It’s been a few weeks since we last caught up with Joshua Hayes, the Accommodation Manager for the Mackney Marauders, who, as we reported in July, was feeling the weight of game day jitters ahead of the season opener. Fast forward to now, and it seems those worries have transformed into a different kind of concern. The Marauders kicked off their season with a thrilling match against the Riverton Rangers, clinching a 3-2 victory that had fans on the edge of their seats. Hayes, however, found the exhilaration of the win tempered by the realization that it was just the beginning. "Winning feels great, but it also means I have to keep this momentum going for the rest of the season," he said, a hint of stress creeping back into his voice. While the Marauders celebrated their first victory, the fans in the stands weren't the only ones with elevated heart rates. Hayes, who has been managing the behind-the-scenes logistics for years, faced an unexpected hurdle this season: a shortage of accommodations for visiting teams. "You know, I thought I’d have things running smoothly by now, but it’s like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle!" Hayes chuckled, but the anxiety was palpable. "We have the home games figured out, but I didn’t anticipate how hard it would be to find decent lodgings for our guests. It’s been a real puzzle." In an effort to ease the situation, Hayes has turned to the community for support, enlisting local businesses to help provide suitable accommodations for the teams. "It’s a team effort, just like the game itself!" he proclaimed. To gain a little perspective, I reached out to Harriet Stewart, our beloved 97-year-old nan, who has seen her fair share of football seasons. "Back in my day, we had our own problems, but the heart of the game never changes. You can’t let logistics weigh you down. It’s all about focusing on the play, and letting the chips fall where they may. If Joshua thinks too much about the numbers, he might lose sight of what’s important—enjoying the game!" Wise words from Harriet, as always. The Marauders will continue to rely on Hayes' tenacity as the season progresses, and for fans, it will be a thrilling journey. As we look ahead, the next challenge will be a home game against the Westfield Wolves, and you can bet Hayes will be right there, ready to tackle whatever comes his way. The Marauders may have started strong, but with Hayes at the helm, there’s no telling what hurdles lie ahead. One thing’s for sure, though: he’ll face them head-on—jittery or not.