Bradford Bulls coach Mick Potter: Long process turning into 'farce'

IN THE DARK: Bulls coach Mick Potter claims there has been a lack of communication towards players IN THE DARK: Bulls coach Mick Potter claims there has been a lack of communication towards players

Frustrated Bulls coach Mick Potter has branded the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the club “a farce” and believes it should have been resolved by now.

The Rugby Football League yesterday confirmed that four bids were on the table for the Bulls, with the offers understood to be from Super League Europe, Bradford City, Bradford Park Avenue and a consortium led by Gerry Sutcliffe and Omar Khan.

A deadline of next Tuesday has now been set for the bidders to present a concrete business plan for the club.

Yet Potter, who along with his coaching staff has been working without pay since being made redundant by administrator Bren-dan Guilfoyle on July 2, believes the whole process has already dragged on far too long.

He said: “This has been going on since June and you would think that people in the know and with proposals would have developed some sort of business plan by now.

“It just amazes me that this process can be dragged out and dragged out – it’s ridiculous.

“It’s just a farce because it has gone on for too long. The less said about this process and some people involved in it the better.”

Potter refused to comment on how long he would continue working without pay and expressed frustration about what he perceived was a lack of communication from Guilfoyle towards players and staff.

With reference to the players, he said: “These are the guys who throw themselves down, yet nobody pays them the courtesy of actually standing in front of them and telling them what’s going on.”

The Bulls squad face another crucial match this weekend when they travel to Huddersfield.

Potter will assess Nick Scruton (calf), Bryn Hargreaves (wrist) and Michael Platt (knee) but Olivier Elima (shoulder) remains sidelined.

John Bateman returns after missing the past four matches due to his involvement with the England Academy side on their tour of Australia.

Huddersfield, meanwhile, have announced they will be increasing the monies payable to the Bulls for Sunday’s game over and above the standard ten per cent pre-sales only scheme that operates throughout Super league.

All monies generated will be passed over to the Bulls’ hardship fund and Huddersfield’s business development manager and Odsal legend Robbie Hunter-Paul saluted the move.

He said: “The Bulls are obviously going through tough times and we know that there are a lot of people up there working for free right now.

“But the hardship funds gives supporters an opportunity to make sure that the money goes straight to the people who need it.

“This is another great way of supporting the Bulls in their hour of need and I’m urging as many of their fans as possible to turn out on Sunday.

“Having enjoyed so many glorious years as a Bradford player, I know the boost that fans can give to their team with their formidable presence and I’ve no doubt that they will bring a huge army on Sunday.”

Comments(87)

Blotto says...
7:06am Fri 17 Aug 12

All credit to Mick for following his Heart and not his Head with the support of his Wife Megan who I will thank publically because without her support Mick would find it diffcult to keep going. Also not forgetting Stuart Duffy and the other Staff who have been volunteering to keep the Club going as a viable business. With the economy still flatlining, we have to accept the due processes will take frustratingly longer. But as long as the Players focus on top 8 finish the pain is just about acceptable!

Potter for the sack says...
7:23am Fri 17 Aug 12

Can somebody tell me where can you buy tickets for the match?

raisemeup says...
7:26am Fri 17 Aug 12

What a total farce I agree. It is the most unprofessional negotiation I have ever seen. We have all been through a hell, not of our making, but with intransegience and ineptitude on a massive scale. In essence in the world of money, we are talking about a relatively small amount - which has caused so much anquish to too many people for too long. Get it sorted please

Mumby was the best says...
7:28am Fri 17 Aug 12

At last, it seems even the coaching staff and players probably feel the same as the fans. You would think they would have been privy to some info we aren`t, but reading MP`s comments it appears not and without naming names he fires both barrels at the situation.
Well said Mick, a man of honor and integrity.

Blotto says...
7:30am Fri 17 Aug 12

Potter for the sack wrote:
Can somebody tell me where can you buy tickets for the match?
You can only get them from Huddersfield but they are donating 10%+ to the BullBuilders Hardship Fund from the away sales so good on them for that!

raisemeup says...
7:33am Fri 17 Aug 12

Direct to Huddersfield Ticket Office, Tel. 01484 484123 pay either credit or debit card. No tickets at Odsal.

Mumby was the best says...
7:34am Fri 17 Aug 12

At this rate if we come out of administration we will have to return to it because we can`t afford Voldermort`s friend`s fees!!

Thee Voice of Reason says...
7:57am Fri 17 Aug 12

Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.

raisemeup says...
8:19am Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
Mick/Megan please take note!

When you are sufferering your worst nightmares, it is comforting to know that someone can sit in their Ivory Tower and tell you how ungrateful you are.
Bet you just love some Bradfordians, don't you???

huggy b says...
8:20am Fri 17 Aug 12

Mick Potter has worked miracles on the pitch, he at least deserves clarity on his future off it. Perhaps Guilfoyle could put half of his £500 a day into the hardship fund to pay the staff? I'd still do his job for £250 a day! We all know that won't happen though.

