Hitting The Bar

[mistahc]

Tony knew Connor liked the booze, he was often seen with a drink in his hand at the pub, at home, or in the park. Hell, he was half-cut the day he met him, but he didn't know how deep it went.

He had his suspicions, the Hastings game sprang to mind. He got drunk before the match, mumbled his way through the team-talk, then turned up late to his seat having wet himself. He pretended the sink had leaked, but the smell was unmistakable. A visiting scout had made a formal complaint that he had to brush under the carpet.

After that he banned booze for the players in attempt to limit temptation and encouragement for the manager. To reduce the risk his own behaviour was a bad influence so acted more professional in the hope everyone would lead by example.

He enforced it when he could but had heard rumours that Connor had joined some of the Irish lads in breaking curfew on the trip to Liverpool.

He did break the rule to celebrate the Manchester United win though. The team and staff deserved it. It was a heavy night and Connor was drinking pints and JD chasers. In his plastered state he made Tony promise to get the pig as a mascot but begged him to change the name, preferring to shy away from the spotlight.

The day he arrived at the flat after his wife kicked him out was an eye-opener. He only went round for a cup of tea and to stay for a few nights while he sorted himself out. The first thing that hit him was the smell, then he went into the kitchen and the reality hit home. As the kettle boiled he counted 6 empty Jack Daniel’s bottles and copious amounts of empty beer cans.

He made a cup of coffee and took the recycling to the nearby centre at the park. On his return he surveyed the state of the kitchen and scrunched his nose up. He gulped greedily from his now-cooled drink and knew something was wrong. The vomit was projectile. He checked the date, and the milk expired over a week ago. Something told him he would have his coffee black from now on.

Connor came back from tidying up and made some excuses. He offered his guest a drink and didn’t notice the expression that greeted the sight of the Bourbon. It was not long after 10am, but time was only relative to one of them.

The alcohol loosened the tongue and opened the heart and the instigator was evident. Michael Reay’s news had hit the caring manager hard, and he was struggling with the news. The lack of routine in his life since the season ended was a curse, and an excuse to not function. They talked for hours, until Connor passed out.

Tony let him sleep and tidied the flat properly. He cleared the rubbish and bleached the sides and the stench still offended his nostrils. He found the cause, something was sewn into the curtains that was green and beyond mouldy. He found Connor’s phone and made a call, an angry voice answered.

“I’ve told you to stop ringing me you nutter, leave me alone. I’ve got a new bloke now and he’ll kill you if I ask him to.”

“Mavie, calm down. My name is Tony and I’m a friend of Connor’s”. Mavelle was an Irish name, meaning songbird, but when that song was at full volume it was deafening.

“Tony? Fat Tony?”

“Well I prefer it when he calls me Tony Soprano, but sounds like you have the right guy. Listen, do you know what the hell this is in his curtains that is stinking out the place?”

The Songbird had been silenced.

“Mavie, you there?”

She was, and she sobbed the whole story and admitted the leaving gift. She told of two Connor’s, one who was loving, funny and caring, and cooked each evening. But she hinted at another, that as frequently as a full moon would go into a self-destructive spiral of aggression and would engineer arguments just to create some alone time.

She loved one, but couldn’t live with the other.

She wanted marriage and kids, but he was too obsessed with playing and watching football, or glued to his computer on football manager. At weekends she was always second place to the game he loved.

At times she admitted preferring him when he was drinking as he was more socialable and fun, until the point when his body language changed and the Demon Connor surfaced. She would get embarrassed, and later scared.

“I tried to get him to change, I really did, but he just zones out at times and I couldn’t get through to him. I can’t help you Tony, I still love him but I need him out of my life for my sake.”

Tony was stunned at the revelations. This was not the man he knew, who had been his good friend for the last 4 years. He was calling to have a go about her nasty trick, and got more than he bargained for.

He looked at the phone, and dialled the only person who could talk some sense into him.

“Oh Jaysus Connor, it’s about time you returned your mother’s calls you little culchie. I’ve been worried sick”

“Hello, my name is Tony and I’m a friend of your son’s. I’m calling as I’m bit worried about him. He has taken a friends illness badly and I’m a bit concerned about the amount of alcohol he’s been drinking”

“Oh hello there, tank’s for calling. So he’s been on the Devil’s Vomit again has he? Just like his feckless father. He’s obsessive you know, he’s got my mother’s OCD. Hers is about cleanliness, his is about whatever has his attention at the time and he won’t rest until it’s complete. You wouldn’t believe how many hours he was working at his last job and they were exploiting him the eejits. He’s got a new job has he not, I hope his new boss looks after him. He's such a sensitive boy, always has been. I pray The Lord watches over him wen he presses tat self-distruct button. Where is he now, can I talk to him?”

“He’s asleep, but he’s okay”

“Ah bless, make him a nice cuppa tay for wen he wakes up, he likes tay. Is he warm enough? I’ll send him something to stay warm”.

Tony’s mind was made up, he’d stick around for a bit and keep an eye on his obviously troubled friend. If he took him away somewhere perhaps he could break the cycle. He scratched his chin and considered his earlier thoughts of offering him a deserved new contract. If he gave him a wage would he just blow it on alcohol. He decided he would offer him a new contract with no wage, and cover his life essentials instead, and throw in a few luxury's. He was confident he could pull it off, if he could sell hot-tubs in a country that rained most days, he sure could fool someone semi-comatosed.

He looked in the fridge and cupboard and all he could find to eat was a delivery menu. For him it was a treat, for his new flatmate it was a daily routine. He would put his plan of action in over dinner.

You don't know someone until you live with them. You don't know someone until you hear them sliding along the walls at 3 in the morning, unable to stand up unassisted after a heavy weekday session.

Tony had asked a girl round who was associated with the club, but he couldn't let her find out about this. He'd have to be smart, and protect his friends at all costs. So he asked him to clear out so he could tidy up and clear the flat of all evidence.

He confided in Connor's assistant manager, making it clear his job relied on keeping the secret. He was given a clear directive, take over when needed, and make sure strong coffee was placed in his hand. On one instance the chairman invited round the coaching staff to extinguish the risk of a free weekend. On another, he invited his parents round as an excuse to hide all the alcohol in the flat.

He was worried about leaving him alone at Christmas but it looked like he was in a good mental place. He left him a special gift, a joke HMV gift card to remind him about his fear of bankruptcy. On the reverse of the card was the real gift, £10000 was paid of his mortgage. He paid it directly to ensure it went to where it needed to go. He was surprised that Connor didn't thank him directly, but attributed it to humbleness, which was evident when he told him about his first Manager of the Month award.

On his arrival back from his break the flat was scarred of the remains of Connor succumbing to the drink, obviously with too much time on his hands. So he hid the duty free present of Jack Daniels he got him, instantly regretting the purchase. He was on top of the world though, his young girlfriend was convinced she was pregnant and he was delighted with that. He allowed his good mood to get the better of his judgement, and he reluctantly agreed to some more facilities upgrades. He had a plan though, one big complex with training pitches, a swimming pool, gym, offices and a block of flats. He had ear-marked the Penthouse suite for himself to resolve his housing situation.

He hid his friend's problem where possible, until the second Liverpool game. Here he witnessed the dark mood first hand as Connor crumbled under the weight of his self-perceived failure. He was he was quiet on the coach, but embarked on a mammoth session on his return home. Luckily Tony was the only person to experience it, as the squad thought his quietness was flu. He knew better but played along with that pretence until his friend would pull out of the slump. He hoped it was soon.

