Thetownend.com

We are approaching the lowest of the lows.

What's everyone's thresholds for getting involved? It seems like most vocally pissed off fans just don't turn up when it turns to shit leaving the accepting quiet fans to watch the game.

Why haven't the fans turned on Clem/Flynn or the players yet? In normal years one of the 3 would be being hounded right now?

Is it because it has happened too many times before and its tiring and defeated.

Clem sold me the dream and he's sunk us lower than Power.

Because as DV has said previously, fans prefer to do it online rather than in person.

Something practical needs to happen now though. Remember the Diamandis days and it worked well in the end.

You have a supporters Trust so far up the owners backside and a vast majority of apathetic members of the fanbase who are happy because ‘he saved the club’ and bought them a pint.

No wonder this club continually gets fucked over again and again.

I think mass support will be hard to find unless it's obvious we are going bust, or obvious that we are going non league thanks to death by a thousand cuts/cunts.

I hope he sells up and fucks off, because to me it looks like we are headed one way. Not this season, maybe not next, but soon .

It's there anyone capable and willing to take us on though

It didn't take THAT much for fans to be vocal about Sandro, surely at this juncture, we're in a much worse state?

I make my anger known through hashtags on Twitter…

I didn’t hear one single negative chant (or positive chant) all game today. Nothing.
It might as well have been behind closed doors.

I think Flynn gets a pass as he said nice words into a microphone on the pitch when he was appointed.

I shall give them all a frowning of a lifetime!

It's all changed, the trust led the protests in the diamandis days

Sadly the only way to get through to Clem is for fans to stay away and not renew season tickets for next season.

I am surprised that Clem is not getting more stick- we are in absolute freefall.

I would prefer a community/fan owned club- want Clem to go but nervous that we will get more chancers in his place.

Still a large section of the fanbase seem to be behind Clem which is baffling considering the way it is going

Agree- I won’t be renewing but I think 3k or so still will even if we went down which looks unlikely

Only way is to starve them out sadly

Our fans in attendance mostly lack passion, hence the watch game in silence lot. Against FGR we were making noise at the back of the Arkells at a crucial point in the game, there were a thousand or two in front and to the sides who just sat there like they were at the cinema  :doh:
We'll be dropping into non league and they'll be doing the same, whilst probably muttering "at least Clem saved our club".

Rapidly losing interest in it all to be fair. Only still going because of the season ticket. It won’t be renewed whilst these crooks that run the club lead a comfy lifestyle off our hard earned money. If Morfuni can’t fund the club then he should sell it to people that can.

It really wouldn’t take much for the fans that wanted to get together and protest to organise that.
Even if they just said let’s all sit in a certain place, and got 100 or so together, it wouldn’t go unnoticed.

I think this is the worst possible way. Purely because we have a decent enough fanbase that will go regardless.

He's getting an easy ride and it's a disgrace.

Power needed heras fencing and outside security teams to avoid protests only a few years ago.

It's sad that people are angry but not enough to do anything and I don't know what the solution is

I am going to stand outside the club shop on Monday with a concerned look on my face.

Based on most of the replies our fans probably get what they deserve

Back of the Arkells is where it's at, right next to the media and behind the directors area  :)

What are you suggesting we should do ?

I'm of the opinion it's getting to the stage where something has to be done.

What, would depend on how many others want to get involved. I'm just staggered that he is getting away with it, posing with fans in smiling photos at recent club events.

Power would have been lynched. I created this to read the room and gauage opinion on why people would be going easy on clem compared to previous owners

I've been ready but everyone around me seems to be so apathetic it just doesn't even seem viable. We've lost our bite as a fan base but a lot of that might be a sign of the times as some have alluded to.

I wanted people to kick off Boxing Day, thought it was a good opportunity.

A serious organised protest in the ground is the only way I'm stepping foot in that ground until a sale.

You are gauaging the opinion of the wrong room - pitching this to a predominamtly older demographic of fan that has seen it all before will not get you the feedback that you need.  Traditionally the younger demographic are the fanbase that start the movement and then the older ones join in.  However the younger generation these days are not ones for protesting unless it is saving the planet by glueing themselves to a road or throwing orange powder in the air.

Like DV says, they would rather type their rage on SM - times have changed for the worse unfortunatley.

FWIW, I’m up for a bit of a protest. Can we get the old coffin back?

They'll be the first to pipe up if there are Clem out chants. Someone on the facebook group saying got told they're not a real fan for booing today. Absolute fucking simpletons.

I’m up for it. The future of the club depends on it. But my concern is that the Trust coordinated previous protests, and they went all in on Morfuni, and left the fans with no chips to play.

The club can fund itself when our fans turn out.

It just can't fund Hollie Kileys wardrobe and handbag collection, Adam Harts cocaine imports and Zav Austins laundry bill and still work well.

The once popular top corner of the don rogers stand near stratton bank has been the most sparse area of the ground even at the best of times.....but tbf its probably all sparse now. Left side of Town End also. Town End probably a better bet.

I would get involved. My main concern would be for the safety of anyone orchestrating any kind of movement. I don’t think it can be ignored just how unsavoury some of the characters involved are and what lengths they might resort to to protect their cash cow.

Actually I stand corrected, that is it, isn't it!

I personally would say Arkells too.
Even if it was 50 of you, it would make your feelings known.

I think that posts on here have marked a number of cards

Probably have to deal with Platinum security thugs too. But fuck it.

That’s how you do it😁

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwKfTViCRrg&pp=ygUvbWFuY2hlc3RlciB1bml0ZWQgZmFucyBicmVhayBpbnRvIG9sZCB0cmFmZm9yZCA%3D

 I hope that you will be leading the way

A group did actually try to break in to the county ground during covid through the old stratton bank turnstiles but got stopped by police.

Was fuck all else to do around then though.

In all seriousness do protest really work as it didn’t help the Mancs

It's embarrassing to think that myself within a packed county ground, all stood up and belted out 'we've got our swindon back' along with that big nationwide stand tifo and ended up with a team that can't field 11 players and is losing just as much money as previous ownership.

Rotten

It’s important to shine a light on what is going on. BBC refuse to acknowledge it and it needs some volume. Protests might do that.

*Reporting a loss. Not losing. Gaining, but reporting a loss.

The glazers are too rich to make a difference. Its not like the crowds plummeted at OT. And it's not like they need crowds anyway.

Something needs a media spot light on the club. It would be embarrassing for clem in Aus if some of their news outlets picked up on fan discontent/protests.

Most football fans are like sheep, if you get 50 or so chanting ‘Clem Out’ others will follow.

 I think that everyone on here was swept away by the tide

Any protest needs to be soon as Clem will hibernate back to Oz at the end of the month.

Really did seem like we had it for a brief moment.

We WANT our Swindon back.

 I am sure that is what everyone wants. But it won't happen unless owned by the supporters .

If the Trust wasn't an extension of the ownership, they'd have recognised the part they'd played in this disaster, called an EGM, cleared the decks and got in a position to apply pressure on Morfuni whilst he is here in the UK for the next few weeks.

As it is, most of them are on their valedictory lap on social media, with everyone telling them what a great job they did.

Clem has understood the power of PR in a way his predecessor never did. Staying close to the Trust, appointing Angus, bringing Don Rogers in, Michael Doughty, pulling pints etc etc. Most fans who don't dwell in the darker corners of Companies House or the Advisory Board minutes don't have a clue what is going on, who Zav Austin is and so on.

I honestly think our goose is cooked this time.

Realistically, unless it got to the point of liquidation and starting from scratch I can't see that happening.

We also shouldn't be ignoring that fact that our club is being destroyed yet again

Agreed the trust can't and won't get involved which is sad. There are enough pod costs out there with enough followers to start organising the masses though.

Based on the good pr clem did though on your list, Angus gone, doughty gone. Is beyond Don Rogers remit as a swindon fan to speak against the club?

Assuming Rob is tied up with nda's

Fans could always try throwing Tennis Balls onto the pitch like Reading do😁

It's makes the news.

Peaceful as well

Stfc fans, "have you got the balls", stand up to corruption ownership

Already gaining momentum need someone graphic/designer to print some posters to hand around!

Or boomerangs. Only problem is that they'd fly back and whack people in the face!

Maybe toy koalas/kangaroos. That would get noticed by the Australian press, surely?

