Don't Look Bac in Anger...

Dark_Soccer · December 28, 2003

lol yep defiently a terrible pun...

I'm not going to be sucked into saying something stupid...GO Bac

Excellent Story Keep it up

displaced_seagull · December 29, 2003

Only a Brighton fan could come up with something that bad - see some of my earlier and future efforts - cheers both of you

With Marian Marek and Robert Lovegrove both only picking up minor knocks that would see them back by Tuesday, Fairway would also be missing Albert Balasz after training on Monday. The young winger - talented, but still lacking experience - ruled out for a week with a chest injury.

Fairway and his Bac squad flew to Scotland on Tuesday evening, arriving at Dundee on Wednesday. After a training session on the Dens Park pitch - a luxury for players used to Bac's sparsely equipped training facilities, Fairway prepared his side for what would possibly be the last time any of them would be involved in European Club Competition.

Dundee v Bac - UEFA Cup Qualifying Round 2nd Leg

Unavailable

Albert Balasz - Injured (Chest, 4 Days)

While Bac have gone from strength to strength - and top of the league - in their two games since Dundee's win in Slovakia a fortnight ago, the home side have struggled, and are without a point domestically at the moment. While they'll welcome Sancho, who missed the first leg, back from international duty, Venezulean Jonay Hernandez will miss the game - escaping Scotland for a World Cup Qualifyer, and the warmer climes of Caracas. Bac - with Marek and Lovegrove both returning in time for the game - again made no changes, with Fairway preparing for a game that would need a miracle to turn around. Bac certainly started very brightly - Cisar having a second minute shot tipped over - before silencing Dens Park, and delighting the 400 or so who had travelled from Slovakia by taking the lead on 5 minutes. After Mackay had dashed out, breaking Dundee's defensive line, Horky chipped the ball through, and while the flag stayed down, Ernest Lopu ran on to beat Speroni and make it 1-0. After the early shock, Bac were under serious pressure for the remainder of the first half. Nacho Novo wasted an opportunity on 22, before Fotheringham shot over two minutes later. With Bac still ahead going into the final third of the game - a very quiet opening to the second half barely meriting a sentence in later match reports - Dundee broke Bac hearts with a late leveller. With the clock showing 89 - and a famous, memorable victory on the horizon - Nacho Novo chipped the ball square, allowing Steven Milne the chance to steer a shot into the far corner from the edge of the box. Lee Wilkie was sent off in injury time for a professional foul - his pull back on Robert Patras denying a goalscoring opportunity. Despite only drawing, Bac had certainly not disgraced themselves - this was a draw against a side considerably better than themselves - the dream over, but with a sweet, rather than bitter, ending.

Bac 1 - Dundee 1 (Lopu)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda (Replaced Meszaros 83), Horky*, Marek (Replaced Patras 83), Lopu

Bac Lose 4-1 on Aggregate

Dark_Soccer · December 29, 2003

Too bad on the 4-1 aggregate score seeing you not make the 1st round proper of the UEFA cup....though Dundee United wasnt the side that you really needed to play in your 1st European game

Seems the league is going quiet smoothly apart from the few injuries...

Hopefully promotion will follow

Gino · December 29, 2003

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by samparish:

Come on! 3-0, you can pull it Bac!

I wish you lads would stop with these puns!

Can you not just sit Bac and enjoy the story?

This is as good as ever d_s!

December 29, 2003

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Gino:

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by samparish:

Come on! 3-0, you can pull it Bac!

I wish you lads would stop with these puns!

Can you not just sit Bac and enjoy the story?

This is as good as ever d_s! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Glenn Stiemens · December 29, 2003

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Gino:

I wish you lads would stop with these puns!

Can you not just sit Bac and enjoy the story?

This is as good as ever d_s! <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Bad luck on the european front d_s

displaced_seagull · December 29, 2003

Cheers everyone - Europe was a little disapointing - to beat Dundee would have been great, but they equalised with a cracking goal, so not too bad. As for promotion? - we'll have to start winning consistently first I think

Arriving back in Slovakia on Friday afternoon, Bac would have a week and a half to wait before travelling 300 miles cross-country for the rearranged game against Humenne - not involved in the Slovakian Cup at the moment, it would be a welcome rest for Fairway and his side.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Tuesday 7/9/04

'Marinic, Filo listed - as Bac get tough Cup task'

' FC Druzstevnik Bac has transfer-listed defender Peter Marinic and striker Michal Filo . Marinic has played just once under Fairway - the 4-0 defeat against Presov - while Filo arrived last season. His career at Bac never seemed to take off - four blank games, and three particularly bad performances have left the striker as fourth choice in an increasingly settled Bac front line. It's thought that Fairway would not demand transfer fees for either player.

Meanwhile Bac - holders of the Slovakian FA Cup - have drawn Slovan Bratislava in the Second Round, their first chance to defend the trophy they won last season.

Saturday, and a momentus day for all at Bac. The First game of the World Cup 2006 qualifying group - and two clashes which would divide the squad. For the majority, Slovakia v Cyprus would be the main point of interest - but for three players, the head Coach and their manager, England v Scotland would be the game to watch.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia Today - Football - Sunday 12/9/04

'2 dismissed as Slovakia get off to flyer'

"Despite having two sent off in the second half, Slovakia beat Cyprus 3-1 yesterday at Tehelne Pole to reach Third in the first Group 5 Qualifying table. After taking the lead on 10 minutes through Igor Demo , Slovakia quickly added a second - Marek Mintal scoring his fourth international goal on 19.

However it was in the Second Half when the action really lit up. After Cyprus pulled a goal back through Nicolaou , Miroslav Karhan immediatley scored a third for Slovakia - and kicked something off with his celebration. Cyprus goalkeeper Vasillou was booked, before Vladimir Labant and Lubomir Meszaros - the latter only on for four minutes as a sub - were sent off for their part in the ruckus. It took the shine off what was a fine win for the Slovaks, who go into Wednesday's game against Scotland in fine spirits.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

News of the World - Football - Sunday 12/9/04

'Owen sees off Auld Enemy as England leave it late'

'England beat Scotland 3-1 last night to go Second in Group 5 - after surviving an early shock. Scotland took the lead on 28 - Hibs' Ian Murray guiding home a Stockdale free kick to put the visitors ahead at Villa Park. On 31, Micheal Owen levelled for England - pouncing after 'keeper Gallagaher had blocked Real Madrid bound Wayne Rooney's header from a Beckham centre.

In the Second Half, with the Scots gaining confidence, Micheal Owen again pounced - prodding home the loose ball after Gallagher had blocked a Kieron Dyer fizzer. The win was sealed on 84 - 6 minutes after Owen's second, Rio Ferdinand headed home a Beckham corner to give England a comfortable 3-1 win.

Group 5 Results;

England 3 - Scotland 1

Croatia 5 - Andorra 0

Slovakia 3 - Cyprus 1

So it would be Eddie Forrest who was the butt of Monday morning jokes - the Scottish defender taking his teammates' jibes in good spirit - he hoped that come Thursday morning, the Slovaks at least would be the ones moping around.

HFC Humenne v Bac - League

With no injuries - and a long rest under their belts - Bac would make the long trip to Humenne in fine spirits. After 16 minutes of little action - they would soon loose those. Andrej Koprna reacted quickest - Eddie Forrest doing enough to get goal side, but not enough to prevent the skipper heading home Karpal's near-post cross. After a disapointing beginning, Bac's solitary first-half chance continued the theme - Peter Svoboda obviously taking lessons from the Marcel Horky school of optimistic long shooting, with a curling shot that dipped wide of the post. After the interval - and two changes for Bac, the visitors again surged forward - Tomas Nagy's header deflected wide on 64. By now, Humenne were firmly in control - and should have doubled their lead on 69, with a stinging Cerna drive well-fielded by Gardosik. On 80, they would get a deserved second - Andrej Koprna providing the finishing touch to Cerna's cross to kill off the game. Bac simply weren't at the races - and lose a golden opportunity to return to the top of the table.

Humenne 2 - Bac 0

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Benko (Replaced Nagy 45), Svoboda, Horky*, Marek (Replaced Patras 45), Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 3rd

Peacemaker7 · December 29, 2003

Decent home draw I guess, kind of an anti climax as it sometimes is when you get a small team into Europe. Still, I'm sure you'll be Bac in Europe again soon

Still brilliant story wise, but you know that anyway

displaced_seagull · December 29, 2003

European success is always the ultimate goal, but even another Cup win would be incredible. Cheers

With their midweek defeat Bac's first in four games, it would be a dispirited bunch of players who made the long trek back westwards in time for Friday's training session. They would though be able to call upon the fit-again Albert Balasz - returning from a chest injury that had taken longer than expected to heal.

Bac v VTJ Koba Senec - League

With Bac licking their wounds after their first defeat in four, Stuart Fairway decided to shuffle his pack - bringing in Robert Patras for a first start of the season in place of the misfiring Lopu. After a slow, sluggish start, Bac could have opened the scoring on 24. Picking the ball up on halfway, Marcel Horky pinged a superb 45-yard pass for Marian Marek, who's shot was only parried by 'keeper Kakas before being swept to safety. On 40, Fairway's selection gamble would pay off - Peter Svoboda working the ball into the box and Robert Patras firing the ball past Kakas to give Bac the lead. After a quiet start to the second half, Senec drew level on 57 - Vladimir Rosnik turning to fire his first of the season from just inside the box after a threaded Iskra pass. Just four minutes later, Bac regained the lead - and Peter Svoboda again had a key role to play, playing the ball through the middle for Robert Patras to shoot past Kakas from the edge of the box after shrugging off his marker. With Senec quiet - a weak Majernik header well held on 69 - Bac continued to press, and with two minutes to go Robert Patras scored his third of the game - more than justifying his suprise inclusion after rounding the 'keeper to score from Marek's flick on. Though Senec were average at best, you can't take anything away from Bac - Svoboda and goal hero Patras were superb.

Bac 3 - Senec 1 (Patras 3)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek (Replaced Albert 62), Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 2nd

LeytonOrient212 · December 29, 2003

Bac in business, good work.

December 30, 2003

Oh man, I'm really regretting starting the stupid puns now

On another note, I got this great Bobby Zamora DVD yesterday. I wish we could get him Bac

displaced_seagull · December 30, 2003

With his application for the Preston job coming to nothing, Fairway thought long and hard - but still fired off a CV to Burnley on Monday morning. The Clarets, bottom of Division One in England, are a club that might just fancy taking the risk on someone still unproven at the top level - despite last season's heroics.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Thursday 23/9/04

'Fine start for Zilina in Champions League'

"As Slovakia's first representative in the Group Stage of the European Champions League since Kosice back in 1995, League Champions MSK Zilina got their Group G campaign off to a fine start last night - holding Spanish side Celta Vigo 1-1 at Pod Dubnom.

Zilina opened the scoring on 73 - Gottwald finding Martin Fabus with a fine ball, before the striker's shot took a wicked deflection off a defender and nestled in the corner. With the home fans hoping for what would be a suprise win, fate had other ideas - Labant tripping Claudio Lopez in the area, giving Fernando Sales the chance to level from the penalty spot.

