Sunday afternoon, 6th May 2012… Blimey, an absolute age since I wrote or posted anything on this blog. That is a fail on my part, it would probably attract a “must try harder” if it was the subject of a school report. Anyway, I must…

To the point in hand, to the subject in hand.. The thing that made me put pen to paper, or more correctly fingers to keypad, the amount of commentary and remarks surrounding the almost certain event of Manchester City winning the Premier League of English football. I am, as a Manchester United fan, as disappointed as others that my team have failed to show up at times this season, have lost or drawn games that on paper that they should of won… But the thing that disappoints me is the reaction I have seen on my twitter stream heaping disrespect on the achievements of Manchester City, comments about them being mercenaries, having bought the title. I can recall 10 – 15 years ago, very similar accusations being fired at Manchester United it the halcyon days pre Malcolm Glazer when it was nothing to buy multi-million pound footballers almost on a whim. Nobody on the red side of the divide seemed too bothered then, when it brought (or as some may accuse bought) success.

It is worth looking at some of the biggest/richest teams in England and Europe Chelsea, Real Madrid etc, huge purchases, huge wages have not always guaranteed success. What has contributed most to the team’s success is a strong coach/manager who has been able to harness the talents of those within his keep and make them play as a unit. Much as this sticks in my throat, Manchester City have played some fantastic football this season. Let’s ‘man up’ and recognise that Manchester United have not performed their best at times this season and from a strong position a few weeks ago have let the advantage slide… We have only ourselves to blame for that. Nobody would be crowing about City winning the title, if we had not thrown away a 8 point lead and a slightly superior goal difference.

A few points that were inspired by this situation, these are a bit random but…

  • When I was in sales, very briefly, many years ago I was told not to pour scorn on the competition, to show professionalism, be complimentary to them but point out how our products/services were better. Otherwise, you are just being seen to be disrespectful and shallow
  • We have it within ourselves to control what we can control, it is up to us to maximise the opportunity we have… If we do not someone else might just. We cannot control what they are doing, but we can control and influence what we are doing
  • Money, the best resources does not guarantee success, Strong/inspirational leadership and desire are very important factors; As been born out many times in history

Ramblings over. Have a good day