Is there a Ned Clemmy pun…? Maybe… or maybe not!

I think I've still got my orange hat somewhere

How many tennis balls would you need 🤷‍♂️ I'd put £££ in for a bulk buy or towards some clem banners

Simple way to protest is simply don't attend the next home game. And possibly the next and next.

How will that have any effect? Its avoiding the issues and giving clem a free ride.

Long term it will effect the clubs finances- would it force the owners hands to sell? Possibly. But it would also fuck the club up even more. Owners like this need telling and change to be forced.

Might also wake up some of the clueless that either don't know what is going on or have their finger so far from the pulse that they think that the unhappy are just a couple of moaners online.

Just throw cans of fosters on the pitch. Oh yeah, that's fake as well. Fuck.

There’ll be a high percentage of the fanbase (non social media users, more casual fans etc) that is simply unaware of a lot of the non-footballing issues surrounding the club (as well as the convicts in the boardroom).

The most common question I overheard at the Wrexham match was from confused fans asking what the ‘freeloading bastard’ chant was about.

You’ll then have those fans who are aware of the concerns but don’t see any real problem - the Facebook group a good example. Also those who ‘only care about on pitch matters’ (fair enough, I guess).

The main difference with Power? I’d suggest the fact the Trust took a clear stance and his image was very much one of somebody who couldn’t care less about the fans - albeit something which took a few years to develop and was aided by run in’s with the adver etc. Put simply - he was seen as a bit of a wrong ‘un, whereas Clem widely retains his ‘good guy’ image.

I can’t see any real protests against the ownership in the near future - there’s simply too much support/indifference ‘on the ground’ for him.

Either needs the Trust to wake from their slumber and orchestrate or another fan action group to spring up.

But I'm with you, happy to chip in some ££

I said as much as this on here, pretty much right from the moment Clem made this move. I hate that I was correct about it but it was just ''Bambi'' being ridiculous of course ::)

Maybe sometimes we need to realise that when we have had the wool pulled over our eyes previously, or taken for a fool - it should be more noticeable in spotting the signs of the type of bullshit someone is on or about to be on again. Maybe sometimes my reading of the room is genuinely right on the fucking money. Then again several times, many people don't want to believe that anything untoward is happening and ignore it or turning a blind eye will make it all go away?

Supporting STFC is akin to being the receiving partner of continued domestic abuse from multiple partners. We gravitate {ok, I admit we don't choose our board as such} towards a bad partner, we know they're bad, we know it's going to happen again, we want to believe it won't happen again/they'll change but it is a recurring pattern that will seemingly always happen. Only in this version, we can't leave our abusive partner to break the cycle - we have to wait for them to leave. Very tricky.

Clem, in his early stages was the master manipulator, a true narcissist. Regular themes of 'I saved the club', 'I invested X to keep the club afloat', 'I gifted half the club...' etc. Pretty much all of which we know not to be true...he's clearly the real abuser, and we are most definitely the abused.

How about design and distribute a newsletter type thing at home matches. Double sided a4, it shouldn’t break the bank. Get it in as many hands as possible, maybe the paper can be orange or another colour that stands out. It could even be done anonymously if needed, well, not the handing out part.

The first stage is getting the message across  to fans imo

Mooney... possibly you are right about our goose has finally been cooked.
The only way this is going to end well is for a well healed group who is smarter than the current lot.
Rumors say some parties are or have been seriously considered a purchase based on due diligence.
If this is the case the purchase process could easily turn into a Dutch auction.
If that is the case cutting off the current cash flow will push the sale forward.
Otherwise this will continue and a be a death by a thousand knives.

A tried & trusted location for protest (peaceful of course) would be round the back of the Arkells.
Before and / or after games.
If the latter then "they" can either hide inside, seek an alternative exit or emerge & engage in reasonable discussion.

The reaction of the club would be telling.
A heavy handed response might reinforce the need for regime change for example.

Or listening and then actions speaking louder than words would be a start.

I expect a tear gassing and riot squad beating from their henchpersons would likely be the result of any such protest behind the Arkells. Or a snatch squad to drag you inside and beat the shit out if you before throwing you out via another exit from prying eyes.

People's Front of Swindon. PFS. Splitters.

In terms of telling the masses what's going on. Could everyone contribute to a summary of points, would be more than happy to get these printed out and with help distributed before games.

There is way too much apathy in the majority of fans going to games to be successful, as stated before - only a small percentage seem to care about the off field issues and way too many either just want to watch the football or still vocally back Clem for "saving our club" not least is a majority of fans on the FB groups.

I spoke to an old Town supporing mate from the 80's and 90s before the Wrexham game about the shenanigans and he was totally oblivious of it all, I mean totally, just saying well it was said Clem saved us and that seemed good enough for him even if he was pissed off with the on the pitch experience in the last 10 matches or so.

I was fully expecting some form of vocal backlash during the game with chants etc as it was still recently raw after the Hall interview yet absolutely nothing, not a word shouted in anger at the miss management of our club.

Agreed. But you just know these same people will be the first to say why didn’t someone do something about it when all the shit hits the fan.

anything to add? unfortunately i think there is loads.

Whats the point of protesting nothing will ever change at the club were just a  decaying  club heading for non league obscurity.every person whos run the club shafts us in someway they lie to the fans and never comeout and tell you the truth like whats happening  now.

probably the wrong thread for you. lets just give up and pretend that the club is nothing without fans and that we dont have the power to force change

there actually was some "freeloading bastards" songs from the town end (v Wrexham) wasn't there? or was that the game before?

I can understand yesterday, the atmosphere seemed "we are in the shit, let's try and get behind them"

There were a splattering of boos at the final whistle and a few comments of "don't come then" in response reported. That shows how our fans are.

its not like 20 years ago when a lunch mob would be forming. where are the "you're not fit to wear the shirt" and "sack the board" chants .

People talk that social media is poisonous. it is. But football round these parts and in general is sterile now

what can we do
 - protests
 - down tools in a supporting sense
 

what will it achieve? possibly nothing yes.

Then again Clem, Kiely and all have 7 million tied up in this club. if it looks like it's over maybe it'll expedite the exit strategy*.

But mostly even if it just makes me feel better to "try" if rather do that than sleepwalk to oblivion.

* my great fear is preemption rights see another cycle of alleged front man propping up alleged dodgy background characters

If there was then I didnt hear them.

If theres a lunch mob I will be there!

I can't believe so many "fans" are happy to suffer in silence. Are they really not questioning what is happening at the club? Bizarre.
Sleepwalking to oblivion.

If anyone is on twitter (I may have to create an account) be could to start spraying it around and seeing if it catches. A small ripple will start to get heads up

It will be packed!

groan..

definitely the game before then

Definitely happened at the Barrow game

I'm up for lunch club, I love a sausage I do

 can I bring a packed lunch ?

The freeloading bastards chant was audible a couple of times versus Wrexham - mass confusion around me from what it meant.

Also, it was amusingly mis-heard by Wrexham fans who responded  ‘sheepshagging bastards, we know what we are’

That’s true (the Wrexham bit), I remember that now

 boycotting a match has been mentioned -  If enough bought in and all went to superduper marine instead, that might attract a small amount of attention

Good work mate.

Yeah probably plenty we could add. Need to have a think but good start and design.

Doesn't mean we can't try

If we're all going for lunch before then I'm definitely in.

Clem has got no money, he's got no strong beliefs
Clem is just like Lee Power, he's got no strong beliefs
Clem is friends with criminals, he's got no strong beliefs
Clem has got no money, he's got no strong beliefs

Free us from Morfuni, Swindon fans are terrified,
Free us from Morfuni, Swindon fans are terrified,
Free us from Morfuni, Swindon fans are terrified,

Na-na-na-na-na, na-na, na-na-na, na-na-na!!!

Twitter and the ever cretinous facebrook group as well, which I'm sure will get some reaction.

I know everyone hates the facebook group, but you can't argue with the reach of it vs twitter even.

According to them Lloyd Isgrove may be coming back😁

I’m amazed that there are still so many fans who have no idea about what’s really going on at the club. I was pleased that my “Freeloading Scum” twitter bio picture took off & loads of people copied it, but I still had quite a few asking me what it was all about.