Adeybull says...
8:28am Fri 17 Aug 12

huggy b wrote:
Mick Potter has worked miracles on the pitch, he at least deserves clarity on his future off it. Perhaps Guilfoyle could put half of his £500 a day into the hardship fund to pay the staff? I'd still do his job for £250 a day! We all know that won't happen though.
I think you will find the figure people were throwing around was £500 an HOUR. I don't know the actual figure, but from my knowledge of charge-out rates it will be far nearer to £500 an hour than a day.

blue marlin says...
8:29am Fri 17 Aug 12

Adeybull wrote:
huggy b wrote: Mick Potter has worked miracles on the pitch, he at least deserves clarity on his future off it. Perhaps Guilfoyle could put half of his £500 a day into the hardship fund to pay the staff? I'd still do his job for £250 a day! We all know that won't happen though.
I think you will find the figure people were throwing around was £500 an HOUR. I don't know the actual figure, but from my knowledge of charge-out rates it will be far nearer to £500 an hour than a day.
500 per hour is not far off the mark

Adeybull says...
8:39am Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
Just a shame you really have no idea what you are talking about. You come on here pontificating about theoretical situations. Must be doing the heads in of people who are closer to what is actually happening to hear your suppositions.
.
Incidentally, and as I have said before, the club has been kept going by a string of people working without pay, not by the administrator. Had those people not done what they have done, and with some help for families from the Bullbuilder Hardship Fund and those who have so generously contributed, the situation today would be very different.

Sheffieldbull says...
8:45am Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
You say it's unfair to blame the Administrator and you've banged that drum all the way through but consider this, only since SL(E) tabled a bid as you say, a couple of weeks ago, has any activity taken place...coincidence? who knows..thats the very point isn't it. When you consider that a number of entities have stated how difficult they found it to contact the said Administrator - indeed he seemed quite pleased with himself when he proclaimed in person that he didn't use voicemail! That really aids communication! Still, if your 'wedge' is such, why rush things eh? Its NOT a tiny price to pay if your Mick Potter ,Stuart Duffy et al!


TVoNP, have you still got 12k hooks in your mouth or are you still using your version of the facts?lol!

Tell_Titus says...
8:50am Fri 17 Aug 12

I think it would be better to turn up and pay on the day. That way more cash goes to the hardship fund.

Steam Pigs says...
9:22am Fri 17 Aug 12

Boys and girls, ladies and gentlemen, please DO NOT FEED THE TROLL, that is all. Thank you for your time

Thee Voice of Reason says...
9:25am Fri 17 Aug 12

I see the usual suspects are out in force again attacking me.
What part of there were no conditional bids till a few weeks ago don't you understand? How can this situation have been speeded up if there were no bids on the table. Now there are four bids on the table don't you think it will take time to go though each bid and choose the best one?

It's a frustrating situation but without the administrator HMRC would have shut the club down months ago. I feel for Potter and all the staff but if at the end of this the club find itself in the hands of new owners that can secure the future of the club then I hope there is a good chance the employees are taken back on.

Some of you are just trying to cause an arguement for no reason, when the truth a club can only be sold on when a bid that is acceptable has been made. Now four bids have been made it will take a little longer to find the best one, the bidders aren't buying a bag of sweets here.

Steam Pigs says...
9:29am Fri 17 Aug 12

DON'T DO IT!! RESIST!!!!!

Steampig says...
9:30am Fri 17 Aug 12

Well said MP ! it is a farce,and however frustrating it is for us Fans it is nothing compared to the upset and turmoil the staff at Odsal are going through. There wil be lots of time for finger pointing and playing the blame game in the months to come but none of that helps them out right now. it needs resolving and quickly because as things stand the loyalty and patience of all concerned is being tested to the limits. How long can the RFL and administrator expect people to work for nothing ? if it wasn't for them the club would have folded by now. We also have the situation where 17 players are coming out of contract and those still under contract don't know if they will have a job in a few weeks time. So it needs sorting and quickly for all concerened.

Mumby was the best says...
9:30am Fri 17 Aug 12

I know it`s a conspiracy theory, but if Voldermort thinks he is to lose out in his master plan he could have got his mate Tinfoil to obsruct proceedings and bring the club further to it`s knees by prolonging the farce making players and staff gettin p***ed off and leaving. In other words if I can`t have nobody else is.
Regarding TVoR the sooner he takes his finger out of his ar*** and lets his brain breathe the better.

Adeybull says...
9:35am Fri 17 Aug 12

Go back to your textbook. The rest of us will carry on in the real world, where we understand that only part of what goes on ever makes it to the public domain.

Prycey says...
9:46am Fri 17 Aug 12

Out of the four bids that have been quoted I am surprisingly coming round to the thought that the Omar Khan bid is the best for the Bulls and Odsal. This is because I tend to think the others are in it to help themselves more than simply save the bulls in their own right. OK, Sutcliffe may not be everyone’s cup of tea but he is still a prominent minister who is also talking with the council. He is only the chair of the bid and I suspect others will be actually spending their own money and Sutcliffe will move aside when others have taken charge. Whoever takes over I do like the idea of Odsal being used for much more than 13 super league games a year. How can you run a business on that plan? There are many really good Asian businessmen in Bradford who could use the stadium much better than our directors have done in the 35 years I have been going there. They do know how to make money out of nearly nothing. If my beloved Northern Bulls prosper and Odsal is used for many days a week – then that will do me.

