Today marks the third anniversary of the Often Partisan website being launched.

Since it’s launch on April 2, 2011, the website has seen over 4.9million pageviews with over 600,000 coming in the first three months of this year alone. With the last 12 months seeing the site follow the trial of Carson Yeung in depth the site now sees around 200,000 pageviews per month from followers in 120 different countries around the world.

I won’t deny it’s been a tough year for Blues fans and it’s not one I’ve particularly enjoyed from a footballing perspective. As much as it’s been good for me personally to go out to Hong Kong to build sources and to deliver news about the ownership of the club I will admit hand on heart that I cannot wait for the day when my prime concern is excitement about what is happening on the pitch rather than concern for what is happening off it.

I’m still humbled and amazed every day that so many people log on to the site to read my thoughts and opinions on what is happening and I hope that I’m still seen to be doing a good job in trying to give up to date information about the club.

It’s been a tough year for me personally as well. I sadly lost my grandfather on Boxing Day of last year and April 2 was his birthday; while he supported the mob from across the expressway he was the person who got me into football as a very young child and it was only due to my contrary nature (coupled with some encouragement from a family friend) that saw me see the light and support the Blues. As much as he hated that decision he supported me in everything I did and I’m glad the website shares his birthday.

If you would like to make a donation towards the rising running costs of the website you can click the link below or email me at almajir@oftenpartisan.co.uk; alternatively if you run a business and would like to affiliate your business with the site please get in touch.

All donations are gratefully accepted