It took a good few weeks of talking him out of the depths of his self-deprecating chasm, just sitting with him while he drank and talked to him when he was working. It was depressing to see him function semi-normally, and he wondered how long he had been hiding his problems. Connor's lack of concentration on life was having an impact. One of the days Tony awoke to find his clock-radio alarm was dead as the electricity had been switched off. After some arguments about data protection, he finally managed to discover the Direct Debit had bounced due to lack of funds, and he paid the bill to get it restored and back up and running.

But finally, as the team starting winning again it raised their morale, and their managers spirits.

[mistahc]

Tony was tired of waiting to be a midnight snack so he took his chance, and he made a break for the coast. He went for speed over stealth and gracelessly splashed a messy front crawl. He estimated he had no more than 50 metres to get to dry land. A Champion swimmer could do that in 20 seconds, and that was after training, without clothes or waves to hinder them. He put his head down and swam for his life.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Tony fingered the business card given to him by a high-profile footballer during an FA Cup game. He held it on the corners between his fore-finger and thumb and eyed the raised-print. He looked at the words, sighed and dialled the number.

"Sporting chance clinic, Maria speaking, how can I help you?"

"Hi, ummmmm, I've got a friend. He needs help. He's having trouble controlling his drinking."

"okay, well tell your friend he is more than welcome here. All of us at Sporting Chance are aware of the courage it takes to ask for help, and when a person reaches out, we will be there. When do you want to visit?"

"No it is my friend, it's not me! I've not had a drink for months! Hold on, my mobile is going, I'll call you back".

Tony hung up to answer the other call, it was the coach driver with some bad news.

"Tony? It's Barry. I've got problems mate, the coach failed it's MOT so I can't use it Saturday. Don't panic, I can get two 10 people mini-buses, is that enough?"

"What do you think Barry, there will be 16 players, the physio, the assistant manager, and the coaches. That's over 20 right there and it's not including the kit and drinks. The game is an essential to win and you want me to cram my players into a minibus for a drive to Chesire? They'll be lucky to walk after that!"

"Okay boss, I'll get three. They are £400 quid each for the van, petrol and driver for the day."

After some careful consideration of the tight finances, he decided to leave the unessential staff behind to take two only, and he would drive taking Connor. The near 5 hour drive to Ellesmere Port would give them a good chance to chat, and the 8am start would limit the drinking opportunities.

Tony awoke early on match day. It was a pleasure to have slept soundly through the night without his flatmate drunken antics. He put the kettle on to make himself a black coffee for himself and a white tea for Connor. He opened the fridge and sniffed the milk as a precautionary measure. He cleaned the fridge out each Sunday and counted the little salads that come with a takeaway Curry. Only two were, and he smiled to himself that his friend was obviously improving, as that could easily have been six.

Connor awoke to the aroma of bacon and jumped up, rubbing his hand together with glee. They quickly ate and were on their way, tackling the long drive in unseasonally good weather.

"I love Semi-finals, don't you? And we've got three in ten days. I'd like a good result here to take to the second leg, so I can sleep easy at night. What team are you going to play?"

"A strong one, Madsen is still injured from international duty. Murray is still out, so McCann, Devlin, Lyskov, Hysky, Delaney, Hummel, Varley, Rubbins, McEnteggart, Lee and Dário. I'm quietly confident about this one, they are 19th in the Blue Square Bet North and we are in good form."

"What a team to be build from nothing. Where do you keep unearthing these talents? And how the hell do you get them to play for you for nothing? Did you know we now have a Danish supporters club due to Lyskov and Madsen? They call themselves Danish Bacon."

"I have a bit of an obsession with the free transfer list. Can't help but look for talent, got bog all else to do."

They spent the drive reminiscing about some of the games they had played at Sunday league, and at the opposite end of the spectrum. Tony recalled every detail of his Anfield experience up in the Corporate box, and Wembley for the FA Trophy final. Connor recalled his favourite memories of beating the Manchester giants.

"That was my favourite game too. Not just because we won. I remember taking in the smells and sounds and looking across to see you beaming with joy and pride, as was so delighted to be experiencing that with my best mate. Happy days those. Still, plenty more to come I hope, I want European football at some point. By the way, I've never truly thanked you. I do you know, from the bottom of my heart I'll be eternally grateful. You've got a job for life my friend, even with your problem".

He instantly regretted the last comment and there was silence. After a good 5 minutes, Connor responded.

"Problem? What problem?"

A while later they heard a mini-van toot and looked to see a mini-van pass, proudly displaying a gallery of squashed bum-cheeks. Worryingly they could probably do a good job at correctly naming the owners. They were passing Chester and nearly at their destination.

In the dressing before the game Tony watched with pride as his manager inspired and motivated his team. It was his talent, and he motivated some very average players in thinking they were world-beaters. David Lee and he had scored 12 career goals in 10 years before coming to the club, but he had scored 64 in under two years under his leadership. He could not believe what he managed to achieve with the team, the success far beyond his wildest dreams. And here they were, a few steps from a second trip to Wembley, bringing much needed cash.

The game started brightly for the away side, Martin Hysky scoring two in the first half hour. Tony marvelled at his manager's tactical genius and wondered how he knew where to put the tall Czech to give him such gilt-edge chances. He ruined his great start by giving away a penalty, but the team ran out easy winners, the 5-2 victory.

The drive back was just as long, but the talked more about the club, and the next season in the Blue Square Bet South. If they could get their third successful promotion then they could be in the Blue Square Premier, the last step before the football league, and the opportunity to take a gamble and go professional.

They talked finances. He gave Connor the facts, last season the club ended up with a profit of £1.3 million, he expected the same this year, but there was very little TV income this time round. He was worried about having enough money to cover the facilities upgrade, and didn't want to financially struggle over the summer with no match day income. He re-iterated the teams massive salary per annum and thought alone about selling players for a profit if possible. Connor promised a reduction in deadwood playing staff, and that he would consider any reasonable offers.

Tony decided to skip the Billericay away game in the League, as the first team were having a well deserved rest and he had work commitments. Also, there was no room in the mini-bus. Connor gave him a text commentary.

"Lucky call, they could have had a pen"

"Boom. Mooney 1-0. Back of the net"

"HT 1-0. Solid"

"Gahan 2-0. You don't save those"

"FFS 2-1."

"Get in. FT 2-1, Mooney MOM"

Tony was delighted, Promotion and FA Trophy final were virtually guaranteed, and he watched them confirm the latter with a solid 3-1 win the second leg against Vauxhall. They would play Welling in the final, and he was confident of further glory. But he did some maths, they had at least 9 away games costing him £800 a match in temporary transport, nearly 7 grand. A new coach would cost £150K he couldn't spare, but he saw some semi-decent second hand ones for £10k, which hopefully would last a bit longer. So he bought one, hoping it would prove financially viable in the long-term.

The following Tuesday the team boarded the new bus and went to Folkestone away for the Alan Boon Cup Final. The players complained there was no toilet. Connor complained there was no mini-bar. He wasn't joking.

Tony was delighted to see Madsen make his return from injury, every game increasing his reputation and value. We saw Lee get the opener, his goals worth their weight in gold. He was only paid £110 a week as well, what a bargain. It was a solid 2-0 win, with the only concern for his manager is Lyskov was carried off injured, joining fellow left-backs Hélan and Murray on the side-lines. He prayed his manager wouldn't go and and sign another. He didn't think he would, he still had Zola, Carroll, Stamp and forgotten man Piper in reserve.