Mumby was the best says...
9:49am Fri 17 Aug 12

It`s all conjecture but I would smell a rat if SLE won out as they state they only mean to take charge for a short time. Also can`t this be seen as a condition?

Mumby was the best says...
9:51am Fri 17 Aug 12

If SLE`s bid was to flush out other bidders it`s worked, so why are they still on the table.

Thee Voice of Reason says...
9:55am Fri 17 Aug 12

Out of interest, Guilfoyle was administrator for Plymouth Argyle last year and they were in administration for a period of 7 months.

Look to the fella who apointed him. Plymouth are out the otherside for the better now, hopefully the same will be said about the Bulls in a few weeks time, frustrating as the situation is the bids are on the table, the best one will be being selected and going forward the club can grow from this.

In some peoples eyes the ABC group were looked on as heros for placing bids and the RFL were seen as the bad guys for rejecting them because it was a case of wanted their cake and eating it, it's only after SLE's bid that the real bids came out of the woodwork. If they had come out earlier this could all have been resolved by now but they didn't.

Many fans have done what City fans did dur their two admins in the past to look after those effected and full credit to them.

The guys who are to blame for this mess are long gone and are unaffected by this whole mess, it just seems easier to lay the blame at the door of those tasked with cleaning it up for some.

Thee Voice of Reason says...
9:59am Fri 17 Aug 12

Mumby was the best wrote:
If SLE`s bid was to flush out other bidders it`s worked, so why are they still on the table.
It will be plan D, if the other 3 bids are found not to be viable when looked into.

It shouldn't come to that though, one of the other 3 bids will be accepted.

Steam Pigs says...
10:21am Fri 17 Aug 12

DON'T DO IT MUMBY!!!!

;-)

Steam Pigs says...
10:24am Fri 17 Aug 12

Mumby was the best wrote:
If SLE`s bid was to flush out other bidders it`s worked, so why are they still on the table.
To ensure that the others follow through and its not just bluff and bravado? If they pull out so could the others and wait for liquidation to get us on the cheap

skellett47 says...
10:26am Fri 17 Aug 12

I fully agree with Mic Potter. We've had deadline after deadline in recent weeks.

In my opinion, the Adminstrator and the RFL have created this farce. They should have ensured that last Friday's deadline for bids to be received, also had business plans to accompany them. Since how could anyone put forward a bid for the club without first having got some kind of business plan in place to support their bid. Not rocket science!!!

I am left wondering how many more deadlines ther are going to be before this saga is brought to conclusion. We might well find ourselves with new owners, but will we have any players left or coaching staff left? I take my hat off to all of them, they deserve much better.

Tatecastre says...
10:42am Fri 17 Aug 12

Your right mick, it has gone on too long. Yes, it should have been resolved. IMO, it would have been if the original bids had come in without conditions, as per rfl statement. Whose the one for us, out of the four, can we really say, no. As we are not privy to the bids. Yes, we have our favourites,mine the rhodes family, just on the basis, it winds up city supporters. Joking apart, both the rfl and guilfoyle have to do the best for the club. Whoever takes over, should work hand in glove with the supporters. Also, work alongside the lease holder, freeholder, in bringing odsal into the 21st century. So, I really think, whoever has the business plan and the money to do this will be the one who wins the bid. Out of the four, who has the cash, to do it? Let's have your SENSIBLE answers please.

Prycey says...
10:46am Fri 17 Aug 12

I think the deadlines will continue to the point where we have completed all of the games and then the real talking and action will happen when we get to know our fate from the RFL. Finishing the season is vital for the RFL.

Bacon Bantam says...
10:49am Fri 17 Aug 12

I understand Mr Potters frustrations, he is one who has been directly penalised for the actions of the previous owners and one who's future is more uncertain than most.

I do though also have sympathy with all those charged to clean up this mess and those who might be taking on a debt via a successful bid that is not of their creating.

With 4 bids on the table surely the process is coming to an end and after waiting since March hopefully a few more weeks is all that will have to be endured before the future is secured and fans can get on what they want to focus on and that is performances on the field.

When I head down to Valley Parade to watch City I just want their performance on the pitch to be the only matter, I'm hoping the days of worrying about the club seeing the season out are a thing of the past and i hope the same for the Bulls too.

Tatecastre says...
10:51am Fri 17 Aug 12

Here's a bit of news for you all. Sam burgess signs for bunnies til 2016. For more read article in sporting life.

Mumby was the best says...
11:18am Fri 17 Aug 12

Prycey wrote:
I think the deadlines will continue to the point where we have completed all of the games and then the real talking and action will happen when we get to know our fate from the RFL. Finishing the season is vital for the RFL.
Totally agree with you, the last thing they wanted was us to not fulfill fixtures, too much egg on the face of RFL management if it happened. But the big question is what they want to happen to us in the future? Unlike some on here I don`t think they think we are too big to go down to the championship, they may just want to hand out a lesson to make other clubs trying to live beyond their means and keep up with the sugardaddied ones, start to get their house in order or come next round of franchises you will be gone.