Hume City
On 22 September 2023, National Premier Leagues Victoria club Hume City announced the future signing of Isgrove, joining the club for the 2024 season.[29]

Not Scott Twine?

I know but we’re desperate!

Can't we just accept liquidation and death? At this point it's kinder to put us down.

I'd rather that than the shame of being relegated to non league, which is fast approaching.

Maybe in 10 years time :D

It’s not always going to be like this.

when you view everything, its quite embarrassing. il say it again, the owner of this club smiles with fans for photos at events.

I'm sure more can be added to that graphic but might be worth some physical copies of them about around the next home game?

I'll not be going game but would be up for distributing a few around the merlin/tap and barrel, cgh, etc.

Probably get booted out of the legends.

Has been pretty much like this my whole life!

Last 10+ years has been the worst dodgy owners. It isn't gonna change. I'd honestly be happy to blow it up and start again. Town and fanbase is big enough that it wouldn't be long until we're back in the Football League. Imagine if we'd gone bust before Jed took over? We'd probably be exactly where we are now, league wise, without all the criminals involved.

Il happily get front and back A5 printed ready for distribution for tranmere home game if enough people show an interest like you have done.

I'll cover the tap and CGH mate.

Maybe something alluding to Michael Standings agency providing most of our players and managers on there? Difficult to make that one punchy I think.

RE clem speaking one on one to fans…
Morfuni. Master manipulator. Spin doctor. Masters degree in Bullshit. Blokes a cowboy. Compulsive liar. Don’t care what he says anymore, get him, hall, Austin out of this club sharpish as it’s fucking stinking what’s happening.

also happy to contribute to any protests and know a fair few others who will also.

The usual Facebook group Clem supporters club is actually overwhelmingly in agreement.

One usual suspect with a "why don't you buy the club"  :doh: (i'm not convinced he is the full ticket) and one tool suggesting that because convicted UKs biggest cocaine importer Adam Hart isn't listed as involved in the club, he must not be  :no: :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

But yeah, 90% plus of the people aware of the issues seem to be in agreement and the tide is definitely turning. Just still a lot of people not on socials with no idea that need enlightening.

A vocal protest is needed before the month is out.

Think some people need reminding (if over a certain age) or educating (if under a certain age) that Mike Diamandis was never, ever listed as having a position at the club.

Massive difference then was we went into admin twice - something that made national news and every Town fan would have been aware of…now the ‘director loans’ can get somewhat hidden in the accounts.

This chap on Facebook has just said he awaits for me to call him woke for sticking up for ex convicts rights to work.

His profile pictures are a shrine to being a 'wokerati' whatever that is and anti brexit.

These people are walking among us.

Tranmere at home 20th January

Fans forum 30th January

Has to be done sooner rather than later and we need fans to be spreading the word. A few clicks and posts hear and there and it's a few thousand views in no time

Can’t prioritise helping to organise a protest. But if one is arranged I’ll be there, and very vocal about it.

@singingiiiffy

I think for some real traction, you need someone who has a link to someone who has their feet under the table at a decent media outlet or has a massive reach on social media.

Someone who used to post on here has a contact with someone at SportsJOE don't they?
I'm sure someone on here also has a very close link with someone at FourFourTwo as well?
Maybe someone has a link to David Squires as well?

Getting one or all of them to run an article in their preferred style of media, focussing on the misgivings of the club would draw more attention of course. Especially if it was relatively scathing or satirical {more for Squires or JOE, FFT would probably do something with a bit more balance}.

Then your social media reach needs someone like Ivo Graham to agree to post your {or a similar} flyer. Not a RT or share but an actual post direct from an account like that. His combined Twitter and Insta following is around 160k. So a potential reach easily in the millions.

Then you need an outlet that might discuss such postings, active protests and traction like a podcast that also has a decent reach. Get all of that viral, with the right strategy and then outlets like BBC Wilts have to at least recognise it and thus start talking about it, even if for them it is in a neutral or balanced way. Then your National Press start filtering into side columns or highlights on their websites, or if you've managed to source a contact in the National Press, possibly a feature of sorts.

All of that combined, with a growing visual presence  at home games of unrest and dissatisfaction and even the most ignorant and dissociative board members will take notice. They'll be inundated with media requests for comment on that particular theme, if they are silent it will also only add more traction - smoking them out for response gives two potential likely outcomes - complete denial and spin or some form of admission.

What's JayBox current stance with his relationship to the club with all things TiFo? If it's gone sour or quiet, maybe he could get a very large TiFo made based on your flyer? If he's still very much in bed with the current board then he's a cock {sorry JayBox but Clem is never bringing JS-W back...or maybe he will now that seems the calibre of player Town can acquire}.

Anyway, I'm just storming there but whatever the approach, for it to be really impactful, it needs a combined strategy like some of the ways listed above. Get people on the inside in the right places and then roll out your plan. You don't want it to be a 5Oish people in a corner of the stadia only as I think this will burn out as quickly as a match in the wind.

Happy for you to send me a PDF of the posters and I'll gladly make contact with a few people who might be able to do something. I would suggest a very good starting point could also be PandaPaws/Tel, formerly of this TEF Parish {may even be here under another account too} but he has some media connections I am sure.

@Mods: Is it possible that this topic may need moving to the lounge and any said organisers being granted access?

I appreciate the poster is set in a serious tone but might it worth adding something a bit more humoured about being Franchise feeder club.

For all of those who know about Adam Hart & Zav Austin - there will be a lot who for whatever reason don’t take in much more than on the pitch matters. Becoming a developmental club for Franchise is quite frankly embarrassing.

Just feel a point like that might speak to a slightly different crowd.

i wont quote the big one  :D but good points well made

Surely someone at four four two would love doing an article on what a basket case we've been since Andrew Black sold up?

If they do there research and speak to people on here. They'll love writing little bits about Jed opening up a town end bar with no fire exit and some of the more obscure stupid stuff that has happened.

They'd obviously have to walk a fine line legally including things on the likes of Adam hart and zav Austin, but just have to explain why fans are concerned.

I'll keep my reply short. You're welcome  :)

Your best bet is trying to get the Adver, Total Swindon or someone like Sam Morshead on board as opposed to the Nationals.
Then you want to try with the podcasts, Fools Rush In etc.

If you want to get some traction for a protest on the 20th, you have no hope with someone like Four Four Two, there’s not enough time.

Plus the four four two link was Mr. Hanrahan who fans pretty much chased off social media…

Shame because i think four four Two would be interested in the ludicrous nature of some of the silly things that have gone on.

The makeshift fireexitless town end bar vs Bristol City is just one funny example from when Jed took over but if you can fill an article with dumb stuff like that that has happened along with things like the Tim Sherwood non appointment after a red bull takeover rumour under Power and the CEO saying season ticket holders get too many free games.....it would be a popular article that would entertain a lot of general football fans.

But none of that matters right now, and would sway fans against Clem.

The CEO thing is part of it. The likes of Four Four Two aren't going to just write an article about a toxic fan base. There has to be more to it.

The article would clearly paint clem as the latest in the line of fuckfitted crooked chancers, but you'd have to tell the whole story.

A contact at The Athletic would probably work better as they tend to run an article with deep analysis. Four Four Two always strikes me as a decent publication but is probably too tame or tongue in cheek to stir any pot too much. I get that Squires and JOE go large on satirical but I think they have a wider reach and presence. But it would make for a fun article though.

With printed matter, be careful of a potential can of worms in implying that any descriptions of former criminality of named individuals are still current.

WSC are also a good publication that take a keen interest in the state of basket case clubs.

Until the window closes, dissatisfaction is a better option as a protest at this stage. Focus on the broken promises and put pressure on Morfuni and co to stop the rot. It is still possible, but we need to show our teeth in the window, other clubs below us will be after the same targets.

From listening to snippets of his podcast he was also pro Clem, which I assume is also how he got the pre-game CG announcers gig? That may have changed somewhat however due to recent experiences?

I didn't even know Four Four Two still existed, I used to read it a lot back in the day. I might be miles off here, but wouldn't The Athletic/Kieran MaGuire/Cost of Football Podcast be a direction that might get more media traction? (Sorry I have just read the Athletic being suggested above - must read back more)

Sam Morshead is now involved in something more football based also - he loves to get involved in the meaty stories doesn't he?