Group G Results;

Lyon (FRA) 2 - Ajax (NED) 3

Zilina (SVK) 1 - Celta (SPA) 1

With his side back on form - and a trip to the league leaders awaiting - Fairway knew that his side could be top come Saturday night. First though, there would be the small matter of another away trip...

Steel Trans Licartovce v Bac - League

First against Second, and not suprisingly, Bac manager Fairway decided against changing a winning formula. Three-goal hitman Patras kept his place in attack, with Ernest Lopu on the bench - and talk of a possible move for a new signing on the terraces would certainly keep Bac fans warm on a wet and miserable afternoon. Typically for a game featuring the top two, the game began at a frenetic pace - Radoslaw Gardosik called into early action on 2 minutes to deny a Majoros volley from the edge of the box. On 16 though it would be Bac who took the lead after a free kick. Vlastimil Benko took it quickly - passing the ball forward, but almost round the wall - Robert Lovegrove crossed, and at the near post Marian Marek applied the finishing touch - shooting into the muddy ground to squeeze the ball between post and 'keeper. While most of Licartovce's efforts had been coming from long range, on 32, Bac got a real let-off - Gardosik saving well after a Marian Adam shot across the face of goal that looked destined for the net. Three minutes later they would take advantage - Good link-up play by Ernak and Benko, and an even better chipped pass from Milos Glonek - man of the moment Robert Patras able to fire past 'keeper Jakubeck at the near post. After a very quiet start to the second half, Licartovce's supporters got some welcome - but temporary - respite on 78, after Svoboda was adjudged to have pushed Kaminsky in the scrum following a corner. After a short run-up, Majoros hit his penalty with power - but straight at the imposing Gardosik, who made a fine reflex save. If any home fans had walked out after that, they would miss two more goals - on 89, Tomas Martaus finally got some just reward for his intelligent display in midfield - bending a fine free kick past 'keeper Gardosik - before in injury time, Bac sealed all three points. If Benko's flighted chip was skilful, Marian Marek's turn and shot was world class - the striker turning on a sixpence before rifling past Jakubech.

Licartovce 1 - Bac 3 (Marek 2, Patras)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · December 30, 2003

Cheers

Peacemaker7 · December 30, 2003

Its your story (bet you never knew that) but I think you should stay at Bac for a wee while more. Theres still plenty more puns to use I'm sure

Gino · December 30, 2003

As much as I'd love to see Stuart Fairway unveiled as the new Clarets boss, I'm with PM.

displaced_seagull · December 31, 2003

Just applied for it purely out of interest tbh - I doubt I'll ever be asked to manage Bac in England, unless I can do something extrordinary - Slovakia isn't exactly the first port of call when looking for a new manager - cheers though

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Tuesday 28/9/04

'No-Go for Takac'

" FC Druzstevnik Bac manager Stuart Fairway has confirmed that Slovan Bratislava's demand of a Â£20,000 fee for winger Erik Takac is too much in the eyes of the Bac management.

"Takac is a good player" he said - "But we have no money to spend, and were hopeful of coming to an arrangement with Slovan over the fee. Unfortunatley, we couldn't, and as such, Erik won't be joining us".

By Friday, Fairway had seen a second transfer bid turned down - Humenne's young midfielder Vladimir Kiss , a youth graduate of the Second Division side not for sale at any price. As it happened, Friday quickly turned into a bad day - Robert Patras , with four goals in his last two games, would be missing on Saturday - a badly stubbed toe ruling him out for four days.

Bac v Tatran Presov - League

Unavailable

Robert Patras - Injured (Toe, 4 Days)

With no Patras, Ernest Lopu would earn a recall - and Fairway would go into a Saturday game with his side top of the league for only the Second time in his career. Presov - who won 4-0 the last time the two teams met - began well, and could have taken the lead as early as the seventh minute - Miroslav Bobok shooting over from 25 yards after neatly bringing the ball down. As it was, it would be Bac who opened the scoring on 28 - Ernest Lopu heading home a Benko cross. Two minutes later, Presov 'keeper Ferenc was again beaten - this time Marian Marek on target after a comedy of errors. Peter Svoboda's pass caught defender Zajcev and 'keeper Ferenc out of position - the striker nipping in to get a foot on the ball and send it into the net. On 33, Bac struck again - their third in five minutes - another Milos Glonek pass completely bypassing the midfield, and Marian Marek made no mistake, slotting home from the edge of the box to claim his 10th of the season. With Presov struggling to the break, Bac manager Fairway made two - perhaps suprising - changes - bringing on Hillyer and Balasz for Forrest and Cisar respectivley. It took a while for the subs to get into the game - Presov still providing no threat - and on 57, Marian Marek stabbed home after Ernest Lopu's shot had been well blocked. Presov were awful - a rare Novak effort wasted on 61 - before Vlastimil Benko killed off even the most optimistic away hopes with a shot past the stranded Ferenc on 72. "That'll make it 1-0 on aggregate" beamed Stuart Fairway to the Bac press corps after the game - his maths may be out, but his smile certainly wasn't.

Bac 5 - Presov 0 (Lopu, Marek 3, Benko)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest (Replaced Hillyer 45), Glonek, Cisar (Replaced Balasz 45), Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 1st | | BAC | | 10 | 8 | 0 | 2 | 24 | 11 | +13 | 24 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 2nd | | Licartovce | | 10 | 7 | 1 | 2 | 27 | 12 | +15 | 22 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 3rd | | Humenne | | 10 | 5 | 3 | 2 | 14 | 8 | +6 | 18 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 4th | | Banska Bystrica | | 10 | 4 | 4 | 2 | 17 | 11 | +6 | 16 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 5th | | Senec | | 10 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 18 | 13 | +5 | 15 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 6th | | Kosice | | 10 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 18 | 16 | +2 | 15 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 7th | | Kys. Lieskovec | | 10 | 4 | 2 | 4 | 14 | 13 | +1 | 14 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 8th | | Devin | | 10 | 4 | 1 | 5 | 16 | 16 | 0 | 13 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 9th | | Cana | | 10 | 4 | 1 | 5 | 11 | 16 | -5 | 13 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 10th | | Bardejov | | 10 | 3 | 3 | 4 | 9 | 12 | -3 | 12 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 11th | | Rapid Bratislava | | 10 | 3 | 2 | 5 | 13 | 13 | 0 | 11 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 12th | | Zlate moravce | | 10 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 11 | 18 | -7 | 10 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 13th | | Duslo Sala | | 10 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 13 | 18 | -5 | 10 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 14th | | Prievidza | | 10 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 11 | 19 | -8 | 10 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 15th | | Dun. Streda | | 10 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 13 | 21 | -8 | 9 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 16th | | Presov | | 10 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 13 | 25 | -12 | 8 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

</pre>

displaced_seagull · December 31, 2003

Despite Fairway's smiles, goalscorer Vlastimil Benko would be in pain on Sunday morning - strained knee ligaments diagnosed, that would keep the winger out for about a week.

After their pratical anhialation of Presov, Fairway was keen to keep his sides' good form going. However on Tuesday night, they would face probably their sternest test since the Cup Final...

Bac v Slovan Bratislava - Slovakian FA Cup Second Round

Unavailable

Vlastimil Benko - Injured (Knee, 1 Week)

With only Benko unavailable, the Cup Holders would go into action against one of the best sides in Slovakia with a key part of their arsenal - Benko scored in the Cup Final - unavailable. After a slow start, Benko's replacement, Tamas Nagy would get an early chance to show his talents - and wasted them. On 25, with Bac having the best of the opening exchanges, Eddie Forrest hooked the ball to the youngster. Edge of the box, the home crowd expecting a thunderbolt - Nagy hit a shot that curled in the wind, and sent the ball nearer the corner flag than 'keeper Vencel. Bac were firmly in charge throughout the first half - Marek wasted a fine chance on 27 - but after the break, the game swung. On 54, minutes after Gardosik had done just enough to block a Jan Slahor shot, Slovan took the lead - veteran midfielder Norbert Hrncar, one of five Slovan starters with international experience, scored from the penalty spot after Ernak had chopped down Obzera. On 65, Ernak - lucky to escape without a card of any colour - could have made amends, but shot straight at Vencel from close range. Though Bac's shooting was more on the wild side than anything else, Slovan weren't good value for their win - perhaps lucky to escape with progression to the Quarter Finals. A new name on the Cup, at least...

Bac 0 - Slovan 1

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Nagy, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

displaced_seagull · December 31, 2003

With the holders out, Fairway could at least draw the comfort that now his side would be able to concentrate fully on the league. Top of the pile, going into the last five games before the winter break, Bac were now just over Â£94,000 in the black - and though he still had nothing in the way of transfer funds, Fairway was quietly confident that just maybe his club would be still in the mix at the end of the season.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Wednesday 6/10/04

'Total Defeat - Zilina thumped in Holland'

" MSK Zilina's Group G campaign in the Champions League recieved a body-blow last night as the Slovakian side were thumped 4-1 by Ajax in Amsterdam. After just 8 minutes, Zilina shocked the Amsterdam ArenA - Martin Fabus scoring from close range to put them ahead. The lead however wouldn't last long - on 16 Ates Nicati fired home from the edge of the box to level.

From then on, it was plain sailing for Ajax - Steven Pienaar scored with a rocket of a shot from outside the box on 32, before Wesley Sonck and Viktor Sikora scored in the dying moments to seal the comphrensive victory Ajax's performance deserved.

With two games gone, Zilina need something against Lyon in France in their next game - and then some vastly improved performances - if they are to progress to the knockout stages.

Group G Results;

Ajax (NED) 4 - Zilina 1 (SVK)

Celta (SPA) 2 - Lyon 0 (FRA)

1. FC Kosice v Bac - League

Unavailable

Vlastimil Benko - Injured (Knee, 4 Days)

With no Benko and a defeat to bounce back from, Stuart Fairway would make no changes for the trip to out of form Kosice - still sixth, but without a win in four. Kosice started brightly, and on 9, Bac needed a good Gardosik stop to deny Lubomir Mati. On 21 - still against the run of play - Bac opened the scoring, through Andrej Cisar . After Lovegrove had robbed Patran, Peter Svoboda and Marian Marek combined well - the latter heading the ball into Cisar's path. He still had plenty to do - running the ball fully 30 yards before dinking a shot over 'keeper Rodak and into the far corner to score with a brilliant individual effort. Despite the goal, Kosice were definatley making all the early running - Gardosik bravley denying Mati on 29 before the same player hit the bar on 31 - getting just too much power behind a Marek Javorek cross to the far stick. On 39, the pressure finally told - a Gajdos long ball flicked on by Mati, into the path of skipper Ivan Lapsansky, who's shot bulged the net from the edge of the box. After the break play continued in the same vein - Mati and Lapsansky again busying Gardosik before - for the second time - Bac took the lead against the run of play. On 52 Cisar won possesion on half way, ran into the corner before beating Petran to cross. Though the ball fell slightly ahead of Ernest Lopu his shot - which took a slight deflection on it's way into the net - was enough to put the visitors ahead. The goal gave Bac some breathing space - and for the first time, they started imposing themselves on the game. Marek volleyed well wide on 56, before on 72, Lopu fired over from an acute angle. By this time however, Bac were down to 10 men - Cisar taken off injured with all three subs having been used. The pressure inevitably dropped, and bouyed by an enthusiastic home crowd, Kosice equalised on 82 - Gajdos' cross rifled home by Lubomir Mati - a just reward for his sterling efforts all afternoon. The point deserved, Bac stay top.

