By Maverick
October 3 2003

Maverick brings you Newshounds first weekly roundup, a week which saw a win for the Saints a promising debut, the launch of a new company and a little touch of ruffled feathers. That was the week that was....

It is a truth universally acknowleged that a Saintly supporter in possession of an internet connection must be in want of a link. Well, they are perhaps not essential but I find it interesting to see what others are saying about us and how the Saints are getting on, on and off the pitch. Occasionally their views can stimulate healthy debate on the message board.

This time last week we were all looking forward to the visit of Wasps. Which team would turn up, the shadow of a side who went through the motions at Bath or something more substantial? It would also be our first chance to see John Clarke in a competitive match and he did not disappoint. However, after five minutes I guess I was not the only one to be thinking "Here we go again" as Wasps took the initiative and the wind from our sails. But the boys pulled through and Wayne Smith's post match analysis was spot on, a lot of character had been shown on Saturday. Hugh Godwin in the Independant remarked on the loss to the side of  Budge and AB. Stating the bleedin' obvious maybe, but it is a point well made. AB's return against Rotherham will be welcomed by the club and supporters alike.

The most contentious topic of the week has been the music played over the tannoy as Saints ran onto the pitch. Were the Saints going down the Saracens route and trying to grab a pizza the action? Well no, both Lanny Newman and Wayne replied to Lom's emails asking for clarification and the music is simply a motivational tool for the players. Given Wayne's comments it looks as though the music may be here to stay so may I humbly suggest double the volume of "O Wendy" when the players run out against LI next week.

Chris remarked on the music in the paper version of his weekly  piece for the Chron. He also mentioned the fact that the saints Xmas party is being held on the same day as our biggest game of the season, tigs at home. Talk about a red rag to a bull, some people were not happy to say the least !

This was the week when the COYS - SAINTS WITH HEART walk preparation really got into full swing. it is beginning to look as though all of Saintsby's efforts will be richly rewarded on the day. For those who are not yet involved in some way, there is still time to get involved.

In other news this week, Paul Shaddick gave us confirmation about access to the ground on match day and we also saw the launch of  COYSDC Ltd. Away from FG, the main topic of debate has been the deduction of points from both Leicester and Saracens for fielding unregistered players.

And that's a week in the life of Northampton Saints. The squad for Rotherham has been announced, the weather appears to be set fair, so another four points please, boys, five would be a Brucie Bonus....