Ackersthebull says...
11:20am Fri 17 Aug 12

Mumby was the best wrote:
At last, it seems even the coaching staff and players probably feel the same as the fans. You would think they would have been privy to some info we aren`t, but reading MP`s comments it appears not and without naming names he fires both barrels at the situation.
Well said Mick, a man of honor and integrity.
Speaking to some of the players after last Fridays match they said we would be likely to find out anything before they did.

Ackersthebull says...
11:22am Fri 17 Aug 12

blue marlin wrote:
Adeybull wrote:
huggy b wrote: Mick Potter has worked miracles on the pitch, he at least deserves clarity on his future off it. Perhaps Guilfoyle could put half of his £500 a day into the hardship fund to pay the staff? I'd still do his job for £250 a day! We all know that won't happen though.
I think you will find the figure people were throwing around was £500 an HOUR. I don't know the actual figure, but from my knowledge of charge-out rates it will be far nearer to £500 an hour than a day.
500 per hour is not far off the mark
Yea but it seems like he's only been doing an hour a day at times!

Mumby was the best says...
11:23am Fri 17 Aug 12

Ackersthebull wrote:
Mumby was the best wrote:
At last, it seems even the coaching staff and players probably feel the same as the fans. You would think they would have been privy to some info we aren`t, but reading MP`s comments it appears not and without naming names he fires both barrels at the situation.
Well said Mick, a man of honor and integrity.
Speaking to some of the players after last Fridays match they said we would be likely to find out anything before they did.
Thats cos they read the T&A

Mumby was the best says...
11:25am Fri 17 Aug 12

Steam Pigs wrote:
DON'T DO IT MUMBY!!!!

;-)
OK my son, I nearly did

Spirit of '64 says...
11:39am Fri 17 Aug 12

I thought any bid that was accepted for consideration had to ALREADY include a business plan? And yet they now have until next week to submit them? So potentially all the bids might yet be rejected if the business plans don't stack up! Utterly beyond belief. Whilst it is true neither the administrator nor the RFL got the Bulls into this mess the stagerring ineptitude and total absence of communication skills from these two parties has made a shocking situation a whole lot worse. Little wonder they attract so much contempt in these forums. The players, staff and the fans deserve so much better but no one with any influence seems to care a jot about them. Shameful.

Blotto says...
12:01pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Mumby was the best wrote:
It`s all conjecture but I would smell a rat if SLE won out as they state they only mean to take charge for a short time. Also can`t this be seen as a condition?
Well the rumour mill has it that there are a couple more potential bidders on the sideline, that will not deal with Guilfoyle but would deal with the SLE if they take over the Club

Steam Pigs says...
12:03pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Blotto wrote:
Mumby was the best wrote:
It`s all conjecture but I would smell a rat if SLE won out as they state they only mean to take charge for a short time. Also can`t this be seen as a condition?
Well the rumour mill has it that there are a couple more potential bidders on the sideline, that will not deal with Guilfoyle but would deal with the SLE if they take over the Club
hmmmmm Mr Hood and Greenwoods perhaps??? Both been very quiet since Mr Caisley performed his coup de grace....

Mumby was the best says...
12:04pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Blotto wrote:
Mumby was the best wrote:
It`s all conjecture but I would smell a rat if SLE won out as they state they only mean to take charge for a short time. Also can`t this be seen as a condition?
Well the rumour mill has it that there are a couple more potential bidders on the sideline, that will not deal with Guilfoyle but would deal with the SLE if they take over the Club
I hope you are right, but there are too many rumours circulating and these add to the frustration genuine fans feel.

Tatecastre says...
12:08pm Fri 17 Aug 12

That's just what it is a rumour. Was said that people would only deal with rfl. As to Mr C and Mr H, they will be deemed not fit persons. Greenwoods have a very rich Chinese owner.

Mumby was the best says...
12:12pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Steam Pigs wrote:
Blotto wrote:
Mumby was the best wrote:
It`s all conjecture but I would smell a rat if SLE won out as they state they only mean to take charge for a short time. Also can`t this be seen as a condition?
Well the rumour mill has it that there are a couple more potential bidders on the sideline, that will not deal with Guilfoyle but would deal with the SLE if they take over the Club
hmmmmm Mr Hood and Greenwoods perhaps??? Both been very quiet since Mr Caisley performed his coup de grace....
If you are right then the hatred between Hood and Caisley knows no bounds, to bring a club to its knees over a fractious relationship is childish at best. Why don`t they just step into a ring and knock seven bells out of each other and let some grown ups get on with saving the club.

Steam Pigs says...
12:32pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tatecastre wrote:
That's just what it is a rumour. Was said that people would only deal with rfl. As to Mr C and Mr H, they will be deemed not fit persons. Greenwoods have a very rich Chinese owner.
CC definetly fits the persona non grata with the RFL after his previous outbursts one would assume, as for Hood, not so sure, the RFL continually bailed him out and supported him... that to me is not a person out of favour! Not sure if there are any operating rules relating to ownership?

Tatecastre says...
12:44pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Steam, I think that in view of the facts that have come out since Hood departed. He will,now, be persona non grata with the rfl. Plus if either H or C are behind any of these bids, advisory or otherwise, the bids will loose.