Kosice 2 - Bac 2 (Cisar, Lopu)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek (Replaced Hillyer 45), Cisar, Nagy (Replaced Solotruk 45), Svoboda (Replaced Meszaros 45), Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · December 31, 2003

With Monday's training session seeing a return for Andrej Cisar - his bruised thigh, which caused the cramp that forced him off, responding well to ice treatment, and Vlastimil Benko back after his knee strain, Fairway would have a full squad to train with for the next couple of weeks - no game on Saturday due to internationals.

By Wednesday, Fairway had a new priority - scouting. With plenty out of contract at the end of the season, the January Transfer Window would have increased importance this season. SH Senica winger Andrej Masarovic and two from Slovan Bratislava - winger Erik Takac and Pavol Mikulec - the latter a loanee at Bac last season would all be watched closely over the next couple of months, with a view to approaches during the winter break.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Sunday 17/10/04

'Slovakia top Group after Andorra Demolition'

"Slovakia have continued their good form in Group 5 of the European World Cup Qualifying Section after thrashing Andorra 7-0 at Tehelne Pole. It took Mario Breska just one minute to open the scoring - and when Samuel Slovak added a second two minutes later, the stage was set. Miroslav Karhan scored on 17, before Slovak scored his second on 27 to make it 4-0 at half time.

After the break, with Andorra - who incredibly held England in September - shattered, Martin Fabus got in on the act - scoring on 69 and then again on 80 to make it six. In injury time, Marek Uljaky netted only his third international goal in 41 appearances - to easily smash Slovakia's record International win. Young Trencin winger Milan Ivana - 21 next month - got off the bench in the Second Half, winning his first cap with a good performance in the Second Half.

News of the World - Football - Sunday 17/10/04

'England stutter again - and stay third'

"England's below-par World Cup qualifying campaign continues to falter, with Sven Goran Eriksson's side dominating Croatia at the Stadium of Light but failing to score. With Scholes and Nolan struggling to create chances in midfield, England always looked to be fighting a losing battle - and now need dramatically improved performances to fight early pacesetters Slovakia"

Group 5 Results;

England 0 - Croatia 0

Slovakia 7 - Andorra 0

Scotland 4 - Cyprus 0

Bac v Vion Zlate Moravce - League

A fortnight after his sides' tremendous battle for a point at Kosice, Bac manager Stuart Fairway would lead his side into the game with a fully fit squad. Vlastimil Benko returning on the left, the only change to a side who have been undefeated in the league for over a month. With the game slow to start, Bac immediatley asserted themselves with the first chance - though it took 17 minutes to arrive. After picking up a fine pass from Peter Svoboda, Ernest Lopu ran on, nipping through a gap in the defence to fire past 'keeper Hajduch and give Bac the lead. With Moravce still to register a shot by half time, it was somewhat suprising that Bac only led 1-0 - Lopu in particular having a fine game. On 55 he would strike again - Marcel Horky pinging a lovely ball through - Ernest Lopu on hand to fire home with a shot that clipped the near post on it's way past Hajduch. His individual performance had dominated the game - and led to a dismissal on 63, Moravce's Jan Durica sent off for a push on the young striker - in doing so, Durica threw away any chance the visitors had of getting something from the game. On 75 goalscorer turned provider - Horky again putting Lopu away, only for the striker - on a hattrick - to square, straight into Marian Marek's path - a tap-in simply bread and butter for the league's top scorer. Bac were sublime - Moravce were woeful - and on this form, Bac look Championship Contenders...

Bac 3 - Moravce 0 (Lopu 2, Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 1, 2004

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Wednesday 26/10/04

'Zilnia Euro Dream in Tatters'

MSK Zilina lost 3-1 to Lyon yesterday to leave Juraj Simurka's side facing an uphill struggle to qualify from the Groups. After Bernard David had put Lyon ahead in the Stade Gerland after just 13 minutes, Zilina soon responded - Vladimir Labant netting on 15. A further three minutes followed before the third goal of the game - Lyon's second - young Armand Ferrand heading home from close range. When Mikeal Duval added a third on 26, the game was practically over - and it'll need victories over Lyon and Celta Vigo if Zilina are to have any chance of progression.

Group G Results;

(FRA) Lyon 3 - Zilina 1 (SVK)

(NED) Ajax 1 - Celta 1 (ESP)

With no game on Saturday, Bac would have a week's training ahead of their return to league action - with only three games to go until the Winter Break, Fairway set his side a tough target.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online - Football - Sunday 31/10/04

'Fairway - I Want Three Wins'

" FC Druzstevnik Bac manager Stuart Fairway has revealed that he wants his side to win their final three games before the Winter Break.

"We've got three games - two of them against sides in the bottom six" he said. "And though it'll be a tough ask, I'd really like us to win all three. If we do that, we'll head into the Christmas Break in a good frame of mind, and still top of the league. In England, there's a tradition that if you are top at Christmas, you'll be right up there come the business end of the season. I hope that'll be the case in Slovakia too".

Meanwhile, Fairway also took time to praise Andrej Ernak - the left back who signed for Bac in the summer from Non-League Dubova. "Andrej wasn't our initial target" he said - "But when we found he was available, we decided to snap him up instead. I'm delighted with the way he's been performing at left back, and he's been a really solid addition to our squad".

While his expectations of victories recieved praise, Fairway's decision to publically praise Andrej Ernak did not. On Tuesday, Bac-Online ran a Sports Letters special - with many Bac fans indicating that, in their opinion, Ernak still had plenty to prove. Fairway was furious - although his player seemed to accept the general consensus.

REAMOS Kysucky Lieskovec v Bac - League

With no injuries - but the small cloud that formed after Fairway praised Ernak at the weekend - still hanging around, he led his side into the game with the comforting knowledge that whatever the result, they'd stay top - and if things went their way, could go seven points clear. They began with this clearly in mind - Bac having the most of the opening exchanges - and on 14, Ernest Lopu came close to opening the scoring, seeing a shot tipped wide. On 33, with Kys. Lieskovec beginning to assert themselves on the game, Bac were forced into a change - a knock for Andrej Cisar sending the winger off injured, to be replaced by young Albert Balasz. Under a lot of pressure, Bac finally conceded a goal on the stroke of half time. With Cisar missing, and Balasz not quite communicating effectivley with Robert Lovegrove, Lieskovec winger Tibor Golian stormed forward, before crossing for Peter Spaniak to nod home at the near post. It didn't take long for Kys. Lieskovec to double their lead after the break - on 57, Peter Spaniak rounded 'keeper Gardosik to slot home his second of the game. The goal came about after a catastrophic mistake by Lovegrove - his pass too weak to reach it's midfield target, and Spaniak took full advantage. With Fairway fuming on the sidelines, Bac would pull one back on 64 - Marian Marek heading home an Albert Balasz cross to give the league leaders a hope. It would soon disapeer - on 70, Eddie Forrest's trip on Peter Spaniak would see the Scot dismissed - and eleven minutes later on 81, Robert Lovegrove followed him - an errant elbow putting Bac down to just nine men. Incredibly, they still had chances - deep in injury time, with the clock showing 93, Marian Marek turned and shot straight at 'keeper Peskovic from inside the six-yard box. It was a gallant effort - the dismissals costing Bac dear - and that 3 Games - 3 Wins hope has been blown out of the water.

Kys. Lieskovec 2 - Bac 1 (Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Forrest, Glonek (Replaced Albert 66), Cisar (Replaced Balasz 33), Benko, Svoboda (Replaced Solotruk 66), Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 1, 2004

Far from being Seven points clear, come Monday morning, Bac had just the solitary point advantage over Licartovce. On top, they would have Robert Lovegrove suspended for three games for use of the elbow, and fellow defender Eddie Forrest banned for one game.

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Slovakia-Today - Football - Thursday 11/11/04

'Late goal gives Zilina first Euro Victory'

" An injury-time winner from Marian Klago has given MSK Zilina the chance to qualify for the Knockout stages - his goal giving Zilina a 3-2 win over Lyon at Pod Dubnom.

Due to a late kickoff, a full report will be in tomorrow's paper

Though Fairway's problems were pressing, on Thursday they paled into comparision with those of Ladislav Molnar . Molnar led Banska Bystrica into the First Division - and out of it again - and after a poor start to the season, has paid with his job.

Bac v SK Devin - League

Unavailable

Eddie Forrest - Suspended (1 of 1)

Robert Lovegrove - Suspended (1 of 3)

With two of his key men out, Bac manager Stuart Fairway would have a selection dilemma for the first time in several weeks. Lovegrove's replacement was clear-cut - Ladislav Szijjarto stepping in at Right Back, while in the middle, Matt Hillyer got the nod over Tomas Albert. Devin - struggling in the league - started well - Petras and Schlesinger both drawing early saves from 'keeper Gardosik. However on 29 it was Bac who would take the lead - Andrej Cisar applying the finishing touch to a Marcel Horky free kick. Three minutes later, Cisar turned provider - stretching to deflect an errant clearance past the diving Sovic - allowing the ball to run for Vlastimil Benko to steer home from close range. Bac were flying, and just before the break, skipper Horky missed a golden chance to add a third - hammering over from close range. It was Devin who created the first chance of the Second Half - Marian Bellak carving out an opening on 48, before firing straight at Gardosik. Any thoughts of a revival were soon dashed - on 61, in what was suprisingly the last chance of the game for either side, Marian Marek glanced home Peter Svoboda's corner - the ball skimming the post on it's way into the net - and Bac were well and truly home and dry.

Bac 3 - Devin 0 (Cisar, Benko, Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Szijjarto, Ernak, Hillyer (Replaced Albert 45), Glonek , Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

LeytonOrient212 · January 1, 2004

if you leave, they'll be begging you to come bac.

displaced_seagull · January 2, 2004

What have I started - 5 Pages \o/

Monday morning, and though Bac would have defender Eddie Forrest back after suspension on Saturday, they would be without striker Robert Patras for a couple of weeks. The 24-year old - principally a backup, but with six goals to his credit this season - would be out after damaging his neck in training.

By Thursday - as Banska Bystrica appointed ex-Ruzemberok boss Jozef Vukuzic as their new manager, Fairway had discovered that he'd also miss leading goalscorer Marian Marek on Saturday - the 15-Goal hitman suspended after picking up a booking against Devin, taking him to four - and that automatic one-match ban for the season.