16.02.13 - FA Trophy SF 1st Leg - Vauxhall (A) W 5-2 - Hysky(2), McEnteggart, Rubbins(2)

20.02.13 - League - Billericay (A) W 2-0 - Mooney, Gahan

23.02.13 - FAT SF 2nd Leg - Vauxhall (H) W 3-1 - Rubbins, Lee, O.G

26.02.13 - Alan Boon Cup SF - Folkestone (A) W 2-0 Lee, Varley

[mistahc]

Connor was searching the free transfer list. Lyskov's injury meant his first three left-backs were out and he was short of players. He had just a few days before their next game and was panicking he wouldn't have anyone signed in time.

Aveley were up next in the league and sat in 16th place. Connor wanted to send his second choice up to Essex, but the reserves had played two days prior, so it was first or third choice. The strongest team possible was played to get the win. Dário and Lee scored the goals in a 2-1 result to edge closer.

The players looked tired but were played again against Dover at home. Connor instantly regretted it as he watched Dário, Mooney and Zola carried off, but the patched up team squeezed a second 2-1 win in a week.

Connor sat in the Physio room after the game to assess the damage, 4 weeks for the left back, the cursed position at the club. Luckily Murray was back and the attacking players were only out for 6 days.

The next game the side travelled to Met Police to get their revenge for inflicting their only league lose to date. They got it, winning 4-1 and confirmed the league title. Bolger scored twice, making it 14 league goals for the season. Tony was delighted, and hugged his friend with a massive bear hug. It was expected, but welcome none the less, and they still had 10 games to spare.

It was a Saturday night, so all the players and staff went out for a meal to celebrate, some more than others.Tony had pencilled in the date and managed to group book them in to a restaurant a month earlier. Even with that notice period the choice of restaurants were limited, and all he could get was one of Brighton's cheap Italian's. It didn't matter as they had a whole floor to themselves, and the set-menu price matched the club's budget.

Connor went onto the fans forum and read some head-inflating reviews, one saying his was undoubtedly one of the best manager around. He was flattered. He also got a congratulative text from Gus Poyet, which meant a lot.

Wednesday was a special day, not only were they to receive a guard of honour as champions at Maldon & Tiptree, but it was the annual youth recruitment day. The club were excited that they could hardly contain themselves, so much so no-one turned up other than Connor and his coaching staff, and he would only half-watch while his assistant ran it.

The day was not known for unearthing gems, it was more like the audition stage of X-Factor or Britain's got Talent. Connor and Alan would sit there watching kids with two left feet go through extensive tests, finishing in a grand finale of a match against the current youth team. How did some of these kids think they could play football?

The system was simple, there were tests in 36 categories, most of which was recording their their success in 20 attempts, others were a score was awarded from the match, and some a stack ranking score based on comparative tests. For example, free-kicks would see them in front of a make-shift wall, and each successful free-kick into the empty net would count as a point. You could see why they held little hope when someone could only score 4 out of 20.

Connor only watched as it was hilarious watching kids only get 4 headers out of 20 throws. They were woeful, no wonder the other club hadn't already snapped them up.

He was numb with boredom by the time the coaching staff had finished the tests and Alan Humphreys bounded over excitedly with his report. He enthuasically ran through his verdict on the players, mentioning one of them had the potential to be the most gifted players to come through the youth ranks in recent years. Connor didn't disagree, because it wouldn't have been hard.

He looked at the report for a young lad named Graham who could play left wing or up front. He breathed out and rolled his eyes, it was littered with 1's and 2's. He scored highly in the mental section in work rate, flair, determination, influence, aggression and natural fitness. But technically he scored low, with a 3 in passing, 2 in finishing and first touch, and 1 in penalties. Still, that was his own greatest attributes as a footballer and he sometimes felt he could have made it at a higher level. A lot of the clubs turned he down for his lack of skill, missing his work-rate and determination.

Never the less he decided to offer him a contract and told Alan he could decide on the rest as he could see nothing of interest. He agreed to watch the training match regardless as it set a good example to the current youth team. He then wondered what other assistant managers were available who could actually spot talent.

He took his seat on the park bench and watched the kids nervously line up. Alan was managing the candidates, and first team coach Matt Joseph had the youth team. His assistant held up 9 digits and Connor looked at the lanky number 9 from behind waiting to kick off. he looked about 6ft and only 11 stone, he would need the steak and Guinness diet to bulk up a bit. The game kicked off and as the player turned round, Connor couldn't help but feel he knew him. He was still trying to put his finger on it when he scored a 21st minute opener, taking a ball in the centre of the park and beating the keeper with ease. Promising.

At the end of the dull 1-1 match, he saw enough to see no harm with the young lad staying, but nothing else. His assistant agreed, and sent the rest of the disappointed lads home. There were under firm directive from Tony to only take on who they thought could play higher division football.

The lad stayed on to settle details of the contract and his delighted parents headed over. It was then he saw her.

02.03.13 - League - Aveley (A) W 2-1 - Dário, Lee

06.03.13 - League - Dover (H) W 2-1 - Lee, Bolger

09.03.13 - League - Met Police (A) 4-0 - Bolger(2), Rubbins, Delaney

[mistahc]

Connor's mind instantly replayed a memory that was practically engrained in his brain, the first time he laid eyes on her all those years ago seemed like it was yesterday. It was freshers week, and the shy 18 year old had been in Brighton for a month after enrolling at University and was finding his feet socially.

He was dressed as a Devil and doing the obligatory pub crawl, when across the bar he saw the most beautiful angel he had ever seen. He was staring far too long at her beautiful face and long brunette hair, memorized like he was staring at Athena herself. Or at least the Gorgan. He gave himself a pep-talk to get up the courage to go and woo to her. She met his gaze and he quickly looked away, embarrassed at having been caught transfixed and probably talking to himself. He looked back and she had gone, and his heart sank. She was hidden among the crowds of drunk youngsters getting lashed on cheap beer. It disgusted him and reminded him of his father's drink problem, and he repeated his oath never to let a drop pass his lips.

He kicked himself for not having the guts to chat her up, and headed to the bar for another Coke. He must have been invisible for the barmen constantly served others around him and he was starting to get a little frustrated. He was spurned one too many times, so gave up and made the decision to head back to his student accommodation. As he turned he spilt a glass of wine left carelessly by his arm. He turned round to push-back the blame when his eyes locked with the most gorgeous green eyes he had ever seen, belonging to the equally beautiful face. His heart pulsated, his jaw fell open and he tried to speak. He wanted to tell her that he fell in love with her the second he laid eyes on her, that he wanted to spend the first of his life with her staring into the depths of her eyes. But it came out a jumble of words, tripping over each other into a mumbled mess. He was dumb-struck by the beautiful girl wearing an naughty angel outfit, looking every inch the perfect picture of ****ty innocence. She opened her mouth to speak and he awaited to hear her divine voice for the first time.

"You knocked my flipping drink over you mug, what you doing?!? You best buy me another one or I'll get my brother to smash your teeth in"

He stuttered an attempt at a response, hearing nothing but an angelic sweet song. And promptly spun round to the bar to get her another drink, catching sight of himself in the mirror he saw he was grinning ear to ear. Only the trained eye could see he was clearly in there.