Will, Huddersfield says...
12:52pm Fri 17 Aug 12

The present situation is a disgrace to the name of rugby league. The main losers in this sorry saga are Mick Potter and the coaching staff whose goodwill is being stretched to breaking point and the admin staff whose employment has gone. Who is responsible for this stalling, this incapability of making a rational decision about the club's future?
I don't know how efficiently or otherwise the administrator has carried out his obligations so I make no comment.
I have strong reservations about the way RL Headquarters have handled their side. Firstly they sat on their hands for three months until it became evident that the club was on the point of folding. That then in my view, concentrated their minds because the thought of having to expunge the Bull's records from the competition was such that they had to intervene to save face. I regard their SLE bid as no more than a short-term cynical attempt to ensure that the Bulls complete the season. Why can't they state which league the club will play in next season if the administration conditions are met? Why weren't business plans asked for before now to ensure they were viable?
I could go on but as the club reels towards the end of a good playing season, I think the RL will hope Bulls don't make the Top Eight playoffs because this will only add further delay to the process and alienate even more the coaching staff, players and fans alike.
Spirit of '64 is spot on. t totally beggers belief!

Steam Pigs says...
12:53pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tatecastre wrote:
Steam, I think that in view of the facts that have come out since Hood departed. He will,now, be persona non grata with the rfl. Plus if either H or C are behind any of these bids, advisory or otherwise, the bids will loose.
Money speaks though..... if rumours are to be believed, CC was part of ABC and PH is linked to the Greenwoods... if either offer to pay 100% of the debt off would the RFL be able to turn it down?

Tatecastre says...
1:03pm Fri 17 Aug 12

True, but, would Greenwoods need Hood, they have the backing of a multi national company, who would provide a CEO. If they needed an advisor on RL, they could buy someone from Red Hall, more competent to do the job.( written with tongue in cheek) or hire an ex player eg Robbie.

Tricky Dicky says...
1:09pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Frustration all around but that is the nature of administration with bidders playing a game of chess and keeping their next moves secret. It is tough for all staff, paid and unpaid, and I am sure all supporters admire their resolve and focus. However, as the end game is drawing to a close, I cannot understand the two football club bids though; BPA have, to my knowledge, never even requested a ground share at Odsal previously and I am sure all City fans would wish further investment in their own team as a priority, the SL(E) bid does not look beyond the end of the current season. So, it's down to the OK bid, IMO, and it would be interesting to know what their business plan for the club is.
Let's hope the lads put anxiety and frustration aside and beat Huddersfield on Sunday. It can only pile more pressure on the RFL to come clean about their plans for a future Bulls side.

Tatecastre says...
1:11pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Steam, forgot to say all this rumour and supposition does nothing to help, supporters. I'll wait for a statement from, Guilfoyle and the RFL, nextweek. I've got it on good authority from a friend of a friend of the bloke who stands, just behind the posts, Mary Shaws' end, fourth row down from beginning of terracing. Wears a flat cap.

Sheffieldbull says...
1:12pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Will, Huddersfield wrote:
The present situation is a disgrace to the name of rugby league. The main losers in this sorry saga are Mick Potter and the coaching staff whose goodwill is being stretched to breaking point and the admin staff whose employment has gone. Who is responsible for this stalling, this incapability of making a rational decision about the club's future?
I don't know how efficiently or otherwise the administrator has carried out his obligations so I make no comment.
I have strong reservations about the way RL Headquarters have handled their side. Firstly they sat on their hands for three months until it became evident that the club was on the point of folding. That then in my view, concentrated their minds because the thought of having to expunge the Bull's records from the competition was such that they had to intervene to save face. I regard their SLE bid as no more than a short-term cynical attempt to ensure that the Bulls complete the season. Why can't they state which league the club will play in next season if the administration conditions are met? Why weren't business plans asked for before now to ensure they were viable?
I could go on but as the club reels towards the end of a good playing season, I think the RL will hope Bulls don't make the Top Eight playoffs because this will only add further delay to the process and alienate even more the coaching staff, players and fans alike.
Spirit of '64 is spot on. t totally beggers belief!
Great post Will. I cannot understand why the RFL will not say which League the Bulls will play in 2013 IF all boxes are ticked by Newco. Crazy!

I too fear that the current state of play is very much due to the RFL/SL(E) horror at the thought of the Bulls not completing their fixtures. That rational would be such a kick in the teeth to Coaches, Staff and Fans who have already suffered too much.


If this unfolded to be the case I myself would seriously consider whether I would continue with my long love affair with the sport.

taurusthebull says...
1:16pm Fri 17 Aug 12

I find the whole thing outrageous, in that CC was allowed to appoint the administrator in the first place , and as for getting the best deal for the creditors, well the only person in profit seems to be the said administrator!
As far as punishment for the Bulls I would propose same as was dished out to Melbourne ie no points next season, but stay in SL, we would then have a focus and incentive for the players,(as did MS) TO BEAT ALL AND SUNDRY JUST FOR THE HELL OF IT !! and following season emerge as real contenders again (I can dream cant I)

Tatecastre says...
1:20pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Now here is one statement I do not believe. You had better not write your will yet. As they would say your balance of mind had gone. Not to watch the sport you love, is like having your genetalia removed with a pair of nail scissors. Very painful. Go and have a glass of sanatogen.