HFK Prievidza v Bac - League

Unavailable

Robert Lovegrove - Suspended (2 of 3)

Marian Marek - Suspended (1 of 1)

Robert Patras - Injured (Neck, 1 Week)

With no Marek or Patras, Fairway would at least be able to call upon Eddie Forrest - the big defender returning at the back in place of Matt Hillyer. Up front, Alexander Meszaros would slot in up front, the creative midfielder asked to play in an advanced position - with reject Michal Filo getting a rare chance on the bench. Things got off to a disapointing start for Bac - 21 minutes into their final game of 2004, Ernest Lopu withdrew - the striker forced off injured, leaving a highly inexperienced forward line of midfielder Meszaros and Michal Filo. Perhaps not suprising then that Prievidza dominated the first half - Cernak and Bohacik both having chances, before Tomas Bohacik opened the scoring on 44. After Snric had crossed, Vodecky's late run was brought to an end by Andrej Cisar - and though Gardosik blocked his initial effort from the Penalty spot, Bohacik followed up to make it 1-0. After Cernak had fired a shot wide that - had it hit the target - would have broke through the net, on 70 Eddie Forrest dealt Bac's hopes another blow. Coming back after suspension, the defender's second yellow - clearly a bit of ongoing 'aggro' with Milan Snric - would see him dismissed, and Bac down to 10 men. Though Bac kept plugging away, it was not to be - and on 78 Tomas Bohacik turned in Vodecky's cross to double the lead. With Bac 'keeper Gardosik by far the busier of the two - and under almost constant pressure, it was 3-0 before the final whistle. On 89, a swinging, hard-to-deal-with cross from Prievidza skipper Jan Papaj crept through a crowd, before Igor Ferenczy shifted onto his stronger right foot to fire home. Not the performance - or result - Bac wanted before the end of hostilities for the Winter.

Prievidza 3 - Bac 0

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Szijjarto (Replaced Albert 71), Ernak, Forrest, Glonek, Cisar, Benko (Replaced Nagy 71), Svoboda, Horky*, Meszaros, Lopu (Replaced Filo 21)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 1st | | BAC | | 15 | 10 | 1 | 4 | 33 | 18 | +15 | 31 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 2nd | | Licartovce | | 15 | 8 | 3 | 4 | 30 | 18 | +12 | 27 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 3rd | | Kys. Lieskovec | | 15 | 7 | 4 | 4 | 23 | 16 | +7 | 25 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 4th | | Humenne | | 15 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 18 | 15 | +3 | 22 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 5th | | Kosice | | 15 | 6 | 4 | 5 | 27 | 27 | 0 | 22 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 6th | | Senec | | 15 | 6 | 3 | 6 | 21 | 17 | +4 | 21 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 7th | | Duslo Sala | | 15 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 22 | 22 | 0 | 20 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 8th | | Zlate moravce | | 15 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 17 | 21 | -4 | 20 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 9th | | Prievidza | | 15 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 18 | 23 | -5 | 20 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 10th | | Bardejov | | 15 | 4 | 7 | 4 | 10 | 12 | -2 | 19 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 11th | | Banska Bystrica | | 15 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 21 | 21 | 0 | 18 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 12th | | Rapid Bratislava | | 15 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 20 | 18 | +2 | 18 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 13th | | Cana | | 15 | 5 | 3 | 7 | 21 | 28 | -7 | 18 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 14th | | Devin | | 15 | 5 | 2 | 8 | 19 | 25 | -6 | 17 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 15th | | Presov | | 15 | 4 | 4 | 7 | 20 | 31 | -11 | 16 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 16th | | Dun. Streda | | 15 | 4 | 3 | 8 | 17 | 25 | -8 | 15 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

</pre>

displaced_seagull · January 2, 2004

This year, Fairway had made up his mind - he would stay in Slovakia until the 15th of December before flying back for a slightly shorter - but this year, more so needed - holiday in England. Ernest Lopu , who looked in a lot of pain with a chest injury, would only be out for a couple of days - while Eddie Forrest would serve a further one-match ban after his dismissal.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Wednesday 30/11/04

'Injury-Time heartbreak for Zilina'

" MSK Zilina have gone out of Europe - after Sergio scored for Celta Vigo in injury time. Zilina started well - Martin Fabus heading the Slovakians ahead on 26 - but in the second half, Jesuli scored on 71 before Sergio's late winner.

The result puts Zilina out of Europe - the best they can now hope for Third in the Group, which would see them qualify for the UEFA Cup.

Group G Results;

(ESP) Celta 2 - Zilina 1 (SVK)

(NED) Ajax 4 - Lyon 1 (FRA)

By Wednesday, though still in Slovakia, Fairway wouldn't be in Bac. As it was, he wouldn't be seen for a fair few days - but when he returned just before flying to England, he brought good news.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Wednesday 15/12/04

'Fairway announces 5 Summer Signings'

" FC Druzstevnik Bac manager Stuart Fairway has used the first part of the Winter Break to arrange pre-contracts with no less than five players, all of whom will sign for Bac in the summer. Pavol Mikulec , who spent last season on loan at Bac, has made the move from Slovan Bratislava, as has winger Erik Takac - the 29-year old a well known Bac target for some months. Joining from another First Division side, Ruzemberok, striker Rastislav Tomovcik is 31, and is an experienced striker that many feel Bac need.

Completing the quintet, SH Senica duo Jaroslav Hilek and Andrej Masarovic both make the step up from Non-League football, after Senica's relegation last season. Hilek, 26, is an attacking midfielder, while 25 year old Masarovic is a versatile winger.

"Weather we go up or not, I felt I needed to shake things up a little in the summer" Fairway said. "The lads I've arranged to sign will do that - as well as replacing some of our lads who will leave in the summer". Fairway has also agreed terms over a new deal with Albert Balasz - the young winger seeing his contract extended till 2007, as it expired at the end of the season.

With five players set to arrive, Fairway could comfortably jet off home - leaving things, till January the 1st at least, in the capable hands of his assistant Tibor Nemeth .

displaced_seagull · January 2, 2004

Chapter 4 - Consistency, Dammit, Consistency...

When Fairway arrived back in Slovakia in the earliest hours of 2005, a short taxi transfer from the airport, he found a list sitting on his desk. It was thoroughly expected - Tibor Nemeth's guide to what had happened in the past couple of weeks - and he just sat back, relaxed with some music and reflected on what had been an incredible year.

<LI> MSK Zilina lost their final game in the Champions League - Ajax winning 2-1 - but qualify for the UEFA Cup,

where they face Spartak Moscow

<LI> Robert Patras fractures ribs in training, and will be out till mid-January

<LI> Pablo Aimar is World Player of the Year, while Valencia teammate Roberto Ayala is World Footballer of the

Year. Alvaro Recoba of Inter Milan is European Footballer of the Year

<LI> Slovakia Under 21 International starlet Filip Sebo extends his contract at 1.FC Koln in Germany

Fairway arrived bringing more good news - with Glen Kaveney becoming the sixth player to arrive in the Summer. Kaveney - an Englishman, who turned 21 in November and has been at Hull for four seasons without starting a game. Though talented, Hull are flying in Division Two - and Kaveney has had little chance to break into a successful side. With the Slovakian press full of transfer speculation, on the 10th of January, the Transfer Window opened - and despite all the talking up of 'certain' deals, there would only be one transfer.

While - so far at least - there had been no players arriving immediatley at Bac, like last season, Fairway felt that a Semi-Competitive game would certainly help his side's buildup for the crucial last three months of 2004/05. This season, Bac would invite Non-League Slovmag Jelsava to provide the opposition on Saturday 19th February - 11 days before the resumption of the league campaign.

On Saturday 30th - with the transfer deadline just a week away, Spartak Trnava sacked manager Miroslav Svoboda. By Friday, Frantisek Straka had replaced him - and in Division Two, Zlate Moravce appointed Ladislav Molnar as their new manager, taking over from Moravce's Chairman who had combined the two jobs for financial reasons.

By the 7th of February, the transfer window had again slammed shut - and Fairway had made no additions to his squad. With Six scheduled to arrive in the summer, the Englishman decided his squad was strong enough. A week later, he would get a kick in the teeth - Marian Solotruk ruled out for 2 weeks after twisting his ankle. Despite a promising preseason, Solotruk had been unable to dislodge Horky and Svoboda in the centre of midfield, starting just one game - but on the bench for nearly all the others.

With three days to go before Bac's friendly against Jelsava, Fairway recieved a huge blow - Ernest Lopu ruled out for two months with a torn groin muscle. Worse still, it would need surgery - a 3-Month layoff for the striker, cruelly coming after the transfer deadline, would leave Bac with just three strikers for the rest of the season.

Bac v Slovmag Jelsava - Freindly

Unavailable

Marian Solotruk - Injured (Ankle, 2 Weeks)

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 3 Months)

With suspensions not counting for Non Competitive games, Fairway took the chance to give both Lovegrove and Forrest, who will face bans when the compeitive action starts again in 11 days, the chance to earn some match fitness. Unlike last season, he would also decide to play a strong side - perhaps as punishment for the 3-0 reverse just ahead of the Winter Break. On a wet evening, Bac started very strongly - and after just six minutes, Robert Patras raised hopes with a fine, low drive into the corner from Horky's pass. After Jelsava had seen one dismissed, Robert Patras headed home his second from Svoboda's corner on 36. Andrej Ernak rifled a third on 42 - and two minutes later, Marian Adam was dismissed for Jelsava - Marian Marek scoring from the spot against the Nine-Man Non-Leaguers. With changes galore at the break, the game inevitably slowed - but Michal Filo was still able to claim a fifth, coming off the bench to smash past the 'keeper after a stunning Lovegrove through ball. Bac looked well up for it - fighting for every ball - and Fairway will certainly be pleased with the result.

Bac 5 - Jelsava 0 (Patras 2, Ernak, Marek, Filo)

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

With more bad news in the days after the game, Fairway would miss Albert Balasz for a fortnight with a twisted knee.

Fairway had more bad news for two of his players on Saturday - Tomas Nagy and Alexander Meszaros , both out of contract at the end of the season, would not be recieving new deals. Along with Ivan Bugar, Arnold Bodrogy, Marian Nincz, Peter Marinic and Andrej Bombiak , the two would see their contracts expire at the end of the season, when they would be released on free transfers.

It put a little of a downer on the week - but after the 5-0 win against Jelsava, Bac were in confident mood for the return to League action.

Bac v Slovan Duslo Sala - League

Unavailable

Robert Lovegrove - Suspended (3 of 3)

Eddie Forrest - Suspended (1 of 1)

Marian Solotruk - Injured (Ankle, 2 Days)

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 3 Months)

Albert Balasz - Injured (Knee, 2 Days)

Lovegrove, Forrest, Solotruk and Lopu of the regulars out - Bac manager Stuart Fairway had, despite a 5-0 victory in a freindly a week or so before, problems. He chose instead to start with Szijjarto, Albert and up front, Robert Patras - with very rare runouts on the bench for Filo, Bugar and Nincz. Typically for a return to action after three months off, the game started quietly - taking until the 23rd minute for a first chance, which Dulso Sala's Miroslav Moringl headed straight at 'keeper Gardosik. Bac took their time, but on 35, came very close to open the scoring - Duslo Sala 'keeper Hranos making a fine reflex save from a Patras header. Bac started by far the better in the second half - both Marcel Horky and Ladislav Szijjarto seeing efforts come close. On 68 they would go one better - Peter Svoboda's through ball, Robert Patras' chip and Marian Marek's bullet header putting the League leaders ahead. The goal gave Bac a real boost - Horky and Patras both comign close - before deep in injury time, Patras should have made it two with a chance that skewed wide from close range.

Bac 1 - Duslo Sala 0 (Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Szijjarto, Ernak, Glonek, Albert, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

With his side still four points clear at the top of the table, Fairway had a quiet couple of days before preparing his side for what would be a tricky game against Rapid Bratislava, suprisingly struggling in the League.

