I must admit to finding it a little ironic reading quotes from managers like Alex Ferguson singing the praises of this competition in the pre-season press releases sent out to the Clubs. You could have been forgiven in the past for thinking that Alex cared little about the competition, having fielded weakened teams. However, on this occasion, I will come to his defence as the top sides have such big squads now, they could probably put out a whole side of full contract players that few will have heard of. But before we start to talk of "plum" draws in the next round, the task for tonight's sides is safe passage past this one.

From what I have read on the internet over the last week, those Watford fans who travelled for the friendly were impressed enough to think it won't be easy for them - I hope they're right. It is a long time (1993 I think) since we got beyond the first round, the closest being four minutes away last season. Any result tonight that keeps the tie alive for next week will ensure a good crowd for the second leg.

You may have read by now that we have re-aligned our thinking on concession books, so as not to put off the group we try hardest to encourage - kids. We will insist on Students and OAP's (over sixty, male or female) having the concession book, but we will not "enforce" the rule until the first home game in September, in order to give the idea time to bed in. The books are just £5.00 and should cut out most of the abuse of the system we have been having. In the away end this year, there will be concessions on the terraces but the seats will £8 for all, which is still cheaper than the dearest seats in our Main Stand but slightly higher than the Family Enclosure.

Finally, I mentioned that there would be barrier work required in various parts of the ground. Much of the work on the terrace barriers that many of you lean on can be done during the week, when there are no games on, but the major job, replacing the perimeter fence on the Habbin side, MAY involve the Habbin being closed off for a game or two. If you want to take a guess at where the work will be done, take a look at the markings beneath your feet.