CHINESE philosopher Confucius wished to live in interesting times. He should have been a Forest Green supporter - what a week we have had.

First there was Wrexham where the stadium was splendid but the pitch poor. There were very wet patches, making the bounce variable.

The game started slowly but developed into a compelling and competitive draw. Steve Arnold was first- class in goal and the resolute defending of Aarran Racine and Charlie Clough gets better every game. Two injuries to key players meant first half re-organized but the squads strength meant the changes were made smoothly. The journey there and back was anything but however the determined display made everything worthwhile.

Then came the shock of Friday evening. At the enjoyable and jovial race night (profit £1,100) news spread quickly, SNJ's Ash's scoop regarding the appeal against the three-point deduction sped around the room.

Some were dismissive of the decision to appeal but many more welcomed it, you cannot die wondering and if there is a small chance go for it! That approach is one all fans should welcome and it is no more than the players deserve.

Then came Saturday. The portents were good. The C.E. suite was bubbling and there was the welcome fairtrade exhibition. Our club is a football one first and foremost but there is so much more to admire and be proud of.

The game was the most eventful of the season. There were eight goals, two penalties and many near misses.

The Forest Green goals were exceptional, as was goalkeeper Steve Arnold's penalty save but Ady has promised to look in detail at the three goals we gave away. My view is that keeper Steve did not have a blameless afternoon, his penalty save being one very bright spark.

There were good performance all over the pitch and with the depth of talent in the squad anything is possible.

The three injured players, Wedgbury, Norwood and Marwood were scarcely missed. Fleetwood, looked slimmer and trimmer and always moved well.

He has yet to score and in his desire to do so must remember that sometimes there are team-mates around him who are better placed to do so, he is out of contract at Eastleigh at the end of the season and I am sure would welcome the opportunity to stay at The New Lawn with his ability and experience he would make a fine squad member.

Jon Parkin, surely a grizzly bear rather than a beast, showed his value as a team player. He can help out splendidly in defence and his all-round awareness brings so many other players into the game.

Marcus Kelly was the star man. What a fine player he is, providing one goal with a cross and then scoring directly from a free-kick. It is a joy to know you will be with us for another year.

I know of few better examples than Marcus. He is determined, level headed, gracious in post- match discussion and I am sure he is a fine squad member. We are lucky to have him.

Just as we are fortunate in having two young improving central defenders Clough and Racine. We have seen with them both on the score sheet in recent weeks that they can be incisive and decisive in both penalty areas. I do have one work of warning for them, Barnet striker Akinde is very difficult to play against.

Both will need to be determined and disciplined at The Hive. Yet again on Saturday a player was sent off for clashing with big John . Our two vigorous young men must both beware and be aware.

Next Saturday may see the return of David Pipe. The admirable Dale Bennett has not been at his best in the last two games and perhaps this may be a game for the more experienced player.

It is also a game when vocal support will be needed, manager Ady correctly commended the crowd for their support on Saturday and he was so right to do so.

The attitude at the ground is now properly positive and it should remain so whatever happens at Barnet. We are good enough,determined enough and strong enough to win a famous victory.