more money, and larger squads favour the bigger clubs. Mega wealthy owners, stupid wages.
I must admit I am confused as to what to think.
Our natural level is League 1, and because of what has happened in recent years, a very strong and competitive League 1 team. An attractive proposition for that level but not so for the level above.
The big disappointment is that we are now well adrift in a very average league (aside from 4-6 teams) and the end of the season can’t come quick enough.
One side of me thinks League 1 is our level, and we should win more games but from a progressive viewpoint, that level holds limited interest.
The wall of secrecy and poor communication drives me further away and don’t feel I have the connection I once had. It is no longer enjoyable.
Bearing in mind having followed and travelled the length and breadth of the country in those dark days of the seventies that is some statement. Relegation to Division 4 for the first time.
Night games at Swansea, Southend Carlisle, long trips to Queen of the South for a friendly and hitch hiking to to Plymouth. I feel looking back we had more identity then than now. It was something to look forward to and enjoy, regardless of result. We knew we weren’t great but we knew who we were as a club.
Those days have gone though. We are just customers. There might be a plan but we don’t know. We just cannot compete at this level against much bigger teams, many of whom have a wages ratio of far more than 100% than revenue generated, which makes it impossible for us.
Money is king now. I am looking for a club that is no longer there, a bit like looking at pictures of Rotherham town centre from a bygone era. I went with my Dad, who passed in 2021 at the age of 98, having followed the club since 1933. It was more than a pastime. It was a whole way of life.
Those days will never return and perhaps I should accept that and should be looking at other forms of enjoyment away from football for my sporting fix.
I will always want the best for my team, but amongst all the vitriol within the fan base, the indifference and poor communication from the club, I feel that my love for the club that once meant so much to me, has sadly (along with my Dad) died.
Reply With Quote
Hall Of Fame
Moderator
Posting Permissions