Sam Morsehead would be the way to go, just started his new gig following town and would more than likely be looking at a few stories to get his teeth into as he is pushing for subscribers.  He also used to post on here, so probably still has an account and given his new gig, I am sure he has had a peek on here since back in the parish.  I even sent him to the Sponsorhip dinner one year when i was organising the Sponsorship every year.

It's all a case of whether he is up for being the pot stirrer so early in his reintroduction to writing pieces on the town, but i am sure it has already crossed his mind.  He probably already knows more than most of us on here about the current goings on in the background at the club.

Yeah the tongue in cheek feel of Four Four Two was what I was thinking might fit with having a lot of the more ludicrous Swindon moments included. Its more their feel but they're not going to go too deep in to the vitriol. 

That ship has sailed for me personally.

Yeah, you're right. For a more serious article, definitely.

He was definitely in Clem’s good books and given a lot of access to the club.
Now whether they milked that for all it’s worth whilst also seeing what was going on behind enemy lines & what their opinion of Clem is now - who knows?

I think the fact that the STBL podcast has closed it's door in it's current guise suggests they may have closed the door on that chapter. I can't see 'Hanners' staying out of the limelight for too long somehow.

I'm here if people want to chat. You've pretty much got everything right there - the gig isn't a full-time role, but working on something more substantive for the summer, and reintroducing myself to what it is to cover the club at the moment.

If you are planning to be heard inside the ground then you should get tickets for the same area, block A6U is where it's at  :)

I thought my post might tempt you to pop your head up :D Welcome back btw, local news outlets have missed some investigative skills for the past few years, looking forward to reading some of your new stuff.

What's the 'new gig'?

I think this is right - as much as this forum generally is ahead of the average fan, there are plenty there who think this window will fix things. Focus on having clear expectations this month - if Clem and co meet them then great, we have progress. If they don't, then we have strong evidence of three windows in a row where corners have been cut and I think that will lead to scales falling from a few eyes.

I think quite a few fans are now waking up. I know quite a few that are giving it until this transfer window to make their mind up with these Chancers.
Keep spreading the word on match days, without doubt some of our loyal mentalists are taking note. Plenty of bulllshit getting spouted under the North Stand though.

https://theinkswindon.substack.com/p/give-2024-a-sporting-chance-with?utm_source=%2Fbrowse%2Fnews&utm_medium=reader2

Exactly. There is a lot of moving parts in the next three weeks. Not to say people can't start to organise if they wish, but the next home game is a good opportunity to apply pressure if needed, rather than go full tilt. Focus on the promises rather than the ins and outs of who's got what, who's a guest and who's pulling the strings... someone needs to pull a finger out this week and next.

The problem is with spreading it on matchdays is it gets missed in amongst all the other bullshit. People talking about Twine coming back and Rooney as manager ffs so ten the other stuff gets put as rumour.

Thanks Bernie

People talk that sort of bollocks all the time though, see that shit on socials.

I think a leaflet drop is definitely the way to go with the main headlines and then perhaps a brief explanation underneath for those that wont understand.

Sadly this is the type of thing previously that has been organised by the Trust but they wont dare get involved or they may lose their seat next to Clem to discuss what biscuits he likes with his tea

Yeah some more info needed. Karachi for example, just needs pointing out that Karachi FC doesn't actually exist.

It has to be hard correct facts as well or it will just be spun by Clem & co as a minority having an axe to grind

If people can help work on the exact wording and have a willingness to help distribute then il have a leaflet drop printed and ready to go on 20th January home game.

I'll definitely leaflet drop. I would just change Karrachi to Karrachi FC, the club that doesn't exist.

Because I think its safe to say, it doesn't.

I think it probably technically does, now. I assume we set it up - we=Austin=nothing to do with the club guv. Honest.

Might be wrong.

It does now, just not in a playing football against other teams in a League sense.  It appears to be a pure Visa application vehicle where local kids who play soccer are sent to if their parents fancy them having an opportunity to get a scholarship to go to the UK.  There do appear to be real people there now, coaches for example.  It's certainly not a football club in the true sense, but it does exist.

Happy to help with the wording and although I’ll not be at the game can drop leaflets into letterboxes around Old Town.

Not defending it, but is there anything fundamentally wrong with what they’re doing?

That is an academy though, not a football club.

Old town pubs might be better?

If you mean the Visa School, no, not in a legal sense.  It presents opportunities for shadiness around the edges, but even fully above board it can make someone some money to pay the bills.

If you mean in a sense of using time, effort, resources and the brand name associated with our club, then I'd say yes.  It's a ridiculous thing for us to be involved in.

Can do both. I’ve got ins with pretty much all the important pubs (Kings, McKenzies etc) so absolutely 👍

FourFourTwo is now owned by Future, based down the road in Bath. Previous publishers Haymarket (where Mark H used to work) sold to Future a couple of years ago.

I would say that Andrew Black selling up started all this shit.

It did.

I don’t know Black or his finances or the clubs finances at the time but I still don’t understand why you pull the plug in February when the team are sat top of the league on their way to Championship for the first time in 10+ years.

I just think the value of ‘10+ years in the bottom two divisions Swindon Town’ has significant less sale value compared to ‘Paolo Di Canio’s Swindon Town who have just won back to back promotions & have the most momentum in the entire football league’

The outlay for those extra 4/5 months probably would have been recouped by being in the Championship.

I’d also go one further (back) and say if we hadn’t of sold Gordon Greer none of this would have ever happened.

Couldn’t find my old orange hat but to be fair it’s been a long time! Ordered one off eBay for £2.99 inc. p+p if anyone interested in doing the same. Link below

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/272402175310?mkcid=16&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-127632-2357-0&ssspo=gUo1gHaNTui&sssrc=4429486&ssuid=4hRwgX88SQC&var=573152820198&widget_ver=artemis&media=COPY

Inclined to agree here

You make a very good point with which I agree.

In Black's favour, he was wealthy even if he was disinterested.  He may have been STFC's wealthiest ever owner in terms of liquidity.  STFC was threatened with administration and a points deduction in L2 when he took over.  He left us in L1 and was basically honorable in his funding of STFC losses.  He claims never to have bought into Wray's "3 year plan".  I imagine the combination of Wray and PDC was entrenching him in a level of financial commitment well beyond his "interest".  Unlike Jed or Clem for instance, Black never showboated at the CG.

Against Black was the suddenness of his withdrawal.  Having in his own words agreed to stay on another season, by early October he had sacked Wray and appointed Patey whose sole objective was to sell the club.  That may be "business" but STFC fans were once again the blameless victims.  Ritchie was sold to Bournemouth, by now a club headed in the opposite direction and PDC walked out leaving us to go top of L1 in the very next game in mid Feb.  In his hasty sale to Jed, Black left STFC in the lurch and the rest is history.

Remember it wasn't looking good when Black arrived.  But the judge of any owner/chairman is how he leaves STFC, not how he arrives or even does whilst at the helm.

For anyone wanting a "refresher" of Black's position, see the Adver from Feb 2013 (just after STFC went "top"):

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/10245156.swindon-town-black-reveals-all-on-twitter/

Black was all about he felt he had been lied to. He said himself that Wray etc were telling him the wrong information and that we were not spending beyond our means. When the embargo went public he lost his shit and bolted out of principle

abandoning his duty of care and selling to Jed.

I suppose he would argue the people he trusted did that

He may well do, but he set the deadlines - maybe Jed was the only pony in town

This guy was on the consortium and was majorly rich

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martyn_Arbib

But he was a minor shareholder and even less interested than Black.

Just bought mine.

Wondered where all those hats came from on Vinted  :D

There’s some random clothing company wondering why all of a sudden they are getting orange hat sales to the Swindon area 😂

Fascinating to read this back again, thanks for sharing.

What I don’t understand is with all the undisputed potential of the club, location, catchment area for fans etc - why hasn’t the club been bought by bona fide business people with local knowledge? Or does professional football at this level just not work financially without massive investment, a different agenda (Saudi style sportwashing) or a reasonable expectation of making huge losses?

STFC is a basket case but if you step back for a moment and consider the ongoing pantomime of Jed, Power, Clem etc it’s beyond ridiculous. Who are the alternatives? Why doesn’t anyone seize the moment and finally realise the dream? Or am I just naive to even ask the question?

Amazing to think that a divot on the Wembley pitch has played a part in where we are now.

