Zweiter Abend.

Everyone then repaired to the sportsbar, where another vehicle was stationed: the Food Truck, a novel use for a school bus, it seemed - see the poster again, with the further message: 'Enjoy our German-British classics', listed as 'Schnitzel with fried potatoes vs Fish and Chips Currywurst vs Salted Beef Bagel [GB or US?] Red Fruit Compott vs Apple Crumble' 'and in addition: roast vegetables, paninis, and much more.'

There was, of course, no lack of the local beer, at which point I remembered a tradition of my student days in Germany ( including Mainz, a famous Karneval - mardi gras - location), which involved a Schnapps chaser after a beer. This didn't prove too popular, but most humoured me by trying it. The kitchen and the food truck were very much appreciated. There followed speeches, including one by your reporter, trying to wake my German language from hibernation. The trophy for the football was awarded to the Exeter team, on what might be seen as a technicality: they drew that night's game.

Samstag, 30, Maerz.

No football today, though there was a plan to attend a league match here. But Eintracht Frankfurt were at home the following day, and no other game was in easy reach. The Dunbars, of course, made their usual pilgrimage to a bar with Sky TV, and, as last year, returned well pleased that their team had again beaten some poverty stricken London lot.

The market had packed up, with its barrel-organ man and tame chicken. A group of us sat outside a bar at lunchtime and were served by the landlord, who seemed a little the worse for his own drink, as he didn't seem to understand Nico's order for tea (ok, it was unusual from an Italian, but why not?) and succeeded in chucking a glass of lemonade over me.

I went back to my little hotel (my late booking would have cost double at the Hilton), which was very nice, though they hadn't let

on that it was right under the final approach of jumbo jets to Frankfurt airport.

The evening meal was taken at an upmarket restaurant converted from a church, where the Phil Webb trophy for player of the year was presented to Craig – another triumph for the younger generation. (Richie has had a run of bridesmaid places.)

So, despite the negative goal difference, another very successful and enjoyable tour, again owing much to Steve's organising skills, with thanks also to Matt and our hosts at Rot-Weiss Drais, especially Holger and Lisa. We must have been well behaved, as they have even invited us again, and hope to visit us too.