-HCK3R- says...
1:23pm Fri 17 Aug 12

I think the rfl will ensure no decision is made until the curret season ends,and their main objective has always been to ensure the Bulls fulfilled their fixtures, lets be honest surely it cant have been too difficult to give prospective buyers of the club some idea of what was required and what they could and could not offer in return....

Tatecastre says...
1:25pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Taurus, nice thought, RFL may do that. As they tend to follow all things NRL. But, that wouldn't suit half the folk on here or in SL.

arthor61 says...
1:35pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
I think this is the most ridiculous and disgraceful view of the whole sordid affair, yes you can blame the administrator he has deliberately ignored people trying to make a bid with words like oh I did not get a message or I do not have voice mail, the man is a total and utter shark and yes before you jump up and down I have met him, so stop backing the wrong man and get your biased opinion behind the real people who have made the club a success since administration namely the staff, who this stupid man sacked

raisemeup says...
1:44pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Steam Pigs wrote:
DON'T DO IT!! RESIST!!!!!
You are a spoilsport....He is the most frustrated...little man ever...he cannot see how offensive he is due to him always having a foot in his oversize gob.
That's an assumption only-- I do not know the size of any of his attributes..

You notice I resisted replying to him...easy really..

Mumby was the best says...
1:49pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Yes it beggars belief that a so called high powered administrator cannot retrieve a voicemail.It also stinks that he is so closely affiliated with Caisley and not neutral, all this gob he comes out with that I`m looking after the creditors is what he`s supposed to do but only time will tell if he has. When a guy like MP calls it a farce (bearing in mind his position) it says a lot.

Sheffieldbull says...
1:49pm Fri 17 Aug 12

arthor61 wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
I think this is the most ridiculous and disgraceful view of the whole sordid affair, yes you can blame the administrator he has deliberately ignored people trying to make a bid with words like oh I did not get a message or I do not have voice mail, the man is a total and utter shark and yes before you jump up and down I have met him, so stop backing the wrong man and get your biased opinion behind the real people who have made the club a success since administration namely the staff, who this stupid man sacked
Also very well said author.

TVoR is an ignoramus, full of self importance who offers nothing to this comment section, indeed, he is even sanctimonious on the Bantams posts as well.

Mumby was the best says...
1:53pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Sheffieldbull wrote:
arthor61 wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Its a bit unfair to blame the administrator, up until the last couple of weeks there were no bids on the table that where unconditional as requested by the RFL.
Now 4 have come along at once it would be more important at this stage to pick the best deal going forward for the future of the club.
The administrator has kept the club going long enough for these bids to come in and now they are in they all have to be checked for their individual merits and for the security of the club going forward.
I'm sure no one will want this to happen again so it takes a few weeks to find the best deal to secure the clubs future then its a tiny price to pay in the scheme of things.
I think this is the most ridiculous and disgraceful view of the whole sordid affair, yes you can blame the administrator he has deliberately ignored people trying to make a bid with words like oh I did not get a message or I do not have voice mail, the man is a total and utter shark and yes before you jump up and down I have met him, so stop backing the wrong man and get your biased opinion behind the real people who have made the club a success since administration namely the staff, who this stupid man sacked
Also very well said author.

TVoR is an ignoramus, full of self importance who offers nothing to this comment section, indeed, he is even sanctimonious on the Bantams posts as well.
He can`t help having OCD

Sheffieldbull says...
1:55pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tatecastre wrote:
Now here is one statement I do not believe. You had better not write your will yet. As they would say your balance of mind had gone. Not to watch the sport you love, is like having your genetalia removed with a pair of nail scissors. Very painful. Go and have a glass of sanatogen.
But notice I left myself a little 'wriggle room' Tatecastre ;-)

Now, Sanatogen you say, I'll order a case immediately!

Thee Voice of Reason says...
1:58pm Fri 17 Aug 12

You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet?

The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from.

Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin.

As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time.

This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.

Tatecastre says...
1:59pm Fri 17 Aug 12

That you did, Sheffield, that you did.

Mumby was the best says...
2:01pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet?

The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from.

Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin.

As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time.

This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Yawn ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
ZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Mumby was the best says...
2:04pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Oh look T&A just got wind of Sam Burgess signing a new contract!!!!

Steam Pigs says...
2:09pm Fri 17 Aug 12

taurusthebull wrote:
I find the whole thing outrageous, in that CC was allowed to appoint the administrator in the first place , and as for getting the best deal for the creditors, well the only person in profit seems to be the said administrator!
As far as punishment for the Bulls I would propose same as was dished out to Melbourne ie no points next season, but stay in SL, we would then have a focus and incentive for the players,(as did MS) TO BEAT ALL AND SUNDRY JUST FOR THE HELL OF IT !! and following season emerge as real contenders again (I can dream cant I)
A cynic might say that BG is doing a favour for his pal CC, and by stringing it out, he can claim more money and share a bit with CC so he gets some of his stake back..... but thats immoral and illegal no doubt........ unless you know some loopholes.... which business administrators and solicitors would most likely know..... just cynics view mind....