.... who fucked with that plane in 2006 as well, could it have been Britain's most wanted?

For those interested

https://twitter.com/SteveRobin11751/status/1745401194732818638

Get your orange hats for this game, I'll be sat in that block as per usual.

Anyone going to Crewe?
Might be worth a sing-song or two, lubrication levels aside.

Then again I can picture the disapproving looks from some.
Sinking into a morass of mehness is too easy.

"Can you see transparency? Noooo, noooo..."

My orange hat has arrived  :)

"Are you Power in disguise" I thought was pretty good but as time goes on the more I think he's worse.

Power never shy’d away from the media tho so just an ounce of credit there….but that’s it😁

Hmm, unless it was ‘Shawn’ then I’d say he was more or less invisible as far as media was concerned!

That's not fair - he used to ring up the Adver to shout at them occasionally!

:girlgiggle: How could I forget…

Mine arrived this morning too 😊

Anyway back on track… what is the best way to organise a protest without plastering it all over here or on social media as there’s always someone who’s going to tip the club off (although I’m sure they have someone keep tabs on here). No point in a protest if the club know where it’s going to be as they will just have their security men there put a stop to it.

The security men can’t stop fans getting together and chanting in the ground though.  

TEF Private mail… Only goes to those you want it to.

The whole football world knew Reading fans were going to do that today. Fair play to them

How did they stop the game🤔

Walked straight onto the pitch 🤣

I didn’t know that but surely they will now face a fine.

I doubt the fans give a flying fuck about that.

Orange hats in A6U next week

True, but you know if we do that any fine will finish us off🤣

Respect to them - shows how much they care about their club. I wonder if Swindon fans can muster the same level of enthusiasm?

The Beamish Line looms ever closer.

Morfuni has to go surely?

Flynns record is terrible and I don’t think he will turn it around- but it’s the idiot who extended his contract that should go first

What makes you think Morfuni extended his contract?

Maybe not- but he is the face of the ownership whether it was him or not who knows

Maybe we should take a leaf out of Readings book……..

Won’t happen with our fans they are too passive and many still lick morfunis ass if he took us to the conference

There’s two options,
Stay away or cause disruption!

Staying away is passive. Disruption is active. Are Swindon fans ready to take action?

I don’t think they are

Too many still back Clem

It’s not that they’re backing clem. Its apathy.

Yep, playing football and cricket with the fans, pulling pints at the CGH, driving the truck round the town, sitting with the Town fans at Scunthorpe etc etc went a hell of a long way in winning the fans over but that was all 2.5 years ago and all he's done since is take us backwards...

Had a great day at Marine today 2-1 and a few pitchside pints. What’s not to like?

what happens if a game is abandoned in such circumstances?

We have a large buffer to the bottom 2, we don't want a points deduction to erode that.

People get charged twice over for tickets for the replay

FYI i wouldn't be pushing for an abandoned game, but a disrupted game, chants directed at clem,, banners, a sit in, outside the ground. anything like that.

 We need someone like that bloke from the podcast to get some chants going

I have had a couple of offers for distribution on match day. it would need a lot more. The print deadline for delivery would be Tuesday. I can meet people on Friday

Next home game Jimmy, get on the pitch & show yer arse to the directors box then point at your elbow.
We'll have have a whip round for any fine mate so don't worry.

I didn't mean to imply you were, if that's how it sounded.

just wondered what the outcome of Readings protest will be, other than 1000 banning orders

At least Vale fans had a wasted journey  :) Both of them.

No I didn't take it as that. Something kind of needs to be agreed though if action is to be taken. Step 1 of leaflets would be for awareness

It’s apathy but also a bit of a ‘one horse race’ until there is known public interest from someone else buying the club - we really can’t force Clem ‘out’

Having an alternative to get behind would really help.

Not my style

If Clem announced that he is putting the club up for sale that would be half the victory. It would obviously make it easier if your solution happened

Ghandi wouldn't have said that.

I’ll leave all that to you regulars.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_IBkakoojQ&pp=ygUZcmVhc2luZyBmYW5zIGFiYW5kb24gZ2FtZQ%3D%3D

Well we thought that when Power was in charge and we all got behind Clem because the trust said they had done their due diligence on him. No doubt any offer for Swindon will be from the same friends pool.

Preemption rights not clear. Mrs Kiely's red and white army

Spreadsheet Sandro laughing his (little?) cock off at our predicament

So tennis balls from 6th to 9th minute in all remaining home games? 🎾

Twitter is full of Reading fans saying they were getting abused and called not real fans, etc. by other fans. They've got the bootlickers just like we have.

I'm in, come on lads.

Do we know if Clem is still in Town as any protest could fall on death ears.

Not if its like Readings but appreciate a lot won't want the banning orders.

Some might want them. Would probably do me a favour.

was at the game yesterday apparently

Cheers Batch

It doesn’t need to be an on the pitch protest like Readings.

The bits I’ve seen on Twitter about getting as many fans together in the ground and voicing their displeasure at the board is a good starting block.
The rest can/will happen when it needs to and when more people understand what’s going on.

Fair point

Yes, fair point. The difference between our owners and Reading’s is that ours are actually
in the ground and will churn out a statement or two (albeit, poorly written, with spelling errors). If there was an on the pitch protest, they would weaponise it to split the fans.

Deaf ears too  :)

will you pay me my travel money if you get the game called off my protesting chums?

do you think it'll get called off by a few people with orange hats and a some chants?

I do look quite menacing in my orange hat to be fair

Is anyone going to really understand what the orange hats are all about on 2024?

I saw someone on Twitter, say as a club we’ve never really protested by we wore some orange hats once. Obviously missed all the stuff round the back of Arkells post game but hey ho

The problem with anything at the back of the Arkells is that very few Town fans exit that way.
So if you didn’t already know about the protest you wouldn’t find it.
So it would make more sense to do it inside the stadium.

The back of the Arkells thing was purely because it would have been heard in hospitality by the people we were chanting about.
You’re right that if people aren’t going that way they won’t know about - same for anyone who leaves the game early enough that the protests haven’t started.

Also after the game means the protest isn’t detrimental to the support for the team

I'll be honest, I think its too early to gain any momentum.

But of course by the time it might be obvious to the masses that its needed, it'll be too late.

 will everyone on here be making their thoughts known at the next home game ? Maybe we can all sit together and lead by example  . Can we have tef t shirts made up ?

Block A6U. Sing, sing a song, make it simple, make it long.

‘Get that scouser out, say get that scouser out’

That was my last protest. There was also something behind the Arkells when there was a hoo-haa about the same time as the  ban the veal trade protest. Can’t remember what we were protesting about though.

 it would be interesting if the tef could get together a hundred or so.  posting on here won't achieve much

Just mention a BBQ, they might turn up then  ::)

 looks like lots of seats are available for the tef choir

Get your hats and singing voices ready for Saturday  :)

Get down to the fans forum at the end of the month and cause havoc i say

Won't happen 4d. We go 1 nil up and the fanbase will not be arsed

Yep.

This would be true, but the flaw in your logic is the going 1-0 up.
Although with Mad Gav in charge we may change formation to 5-0-5 I guess

 you never know until you try

We did under Power and the same happened. They had a tennis ball protest lined up and we won 2 games so they decided to cancel the event

 that's the spirit

Won't take many to be heard though.

Well it's true isn't it? Biggest issue you have is that the most vocal have stopped going to games now.

The better way to do it in my opinion is to now go into a private area on here and discuss turning up at the fans forum to do it instead so people don't have to pay £28 to go and start protesting

Only needs 40 or 50 in the A6U block. Right next to press box and directors. Place is a library so will be heard.

Fans ran on after playing Watford and sat in the centre circle. I lived on Shrivenham Road, left the game just before the final whistle and as I got home and put Sky Sports on saw the centre circle filled with fans. Think we lost 4-1?

I remember it well, we lost 4-1after scoring first

It may have been the 4th goal going in as to when i left, if it was late.

It only takes one voice

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B099PVMQXQ/ref=ewc_pr_img_1?smid=A1E1SEMIEL9XG1&th=1&psc=1


Ready for Saturday.

3rd minute for 3 years of Morfuni?

They will probably use the 'hunt for a new manager' as an excuse to postpone/delay the fans forum as Flynn and Hatswell were down as being there, and now, clearly won't be.

