As you can imagine things have been a bit hectic over the last week or so with the Northampton result, a few TV appearances and then to top it all off the birth of my son, Daniel. The last time I wrote something was just after the Northwich game which is the last game we lost in (not counting Paulton Rovers and Woking, when we fielded more inexperienced teams), so I hope I am not tempting fate by writing something now!
Why are things going so well? Although he would probably not say so himself, because he isn't that sort of person, coach Colin Lippiatt has been one of the most important factors in the recent success at Yeovil. He has created a great team spirit in the dressing room, while still being able to make difficult decisions regarding the squad and team selection. He has brought in more quality players to the squad to the extent that we have players like Ben Smith, Carl Dale, Dave Piper, Tony Pounder and Damon Franklin sometimes finding themselves on the bench. I'm sure many Conference clubs would like to be in the same situation. (And yes, my contract is up at the end of the season!)
We are obviously all looking forward to Cardiff on the 2nd January, but we must not lose sight of how important it is to do well in the league over the Christmas period. With so many games in a short space of time you can find yourselves three or four places higher, or if you're not careful, three or four places lower. If we are still in the leading pack after Christmas then I think we have a great chance of making this a season to remember.
On a personal note I would like to thank everybody who gave us gifts, cards or good wishes for the birth of Daniel. He is already the proud owner of a Yeovil Town woolly hat!
Steve Stott
15th December 1998
