We might not be picking up wins at the moment but CTSA travellers are certainly enjoying themselves as we journey across the country. In the latest away adventure the coach left the Broadfield at 8am bound for the Moss Rose Stadium, Macclesfield, 10 miles south of Manchester last Saturday. In a smooth transfer up the M6 we eventually arrived right outside the turnstiles at 1pm.

"Are we there yet, Travel Ken?"

On the 2nd leg of the outward journey, following our service stop, we were entertained by Ken’s famous travel quiz where 28 points were up for grabs. Whilst a fierce competition ensued it was one of the pre match favourites Peter Phelan who picked up a narrow win with 18 points. It is his 3rd win this season. Yours truly is going back to the drawing board after a shameful 4 points ! Andy Tester won the scratch card lottery and £20.

Queuing for tickets...

There is real family atmosphere amongst CTSA travellers this season. Everyone seems to get on well especially as there is a hard core of around 100 regulars -and we all look out for each other. This was demonstrated half way up the M6 when John the Gas was spotted tying the laces of Nick Hilton. Obviously these gas technicians have an extremely comprehensive training regime covering all aspects of customer care (they apparently stayed tied the entire day!).

John the Gas shows Nick how to tie his shoelaces!

CTSA were proud to welcome Silpa Winfield on board for the long trip north. She revealed “I noticed how good the away atmosphere was at Roots Hall and wanted to experience a full CTSA outing.” Apart from the disappointing end to the game we hope that she enjoyed her day with us.

On arrival some ventured into the town centre pubs while most enjoyed the warm surrounds of the stadium clubhouse, ‘Keith’s Bar’. A brilliant atmosphere ensued as both sets of supporters mingled and enjoyed a pre match beer and a curry (or meat and potato pie with chips, gravy and mushy peas!). All too soon everyone took their place in the ground as the teams emerged to warm applause. The Moss Rose Stadium is a quaint old ground with a capacity of 6300 of which around 4000 is terrace accommodation. The Silk FM stand is probably one of the shortest main stands in the League, it only stretches around 75 yards. 50 Town fans choose covered seats in the Henshaw’s stand at £18 while 100 or so hardy souls choose the uncovered terrace behind the goal at £14.

Under threatening skies but pleasant temperatures the match kicked off with a flurry of activity and effort. New striker Gary Alexander got stuck in with some excellent passes and moves. He certainly made a good start to his CTFC career. However the 1st goal came from centre back Claude Davis. Those behind the goal had a brilliant view as his vicious 20 yard shot nestled in the bottom corner. Queue wild celebrations.

Macclesfield Town in all its glory......

Everything seemed very comfortable especially when Kyle Mcfadzean slammed in a 2nd mid way through the 2nd half. With Macclesfield battling at the wrong end of the table they seem to spark into life late on and scored what looked to be a consolation goal. However with added time ticking away they producing a stunning move down their right wing leading to a George Donnelly drive in off the far post. Sheer celebration for most of the ground but stunned silence in the away end. As Town fans drifted away there was a mood of annoyance and disbelief. It was going to be a long trip home !

Nick Hilton of Broadfield, West stand season ticket holder and CTSA traveller summed up the day. He said “Macclesfield are an extremely friendly club and with crowds of 1800 they are doing very well to stay in this league. We had a fantastic view of the action from the terrace behind the goal.” Going into the match Nick was very hopeful of winning and was very pleased at two nil. He explained “everything was looking great with 10 mins to go but owing to some bad luck and the home teams desire wheels came off and I was gutted when they scored the equaliser.” He added, “it just goes to prove that there isn’t an easy game in this league.” On calming down a bit he said of the future, “If we want to secure an automatic promotion spot this season then we need to build a run of wins starting very soon!”

Oh what a handsome......flag!

Despite dropping two important points it was pretty exuberant and noisy on the way home. As we pulled into the Broadfield at 9.30 ish there was a lot of back slapping, hand shakes and positive comments. Thanks to Clarkes coaches for an excellent service. Roll on Tuesday 20th and our next big away adventure. Hopefully we can welcome loads of travellers on the short trip to Gillingham.

Words and pictures from Colin Bowman, CTSA Press Officer

"We've just thrown away a two goal lead. This box of programmes is heavy. My feet hurt. And you want me to smile?

A CTFC Supporter who is bigger than the Macclesfield stand.......!

Away travel- an exhausting experience for some!