After replacing the drink she was a bit more friendly and disclosed some information about herself. Her name was Zoe Delaney, the surname meant Angel from Heaven which he thought was very apt. She was 18 and from North London, which meant her family were big Arsenal fans. She was studying Travel and Tourism at Brighton City College, which later made a lot of sense. He was smitten.

After over-exposure to the Gaelic charm and falling for his Irish accent, so was she. He got her back to his digs and they were inseparable for months, pausing only for food, some lectures and partying. Life was blissful; they were free from their parents and it was like an elongated holiday romance.

Not long before Christmas she asked how he felt about a threesome, and he readily agreed suggesting her best friend Kelly as she was a bit of a looker. After she had punched him and run off crying, he had discovered she was hormonal for a reason, she was 8 weeks pregnant. They were 18 and had only lived the lives of children themselves a few months earlier. They weren't ready. Connor was insistant that as a Catholic they had no other options and her education did not come in to it, life can first. He got on one knee and promised he'd get a job and take care of her forever, she accepted and promised she'd always be his. They both lied.

Graham Michael Clarke was born on Monday 7th July 1997 at 3:14pm after a 19 hour labour weighing 7lbs, exactly 9 months to the day of his conception, and two weeks premature. It was the night the Devil and Angel met and co-joined for the first time. He was named after the then Arsenal manager George Graham and taking his middle name after his paternal Grandfather, although he would only be called it when his namesake did something worthy of the accolade. He was taken home to a tiny flat in Kemp Town, paid for by his mother's benefits as his father's part-time job in a supermarket barely covered the food bills. His mothers studies were postponed, but his father was an obsessive and would not quit until he had succeeded. The youngster was unaware his arrival had papered over some serious cracks caused by resentment from restricted life choices.

The day he came home to find his fiancé and son gone it was 22.12.98. Graham was not even 18 months old the last time he kissed him goodnight, now all he had was memories and a sealed letter.

He had not seen him again until today, and he had not even recognised his own son.

[mistahc]

The mood was awkward, and Connor's chest was so tight he struggled to breath. She must have known who he was when she brought their son for a trial, now she was obviously acting the ignorant. He asked his assistant to handle the negotiations.

"Right son, let's get some details first. Name?"

"Graham Clarke" Connor was surprised. He still had his surname? But why? He shot a puzzled look that was ignored.

"Date of Birth?"

"7.7.87" Connor remembered it well, waiting filled with joy and hope for the future. His eyes welled at the recollection of holding his baby boy for the first time.

"Place of Birth?"

"Right here in Brighton. My mother went back to North London not long after, I was brought up there until recently when mum's boyfriend got a job down here".

"Don't need your life story. Nationality?"

"British and Irish."

"Another paddy? We've got loads here so you'll fit right in."

"Not really, my dad was. He died when I was little."

Connor gasped audibly. He fired her a look that could kill, she shot a volley of them back. They stared at each other and his eyes moistened. She opened her mouth to say something, but it hung there like a fly trap and she stayed silent.

"Right, I've added your details into the contract and I'm prepared to offer you your first youth contract." Connor finally breathed and was stirred into action, he wasn't going to let him leave again.

"Pre-contract, starts when you are 17 until 2016. £50 a week. You are on your way to the big time son." They all looked at him stunned and Graham whooped for joy until his mother stepped in and clipped him round the head.

"Education Graham! You promised me this was just a hobby! You know I was denied mine by your father, so you have to go for me and be a Doctor or somefink. C'mon love, make your old mum proud""

Connor felt the stabs of her glare, and looked closely at her. She was almost as beautiful as the day they first met. But her voice still cut through him like a nail on a chalkboard. He played his hand, and threw in a few barbed comments for old times sake.

"Mrs Clarke, the contract is part-time so your son can still study, in fact the club pride it's self on ensuring our youth players get the education they need in case they never go pro. We help the kids deal with media pressure and offer financial advice. He'll be in good hands with me and I'll treat him like my own son."

"Miss Delaney thank you, I never married." She saw the look of joy in her son eyes willing her for permission, the spitting image of his dad when he was that age. She looked at the the man she once loved, the Irish tongue had lost it's sparkle and she hoped her boy would age better. At least baldness was not on the mother's side so he still had a chance.

With her blessing the contract was signed, he was the newest signing for the club and one of great potential. He arranged for him to be at training tomorrow to meet the squad. He told him he could have two complimentary tickets for the match on Saturday, which applied to all games as part of Tony's plan to boost attendances. He was required to enforce the club rule that only food and drink purchased in the ground were allowed.

Connor waved them off and sat on a bench, emotions were mixed and raw and he yo-yo'd between happiness and sadness. He was glad no-one could see his tortured expression. She was the reason he fulfilled his expected prophecy. She was the reason he still couldn't face Christmas alone. He starting turning to alcohol that day to numb the pain and to destroy the memories and emptiness, and at times he still hated to be isolated with his thoughts.

After car journey back from Vauxhall with Tony, he had listened to and absorbed the words, processing the sober version of events. You couldn't discuss anything with an alcoholic, but if positioned carefully you could at least make them listen, even if it only seeps deep into the subconscious. The conversation was one-way, and he sat there solemnly. It had scared him to hear what was witnessed and he had tried his best to stay off the booze. But now it was calling him with a vengeance, and he had good reason to want to retreat to the sanctuary of the depths, where he was safe from the outside world.

Luckily he would be distracted by the trip to Essex to play Maldon & Tiptree. A strong team ran out onto the pitch through two lines of the opposition players applauding them to respect their league win. The players forced Connor to lead them out and he felt uncomfortable in the position, but the crowd of 89 was hardly intimidating. In truth he didn't pay much attention in the 3-1 win, but it was a formality. He just wanted to be alone so he could quench his insatiable thirst and hunger.

Connor woke with heavy eyes and a splitting headache. The light made waves of nausea drift through his body and he took a few seconds to acclimatise to the deluge of feelings and the surroundings. He saw a pint of water so necked it, it wasn't cold or refreshing but was wet. It resolved the dry throat but could not satisfy the insatiable thirst. He took a few minutes trying to work out what day it was and resorted to checking his phone for guidance. It was matchday so he had to be on his best behaviour.

His brain struggled to recall the time, so he re-checked his phone, and it was 10:20. He had four hours to kill before the game later and needed some heavy mental distraction where there couldn't be any access to alcohol possible. The cinema provided the sanctuary, but the movie didn't provide the distraction. His mind regurgitated the years of hurt, re-opening the old wounds of losing just the two things he cherished most in the world. Shame greeted the recollection of his life in the aftermath; he managed to get through the degree due to his obsession to complete any challenge people believed him incapable of doing. Sober days were rare, but playing football again was what saved him, providing a welcome distraction and focus. Time healed and memories were buried, and life moved on.

He entertained the return of normality when he arrived at the ground. There was a presentation of the League trophy scheduled before the match, so the whole squad were there. If they were counted they would have doubled the attendance, the loyal fans numbering 120. Two of those belonged to people he didn't want there, and his stomach somersaulted when he caught sight of his ex and her partner.

Refusing to let them ruin his day, he put them to the back of his mind as he gathered with the squad for a group photo with the Trophy.

"God, she's still so beautiful. Why does she torment me?"

"Sorry boss, what was that?"

"What? Was that out loud? Um, I was talking about the Trophy, isn't it lovely?"

