REBEL PROBE : SLOUGH TOWN

Printed in the National League South game v Tonbridge Angels Saturday 13th August 2022. We drew 1-1 in the first home game of the season in front of 467 in the boiling heat. 

Seeing as we are asking visiting away fans their darkest secrets (well, how they think their team will do this season and best places for a knees up) it seems only right that some Rebel fans were also probed.

So I asked Clubshop Sue, Rebel Radio debutant Max and Richard from the Supporters Trust some questions

Richard has always been a supporter : “I was there at Wembley in ‘73 as a kid and was regularly at the Greyhound stadium and Wexham Park for years. When in 1998 we were demoted from the Conference for being 49 seats short (probably more to it than this) I was devastated and focused on family and Tottenham. Eventually I made the return and no matter what people say about the Premier League, lower league is a far better experience.”

Max come along with his dad to support Slough despite being from Hayes. “I heard that Arbour Park was a brand new stadium so went to watch – the main stand wasn’t even open as it was still a building site. Then went to the odd Tuesday night games then Sutton away in the FA Cup and haven’t looked back since.”

Sue, well she went along with her husband around 20 years ago to see what all the fuss was about. And to make sure he was behaving (he wasn’t, but that’s a story for another time). Sue has run the clubshop for the past 15 years.

How was last season

Richard “We made a dreadful start with not a lot of luck and were rock bottom and losing the sixth until we turned that into victory and went on a decent run. As the season progressed, we threatened to take a play-off position, The FA Cup did not go well and the Trophy run was great until we lost to York City in an even, but poor game, albeit a decent day out. Team was very much a mix of experience supported with several academy players, so overall I would say we overachieved.”

Max “Disapointing at times but with some brilliant moments!”

Sue “After the uncertainty of the previous two seasons thought last season was ok enjoyed quite a few games but there were some I'd rather forget!.”

What are your expectations for this season?

Richard “This season looks positive with a great core of experienced players, some new faces and the return of some old ones. Optimism comes to mind. I so hope we can look back at the end of the season and think wow, that was great.”

Max : “Top 10 – ideally play-offs”

Sue : “Just to stay up.”

Players to watch out for

Richard: “Aaron Kuhl was stand out last season if choosing an individual player. Rather than picking names for this season there is a great opportunity for several players to make their mark.”

Max: “Kuhl, Goddard, Hunt (most of our midfield).”

Sue: “All my favourites of course.”

Thoughts on the managers

Richard “Why have one manager when you can have two. It works for them and it works for us. Us supporters have the utmost respect for them, their decision making and fantastic commitment to the club. They know many of us by name, you won't get that at too many clubs and that's a nice feeling.”

Sue: “Both managers are very honest and say it like it is. Have

always come through with players when needed and give 100% to the club.”

Max: “Absolute legends.”

If there was one thing you could change to improve the club (not including a multi millionaire sugar-daddy or more players) what would it be

Richard: “Thankfully, we have a great stadium compared to many teams we visit which is a bonus. Of course, investment makes a massive difference to any club.”

Max “To own Arbour Park. More incentives to Premier and Football League fans to come down.”

Sue : Quite a few things I'd change; food being available around the ground, proper bar downstairs, better facilities for the disabled etc etc but its out of our hands due to being council run. Think the two guys on the turnstiles are pretty good though.” (eh, isn’t one your husband!). Also allow drums, big flags and bin playing at every ground – it all helps to make a great atmosphere.”

Can you recommend

Best pubs (Wetherspoons don’t count) and places to eat in Slough

Richard: “Bar wise, I recommend spending money at the club as every little helps.”

Max : “Wheatsheaf in Slough and Red Lion, Iver.”

Sue : “Herschel Pub and Red Lion Pub in Wexham for food. Exotic Karahi on Farnham Road for curries.”

Must see attractions

Sue: “Cliveden House, Windsor and that dog at Slough train station!”

Max : “Biggest trading estate in Europe!”

And finally

Richard “Our supporters are fabulous, everyone is very approachable and welcoming to new fans with open arms. There is a real sense of belonging to the Slough Town Rebel Army

“I am on the Supporters Trust board where we focus on supporting the club and local community as best we can each season. I look after the Trust twitter site and use this to interact with the supporters with some banter. You won't find us criticising the officials or crossing the line.

“I have a thing for Slough flags so the 8 x 4ft flag, was joined by a new 10 x 10ft flag with telescopic pole last season. Largest Trading Estate in Europe is joined by largest flag in the Conference South! Just ask if you want to have a wave or have a photo taken.” (with the flag I think he means!)

Cheers everyone, and let’s hope we have a great season (and reach the 3rd round of the FA Cup).