The problems of success

Having supported a small team virtually all my life, I'm much more attuned to the vicarious realities of failure than the exotic problems of success. So having both beloved Dumbarton and my locals Exeter City perched in second place* in their respective leagues is a bit worrying.

Sons secured a good 2-0 away win at Stenhousemuir on Saturday, following midweek success at Elgin. But the real test is tonight - and three victories in a row. Forfar have been creeping up the table and will be a tough proposition. I still can't see Cowdenbeath slipping up sufficiently to let us win the title, though they have had their wobbles. No-one in the top half seems to have been consistent or reliable this season, and that certainly includes the Mighty DFC. My spies tell me that Jim Chapman is settling for a more solid 4-4-2 approach after a sticky patch, which seems sound at this level. I'll be up for the last two games of the season... or not the last two, if we make the playoffs.

Meanwhile, the Grecians put in another fine display against Dagenham and Redbridge. It wasn't without its flaws, but it made for compelling viewing, and Stuart Fleetwood's sweetly struck goals from 35 and 40 yards respectively would have graced any division. I won't be at the match against Brentford, because it falls on Good Friday (I've written more about football and the unhelpful 'Easter row' here), but I will be in the stands - as we like to call the seats these days - for Wycombe on Monday. An automatic promotion place for Exeter is a genuine possibility. Should I hold my breath?

* Exeter dipped to third after Wycombe grabbed an added-time winner tonight.
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