He breathed deep and looked at the floor, and tried to think of anything else but Zoe Delaney.

After the photo Tony grabbed the microphone for his obligatory place at the centre of attention. Anyone who knew him didn't have to look at him to know the smile would be beaming. He thanked everyone at the club in background roles, the loyal fans, the brilliant coaching staff, the fabulous group of players, and lastly ensured his talented manager got the recognition he deserved. He then brought Colin Murray to the front.

The Club Captain stood at looked at the crowd in front of him and surveyed the expectant faces. There were over 100 fans, and about the same in playing staff, cheerleaders and backroom staff. He was looking for just one. Then he saw her, Aoife his lovely girlfriend who was videoing it for his family back home. He looked right down the lens and mouthed some words that meant nothing to the rest of the crowd. Then he triumphantly lifted the cup high to rapturous applause and cheers. The clubs 5th Trophy, and in the coming months they should add two more honours. This club was going places and he was determined to be a part of it.

With the formalities out of the way, Connor gathered his whole squad to thank them for their hard work. He thanked Murray for his role as Club Captain and his flexibility to move from Centre-back to left-back and called him an asset to the club, and thanked his Chairman for his friendship and support. He then stressed the importance of resting due to the amount of injuries recently. The league was won, the next important game was the FA Trophy final the following week. He said he wanted to protect some of his big players so there would be rotation.

Even with that logical thought process, eye-brows were raised when he announced Graham Clarke was starting up front with Bolger. Those in the know could accuse nepotism that the lad was starting at just 15 years old and 252 days. But then no-one, not even the boy, knew who his real father was.

9 minutes into the game and Tony slid closer to his friend and waited for the cheers of the crowd to die down before he started his hush conversation.

"Where in all that is Holy did you find this one? He's got the luck of the Irish all right."

Connor just looked and smiled and Tony could tell his was incredibly proud of this one. The lad was the youngest player ever to grace the pitch for the club, but showed incredible maturity. Hummel had returned a goal kick with a powerful header and Clarke junior had started his run a good 5 yards behind the defender. He was keen to impress and keep his running while the centre-back controlled the ball badly in his own box. The ball broke free. The youngster wrestled his way past, controlling the ball with his hand in the process and leaving the Afghan international on the floor in a heap. He then coolly slid into the corner of the net for his first senior goal to the anger of the opposition.

Connor felt a pang as he watched him celebrate with his mother and agreed to himself that he did seem to have his father's luck.

The game ended 1-0, the youngster was held aloft by the squad and Connor was bursting with pride.

The midweek game saw a complete second string and Clarke again got an early goal, expertly heading in a cross, making a mockery of the stats provided in his trial. He was not perceived to have any strength, finishing, positioning or heading but was flying on confidence alone. He was even pushing for a starting place in the Final, and had earnt the nickname Golden Graham in the process.

13.03.13 - League - Maldon & Tiptree (A) W 3-1 - Dunne, McEnteggart, Lee

16.03.13 - League - Tooting & Mitcham (H) W 1-0 - Clarke

20.03.13 - League - Cray (H) W 3-1 - Clarke, Bolger, Gallifuoco

[mistahc]

The Football Association Challenge Trophy, commonly known as the FA Trophy, is a football knockout cup competition which from 2008 has been open to clubs playing the Football Conference, the Southern League, Isthmian League, and Northern Premier League.

The final has been played at the new Wembley Stadium since its opening in 2007. And for the second year running the entire staff and significant others at Preston Park Celtic were on their way there. Tony looked down the one of ten coaches he had laid on and saw his vision of a friendly club complete; Doris the dinner lady was sharing make-up tips with one of Porks Illustrated and David Lee's wife, and behind them Connor was playing slaps with his new young prodigy Graham. For a second he saw a startling physical similarity and mannerisms between them, but got distracted by the club photographer taking his picture as he had Sir Francis Bacon's lead in his hand and the pig at his feet.

He looked at the laughter and happiness around, and instinctively started singing at the top of his voice.

"Wem-ber-ley, Wem-ber-ley! We're the famous Preston Park Celtic and we're on our way to Wembley! Wem-ber-ley, Wem-ber-ley!"

The coach passengers joined in, and they they kept it up as the arches came into sight. It was their big day out and they were going to make the most of it.

19'000 were expected, and Tony had offered cheap tickets to anyone who was interested, and to the local schools. The game was on a Sunday, so he offered Brighton Season Ticket holders a free ticket. The stadium would never get filled anyway as it held 90'000, so it was worth getting as many seats as possible used to try and attract further support.

The coach pulled up and they mingled in the car park as they all arrived. Tony whisked Connor off for usual pre-match interview in front of the TV camera's flashing red light, and they both smiled for the audience. He exhaled a sigh of relief that he could not smell stale alcohol on his manager as the questions were started.

"Ollie Edwards from The Brighton Football Latest with a question for Connor. Welling manager Jamie Day has called one of the nicest men in football, but that he didn't enjoy the dtyle of football you insist your team play. Care to respond?"

"He's a nice guy too, we get on really well. He deserves credit for the work he has done at Welling. As for my tactics, we've won all but two this season, can anyone else say that?"

"Hey, I'm on your side, I love watching your team play and have no doubt that today will be entertaining. Some of your fans are pessimistic though, do you and the team feel the same?"

"Well I once watched The Walking Dead for a whole day and convinced myself the world was over-run by zombies. From the way we've played this season I think the players will be convinced they can win."

"BBC London here, Welling are currently 18th in the Blue Square Premier League, are you going to park the bus?"

"Course not, we play our game regardless of who were are up against. We'll attack from the off as I follow the Kevin Keegan philosophy; play attacking football and score more than the opposition."

"Can you give us any clue on your expected line-up?"

"I'll give you an exclusive, we'll be fielding the strongest team we can as the players have been told before we set off who was involved so the others could relax and enjoy the atmosphere. Madsen will play in goal, Devlin at right-back, Murray at left-back, Hysky and Delaney at centre-back. Hummel in the anchor role, Varley and Rubbins centre mid, and McEnteggart in the supporting role. Dário and Lee up front. On the bench, McCann, Gallifuoco, Hélan, Gahan and Clarke."

"Do you think you'll win?" the microphone started to pick up interference.

"I think we have a chance, I am quite......" he trailed off as one of the journalists was using his mobile to record the conversation and it began to ring.

"Hello? No he's unavailable at the moment can I take a message? uh huh..... yup.....okay I'll tell him. Bye. Ollie, your wife said can you get some nappies on the way home, apparently she's swimming in the brown stuff."

The journalised laughed, then cringed as he remembered the camera's were still broadcasting live.

Connor gathered his squad in the dressing room. They were kitted up and ready to go, eager to get started. He scanned the faces and body language and they all looked raring to go. He stopped at Dário who was practically shaking with desire to get on the pitch, his smile was filling his face and he was all teeth. He gave him the international Scuba-Diving symbol for "are you okay?".

"Yes boss, I can't wait to lick some butt." His English was improving but he was not quite there yet. McCann was his interpretor as they both spoke Afrikkan's, so he pointed out the mistake and they both laughed. He said something else in his local dialect and McCann translated.

"He said he was very happy to play on a decent pitch again, and that he dreamed as a little boy of once playing at Wembley in the FA Cup final.". Connor laughed, and hoped he didn't correct his second mistake. Well is was known as the FA Cup of the non-league.