Rapid Bratislava v Bac - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 2 Months)

With Lovegrove returning in place of Szijjarto, Forrest replacing Albert and both Solotruk and Balasz recalled to the bench, Fairway certainly had a stronger squad available for the trip to Rapid. It didn't take long for Bac to take the lead - Robert Patras scoring a sensational goal with an effort that smashed off the underside of the bar on it's way past 'keeper Holec. The lead lasted all of seven minutes - on 14, Eddie Forrest saw a cross skim off his head - and into the path of Rapid's Peter Stacho, who made no mistake from just inside the area. It would take slightly longer - but still only 10 minutes - for Bac to retake the lead. After Benko's industry earnt a corner, Peter Svoboda sent it to the far post. Robert Patras got up well, knocking the ball back across goal for Marian Marek to poke the ball past Holec at the near post. On 29, Svoboda was involved again - after Patras was tripped, the midfielder stepped up, but saw his penalty tipped wide. Making up for it, the playmaker took the resulting corner, from which Robert Patras arrived just in time to head home the third of the afternoon. After a manic end to the first half, the Second started in the same fashion - and when Michal Stolfa tripped Robert Patras just inside the area, Marian Marek took the penalty, and made no mistake - much to Peter Svoboda's delight, as the midfielder was first over to congratulate the goalscorer. Bac surged forward - Horky and Svoboda having chances - but on 74 it was a horrendous defensive error that would give the home side the chance to stage a comeback. In no danger on the left, Vlastimil Benko played the ball back towards Eddie Forrest - who was clearly not expecting the ball. As Forrest stretched for it, and 'keeper Gardosik raced out to stake his claim, Rapid's Peter Petras darted on, the 17-year old doing enough to divert the ball into the far corner. That comeback never came - Bac holding on for a result that rather flattered them. Rapid were by no means awful, and had the two, perhaps debatable, penalties not been awarded, the scores would be very different.

Rapid 2 - Bac 4 (Patras 2, Marek 2)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

The Sun - Football - Monday 7/3/05

'United win Carling Cup'

"Paraguyan striker Roque Santa Cruz scored twice on Sunday as Manchester United beat Middlesborough 2-0 at Cardiff's Millenium Stadium to lift the League Cup. Santa Cruz' brace - which came before United captain Gary Neville recieved his marching orders for a late foul, has given United the trophy for only the Second time.

See SuperGoals for more

With no real news in a turgid news week, Fairway would lead his side into the game against Bardejov as 5/4 favourites - despite the game being away for the league leaders. Seven points clear, Bac could go 10 points clear with a win, as second placed Licartovce face third placed Kys. Lieskovec in what's bound to be a tough game.

Bac v BSK Bardejov - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 2 Months)

With Ernest Lopu still Bac's only absentee, Fairway would lead an unchanged side into the game - despite Vlastimil Benko's performance, particularly the pass which led to Rapid's second goal, being heavily critisced in the press. Bac got off to a flyer, and it took just 11 minutes for Marian Marek to glance the home side ahead from a Robert Patras inswinging free kick. 35 Seconds later, Patras turned provider again - as Bac broke Bardejov down from the restart, Marek played the ball to the striker, who in turn passed the ball beyond the back line. Andrej Cisar raced on, and from an acute angle, chipped the ball into the far corner to make it 2-0. To their credit, Bardejov responded brightly - Molnar and Marian Duris - the striker hitting the post - and were unfortunate to conced a third on 36. The unfortnate Hetes deflected a Benko cross, and with 'keeper Matas out of position, Andrej Cisar rifled home into an unguarded net. On 43 - and perhaps deservedly - Bardejov would score - Vladimir Duris heading home at the near post to give the strugglers a chance. The second half began slowly - Horky raising Bac hopes with a drive that flashed wide - before on 73, Robert Patras added a fourth for Bac with a header from a Svoboda corner. The goal saw the gates, rather than the floodgates open - home fans leaving in droves - so not many were left to see Marian Hetes make amends for his earlier mistake, heading home from an injury time corner to bring the scores a little closer right at the death.

Bac 4 - Bardejov 2 (Marek, Cisar 2, Patras)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

Monday morning, and a double blow for Bac. Skipper Marcel Horky was by far the more important - ruled out for a fortnight with strained ankle ligaments. Reserve Ivan Bugar also picked up a training ground knock - more seriously breaking his wrist in an unfortunate collision.

Despite the double injury blow it was generally another quiet news week - with everybody at Bac fully focused on maintaining, and if possible increasing, their seven point advantage at the top of Division Two.

Bac v DAC Dunajska Streda - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 2 Months)

Marcel Horky - Injured (Ankle, 1 Week)

Ivan Bugar - Injured (Wrist, 4 Weeks)

Horky's absence was Marian Solotruk's gain - the midfield man, himself only back from injury a few weeks ago, making only his second start of the season. The game kicked off at a freneic pace, with chances at both ends inside the opening five minutes. Dun. Streda came closest - Jozef Nemeth hitting a shot which required a fine Gardosik save. On 10, Bac won a penalty - Stros upending Robert Lovegrove inside the box, and Marian Marek stepped up to slot the home side ahead. On 15, Peter Svoboda came very close to doubling their lead - a lob nestling on top of the net rather than inside it. Two minutes later Dun. Streda's Gabriel Majoros did one better with a carbon-copy chance - racing onto a Nemeth pass, before lobbing Bac's Gardosik from 30 yards. The visitors' captain celebrated in style - an extrordinary goal leading to a full length dive into the away supporters. On 30, Marek had a fine chance to regain the lead - instead half-volleying over the bar after Santa had blocked a Svoboda shot. After the break, with changes introduced, Bac should have taken the lead on 48 - Michal Filo somehow dragging a shot wide from the edge of the area. On 58, Bac did retake the lead - Andrej Ernak providing the assist with a searching 40-yard pass headed in by Marian Marek . The goal killed Dun. Streda off - and on 73, Bac sealed the win with Marian Marek claiming his hatrick in superb style. Though the striker's turn and shot was bread and butter stuff, Cisar's glorious run from half way to set the chance up made the goal equal to Majoros' earlier stunner for the visitors. Bac were excellent - and continue to confound the critics who claimed without Lopu, they would be a spent force.

Bac 3 - Dun. Streda 1 (Marek 3)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest (Replaced Hillyer 45), Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Solotruk, Marek, Patras (Replaced Filo 45)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

With Marian Marek racking up his 22nd goal of the season during the game - and claiming another matchball - Fairway's decision to publically praise his hitman on Monday morning suprised nobobdy. Marek, 22, is in scintallating form - and with his record of 43 goals in 57 games, would it be much of a suprise if a big club made their interest public soon?

It was something that had been in the back of Fairway's mind for some time - and though nobody had mentioned it before, with another 3-goal haul, and another glowing review from Slovakia's biggest daily paper in the bag, just how long would Bac be able to keep hold of undoubtedly their star asset.

Bac v FK Cana - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 1 Month)

Marcel Horky - Injured (Ankle, 4 Days)

Ivan Bugar - Injured (Wrist, 3 Weeks)

After a few hours of deep thought on Marek's long-term future, Fairway would lead his side into a rare midweek outing. He would also make one change - with Milos Glonek on the bench, Tomas Albert stepped in for the veteran. Though a dedicated professional, nobody could doubt that at the age of 36, he was becoming affected by the ravages of time, and three games in seven days would perhaps be too many. It seemed too many for all of them - the first half was instantly forgettable, with neither side so much as getting a sniff at goal. After the break - in which both sides made changes - the game finally got going, with a Svoboda free kick the first real chance of the game. On 63, Bac went one better - opening the scoring and waking a packed Bac-Stadion from it's slumbers. After being put through by Cisar, Marian Marek turned provider - crossing for sub Michal Filo , who hit his first shot straight at 'keeper Zajoros, before sweeping the rebound into the net for his first senior goal. Bac spent the remainder of a very poor game under the cosh - Marian Duris having more than one chance to draw the game for Cana - but on a night that would have needed just 19 more supporters for a sell-out 3500, Bac won't be too worried about that.

Bac 1 - Cana 0 (Filo)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Albert, Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Solotruk, Marek, Patras (Replaced Filo 45)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 1st | | BAC | | 20 | 15 | 1 | 4 | 46 | 23 | +23 | 46 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 2nd | | Licartovce | | 20 | 11 | 4 | 5 | 41 | 23 | +18 | 37 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 3rd | | Senec | | 20 | 9 | 5 | 6 | 29 | 20 | +9 | 32 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 4th | | Kys. Lieskovec | | 20 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 27 | 22 | +5 | 30 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 5th | | Prievidza | | 20 | 7 | 8 | 5 | 23 | 25 | -2 | 29 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 6th | | Kosice | | 20 | 7 | 7 | 6 | 34 | 32 | +2 | 28 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 7th | | Humenne | | 20 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 22 | 20 | +2 | 27 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 8th | | Banska Bystrica | | 20 | 7 | 6 | 7 | 26 | 26 | 0 | 27 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 9th | | Cana | | 20 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 29 | 32 | -3 | 26 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 10th | | Zlate moravce | | 20 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 23 | 32 | -9 | 26 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 11th | | Duslo Sala | | 20 | 7 | 5 | 8 | 30 | 31 | -1 | 26 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 12th | | Presov | | 20 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 26 | 35 | -9 | 24 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 13th | | Bardejov | | 20 | 5 | 7 | 8 | 14 | 22 | -8 | 22 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 14th | | Dun. Streda | | 20 | 6 | 3 | 11 | 25 | 34 | -9 | 21 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 15th | | Rapid Bratislava | | 20 | 5 | 5 | 10 | 25 | 28 | -3 | 20 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 16th | | Devin | | 20 | 5 | 3 | 12 | 22 | 37 | -15 | 18 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

</pre>

displaced_seagull · January 3, 2004

With news that Second Placed Licartovce had been held 3-3 by Rapid Bratislava, Bac would go Nine points clear at the top on Thursday morning. It was where the good news ended - any hopes of a return for Marcel Horky on Saturday dashed by physio Suchy - telling Fairway his captain had failed a fitness test on Saturday morning.

Dulka Banska Bystrica v Bac - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 1 Month)

Marcel Horky - Injured (Ankle, 1 Day)

Ivan Bugar - Injured (Wrist, 3 Weeks)

With Horky's proposed return delayed, it would be more or less as you were for Bac - with unlikley hero Filo still on the bench, and still on the transfer list. The one change would come in defence, with Milos Glonek making a more than expected return to the team with Tomas Albert on the bench. In a frenetic opening both sides had early chances - Andrej Cisar guilty of a glaring miss for Bac on 5 minutes. On 9 however it was Banska 'keeper Richard Zajac who would be blushing. After a fine run and cross from Cisar, Zajac came, missed, and could do nothing but watch as Vlastimil Benko headed the ball into an empty net. Five minutes later he repeated the trick - diving to save Cisar's cross - this time from inside the box - and missing, allowing Robert Patras a tap-in from five yards out. With both sets of fans on his back, Zajac did well to recover - denying Lovegrove and then Marek with fine stops shortly before the break. Banska had struggled after the two freak goals - but in the second half, started to come into their own - putting Bac under real pressure. Chances for Vyskoc, Pecovsky, Semenik and Ziga came and went -Bac 'keeper Gardosik performing heroics of his own - before, from only six yards out, Vladimir Skuta somehow hit the bar with two minutes remaining and the goal at his mercy. It killed any late hopes of a comeback - and though the goals were at best fortunate, they all count.

