If Western were to be relegated, is that the beginning of the end for the club, despite their long and proud history? Cannot see them fighting back in the short term to be honest. Merger? Swallowed up into West Chch United FC Twente perhaps?
Of course, far more sensible to merge with the neighbours. Who do Spreydon and Hoon hay kids play for these days? Chch Utd just happened to be a very convenient vehicle for Slava. Whilst I'm an advocate of slicker ambitious better performing clubs (as long as the Board has a considered strategic plan that takes their community and members into account and they don't act like silly buggers spending money irresponsibly), I do worry about 2 issues. 1. Looking after the base of the player pyramid so that future elite players and future park social players alike, can develop in adequate numbers to sustain a club; 2. A private owner model where, when push comes to shove, one persons money makes the decision.