Connor told them to relax and enjoy themselves, and went to take his seat on the bench. The friends and family were all seated together and looked to be having a party, and he promised himself he would spend some time up there. He caught a glimpse of Zoe, her boyfriend strangely absent. If she saw him too, then she was blanking him as he didn't even get a glance. He felt his heart yearn once more and re-arranged his trousers discretely. He was still very much attracted to her.

The first team had a good rest and it was evident. Dário was injured in the Dover match and had not played since. He was itching to get involved. In the 8th minute he had his first chance; tapping in a Devlin cross just to see the linesman's flag. The free-kick was hoofed up field, but Delaney hoofed it back and it flew over the midfield and defence. Dário was facing the right way so had an easy run and expertly finished. 1-0. No flag this time.

Luis cumbers equalized 4 minutes later. Varley's clearance was charged down and bounced fortuitiously and he had space to place it in. Madsen did brilliantly to get a hand to it, but it squeezed in off the post. 1-1.

The team were over-flowing with confidence and were unstoppable. Rubbins released Dário, who laid it off to McEnteggart just outside the box, a desperate tackle from Keogh gave Lee some space and he shot. The keeper saved it but it bounced out to the striker again, who hit it on target again. Once more it was saved and this time the rebound fell to McEnteggart, who coolly side-passed it to Lee again, who this time finished despite a defender trying to block it. 2-1.

The minnows controlled the game well and took the lead into half-time, and the mood in the dressing room was relaxed and happy. Little motivation was needed, so Connor just told them to keep doing what they were doing.

And they did, a good team move after the re-start saw Devlin released on the right and he played a great cross for Dário to tap in his second. 3-1

In the 53rd minute Varley hit a high ball for Lee to run on to, but the defender had the advantage and easily got there first. Lee harassed him and he played a poor back pass which players like Dário see before it was even played. 4-1, and a hat trick.

They quickly pulled one back through Cumbers, but it was just a consolation.

Murray took a heavy challenge in the 68th so Connor played a triple whammy; Murray off for Hélan, and he gave Dário the standing ovation he deserved, which also gave Graham some useful experience. The African thought he had scored a Hat-trick to repeat Stan Mortensen's in the 1953 FA Cup final, but instead was the first player to do so in a FA Trophy final.

The game finished 4-2 when Howard Webb called time, the players and fans were understandably ecstatic. So was Clarke the younger as he became the youngest FA Trophy player.

As young Graham walked up the 107 steps to get his first winner's medal he looked at his surroundings. Two weeks ago he had only ever played football at his school, and now his school mates were watching him on the TV playing on the hallowed Wembley turf. He desperately looked for the man who made it all possible, and caught sight of him smiling back proudly.

He was not sure why his mum and Frank had been arguing this week, but he knew that if it wasn't for him encouraging for going for that trial he wouldn't be here today.

24.03.13 - FA Trophy Final - Welling (N) W 4-2 - Dário(3), Lee

[mistahc]

Tony swam with all he could spare and it seemed like he was swimming for an eternity. He didn't dare look behind but he felt the presence of the saltie behind him; a prey knows when it is being hunted. On his breathing head movements he could see the shore but it didn't seem to be getting closer. He told him self to concentrate on the strokes. 1. 2. 1. 2. Harder. Faster. Harder. Faster. Must. Get. To. Land. Harder. Faster.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From Wembley to Leatherhead. 90'000 to 3'400. Fetcham Grove was a different world, a different league obviously.

Two more league games until the last challenge of note, the Alan Boon Cup final. Dário was shattered after his single-handed destruction of Welling as he then went of to play for his country, so he was rested. With a game just a few days later, it was the first team with some minor changes, Zapata-Caicedo up front, and Hélan at left-back. The former starred in the performance, with two goals and assist and a man of the match performance in the 4-0 win. Dário had recently turned 36 and Lee was 30 later in the year, but the club had some emerging talent lined-up to replace them.

The same could not be said about mid-field, which was a problem as Rubbins had strained his knee ligaments and was out for 2 months.

Golden Graham was given his third start in the Monday home game against Hornchurch, who were in the relegation zone. The first-team were rested, so the forgotten favourites were given some rare game time. Stamp, Bolger and Clarke scoring in the easy 3-0 win.

Wednesday night was of course the delights of the Alan Boon Cup Final. As holders they had to take the cup with them on the trip to Leiston, the Suffolk side drawing the match venue at the aptly named Victory Road. The Cup had a special place in Connor and Tony heart's; being the first honours the club had ever won, and they planned to return with it.

The team was strong and the attendance was expected at 1000. The turnout was not helped by the South Coast club choosing to only bring the playing squad and essential staff, the rest prefered to stay for work commitments. The bookies and fans all expected and easy win from the away side, and if truthful so did Connor. Their opponents were a tier lower, and were only 7th.

The team lined up, Madsen, Devlin, Delaney, Hysky, Murray, Hummel, Walsh, Varley, McEnteggart, Lee, Dário. McCann, Gallifuoco, Gahan, Clarke and Hélan warmed the bench. Despite being a school night, he brought Clarke; if he was as special as they thought then every big game experience would help his mental development.

It was a case of the Super Dário show. The Mozambique international scored two great calls in a 3 minute period on 15 and 18 minutes. It was sublime. By half-time Hysky had added another to make it game over at 3-0. Certain it would need an Istanbul like performance, Connor played it safe and took off Hysky and Walsh who had knocks. He threw on Gallifuoco and Clarke, the latter playing on the left side of attack in a Plan C. In the second half Dário could have completed his hat trick but hit the post, but Golden Graham followed up to make it 4. In the last minute Dário and Thompson tangled in the box, both on a yellow. It was the Suffolk man who walked and Dário completed the hat trick and rout from the spot, in front of his watching national manager.

Murray lifted the cup to the delight of the fans and chairman, and a limping Hysky as Club Vice Captain was second. He twisted his team and the Physio had him out for a month, so his season was over. Not that there was much to play for at this stage, with just 5 league games remaining.

Graham Clarke had clocked up two more "youngest" records for the competition too. His reputation was growing, and with 4 goals in 5 appearances it was easy to see why. For a player that statistically was useless he was playing well above expectation, which not only made Connor very proud, it also made him look very good.

The last league games were always going to be difficult to motivate the players. With nothing to play for, not even a Cup Final place to keep or gain, it was really a case of running down the clock. He needed an Ace up his sleeve and mentioned this to Tony in their strategy meeting, which consisted of a chat over a cup of tea and the PS3. He paused the game and took out his iPad and brought up Preston Park Celtic's bank account. It contained £1.824 million, a mammoth sum for a club of their stature, a poor sum for one who had already committed to a £2.4 million lay-out in a few months. There were over half a million short and Tony made sounds like he was having a heart attack.

"I know what to do, let me have 5 minutes at training tomorrow and make sure everyone is there. I'll motivate them"

There were hushed tones when he entered in a suit, he was being the chairman now and he needed the image to fit the words. He told the truth, and about the massive short-fall and how when they agreed, they thought they would easily make the money over the year. He told them they had to play for their places at the club; cuts would be made to reduce the playing staff and wages over the summer. There would likely only be 3 players for each position; the first team, first team back up, and reserve team. The youth squad were not considered part of the changes due to their nominal salaries but anyone not deemed worthy would be sold. He told them how well the club appreciated everything that they had done, but they had to secure the future for the club. Unwanted players would be released or transfer listed. He admitted he didn't want anyone to leave, but had no choice or the club would fold.