Banska Bystrica 0 - Bac 2 (Benko, Patras)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove (Replaced Balasz 72), Ernak, Glonek (Replaced Albert 45), Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Solotruk, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

Janz · January 4, 2004

Great to see that Bac is taking a walk in the park this season...thinking of the top div already?

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

We just need to keep going till I see that little 'C' by our name in the table - then we've done it - Cheers

With a quiet week on the horizon domestically, all attention would be focussed on next Saturday - and vital World Cup Qualifyers for both Slovakia and England.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Sunday 3/4/05

'Shot-Shy Slovakia Crash in Croatia'

"Slovakia have fallen to Third in Group 5 after losing 3-1 away to Croatia yesterday afternoon. Croatia, who went into the game in Second Place, started well, and took the lead through Josip Simunec after 17 minutes. On 31 the lead was doubled - Jerko Leko scoring from close range. Slovakia regained some hope on the stroke of half time - Nurnberg's Marek Mintal pulling one back.

In the Second Half, those hopes were soon diminshed, then slightly raised. After Bosko Balaban put the Croats 3-1 ahead from the penalty spot on 61, defender Igor Tudor recieved his marching orders seven minutes later - and despite making multiple substitutions, Slovakia failed to respond, going down to a disapointing defeat.

News of the World - Football - Sunday 3/4/05

'Scholes stars as England cruise'

"England cruised to a 3-0 win over Cyprus yesterday - staving off fears that they are unable to perform against weaker sides. Real Madrid's Wayne Rooney scored in clinical fashion to open the scoring on 24, and England needed to wait until the Second Half to see more goals.

After the break it was standard stuff - on 63 Paul Scholes headed in off the post to make it two, and 10 minutes later Arsenal's Ashley Cole bagged his Second International goal with a well-struck volley from another Beckham corner. England suprisingly went with three strikers on the bench - but only one, Leeds' Alan Smith, got on for the last half hour.

Other Results;

Croatia 3 - Slovakia 1

Andorra 0 - Scotland 4

Cyprus 0 - England 3

If his Slovakian players were disapointed at the result, they weren't showing it - skipper Marcel Horky's return from injury had given everyone a big boost, and with England travelling to Slovakia on Wednesday night, there was only one game on everyone's mind.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

The Sun - Football - Thursday 7/4/05

'England Humbled by Rampant Slovakia'

"England have crashed to a dismal 2-0 defeat away in Slovakia. The Slovaks took the lead after just three minutes as England failed to find their feet - Milan Ivana hooking home early on. On 22, Ivana , playing only his third international game, scored for the second time as England's marking went to pot. Sol Campbell's 35th minute dismissal certainly didn't help matters, and but for some wasteful finishing, Ivana could have had four. England now lie fourth in a wide-open Group 5.

Results;

Slovakia 2 - England 0

Scotland 3 - Croatia 1

Cyprus 3 - Andorra 1

Fairway, Robert Lovegrove and John Durnin certainly knew their nationality on Thursday morning - the stick freindly, but almost constant - just reward for the three, particularly Lovegrove, who had predicted a 5-0 demolition.

After the International Fun & Games it was back to the rigours of the Domestic competition - and with only nine games to go, Bac were top - but in order to snatch that one promotion place, they would have to keep up the good, dogged performances they had shown in recent weeks. If required, Fairway would again be able to call upon Ivan Bugar , back after breaking his wrist in training last month.

Bac v HFC Humenne - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 4 Weeks)

Lopu now the only absentee - Horky back in for Solotruk, and a game against one of the most inconsistent sides in the league. A force to be reckoned with at home, but woeful away - Fairway knew that a win could see his side go 12 points clear with 8 games to play by teatime. At a packed Bac-Stadion - with a crowd of 3490 beating the previous record attendance by 9, Bac came close to opening the scoring on 15. Peter Svoboda's glorious pass saw defender Vesely caught out of position, but Marian Marek could only shoot over the top under pressure. With Humenne 'keeper Dudic by far the busier of the two, the visitors were slightly lucky to go in level at the interval - particularly after Robert Patras hit the post from the edge of the area on 44 after curling a shot pas the 'keeper. On 54, Bac again should have opened the scoring - substitute Michal Filo wasting the chance to score his second goal for the club after a terrific end-to-end move. Vlastimil Benko did the donkey-work - beating two before chipping a marvellous ball into the area, with Filo rushing his shot, and powering over the bar. After almost constant pressure, Bac fell away towards the end - despite Humenne's Michal Turok-Hetes getting sent off - and almost conceded a late goal, with Peter Horvath hitting the side netting. The draw perhaps disapointing - but in the grand scheme of things, it didn't matter much...

Bac 0 - Humenne 0

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek (Replaced Albert 45), Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras (Replaced Filo 45)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

Two points lost rather than one gained? - Well, maybe. For Second Placed Licartovce however, it was definatley three lost, after a 2-0 reverse at the hands of Duslo Sala. Bac, despite not impressing in front of goal, would still go 10 points clear with 8 to play - with games against both Second and Third placed clubs on the immediate horizon.

Tuesday would though see a dent to the Bac confidence - injuries to two fringe players in training, Arnold Bodrogy and Albert Balasz - both out for a week with Neck and Toe injuries respectivley. By Thursday however the bad news had been replaced...

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Thursday 14/4/05

'Adamik Signs for Bac'

"In a move that has suprised many - his side lying top of the Division Two table with 8 games remaining - FC Druzstevnik Bac manager Stuart Fairway has announced a new signing.

Former Slovan Bratislava defender Jozef Adamik , who turned 20 on Sunday, has signed for Bac on a 3-Year contract. Adamik - released by Slovan on his 20th Birthday, is a central defender with experience at the top level. He broke into the Slovan first team in 2001 as a 16-Year old, playing three times for the club he supported as a boy. Things didn't work out for him in the capital though, and after spending most of this season in the Reserves, Slovan manager Libor Faisang gave him the worst possible birthday present by handing him a free transfer.

It's thought that Adamik will have to compete with Englishman Matt Hillyer and Slovakian Tomas Albert in the long-term race to replace Bac veteran Milos Glonek. For his part, Adamik is just happy to be back in football, telling a Press Conference that he had no qualms about stepping down a Division. Come next season, he could well face up to his former teammates in the League again."

Despite what the press thought, Fairway believed that there was no suprise in the deal. He had signed a talented young defender - exactly what would be needed with Peter Marinic and Marian Nincz , both centre halves, set to leave when their contracts expired in the summer.

VTJ Koba Senec v Bac - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 3 Weeks)

Arnold Bodrogy - Injured (Neck, 3 Days)

Albert Balasz - Injured (Toe, 4 Days)

With new boy Adamik called onto the bench, Fairway decided to make no changes to a side who, despite being held at home last week, still hadn't lost in 8 games. After 14 minutes, Bac livened up what had started as a turgid affair- an overhit cross turned back across the box by Vlastimil Benko for Marian Marek to glance a header past Senec's Stefan Kollar. 10 minutes later the striker would double the lead - and bag his 24th goal in 22 games. A searching Peter Svoboda pass - how many times have we said that this season - would set him up again, with Marian Marek bending the ball past 'keeper Kollar to leave Senec in danger of embarresement. The Third-placed side though would find their feet, and after Rusnak forced Gardosik into two fine saves, Vladimir Roznik headed a Halahija cross against the bar on 42. The second half was one of total contrast - after again coming close through Marek and Horky within the first quarter, Bac spent the rest of the game under almost constant Senec pressure, with Senec at last getting a break through when it was too late - Roznik crossing for Ratislav Sendecky to fire past 'keeper Gardosik. The win a close run thing, but a win it is - three more points, and it'll now take something of a miracle for Bac not to win the Championship.

Senec 1 - Bac 2 (Marek 2)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

With relegation strugglers Bardejov doing Bac a massive favour - travelling to Second Placed Licartovce and snatching a 1-0 victory - Bac would go 13 points clear by the close of play on Saturday.

While there would be more bad news for Licartovce during the week - midfielder Jan Lesniak out for the rest of the season after tearing a groin muscle in training, Bac wouldn't escape either - Robert Lovegrove picking up a yellow card against Senec to take him to four, and an automatic One-Game ban.

Bac v Steel Trans Licartovce - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 2 Weeks)

Robert Lovegrove - Suspended (1 of 1)

With Lovegrove's suspension enforcing the only change - Ladislav Szijjarto coming in for his seventh start of the season - Bac manager Fairway knew his side would go 16 Points clear with a win, meaning that the League title could be wrapped up with five games to go next week against Presov. Before all of that though, Second Placed Licartovce, the only other side in with a shot at the title, would provide the opposition in an eagerly awaited tie. Typically the game got off to a barnstorming start, with Horky, Marek and Svoboda firing early warning shots for the home side. Though Bac had most of the early running, Licartovce did create chances in a wind-affected first half - Pagor's header undoubtedly the best. The visitors started the second half the better side, with Majoros' long-range header just dipping beyond Marian Adam, who would have been favourite to open the scoring had he got to the ball before 'keeper Gardosik. On 58 though there would be a goal - as Bac took the lead after a slow start to the second half. After a clever chipped pass from Andrej Ernak Peter Svoboda picked the ball up around 30 yards from goal. Carrying it forward, he got to the edge of the area before lobbing 'keeper Jakubech with a sublime chip that dipped into the net - and would give the midfielder not only his first goal of the season, but also a definate goal of the month, if not the season, contender. Three minutes after Svoboda's incredible strike, Bac were forced into a change - Solotruk coming off with a knock to be replaced by an out of position Albert Balasz. After taking some time to recover from the strike, Licartovce came very close to equalising in injury time - Pagor falling to the ground in disbelief after managing to shoot over the bar from less than 10 yards out. The Bac fans celebrated, while the even the hardcore Licartovce fans acknowledged that their chances were all but dead - but they all would be in agreement that they had seen a sensational goal.

Bac 1 - Licartovce 0 (Svoboda)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Szijjarto, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest, Cisar, Benko (Replaced 45 Solotruk, Replaced 62 Balasz), Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras (Replaced 45 Filo)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

16 Points clear, 6 Games to go - the mathematics now obvious. If Bac beat Presov on Saturday, they would be promoted - and Fairway would have another credit on his improving CV.

As perhaps inevitable, it would be a very slow news week - Marian Solotruk's knock against Licartovce the only problem for the leaders. The midfielder, who was forced off less than 20 minutes after coming on, will be out for a week with a twisted knee.