Adeybull says...
2:11pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet?

The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from.

Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin.

As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time.

This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Once again you demonstrate you have no idea what you are talking about..
.
This is an UNFUNDED administration, ffs. Do you understand the difference? And the significance?
.
Thought not.

Mumby was the best says...
2:17pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Adeybull wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet?

The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from.

Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin.

As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time.

This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Once again you demonstrate you have no idea what you are talking about..
.
This is an UNFUNDED administration, ffs. Do you understand the difference? And the significance?
.
Thought not.
I`m sorry Adey but he will keep coming back with the same mantra all the time, it`s his thought for the day.

Adeybull says...
2:18pm Fri 17 Aug 12

"thought"?

Thee Voice of Reason says...
2:19pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Adeybull wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote: You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet? The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from. Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin. As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time. This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Once again you demonstrate you have no idea what you are talking about.. . This is an UNFUNDED administration, ffs. Do you understand the difference? And the significance? . Thought not.
The Plymouth Argyle administration run by the same bloke was also unfunded.

Mumby was the best says...
2:20pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Told you. I once had a dog like him, I sorted it I had it put down.

Spirit of '64 says...
2:37pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Will, Huddersfield wrote:
The present situation is a disgrace to the name of rugby league. The main losers in this sorry saga are Mick Potter and the coaching staff whose goodwill is being stretched to breaking point and the admin staff whose employment has gone. Who is responsible for this stalling, this incapability of making a rational decision about the club's future? I don't know how efficiently or otherwise the administrator has carried out his obligations so I make no comment. I have strong reservations about the way RL Headquarters have handled their side. Firstly they sat on their hands for three months until it became evident that the club was on the point of folding. That then in my view, concentrated their minds because the thought of having to expunge the Bull's records from the competition was such that they had to intervene to save face. I regard their SLE bid as no more than a short-term cynical attempt to ensure that the Bulls complete the season. Why can't they state which league the club will play in next season if the administration conditions are met? Why weren't business plans asked for before now to ensure they were viable? I could go on but as the club reels towards the end of a good playing season, I think the RL will hope Bulls don't make the Top Eight playoffs because this will only add further delay to the process and alienate even more the coaching staff, players and fans alike. Spirit of '64 is spot on. t totally beggers belief!
Thanks Will and there are lots of others on here who think exactly the same. We can't all be wrong

Tatecastre says...
2:43pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tvor, ask Plymouth Argyle, supporters about him, guilfoyle, and what he did to them and their club. He was so popular, they gave him a nickname, the ginger dwarf.

arthor61 says...
2:43pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Adeybull wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote: You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet? The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from. Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin. As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time. This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Once again you demonstrate you have no idea what you are talking about.. . This is an UNFUNDED administration, ffs. Do you understand the difference? And the significance? . Thought not.
The Plymouth Argyle administration run by the same bloke was also unfunded.
Does TVOR actually work for BG it is not the length of admin it is the management of admin, the first and most basic principle is to keep the assets of the business in tact for a smooth transition to a new owner, BG decided instead of letting go on-loan players and sell others he would sack the coaching staff putting the Bulls in a worst position than before, and you wonder why people think he is in bed with a certain CC

Thee Voice of Reason says...
2:46pm Fri 17 Aug 12

arthor61 wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote:
Adeybull wrote:
Thee Voice of Reason wrote: You boys enjoying patting each other on the back and singing from the same hymn sheet? The Bulls have been in admin for less than two months, there are some errors which have happened along the way but the process appears to be drawing to a conclusion with the 4 bids to choose from. Other sporting clubs such as Plymouth were in admin for 7 months, BCFC found themselves in admin for a similar period of time, Port Vale went into admin in March and are still in admin. As frustrating as these things are they are rarely settled within a short space of time. This mess is the result of many years of mismanagement and can't simply be put right in a matter of days.
Once again you demonstrate you have no idea what you are talking about.. . This is an UNFUNDED administration, ffs. Do you understand the difference? And the significance? . Thought not.
The Plymouth Argyle administration run by the same bloke was also unfunded.
Does TVOR actually work for BG it is not the length of admin it is the management of admin, the first and most basic principle is to keep the assets of the business in tact for a smooth transition to a new owner, BG decided instead of letting go on-loan players and sell others he would sack the coaching staff putting the Bulls in a worst position than before, and you wonder why people think he is in bed with a certain CC
The Plymouth Argyle fans have posted a link between BG and CC on their forums as they discuss this very matter.

raisemeup says...
2:49pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tatecastre wrote:
Your right mick, it has gone on too long. Yes, it should have been resolved. IMO, it would have been if the original bids had come in without conditions, as per rfl statement. Whose the one for us, out of the four, can we really say, no. As we are not privy to the bids. Yes, we have our favourites,mine the rhodes family, just on the basis, it winds up city supporters. Joking apart, both the rfl and guilfoyle have to do the best for the club. Whoever takes over, should work hand in glove with the supporters. Also, work alongside the lease holder, freeholder, in bringing odsal into the 21st century. So, I really think, whoever has the business plan and the money to do this will be the one who wins the bid. Out of the four, who has the cash, to do it? Let's have your SENSIBLE answers please.
I think the RFL are not fully at the races on this....The words and the apparent contempt they have shown to the bidders is not likely to win any confidence in their future dealings with anyone who eventually buys the lease back and then the club from the administrator. Or vice versa.