It reminded Connor of a speech he had heard his big bosses read out at the bank when they announce job cuts. At least he could understand this one, and he began to feel guilty. He hadn't even considered the impacts on people's lives, he didn't consider no-one would actually want to leave.

Trevor Benjamin asked to be released from his contract right then and there, he had hardly played all season so fancied seeing what his options were. So the ex-Jamaican International shook hands and thanked them for everything they had done for him as he loved every minute of his time at the club. And he genuinely meant it.

The others looked around at each other but were silent, Dário had no idea what was going on, so Doris the tea lady stood up and said her loyalties would always be to the club and she'd do what they needed.

David Lee stood up and said that if Doris went, there was no fecking way he was making his own tea and he was off too. That lightened the mood a bit. At 71 goals he was the club's record scorer and was loved by everyone, and they knew his position was safe.

Tony confirmed that any player was welcome to stay and train with the club on non-contracts, but those on a high wage had to be playing regularly to justify the expense. He said that he would do whatever he could do for them that didn't involve money, as they all played a part in the club's success and he owed them that much.

He looked at the Club's manager who was crest-fallen and looked like he felt at fault, so he finished up so he could take him aside. He knew he would take this badly and he already suspected he was drinking again.

"Please don't blame Connor for this, it's my fault as I set the budgets and control the finances. The best advice I can give is do your best over the next 5 league games if you get the chance. You've got my number if you need me".

Then something very unexpected happened, Connor was linked with Premiership football club Fulham to replace Martin Jol. So he wound up his boss by wondering allowed if Fulham would offer him actual cash to do the job. It was the worst possible news for Tony and he couldn't afford to make any sort of counter-offer. He breathed a sigh of relief when they hired Owen Coyle, until he heard his manager was then linked with replacing the former Bolton supremo, which Martin Jol promptly got, winning his first game in the FA Cup Semi Final with Liverpool on penalties, which likely was going to be the final nail in Wenger's coffin. It was a dizzy on the Premiership Manager merry-go-round.

The news had it's desired affect as the team easily won their final league games, Super Dário scoring 8 goals, and some of the inactive players asking for moves. Due to the one game a week rarity, Clarke didn't feature as he was placed on study leave to prepare for his up-coming GCSE's. The club wanted all their kids to do well so all had a mandatory break from games, although practise continued for fitness levels and to stimulate the brain.

30.03.12 - League - Leatherhead (A) W 4-0 - Gallifuoco, Zapata-Caicedo(2), Lee

01.04.13 - League - Hornchurch (A) W 3-0 - Stamp, Bolger, Clarke

03.04.13 - Alan Boon Cup Final - Leiston (A) W 5-0 - Dário(3), Hysky, Clarke

06.04.13 - League - Bury Town (A) W 3-0 - McEnteggart, Dário(2)

13.04.13 - League - Canvey Island (H) W 4-1 - Dário, Varley, McEnteggart(2)

20.04.13 - League - Cambridge C (A) W 4-1 - Dário(2), Gallifuoco, Lee

27.04.13 - League - Lewes (H) W 3-0 - Lee, Gallifuoco, Gahan

04.05.13 - League - Hendon (A) W 3-1 - Dário(3)

[mistahc]

Tony reached the shore-line and scrambled out as quickly as he could. He spun round and the sea was silent with no sign of his pursuer. He seemed to have escaped but he hasn't waiting to find out, he ran as fast as his heavy clothes and achy body would carry him.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Connor and Tony were doing the end of season business review. They had £1.7 million and it looked bleak, the contracts were signed on the facilities development and the legal team were looking for loop holes to cancel. He had called to check in and put the phone down with a grin.

"No luck then Tony?"

"We've had a right result, the League have stepped in and told us we need to expand the stadium to meet league standards, which apparently is a loop-hole. They've agreed to change the deal and cancelled the facilities upgrade, and instead will increase the capacity by 1000 seats instead. It's going to cost us £1.17M, taking 5 months to complete."

"Oh great, a 3350 stadium capacity. That'll look even more empty with our average league attendance of 108. It's not like we have to train in a poxy public park or anything"

"Well get some cash in and we'll look at things. We've only got £500K now so sell some players and make us some dosh quick time."

It was obvious who was happier, Tony's fear of bankruptcy was alleviated but both were disappointed that they had lost the training facilities. It also changed the living plans as Tony was going to move into one of the flats. The club were still in business though, and that was the main thing.

As part of the financial review they had a detailed look at the squad performance and marked who to cut. They agreed it was to be about business and to not think about anything other than stats, wages, age and coach reports. It was vital to the long-term aspects, and they decided to treat it like Football Manager and not real life. As he was less attached Tony said he'll make the decisions unless Connor really objected, and Connor was to give him details on anyone who played or was was highly rated. His logic was why do you need the others. Flexible playing staff was key.

"Let's get rolling. Goalkeepers"

"*Martin 'Mad' Madsen – 18 years old, Denmark, 5 U21 caps, Played 43 games, conceded 26, Average rating 6.84. Humphreys report - Ability 3 stars, potential 4.5, Rec 4.5

Colin "Cass" Cassidy – 25, Ireland , P1 C0, R 6.80 - A2 P2 R2

Luke 'I am your father/Macca' McCann – 22, South Africa/Ireland P22 C10 R6.7 -A2 P3.5 R3.5

Kirby and Neville are young keepers and nothing special"

"Obvious then, Madsen number 1, McCann back up, Cassidy third choice but transfer list him and let's try and get a decent young back up. Release the other 2"

"Okay, agreed. Right-backs.

*Noel 'Varlo' Varley – 22, DR/DM/MC Ireland - P46 Goals 10 Assists 10 MOM 3 Av Rating 7.19 - Alan's report Ability 2 Potential 4 Rec 4

*Andy 'Devil' Devlin - 21, DRC Northern Ireland - P44(1) G1 A10 M3 - R7.43 A1.5 P3 R3

Daniel 'Wilko' Wilkinson – 21 DRC England P6 G0 A1 R7.45 - A1 P3.5 R3.5

Michael 'Sun' Reay - 26 DRC England P9 G0 A1 R6.99 -A0.5, P0.5 R0.5

Palmer, Bramall and all the youth"

"As Noel is also a midfielder let's keep them 4 and cut the rest."

"Agreed. Left-Backs.

*Captain Colin 'Ruby' Murray - 23 DLC Ireland - P36(1) G1 A5 M3 R7.31 - A3.5 P4 R4

Tomas 'TomTom' Lyskov – 21 DL Denmark - P27(2) G0 A8 M3 R7.31 - A2 P3.5 R3.5

Jérémy 'Mustard' Hélan - 21 DL France - P11(1) G0 A4 M0 R7.37 A3.5 P4.5 R4.5

Alex 'Postal' Stamp - 16 DLC England - P9(1) G1 A1 M1 R7.22 - ASilver2.5 P1.5 R1.5

Andrea 'Franco' Zola -22 DRL Italy - P6 G0 A2 M, R7.43 - A0.5 P2.5 R2.5

Carroll played twice, Piper didn't play any."

"Get rid of Piper, Carroll , Zola and Stamp."

"Zola can be extra cover at RB, and technically Murray is a centre-back?"

"Maybe pile then, if you get anyone else, get rid"

"Thanks. Central defenders.