Tatran Presov v Bac - League

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Groin, 1 Week)

Marian Solotruk - Injured (Knee, 4 Days

Presov's Tatran Arena was, this time last season, the scene of a woeful Bac performance culminating in a 4-0 defeat. Today, it could be the scene of an equally momentous game, with Bac needing three points for the Title. Fairway would make one change to his starting eleven - Lovegrove returning at right back, with Szijjarto dropping down to the bench to replace the injured Solotruk. After an understandably nervy start for Bac, Presov would take the lead 21 minutes in. Bac's Robert Lovegrove at fault - the youngster booked for a trip on Peter Hatok inside the box, allowing Martin Jakubko to score from the penalty spot. The goal gave Presov a big boost, and for a moment, Bac were firmly on the back foot - Matta bursting past Glonek to shoot straight at Gardosik, before Benko came close with a swerving free kick at the other end. With Bac making changes at the interval, Marian Marek had a golden opportunity to level on 48, instead heading into the side netting. After a breif quiet spell, the striker would have an even bigger part to play on 72. After a horrendous defensive error - Presov skipper Boris Kitika attempting to clear, but instead slicing a cross across his own area, Marian Marek pounced - the striker heading home his 25th goal of the season. Bac would have a couple more chances as the game lumbered to a conclusion which looked inevitable when Marek's shot hit the back of the net - and as the away fans awaited other results, Bac players and fans alike wondered if they had done it.

Presov 1 - Bac 1 (Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove (Replaced 45 Szijjarto), Ernak, Glonek (Replaced 45 Adamik), Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

Andy Cullen · January 4, 2004

Surely only a matter of time before your promoted now d_S.

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 1st | C | BAC | | 25 | 18 | 3 | 4 | 52 | 25 | +27 | 57 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 2nd | | Licartovce | | 25 | 12 | 5 | 8 | 46 | 29 | +17 | 41 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 3rd | | Kys. Lieskovec | | 25 | 11 | 6 | 8 | 35 | 30 | +5 | 39 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 4th | | Kosice | | 25 | 10 | 8 | 7 | 39 | 35 | +4 | 38 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 5th | | Senec | | 25 | 10 | 7 | 8 | 32 | 26 | +6 | 37 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 6th | | Duslo Sala | | 25 | 10 | 6 | 9 | 36 | 32 | +4 | 36 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 7th | | Humenne | | 25 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 28 | 24 | +4 | 35 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 8th | | Prievidza | | 25 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 33 | 35 | -2 | 35 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 9th | | Banska Bystrica | | 25 | 9 | 7 | 9 | 30 | 33 | -3 | 34 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 10th | | Cana | | 25 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 34 | 34 | 0 | 33 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 11th | | Zlate moravce | | 25 | 8 | 5 | 12 | 27 | 46 | -19 | 29 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 12th | | Presov | | 25 | 7 | 8 | 10 | 30 | 43 | -13 | 29 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 13th | | Bardejov | | 25 | 7 | 7 | 11 | 17 | 27 | -10 | 28 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 14th | | Rapid Bratislava | | 25 | 7 | 6 | 12 | 34 | 34 | 0 | 27 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 15th | | Devin | | 25 | 7 | 5 | 13 | 28 | 39 | -11 | 26 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 16th | | Dun. Streda | | 25 | 7 | 4 | 14 | 29 | 38 | -9 | 25 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

</pre>

The table told it's own story - Licartovce could only draw at home to Cana to make Bac Second Division Champions with five games still to play - defying the 25/1 odds you would have been given at the start of the season on Stuart Fairway's side.

On Wednesday evening, they were joined in the "2004/05 Championship Winners" club by a team who have certainly been there more than Bac. Manchester United beat bitter rivals Man City 4-2 at Old Trafford to seal their 18th Top Flight title. Perhaps of more importance to Fairway, his beloved Brighton & Hove Albion consolidated their position in Division One, finishing in 18th position. With the breakthrough of talented homegrown youngsters Dan Harding, Dean Hammond and Adam Hinshelwood, all of whom had starring roles, the future looks bright for the Sussex club.

Friday saw one of those frustrating things that occasionally happens in football. A day after returning from surgery to cure his troublesome groin muscle problem, Ernest Lopu picked up another injury - the striker ruled out for a week with a calf strain. For the second time this season, physio Martin Suchy reccomended sending the striker to a specialist. For the first time, Fairway refused. Now fluent in Slovakian, he explained to Lopu that he would like the striker to have a part to play in the final few games, but that Lopu would get the chance to undergo treatment in the summer. Lopu agreed with his manager - certainly wanting to remind the support of his existance.

Bac v 1.FC Kosice - League

Unavailable

Ernest Lopu - Injured (Calf, 6 Days)

With the Championship trophy presented to a delighted Marcel Horky and paraded around the pitch before kickoff Bac went into the game with no changes to the side who had taken the title last Saturday. With the crowd perhaps disapointingly low, but certainly loud enough, Bac would take the lead after just six minutes - Marian Marek flicking the ball away from defender Juhas before firing past Kosice 'keeper Rodak. 4 minutes later Rodak would again be picking the ball out of his net - Peter Svoboda's pass giving Benko the ball to prod into the area, and Robert Patras on hand to finish from close range. Kosice never really recovered - on 47, Marian Marek firing in off the underside of the bar from Patras' neat pass. With just over 20 minutes to go, Bac sealed a memorable win - Robert Patras scoring his second of the game in some style. Robert Lovegrove's fine pass from halfway set him up, and a well-flighted, bending shot around 'keeper Rodak brought another fine victory for a Bac side clearly not letting up after winning the title.

Bac 4 - Kosice 0 (Marek 2, Patras 2)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek (Replaced 45 Adamik), Forrest, Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Patras

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Andy Cullen:

Surely only a matter of time before your promoted now d_S. <HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Yep - It had looked likely for a while - Licartovce shot themselves in the foot a lot really, while from somewhere, we found consistency. Cheers

Terk · January 4, 2004

well done d_s

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

Cheers Terk

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Tuesday 10/5/05

'Bac for Good - Stars Sign New Deals'

" FC Druzstevnik Bac striker Marian Marek , who has scored 26 goals this season to shoot Bac to the League title has put pen to paper on a new five year contract, keeping him at the club until 2010 - on the same day that Playmaker Peter Svoboda increased his deal until 2009.

Bac manager Stuart Fairway said; "We're delighted to have got Marian on board. His previous deal expired at the end of next season, but it had a Â£75,000 Release Clause. We've negociated that upwards, and we'd now not need to loose one of our key players for a pittance. Peter had a similar clause, and it's a testament to the Chairman that I've been able to sit down and hammer out deals with both of them."

As well as the good news regarding Marek and Svoboda, Fairway would also be able to welcome his strike partner, Ernest Lopu back after three months on the sidelines through various injuries and fit to return in attack. There would however be bad news regarding Jozef Adamik - the defender out for a fortnight after damaging a shoulder in training.

Vion Zlate Moravce v Bac - League

With Lopu returning, Fairway would be able to say for the first time in many months that he had a fully fit squad to select from for the trip to relegation-threatened Moravce. There would be just the one change - and a long awaited one at that, with Ernest Lopu replacing Robert Patras up front, Patras dropping to the bench to replace transfer-listed Michal Filo. Also on the bench Jozef Adamik - able to do some work in training, but not fit enough to be involved, would be replaced by Matt Hillyer. The struggling home side began brightly - Peter Durica should have done much better than to shoot over with the goal at his mercy on 3 minutes - but with their first chance, Bac opened the lead. On 17, Cisar's deflected cross was played back to the edge of the box by Vlastimil Benko - setting up Marcel Horky for a stinging drive which crept through 'keeper Molnar's outstretched hands and into the bottom left hand corner. On 31, Bac doubled the lead - this time hitting the target in scintillating style. After recieving a throw-in, Peter Svoboda turned and chipped the ball forward - a long, direct ball that bounced for the first time at least 60 yards from where the midfielder hit it. Marian Marek raced on, rifling the ball past Molnar into the corner in a move that went from end to end. On the stroke of half time, with Moravce no longer at the races, Ernest Lopu took full advantage of a Durica slip to fire an goal on an emotional return to action. There would be no let up - as the game threatened to turn into a rout, Marian Marek claimed his 50th goal for Bac in stunning style - a brilliant overhead kick from Lopu's pass across the area easily the pick of the bunch. Though the game was long over as a spectacle, Marian Marek reached a second personal milestone - racking up 30 for the season - on 88, heading Svoboda's corner home to wrap up a fine performance for the visitors.

Zlate Moravce 0 - Bac 5 (Horky, Lopu, Marek 3)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest, Cisar (Replaced 67 Balasz), Benko (Replaced 45 Solotruk), Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Slovakia-Today - Football - Sunday 15/5/05

'Strugglers lift Cup'

" FK ZTS Dubnica nad Vahom have lifted the Slovakian Cup after a 1-0 victory at Stadion Antona Malatinskeho - and as has happened so many times this season, needed midfielder Juraj Dovicovic to score to win the game.

His strike midway through the Second Half proved enough in a quiet game not befitting of the occasion. Dubnica will be hoping the Cup win galvanises their League form, which is disapointing, and sees them in Ninth Place with seven games remaining.

See inside for further reports and Interviews

On the Bac front, it would be a very quiet week - Adamik still not fit enough for the bench.

Bac v REAMOS Kysucky Lieskovec - League

With nine goals scored in the last two games, and none conceded, Fairway suprised nobody by making no changes to the side that destroyed Zlate Moravce last Saturday. Bac - as they have tended to in recent weeks - were straight out of the blocks, and on 14 Ernest Lopu sidefooted them ahead after picking up a fine through ball from Eddie Forrest. Six minutes later Marian Marek added a second from the penalty spot - Vajda tripping the striker, who got up to slam the ball past 'keeper Peskovic. For a team who at a time had Championship aspirations of their own, Kys. Lieskovec looked awful - and when Ernest Lopu raced on to add a 38th minute third goal, hopes of a comeback were dead. Lopu's pace - seemingly not affected by his various ailments - took him clear, and he even had time for a cheeky step-over before steering the ball past Peskovic. There would be a fourth before the interval - Ernest Lopu stooping to head home from a near-post corner - and soon after the break, Marian Marek glanced home a fifth - Peter Svoboda's corner again the ammumition. With the game taking on the aura of a preseason kickabout, Bac continued to impress with some smart passing. Marek hit a post - Vlastimil Benko went one better on 81, slamming the ball home from the acutest of angles. It was, in equal measures enthralling and embarrasing - Bac destroyed Kys. Lieskovec, and 6-0 was hardly adequate enough to show their domination. 4,5 and now 6 goal wins? - No wonder Bac have been promoted.

Bac 6 - Kys. Lieskovec 0 (Lopu 3, Marek 2, Benko)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek (Replaced Hillyer 45), Forrest, Cisar (Replaced Balasz 45), Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

With a record victory in the bag, and just two games to go, Bac's victory on Saturday had already given them the record for most points gained in a season, just edging out Rim. Sobota's 65 last season. It would be the only real item of note for Bac fans in a quiet week - with everybody just looking forward to the summer - the planned new arrivals - and most of all, next season.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

The Sun - Football - Thursday 26/5/05

'Thanks for the memories, Jamie'

"In his final game in a Liverpool shirt before a summer move to rivals Everton England defender Jamie Carragher gave his boyhood club the UEFA Cup. Carragher struck the winning penalty in a shootout that had saw nerves dissolve - only three players out of 10 scored their spot kicks.

The game had got off to a fine start for Liverpool - Micheal Owen netting on 8 minutes to shock Roma in Brugges. However on 50 Marco Delvechio equalised, and 12 minutes later Roma starlet Alessandro Simonetta scored from the spot to put the Italians ahead.

