Fan-tastic! (westhamonline.com)

Member Name: gothiron

Product:	westhamonline.com
Date:	18/09/01 (329 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: moderated content, up to date and informative, cheaper than a programme!

Disadvantages: addictive, the idiots that occasionally hi-jack the boards

If a website is meant to mirror the clientele it serves, then WHO can safely say it reflects the Hammer fan base - the site is like a virtual crowd. There is the bit for the sad stattos out there (well someone will always want to know the precise minute goal was scored in the U15 cup tie), there is the "friendly" banter amongst the regulars, the odd bit of abuse from a visiting fan intent on showing that they may have grasped the concept of the internet, they just haven't grasped the concept of intelligence and most of all news that isn't just the speculative tentacles of a greedy agent trying to push through a deal for the latest Nobby No-Talent on his books.

The site is well maintained, updated daily (unlike many of the so called professional sites) and moderated by the long suffering Alex V who I feel could make a real killing in the commerical world of sports writing.

But what gives the WHO its vibrancy is the incredible knowledge of the contributors and the variety of topics that are covered. Obtaining quotes from PdC, an interview with golden haired bad boy Frankie McAvennie (those were the days)as well as reporting on press conferences and the latest news from the club. The fan votes give an accurate barometer of the feeling buzzing around Upton Park, the articles by Billy Blagg give a light hearted view of just what it's like to be a WHU fan (better than a MU fan - at least most of the country doesn't despise us for being successful) and the chat forums always provide lively and usually informed debate.

One of the best features the WHO did was an expose into how dubious sales of players happen. The planting of a rumour on another web page with no substance blossomed into a fully fledged story in a national - a shame some of the so-called sports journalists that write on the subject don't take as much care on their features.

To sum up, if you want a comforting slippers and pipe type sit
e, then go to the offical WHU web, if you want something that is a bit more Dr Martens and a roll up, check out the WHO.

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