Nah, they will wheel in Gunning to tell everyone he is trying his best until Clem tells him any different and we have to work with what we have got we wont get lots of new players in for the new manager to decide he dont want them.

https://twitter.com/swindon_live/status/1746943153750360175?s=49&t=jUFistY_ZoquiFD8_VmjTQ

There’s some clever fuckers out there :D

People are rumbling and its starting to build up, I'm hoping the pressure on Clem has been taken up a few levels and fans voices are going to he heard.

If your going to the game and can dish out some leaflets please DM me, even if it's to people in the stand next to you, or to make paper aeroplanes wembley style.

There is a @stfcprotest on twitter who is dishing out a lot a lot of what needs to be said, if that is any member on here again please DM as you seem pissed off enough to help 😊 I think a few of you might know who that person is as some mentioned seating areas in the Arkells behind executive seats.

I'm happy to get everything printed and even if a handful make it into fans hands and wakes a few people up then it's money not lost.

I really wish these podcasts would stick their necks out and push for fans to stand up. It should.be the trusts jobs but if we miss this opportunity over the next 2 weeks Clem will be heads down back in Aus and back to seeing the season out in silence. DM me people 🙏 and I will.be in touch once leaflets arrive

I listened to the Monday Night Panel tonight and was surprised (or perhaps disappointed) that they only mildly eluded to issues in the club.

You've said it.

We nurture and develop supporter networks at local, national and international levels, working with supporters’ trusts, clubs and individuals to initiate and support campaigns on issues of concern to football supporters, encouraging good governance, supporter representation on club boards, community-ownership and sustainable stewardship of football clubs.

- The Football Supporters Association
https://thefsa.org.uk/about/

The OSC are in a trickier situation as they are an official affiliate of the football club but the Trust? You'd think this would be their time to shine, wouldn't you?

I assumed it was you!

Cant be too critical and run the risk of having their access removed to the club can they

I see someone on twitter asked the Trust if they were going to comment on the manager issues and they said that isnt what they do.

Person asking the questions then retweeted numerous tweets that the Trust had previously said about manager arrivals or departures

Its ok, we are getting a Trust newsletter this week though!

The Trust effectively crowned Clem as the new messiah so are in a spot of bother. I had concerns at the time - but was won over by Angus - he then walked and we haven’t heard a peep from him - I assume he’s been very well paid to keep it zipped ….. as will have Flynn.

Some people at the Trust aka Angus and others got carried away with the power and influence rather than holding the club to account. In my opinion

I'm inclined to agree, hence why there have been a raft of resignations recently and a call to arms for 'fresh blood'. For all the absolutely tremendous hard work these volunteers do at the Trust, unfortunately the goodwill has been absolutely blown apart due to the recent year or so.

They have stated a newsletter will be going out soon/this week including their feedback on the current state of the club, im going to hold off any criticism until we see what they have to say. (News of a statue for Clem is very much a rumour for now :) )

I think the Trust is basically just in Zombie mode until the AGM right? With essentially all officers bar the Secretary resigning? It's shit timing, but at the same time would you want an outgoing Chair/Vice-Chair making commitments and statements on behalf of a future board and tying their hands?

Agreed there

That's why I changed my profile picture back to iffy! Tbh I wanted people to start sharing it so no complaints

Brilliant.

Fair play to Loathed Strangers 👏 for their Poll. It's all about bringing awareness. Due to a change of circumstances- family priorities, I can't make the match on Saturday so it's no point doing leaflets. The response and also the response of the poll on twitter shows that we aren't probably quite there yet to make a big enough effect. But it's growing and I'm looking forward to hearing if anything happens in the ground on Sat.

I'm hoping more channels like Loathed Strangers continue to to push and hopefully a group can form or the trust can do what they are supposed to do and represent the fans.

So far about 257 people have voted protest is needed and they would get involved and a further 190 think its needed but wouldn't.

Only 58 happy clappy drongos said no protest ever.

Shows how its turning.

It would be interesting to see the results if something similar was ran on the FB group, as a more pro-Morfuni platform

Is it we want Clem out or we want Morfuni out?

Neither particularly roll off the tongue but there is the ever faithful "sack the board"

Clem Morfuni get out of our club?

Yes, this has a lovely ring to it.

He probably already knows the words😁

‘Stand up if Clem’s a cunt’

Clem Morfuni you’re a wanker you’re a wanker…..always sounds nice :pint:

I think the Adver really need to up their game here. Their whole demographic is the target audience that we need to be informing.
Those who aren't on any form of social media and, as such, aren't aware of the problems, or at the very least, the full extent of them.

It needs mentioning on Talksport.

To the tune of Delilah...

We heard the lies on the night that the trust asked you questions (lalalalala)
We saw the sale of your shares, though you thought we were blind (lalalala)
This, is, our Swindon
You deceived us you cunt and must be out of your mind
Fuck, off, out, Morfuni (lalalalala)
Fuck, off, out, Morfuni (lalalalala)
We can see, that you are no good for us
So fuck off dear Clem and get yourself back to the Oz

Beautiful stuff that  :beers:

welcome back.

Are you just joining in on the lyrics for a laugh, or have you genuinely changed your mind on him?

This isn't an attack, just wondered how far the turning of opinion has gone.

We almost all started off pro Clem!

I was hand picked before 1,000 posts  ???

In all seriousness if protest chat is being moved elsewhere then I’d be happy to be involved.

As a serious protest group, I would be inclined to inform the club exactly what is going to be happening over the coming weeks. They can't stop peaceful protest. I mean they can eject freeloaders paying customers from the ground but that won't look good from those looking on if 300 or so fans get ejected by Platinum Security for protesting  :D

And that would be more than ten-fold more supporters than the clubs precious charm offensive - 'Operation Ticket Fraud' that has yielded some 20+ pesky supporters...

Point in case, go public as a protest group. Inform the local media/papers, inform the club, inform the local police. The more that know about it, may even force the arm of Clem/Hall/Kiely/etc into action, whether that is to give a rebuffed/non-plussed statement or to actually admit that they will actively be looking to sell the club.

The protest group should then remain visible and make their intentions known that they will continue to protest, at every home game, until the club is sold and Clem et al have departed STFC.

I'm not sure who has the time to organise as such and if only there already were a part funded group, who could back and represent the fans voice; as well as help organising such a series of protests? I can't think of any representatives of the fans unfortunately...  :hmmm:

Indeed, we both know this  ;) {I'm pulling your chain Aud}

I too would like to be involved in protest discussions.

A bit of both really - I think it’s more naivety than criminality with Clem but I think his lack of transparency since being caught out is quite telling - I don’t think he really knew how deep the waters were until he jumped in… and when he did jump in he surrounded himself with the wrong kind of lifeguards.

As for the song… I just like writing lyrics for the occasion

Is anyone allowed in the sitting room or do you have to prove you are genuinely  very cross?

We used to have to send Flashheart naked photos for access, I’m not sure what the criteria is now Venks is the man.

The only certain way to protest legally on all levels is to cut off the blood supply ie. Money. These guys and girls? Only understand money. Their objective is to get and make money. It is their oxygen and life blood. No money, no reason to be here. So, so simple. Talk is cheap. Actions speak louder than words. And that is my action not spending money. I may go to the odd away game but I’m done with the first team at home.

I'm not saying you're incorrect LL, but to be pragmatic, season tickets (bloody freeloaders) are already paid for but I acknowledge that I don't think there's a single one approach that will tick everyone's box.

IMO a joined up protest in the ground whilst Clem is in the country, based on the things we can evidence (failed delivery of stated goals, comms devoid of information, lots of human errors etc) allows those who have already paid to join in AND support the team on the pitch.

Some of the Facebook group happy clappers Clem fan club are completely undeterred by the trusts tweet and journalists being threatened.

Different breed of human.

You'll be telling them the Earth is round next.

Aussies the lot of em

One has already admitted he is based in Sydney.

Clem shows up for watch parties from time to time, so they probably get fed a lot of shit and feel close to him as a result.

Yeah another said proudly that he'd actually met Clem. So move along nothing to see here. He knows for sure the club are in good hands.

The power of pulling pints and a bucket hat with these simpletons.