It would take another penalty to level the scores - Danny Murphy firing home from 12 yards with 10 minutes remaining. After a quiet extra time spell, the game went into a penalty shootout - with Carragher the hero. The other two penalties that did go in - ironically enough - came from the boots of Simonetta and Murphy, with players such as Owen, Totti, Delvechio and Riise all missing.

See Centre Pages for Poster

SKP Devin v Bac - League

With Devin needing a miracle to avoid the drop, the visit of Bac probably wasn't what they were hoping for. Fairway could again call upon Jozef Adamik - bringing the defender onto the bench at the expense of Hillyer - but for a side who won their last game 6-0, the fact that no changes were made hardly merits a mention. If anybody expected another farcical anhilation, they would be mistaken - Devin at least showed some fight, especially in the opening stages. They held Bac off until the 33rd minute - when Marian Marek raced on to Peter Svoboda's pass to ensure normal service resumed. Immediatley after the interval Devin equalised - Igor Schlesinger firing home the rebound after Tomko had forced a fine save from 'keeper Gardosik. Soon after, Bac would see striker Robert Patras depart through injury, before Devin again came forward. Indeed they would force more stops from the Bac 'keeper throughout the Second Half - but their solitary point wouldn't be enough, and for the Second time in as many seasons, a draw against Bac would see a side relegated out of the Second Division.

Devin 1 - Bac 1 (Marek)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest (Replaced Adamik 45), Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu (Replaced 45 Patras, 59 Meszaros)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

displaced_seagull · January 4, 2004

With Zlate Moravce following Devin and Bac's final opponents of the season, Rapid Bratislava , to relegation on Saturday, the season really was coming to it's conclusion.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.sk - Football - Monday 30/5/05

'Bac sign 'keeper'

" FC Druzstevnik Bac have announced a seventh summer signing, 29-year old goalkeeper Vojin Prole . Prole, who holds dual Slovakian and Serbia & Montenegro nationality - with two full international caps for the latter nation - has signed on a Bosman free transfer from Slovan Bratislava.

He will link up with the squad for the first time on Thursday - as will the other summer Bosman signings - Glen Kaveney, Pavol Mikulec, Erik Takac, Jaroslav Hilek, Rastislav Tomovsik and Andrej Masarovic - but all will be unavailable to play until next season.

Wednesday would be a very busy day - June 1st, and, for several of the squad, their last training session as Bac players. Tomas Nagy, Alexander Meszaros, Arnold Bodrogy, Ivan Bugar, Peter Marinic, Andrej Bombiak and Marian Nincz would all be forced to find new clubs, departing at the end of their contracts. Having already been told that they would not be getting new deals, it was something the seven had been planning for - but dreading.

Meanwhile in Salonika Bayer Leverkusen won the European Cup - beating Newcastle 2-1 after extra time. Darren Ambrose put the English side ahead after six minutes, but when 'keeper Shay Given was forced off injured in the second half, Newcastle crumbled - Landon Donovan scoring on 78, and Turkish midfielder Basturk winning the game for the Germans with penalties literally a minute away.

If Wednesday saw sadness at the departure of several players, Thursday saw the joy at their seven replacements. Though inilegible to play until summers' preseason freindlies, Vojin Prole, Glen Kaveney, Pavol Mikulec, Erik Takac, Jaroslav Hilek, Rastislav Tomovsik and Andrej Masarovic would all be able to join in with training, get to know their new teammates - and perhaps most important of all, be introduced to the fans on the pitch against Rapid. Bac began very brightly - putting the ball in the net as early as the fifth minute, only for Ernest Lopu's effort to be cancelled out by the linesman's flag.

Bac v Rapid Bratislava - League

With a fully fit side for the final game of the Division Two season - and, if Fairway had anything to do with it, Bac's last ever game in the Second flight, the Englishman would make no changes to his side - allowing those besuited new signings to see exactly who they would be competing against for starting places. With Peter Svoboda, Marian Marek and Vlastimil Benko all coming close, Bac dominated without scoring for the majority of the first half - but on 40 Marian Marek turned in Ernest Lopu's angled pass, and Bac looked comfortable. Five minutes later they would get a shock - new 'keeper Prole no doubt licking his lips after seeing Gardosik spill a Stacho drive - Radim Krupnik certainly did, sweeping the loose ball home on the stroke of half time. After the interval Bac saw a lot more of the ball - sub Marian Solotruk impressing, but his crosses often found Marian Marek in unusually lenient form in front of goal. It would take a late goal to win it - Peter Svoboda curling in a corner for Bac that 'keeper Holec got a hand to. His punch, though adequate, wasn't followed up by a defender - and Andrej Cisar had almost the freedom of the penalty area to hook the loose ball into the corner. A successful game bringing to an end a very successful season for Bac.

Bac 2 - Rapid 1 (Marek, Cisar)

Bac; 4-4-2; Gardosik, Lovegrove, Ernak, Glonek, Forrest (Replaced Adamik 45), Cisar, Benko, Svoboda, Horky*, Marek, Lopu (Replaced 45 Patras, 59 Meszaros)

Bac Position After Game; 1st

| Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 1st | C | BAC | | 30 | 22 | 4 | 4 | 70 | 27 | +43 | 70 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 2nd | | Senec | | 30 | 14 | 8 | 8 | 39 | 27 | +12 | 50 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 3rd | | Licartovce | | 30 | 14 | 6 | 10 | 55 | 38 | +17 | 48 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 4th | | Kys. Lieskovec | | 30 | 13 | 6 | 11 | 39 | 40 | -1 | 45 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 5th | | Banska Bystrica | | 30 | 12 | 8 | 10 | 38 | 38 | 0 | 44 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 6th | | Kosice | | 30 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 42 | 44 | -2 | 42 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 7th | | Prievidza | | 30 | 11 | 9 | 10 | 37 | 42 | -5 | 42 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 8th | | Humenne | | 30 | 10 | 11 | 9 | 36 | 31 | +5 | 41 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 9th | | Cana | | 30 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 41 | 39 | +2 | 40 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 10th | | Duslo Sala | | 30 | 11 | 7 | 12 | 40 | 42 | -2 | 40 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 11th | | Bardejov | | 30 | 10 | 8 | 12 | 25 | 30 | -5 | 38 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 12th | | Presov | | 30 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 40 | 48 | -8 | 37 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 13th | R | Dun. Streda | | 30 | 10 | 4 | 16 | 40 | 45 | -5 | 34 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 14th | R | Rapid Bratislava | | 30 | 8 | 6 | 16 | 37 | 41 | -4 | 30 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 15th | R | Devin | | 30 | 7 | 9 | 14 | 33 | 46 | -13 | 30 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

| 16th | R | Zlate moravce | | 30 | 8 | 5 | 17 | 29 | 63 | -34 | 29 |

| ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|

</pre>

mattycarp · January 4, 2004

i came to this forum for the first time just after you'd started this story and i don't read any others apart from this

few comments:

'rim' is the best team name ever

how long will you be staying in slovakia for? i think you should stay at least until you've won the first division and had a champions league season.

are the seven new players going to be first teamers or are they back ups?

Janz · January 5, 2004

Cheers d_s on the victory..welcome Bac to the top eh? hope u stay on there longer.

btw i started my own Slovakian game...went on a 6-game drawing and losing run to the end and ended up 4th..sighz..oh well..better luck next season

displaced_seagull · January 5, 2004

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>Originally posted by Matt Rhoades:

i came to this forum for the first time just after you'd started this story and i don't read any others apart from this

few comments:

'rim' is the best team name ever

how long will you be staying in slovakia for? i think you should stay at least until you've won the first division and had a champions league season.

are the seven new players going to be first teamers or are they back ups?<HR></BLOCKQUOTE>

Some of the team names are bizzare - which is why I've tried to play Freindlies against Non-League clubs, to share them a little

Not sure how long I'll be staying - after winning the Cup in season 1 and the Second Division in season 2, my reputation is only 'OK' - I'm not going to get anything decent elsewhere with that, so I'm certainly going to have one - and in all probability several - cracks at Division One.

As for the players, I'll have to wait and see - some of them look good, but some of the lads I've got are certainly good enough to make the step up.

Cheers

Janz; I hadn't thought of that one, well done - Good luck in your game, it's a good little league really.

Janz · January 5, 2004

agreed that it's a very nice league to play in, only thing the poor rep makes it impossible to hire any good staff, scouts and physios in particular managed to get one decent coach

BobBev · January 5, 2004

I have finally managed to catch up after the Xmas/New Year break - you have been a busy boy d_s Congrats on the Cup and the Championship and long may you stay at the helm

displaced_seagull · January 5, 2004

Janz; I know what you mean there!

BobBev; Cheers - it's been nice to have time to play a lot over Christmas - work was absolutley hectic in the 3 weeks leading up to it (Postman).

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote">quote:<HR>

Bac-Online.Sk - Football - Monday 6/06/05

'Bac - Season 04/05 Review'

"The 20-point gap between Bac and Second Placed Senec just goes to show how much Bac dominated the Second Division this season. Our local side destroyed many opponents - winning games by 5 and 6 goals to nil in two cases - and are worthy winners.

Not many people expected Stuart Fairway and his players to follow up last season's extrordinary FA Cup victory, but while going out of the Cup at the first hurdle this year, he has managed to eclipse even that feat.

After just two seasons in the Second Division, Bac will play in the Top Flight for the first time ever next year - and though Stuart Fairway knows his side will have a tough task against clubs such as Zilina, Slovan Bratislava and Puchov, he's optimistic that they will stay up. "I don't want to manage Bac in the Second Division again" he said. "We fought very hard for promotion - though it looked easy at times, it wasn't - and it's credit to the players that we've achieved a 20 point margin at the top. Players like Peter Svoboda, Marian Marek and Marcel Horky are a credit to Bac, themselves and Slovakia - I like to think that if we keep our spirits, we'll stay up. That is our only target"

2004/05 - End of Season Review

Slovakian First Division Winners ; MSK Zilina

Runners Up; FK Artmedia Petrzalka

Relegated; FC Rimavska Sobota

Slovakian Second Division Winners ; FC Druzstevnik Bac

Runners Up; VTJ Koba Senec

Relegated; Rapid Bratislava, SKP Devin, Vion Zlate Moravce, DAC Dunajska Streda

Slovakian Cup

Winners; FK ZTS Dubnica nad Vahom

Runners Up; Slovan Bratislava

Slovakian Super Cup

Winners; MSK Zilina

England

Premiership; Man Utd

Division One; Aston Villa

Division Two; Blackpool

Division Three; Carlisle

Conference; Dagenham & Redbridge

FA Cup; Chelsea

League Cup; Man Utd

FA Trophy; Stevenage

LDV Vans Trophy; Northampton

Scotland

SPL; Celtic

FA Cup; Celtic

League Cup; Hearts

Germany

First Division; Dortmund

Cup; FC Bayern

League Cup; Dortmund

Holland

Premier Division; PSV

Cup; PSV

Super Cup; PSV

Italy

Serie A; Inter

Cup; Lazio

Super Cup; Inter

Spain

Primera League; Real Madrid

Cup; Barcelona

Super Cup; Deportivo

Europe

Champions League; Leverkusen

UEFA Cup; Liverpool

Super Cup; Inter

Worldwide

Intercontinental Cup; Inter

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