If these bidders are sucessful in the real world of business. The Business plan would have been spot on , before they even tabled a bid. Naturally enough they would have expected concessions to be made from the seller.
However the fact they have somewhat humiliated every bidder excepting the SLE(naturally enough as they did the plan, or they can tell us they did, and we can't dispute it, can we?)
bid, makes me shudder somewhat. Playing Tit for Tat the Admistrator may/could reject that bid in favour of another...then we get a stale mate situation.

I would say that would be my worst scenario, but like Prycey I tend to favour the Omar Khan bid. But I also would suggest to the rfl that they do not upset anyone who will have the ear of the All Parliamentary Party for Rugby League, enter Gerry Sutcliffe, stage left!!

Greg Mullholland (Chairman) has already got involved with a letter to the Director of RBS. So it was reported some time ago.

raisemeup says...
3:03pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Bacon Bantam wrote:
I understand Mr Potters frustrations, he is one who has been directly penalised for the actions of the previous owners and one who's future is more uncertain than most.

I do though also have sympathy with all those charged to clean up this mess and those who might be taking on a debt via a successful bid that is not of their creating.

With 4 bids on the table surely the process is coming to an end and after waiting since March hopefully a few more weeks is all that will have to be endured before the future is secured and fans can get on what they want to focus on and that is performances on the field.

When I head down to Valley Parade to watch City I just want their performance on the pitch to be the only matter, I'm hoping the days of worrying about the club seeing the season out are a thing of the past and i hope the same for the Bulls too.
That's what it's about really bantam, well said and we hope the same as you!

People watch the game and are immersed in the drama unfolding on the field of play, and that's the thing that keeps them going week in week out, it's the glue that binds whole communities with a sense of purpose in many-many cases. It's a time when the only thing that matters is in those 80 or 90 minutes ie. the game and the Players who we as supporters identify with, eg. when they score a try or a goal it's the 10 thousand Men-Women and children who have done it..That's what matters..So well said my fellow supporter of whichever team you support.

huggy b says...
3:39pm Fri 17 Aug 12

blue marlin wrote:
Adeybull wrote:
huggy b wrote: Mick Potter has worked miracles on the pitch, he at least deserves clarity on his future off it. Perhaps Guilfoyle could put half of his £500 a day into the hardship fund to pay the staff? I'd still do his job for £250 a day! We all know that won't happen though.
I think you will find the figure people were throwing around was £500 an HOUR. I don't know the actual figure, but from my knowledge of charge-out rates it will be far nearer to £500 an hour than a day.
500 per hour is not far off the mark
Christ on a bike! There was me thinking £500 a day for seemingly doing very little work was more than a fair day's pay!

AdeyG'man says...
4:36pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Potts is right...this could and should have been sorted ages ago and I don't blame him for criticising the administrator..."Mr Guilfoyle is unavailable for comment"...has become all too familiar print! Just hope the new owners realise that Potter & his staff are vital to the future of the club and keep him on.

Tatecastre says...
5:09pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Here,here, adey g. Whoever they maybe. If they don't realise it. We'll let ' em know.

lonniejockstrap says...
8:06pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Tatecastre wrote:
Tvor, ask Plymouth Argyle, supporters about him, guilfoyle, and what he did to them and their club. He was so popular, they gave him a nickname, the ginger dwarf.
Statistically, 6 out of seven dwarfs are not Happy.

Tatecastre says...
8:45pm Fri 17 Aug 12

That's correct, lonnie, but I'm sure tvor will dispute it, as you haven't given any concrete facts.

Tatecastre says...
8:52pm Fri 17 Aug 12

His arguement would be based on is Grumpy, Happy or not. Mind you, your figures might be wrong can you prove there were seven.

Tatecastre says...
8:59pm Fri 17 Aug 12

Just a thought on how upto date this ' paper is, why have they got a banner at the top of the page with latest Olympic news. Didn't they end last sunday. Or am I missing something. Before the numpties jump in yes I know it's the Paralympics soon.

Mumby was the best says...
9:00pm Fri 17 Aug 12

you will have to wait till tomorrow to find out, by now he will be locked up in his padded cell frothing at the mouth.

arhmen aleg says...
12:24am Mon 20 Aug 12

Adeybull what is this idiot of an administrater actually doing for his £500 an hour.

I sent him an Email 4 weeks ago to which he has not replied.

When I actually got him to answer his phone he did not have a clue of the qustions asked.

I guess the paid and unpaid staff continue to run things as best they can.

Sounds like a ship without the rudder.

think the SLE bid is the best to see things through until all the other bidders can get themselves together.

My suspicion is those connected with ABC may have tied themselves to BPA bid.

None of the bidders have the finance or funding to make a proper fist of things.

The RFL have.as far as Odsal goes anyway.

The gravy train that is players wages cannot be sustained in super league.

There are not the Abranovich"s and Man City backers queing up to get involved in rugby league.

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