After last night this is quite a timely article (not that I can read it as it's behind a paywall)

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/police-launch-crackdown-on-criminals-exploiting-football-clubs-n57rp8h28

Go to archive.ph and type the link in

I can't get archive.ph to work. Is it down or am I being a butt munch?

https://archive.fo/

Thanks - it might be my work is blocking that so I'll have a look when I get home or on my phone in a bit.

Bring the Orange hat back

Wearing mine Saturday

I am wearing mine at the county ground on saturday

I know someone based near Newbury who would crotchet a rather fetching order of Orange/Pumpkin coloured winter beanies {also keeps the heed warm}. If there was demand, for say 100+ of them?

Let me know @Iffy or whoever. Probably about 10 notes a shout

Also, I'm sure they would sew a little robin onto the top if people desired as well. Just to give them that extra STFC touch  :)

Wearing mine Saturday, bargain at £3 off eBay .

https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/news/1086278.swindon-town-orange-revolution-cannot-ignored/

Was Rob Henderson Janaage on here?

Key things in that article.
Trust leader fully behind the protests
Viable option interested in buying the club

Yep

As soon as I saw the name it all clicked that Janaage came up with the idea.

If you’d asked me before I read that article I’d have sworn it was the Trusts idea - even though I know it wasn’t. Long lost memory unlocked I suppose. Wonder how he is these days?

He reappeared for a small spell a few years ago then went again.

Remember Jan, he was a good poster.

Still makes me smile every time I see that journo's name :)

I've just read back on various threads. Just when you think it can't get any more mad ey...

I don't believe there is a case big enough to hold this basket  :crash:

Can just everyone in the crowd sing this on Saturday please? Pretty much sums Town ownership right now

Basket Case

Do you have the time to listen to Clem whine
About nothing and everything all at once?
He is one of those
Narcis-a-sistic fools
Ignorant to the bone
No doubt about it

Sometimes he gives us all the weeps
Sometimes his friend plays tricks on us
The budget can't add up
I think we're cracking up
Are we just paranoid?
Or is this club fucked?

 :D

Sure

Fair play to the chaps who took the effort to make that clem out banner 👏  would be fantastic to see that in the ground

This one, seen it on twitter

Will they be allowed in with the banner

Almost certainly not but if under clothing and rolled out that would be enough.

Now THAT was a protest 💪🏼

Well….the protest fizzled out😁

There was no protest arranged 🤷‍♂️

I wore my orange hat and saw a few others, small steps and all that…

Likewise. Was never gonna be a mass protest as nothing was organised.

Until we lose the next home game !!.

If you are looking for an organic stealth approach on protests then orange hats are the way to go until you get such numbers you achieve critical mass for more vocal protests.

The idea of the orange hat was to visualise, in numbers, the strength of feeling - if the number of orange hats grows because every person who wears one is visible to others who may have the same view and they join in.

My only concern with all of this is that, like most things these days, the club support becomes very polarised (our supporters are amongst the worst for polarising views) and the negative effect it can have unless you gain critical mass.

I don’t think we’re anywhere near gaining critical mass for a protest - I think (as do most others) that Clem has made some poor decisions, engaged some people who have chequered pasts and been economical with the truth when questioned but you find those things everyday in one form or another.

In addition, he is seen by many as a safer pair of hands than we have seen for a long time and we now own the ground.

Don’t get me wrong, I think the we need to hold Clem to account. I think we need to keep asking difficult questions and we need to ensure Clem knows (and for that matter any potential new owner) that we will audit their actions. But I don’t think we are nowhere near where we need to be for demonstrations or to start shouting Clem Out.

In today’s world it’s a lot easier to scrutinise.  We have the forum to keep asking questions, we have the internet to do research but our biggest challenge is keeping emotions in check - just because Clem may do something you don’t agree with it doesn’t make him a villain - we need to ensure our own confirmation bias doesn’t create something that doesn’t exist.

So rather that try and organise demonstrations, focus on finding evidence that gives you enough to PROVE his malicious intent; selling shares (or using them as security for a loan)that are owned by you isn’t a crime and he doesn’t have to tell anyone other than companies house that he has issued shares to anyone else.  MOST importantly collate them quietly (in the lounge) and expose them as a dossier rather finger point every time he does something that look suspicious otherwise it just makes us look like whinging cunts

This... 100%

This is a really good post with a number of valid points made. My only question is around 'The Lounge.' I remember asking about it a number of years ago & was never really given a proper answer.
It appears, from the outside looking in, a closed shop, with access only permitted to long standing members or those with influence within the forum.
For somebody like me, who is probably similar to many others who frequent this forum in that I live nowhere near Swindon, being able to access 'The Lounge' & contribute to the discussions that exist within is really important. This place, along with Twitter, is where I source all my news & discussion. Being part of 'The Lounge' would add real value to that as I completely appreciate that there will be certain things that people want to share but aren't comfortable with posting on a public platform, be that for a variety of reasons.

a very fair assessment

I mentioned to someone yesterday that there’s a group who mistrust Clem, whereas the vast majority will sit in the middle just wanting to watch football. The way things have been going that majority have started to shift towards those critical of Clem, but a few good results on the pitch and that will probably start to shift back.

Any protest needs to follow a run of poor results if you want to get that group involved.
My son is a prime example, we discuss this stuff on the way down. He isn’t on this forum and is very much in the try and ignore the off field stuff & try and enjoy the games

Clem has provided answers of sorts to the questions about off field affairs with varying degrees of vagueness that left the waters no less muddy.
It's likely to be more of the same at the fans forum.

Wonder if it's even worth trying to pin him down on exactly when he would expect the club to gain promotion.
This is a football club after all so you'd think that would be foremost in his thoughts enough to be able to give an instantaneous & unequivocal answer.

I know I’m going over something I’ve said a lot recently but before we get to the actual protests we need to get a lot of educational material out because the ‘football only’ fans are still oblivious to things &  are taking things said at face value.

He's a bit slimy when it comes to what he says, the 100% I own the club statement as an example (which is true) but not the I own 100% of the club which was what was being asked.

As someone said to me about a cheating husband when asked if he was sleeping with another woman and said no. When it turned out he had been seeing someone else said, I didn't lie, I wasn't sleeping.

You would think there would have been a few murmurs and a few chants even tho we won. There a danger were becoming too nice like the Fulham fans :D

Right out of the Bill Clinton book of plausible denialability.

There was a 'sack the board' chant from the Bradford fans, we joined in  :D

Heard that in the DRS, couldn’t tell which set of fans were singing it 😂

To be honest, its not a big thing; it's kind of like a TEF founder's section—nothing to get worked up about, but it does lead to the question of maybe having a private 'Verified' section—an area where verified members can contribute towards a common goal without the need to risk conversations being seen, misinterpreted, or shared by 'outsiders'....

I'm very verified

Apart from me, there were three other fashionistas with orange head attire in the DRS where I sit. From tiny acorns grow...
Got a few funny looks and something about Luton from some comic. Will continue with with the protest as I enjoy isolationism.

I seemed to spot a fair few orange baseball caps on the crowd via iFollow. Maybe they are just Mclaren fans getting ready for the upcoming F1 season  :hmmm:

 How do we apply for a blue tick  ?

You have to suck off the mods every day for a year and pay for the TEF hosting costs

Sounds reasonable enough. I thought it would be more challenging than that. Just to be clear - is that ALL of the Mods every day for a year or just one lucky Mod?

Asking for a friend

Lined up like fence posts, on the daily

Nice one. On it like a post whacker  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

Don't forget to wear your orange hat.

Saturday?  :pint:

Get that Aussie out, say get that Aussie out!

Yep. Get these frauds out.

Something has to be done

Apparantly there is viable interest but Clem has slapped on too heavy a price tag

Boycotting the home games is the only way to hurt the fucker.

You are totally on to it J
Trouble is.... what happens after that.

Into the unknown I’m afaraid but what’s the alternative🤔

 If there is any doubt the rising tide has gone out.  someone dig out the STFC coffin.

As I keep saying.

The stubborn ST holders trotting out blinkered reasons for renewing will suddenly wake up buying one for the NL and only then smell the coffee. ST monies keep the club afloat in the closed season, not entirely but significantly. Turn that tap off and it’s not only the reseeded pitch that will wilt and die.

