please log in to view this image Read the supporters liaison officer's latest blog. Everyone connected with City will have been relieved by last Saturday’s excellent win at Carlisle. Full credit must go to the 364 fans who made the long journey to Brunton Park and gave the team such great backing. Results leading up to Saturday have been disappointing, but having talked this through with other fans, it’s clear that I am not alone in thinking that it was only a matter of time before we recorded a well-deserved first win of the season. During the summer, head coach Sean O’Driscoll was at pains to point out that this would be a difficult season. With new policies to be implemented behind the scenes, and massive changes in the playing staff, transition was likely to be the order of the day. With the ‘five pillars’ strategy being one for the long term, it was always possible that this would be a difficult season on the pitch, and so it has proved. Hopefully the result – and the manner in which it was achieved – will give Sean and his squad something to build on and we will see similar results in the near future. Meanwhile, progress continues in our implementation of the five pillars. Facilities - At the end of November we are expecting a decision from Bristol City Council on our planning application to redevelop Ashton Gate. If and when we receive that permission, the board will then be in a position to make a swift decision on whether to start that redevelopment or pursue the option of a new stadium at Ashton Vale. Recruitment - The policy of primarily recruiting young players who we can develop continues with the recent signing of young goalkeeper Dave Richards from Cardiff City. Academy - The appointment of former Malaga youth team coach Carlos Anton is seen as a significant coup at Ashton Gate. Carlos worked closely with head of recruitment Brian Tinnion in Spain, and this is just the latest in a line of top level appointments which will significantly improve the quality and variety of coaching at the Academy. It may be a while before supporters see visible evidence of our investment in the academy, but we believe this is crucial for the future success and stability of the club. Community - The Community Trust continues to go from strength to strength. You can get a good idea of the range and scope of their activities by visiting their website at bristolcitycommunitytrust.org.uk. You can also get an idea of how our community work is growing by viewing the charity’s most recent accounts at charitycommission.gov.uk/find-charities. Financial Prudence - The importance of living within our means remains vital for the future stability of the football club. The annual accounts will be released before the end of the year, and they will give a clearer idea of how well we are doing on that front. David Lloyd http://www.bcfc.co.uk/news/article/20131030-dlblog-1145401.aspx
Likewise-Im all for wanting BCFC to still be around in 50-100 years time, but meanwhile, I would like to be entertained- The 5 pillars otherwise can sound as hollow as The Brand.
Not as hollow and insincere as 'Brand Beckham' sounds though The 5 Pillars and all that guff is fine in theory, but not at the cost of another successive relegation
