THE result at Wrexham on Sunday was a good one, especially considering that if they had won they could have gone fourth in the table.

It really does show how even this division is and apart from our good friends at Hartlepool there isn't much in it. I know they won't admit it yet but everyone knows they are up and will be champions - but we certainly won't be doing them any favours on Saturday.

All the lads are looking forward to what should be a very interesting game. Friendship goes out of the window for 90 minutes and although we share the same canteen at work - where our training grounds are side by side - I can assure you nobody will be pulling out of any tackles. We certainly owe our fans a good performance after the season we've had and the shambolic performance and result we had against them earlier in the season.

At this stage in the season the lads start looking forward to the end of season trip. Over the years I've been involved in quite a few trips. After a long hard season the lads are entitled to let off a bit of steam and when you get 20 or more lads away together for a few days you are asking for trouble.

One memory that does stick in my mind was on one of my first trips away with Middlesbrough to Portugal. One player got involved in a all night drinking session with the gaffer, Bryan Robson, which was his first mistake. Second mistake was on his return to fall asleep beside the pool next to the lads.

He was looked after to a certain extent. He was covered in sun cream to stop him burning, although his shorts were removed leaving his backside bare to the sun minus the cream. The lads had a great laugh at his expense as he couldn't sit down for the return flight the club doctor wasn't to pleased, but even he saw the funny side in the end.

Watching the games on the TV at the weekend I felt a little bit sorry for Manchester City defender Richard Dunne. The commentator absolutely hammered him for the first three Arsenal goals which was a little unfair I thought.

The third goal from Henry was excellent and how he was supposed to do anything about it was beyond me. Arsenal look like they will go on and win the league but I'm still hoping Newcastle can keep up the excellent form and pip them - but if I'm honest I can't see it happening.

Published: 25/02/2003