ST money doesn’t keep the club afloat, us freeloading bastards are the ones dragging the club down, I know this because Anthony fucking Hall said so

Tennis balls on 18mins ? For our 18th place starting position

Spot on :clap:

Yes we were told!

Orange hat weather on Saturday?

[edit] That said, who's gonna be around to see the protest? No fucker at the club in any position of power, that's for sure. We're so fucked.

I created the thread at the time because clem was in the country- at games and had the fans forum planned.

Timing in terms of at game protest just didn't work out. the game where there were rough plans for rumblings was the game we won against bradford and didn't play too bad. Clem and hall did get a number of pelters fired at him at the forum so there was some effect in terms of calling him out and putting the heat on.

Crowds are now so low that the only scenario I would look to go back to trying anything would be the last home game of the season. 'Congratulations' banners celebrating the worst ever stfc side in history would work well. 

Not a bad idea but for me - that really just focuses on the playing side.

All that will tell people not full versed in all the boardroom stuff is that the team has been poor - which is obviously true but even good run teams with owners pumping in a fuck ton of money have bad seasons.

Just feel that would give off the message that the on field product was the issue here; when really it’s a byproduct of other issues

How a about a reverse protest.  Fans fix up the ground for free, like the clock cleaning.  Then in return take squatters rights over the remaining 50% of the ground and refuse to give it up until the club is sold to new ownership.  On a more serious note - it's a shame that the JV wasn't able to be written in such a way that there were some forms of frustration available to the fans to force the club's arm on such matters.  It would have been in really bad taste to squirrel such terms in, but would have been fun now.

The bloke behind me was talking about renewing his ST straight away as “now my money goes to the club and not into Power’s pocket” - thinking like that is a big issue.

Worse season after 40 years, with two home games left is there going to be any kind of protest? :hmmm:

Something has got to be done on Saturday 27th of April, last home game of the season.

Chats?
Banners?
Tennis balls?
Pitch invasion?-(probably not a good idea, don't want to get docked points) :suicide:

They have more points than us and are safe, but Bradford fans had a protest on Saturday:
https://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/24221107.bradford-city-fans-chant-protest-owners-game/

Most of our fans make no noise even when we are doing OK, so I can't see it happening. I've said it before but nobody has listened. Get up in A6U for the last 2 home games. Right behind the directors box and next to the press box. A good old protest chant or two. Even if there is only 50 of us it will be heard. 2 of us got heads turning a few weeks ago.

Launch an email campaign. Bombard the club with emails.

"Get a manager if you want my season ticket money." or whatever the agreed message is.

Easy to do, doesn't involve standing out at matchdays. and the club will be very aware of how many messages they get.

Do you really think Morfuni gives a shit about Swindon.

Suggest that he has far bigger fish to fry else where.

he has a fair bit of money tied up here (on paper). So he probably does.

He wont want to lose the money he has invested into the club, he will want it all back as a minimum you would imagine, and so will the 2 wives

I don’t think that Morfuni has affinity to Swindon Town further than his money.

As for opening up a fish and chip shop? Well who knows.

It sounds like we’ll be alright next season :D
https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/24226503.clem-morfuni-willing-invest-swindon-town-squad/

Looking for people who believe this as I have a bridge to sell them.

That is from a Gunning quote, not a Morfuni one, rather importantly...

“We know as a club that going forward that is what is required. It is a must and I think that Clem is willing to sign the players.

He only thinks!

Why now? Has it only just become apparent that having an experienced spine in the team is needed to get promotion? Only took 3 years for the penny to drop FFS when anyone with half a brain could have told them this years ago!

The first year team had Conroy, Baudry, Hunt, Williams, Gladwin, Payne & Reed to be fair, it's more that the penny un-dropped after that! (of course that year, we had a decent spine but just almost no depth, so we still hadn't nailed squad building, but that year at least we had financial restrictions as an excuse and still did okay)

Take any comments from the club with a pinch of salt “it’s just for laughs”

Funny how the quote in the paper comes out at season ticket renewal time  :sherlock:

The evidence suggests that they might think having experience is helpful, but we can't afford it or find it with our staff and level of competence.

When your recruitment is limited to finding players who will be out of contract at the seasons end, and clubs that want to get rid of them sooner than that, well, you get kids.  You get the ones who haven't made the grade and the clubs think are unlikely to.  The ones with experience are kept around to at least provide back-up or support, the ones with prospects get the remainder of the season to prove it.  What we get are the ones who haven't played in three years, or missed most of their development due to injury, or had a loan that didn't quite work out and then didn't show enough progress.

For over two years we have been recruiting with less and less evidence of a plan.  Look at our forward line - barely any of them can play 60 minutes.  Look at our midfield, five or six players who look the same.  Look at our defenders, a bunch of wannabe ball players who never really picked-up the hard graft of defending.  Look at Russells spreadsheet - a joke.  Their plan appeared to be to hope a few players gradually move right on the age axis, but how can you do that when you give out 6, 12 & 18 month contracts to this type of "talent".

Any experienced player or manager has made it clear they can't work with outside influences, the ones we have had or signed have all gone very quickly. Until that changes it is pointless

Adver story on the abandoned protest on Saturday.

The tweets from Jason make for interesting reading!

https://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/sport/24252916.swindon-town-ownership-protest-suspended-began/

I like this


Factually correct of course in that this is what we are told.

I wouldn't believe the tripe on Twitter to be honest

I thnk Jason Lane is the new STFC Jeffrey

What a time to be alive!

How did Clem ever come into contact with Zav - who, supposedly, introduced him to Power.

Wanted to invest in the footballing powerhouse that is Harrow Borough didnt he?

There’s an Australian podcast called The Back Peg. Episode 21 is a full interview with Clem. He goes into quite some detail about how he got involved in the club, Lee power and stuff like that. He comes across as typical Clem. I kind of remember him mentioning a mutual friend that intoduced him to Power, which i presume was Zav Austin. I havent listened to it since July or whatever. It’s definitely a must listen as a Swindon fan. It’s a pretty recent interview from the summer. It’s on Spotify.

I wonder what ever happened to him

I would presume they move in the same circles - Zav's business is in finishing construction projects, you know, the type of business you'd be involved in if you had a shady past with money and stuff (not that I am inferring anything).

Clem's company probably cross swords, did some similar projects in London, may even have worked on the same projects at the same time?  Imagine Zav introduced him to Power (Zav came onboard in 2015 with Power's lawyer friend/agent Terrell and the lesser spotted Jovanovic, which is around when Clem started sponsoring as well).  At this point, the Standing relationship was going well, so who knew who and how is probably a great discussion with some beers.

Yep, Formuni started sponsoring in April 2015, but I imagine he would have been having conversations with Power before then. Funny though in the first Press Release of Axis sponsorship, there's no mention of Formuni, but at the sponsorship renewal in June 2017 there is a near identical Press Release with quotes from him. I wonder if at first he just wanted to be a silent ''partner'', very much like Mr Minogue is at present.

April 2015 Press Release
https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2015/april/new-sponsorship-secured/

I had to chuckle {in hindsight obviously} at '...public health services.', it's a nice way of saying they provided bogs for the construction industry... but even better is this - maybe Steve Anderson was trying to secretly tell us:

 “It is fantastic to have such a big international organisation and brand on board with the Football Club," he said. "As well as bringing in more revenue to the club it also gives both parties the opportunity to work on projects within the local community and for the Axis Group to use Swindon Town Football Club as a vehicle to grow their brand nationally in the UK

I wonder what medium they might be using to be able to use STFC as a vehicle :hmmm:

June 2017 Press Release
https://www.swindontownfc.co.uk/news/2017/june/axis-back-on-board-with-town/

Complete with Formuni holding an Axis branded shirt aloft. When that sponsorship deal ended, he would go on to ''purchase'' a 15 percent stake in the club.

It's crazy really, the amount of bullshit he's come out with over the years, this article is brilliant for all the investment claims, especially the bit about having 1.1m GBP to purchase the freehold of the County Ground:

https://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/sport/17778315.swindon-town-non-executive-vice-chairman-clem-morfuni-keen-seal-purchase-15-per-cent-stake-club/

What a tosser

The 2019 one is Clem using a PR to try and strong arm Power, who was dragging his heels over signing over the share transfer (that bit is in the Court Cases between them).  The beginning of getting the fans onside for what was to come.