Simon 'Disco' Dunne - 23, DC Ireland P12(1) G6 A1 M3 R7.54 - A2 P4 R4

*Martin 'General' Hysky – 37 DC Czech Republic P46 G14 A5 M4 R7.45 - A4.5 P4.5 R4.5

*Clive 'Bigfoot' Delaney -33 DC Ireland P40 G6 A5 M4 R7.48 - A4 P4 R4

Giancarlo 'G' Gallifuoco – 19 D/DMC Italy P15(2) G4 A1 M3 R7.39 - A2.5 P4.5 R4.5

Then Davies, Jacons, Lake, Simpson, Edwards, Bradrook, Bell, Davey, Hayward."

"Centre-backs don't need to run much so 2 to a position is good as we have Murray and Devlin can fill in. Get rid of the rest"

"Okay, defensive midfielders then.

*Erik 'Hummer' Hummell – 25 DMC USA - P43 G2 A7 M1 R7.10 - A2.5 P2.5 R2.5

Craig 'Star' Walsh – 21 DM/MC Ireland - P31(1) G5 A6 M0 R7.06 - A2.5 P4 R4

Onyekachi, Goddard, Jackman"

"Release the three, and buy someone decent as cover."

"Agree. Midfielder centres.

*Harry 'Rub' Rubbins – 20 MC England - P37 G8 A23 M3 R7.19 - A3.5 P4.5 R4.5

Naim 'El' El-Harrati – 19 MC Morocco - P5 G0 A1 M3 R6.88 - AS5 P2.5 R2.5

Shane 'Trigger' O’Brien – 24 MC Ireland - P15 G1 A2 M1 R6.87 - A0.5 P0.5 R0.5

Jassim 'Jazz' Alali - 19 MC Jordan - P3 G0 A0 M0 R6.77 - AS4.5 P1.5 R1.5

Obviously we have Walsh, Mooney, Gahan and Varley who can cover, but there's also Marsh, Caton, Bell, Slegg, Simpson, Kearn"

"We seem quite weak here, Keep Harry, dump the rest, get some talent"

"Done, attacking midfielders.

*Ronan 'Mac' McEnteggart – 22 MAC Ireland - P47 G14 A18 M3 R7.19 - A1.5 P3 R3

Slawomir 'GacMan' Gac – 17 – AMR Poland - P3(5) G1 A2 M0 R6.99 - A2 P3.5 R3.5

Mick 'Moon' Mooney – 24 – AMC Ireland - P 12(1) G4 A2 M3 R7.12 - A0.5 P2 R2

'big' Willie Gahan - - AMC Ireland - P18(6) G7 A8 M1 R7.15 - A1 P2.5 R2.5

Doherty, Keith, Gillings, Rose, Winters, Moore."

"Keep the first 4 as they can cover centre midfield too. Rest are cut."

"Right, lastly up front, we're overloaded but very strong here.

*David 'Gypsy' Lee – 29 SC Ireland - P35 G29 A10 M6 R7.47 - A-2 P2 R2

Anthony 'Bogey' Bolger - 21 SC Ireland - P40(2) G21 A9 M6 R7.20 - A3 P3.5 R3.5

Victor 'zap attack' Zapata-Caicedo – 18 SC Colombia - P9 G5 A5 M1 R7.23 - A1 P4.5 R4.5

*'Super' Dário – 36 SC Mozambique - P28 G26 A11 M9 R7.73 - A5 P5 R5

Ishamel 'Ish' Lammy – 20 SC England - P5 G2 A0 M0 R6.98 - AS0.5 P2.5 R2.5

'Golden' Graham Clarke - 15 AML/SC England/Ireland - P3(1) G4 A0 M0 R7..530 - AS3 P4.5 R4.5

Hancock, McCoy, Sweeney, Doherty, Fogden, Davis, Emmanuel Lee"

"6 players, 4 needed. I guess Dário might have one season left, and Lee is not technically that good although I'd never say it publically. Let's call Graham a youth player and keep those three plus Bogey and Zap. Let the others go."

"Lammy too, he's a good poacher?"

"Be brutal. I know you, we've cut the squad to 26 and you'll still go and find some great quality players. Try to keep the squad size around 30 eh?"

"Yes Guv"

They had done the easy bit. Telling the players was the worst bit. The phone rang and Connor answered it.

"Hello?"

"Is that Connor Clarke? Manager of Preston Park Celtic?"

"Depends who's asking."

"My name is Robbie Cowling, and I'm Chairman of Colchester United in League One. Just; we missed relegation by one place. Congratulations on your Manager of the Year award. I was hoping you'd come and manage us as we are big fans of what you've done down there."

"Alan, you're not funny. This is the worst wind up you've done"

"Who? No this is serious offer. Transfer Budget of £375K, Wage Budget of £38K and more importantly we'll pay you £675 per week."

"Um, I am flattered, but have you asked my chairman for permission to approach me?"

Tony's ears pricked up and he panicked. He had been linked with nearly every vacant job going but this was the real deal, a concrete offer. Connor saw his face and told the guy he'd think about it and to call him back next week. He had no intention of taking it, he had a job to do, but he wanted to make his chairman sweat. He was delighted when the offer was finally rejected.

After offering the unwanted players out, only Cassidy received an offer for £2k from Gillingham. Clearing the deadwood won't be as easy as they thought.

In the Premiership Wenger was sacked by Liverpool who hired Pardew from Newcastle, who in turn took Pullis from Stoke. Bolton and Sunderland qualified for Europe despite both avoiding relegation on the last day of the season. Man U won the league, and Ferguson shocked the football world by refusing the Manager of the Month award, fearing it would curse the club's current form. He was clearly losing it as his team had no more games to play.

The season was over, the players were on holiday, and Louis Armstrong was queued up, they had all the time in the world. And a promise had been made that had to be fulfilled.

[mistahc]

Connor was sat in a plush office in London, and the Irishman was staring blankly out of the window at some kids playing outside. He had taken in all the surroundings, of the photo on the desk of the woman and her dull looking husband and ugly kids, of the certificate up on the wall, and the plant in the corner that looked droopy and too dry. Out of nowhere he re-directed the conversations path.

“Do you remember what it was like to be a kid? Nothing was a worry. There was no money problems, you had no mortgage or bills to stress about where the cash was to pay it, you just got your pocket money each week.”

He looked back and the facilitator looked down her nose at him.

“Please carry on Mr Clarke, you’ve been silent for 5 minutes now and you are the reason we are here. We are here to talk after all.”

“Well everything was easy wasn’t it? You just walked up to someone you had never met before and 5 minutes later they were your friend. Can you imagine doing that at our age? If I walked up to a bloke in a park and asked him to be my friend he’d probably deck me. Love was easier too, you had a girlfriend for a week then both stopped and moved on to someone else. I don’t remember any heartache back then, it was just holding hands and laughter. You could get a new girlfriend just by playing kiss chase. Can you imagine doing that at our age? If I was to run up to a girl now all puckered up I'd get arres......"

"I get the point"

"As I was saying, life was easier back then”

"Tell me about your childhood? How was your relationship with your father?"

He could see her referring to some pre-conversation notes and wondered what she had and who had told her about him. He decided to clam up again. He slunk back into his chair and looked outside again, and drifted off back into the day-dream for a few moments before a raised volume and tone of voice pulled him back. The woman was getting irritable and impatient.

“Mr Clarke, I’m finding you rather rude, we are here for you after all. I have other appointments and we are behind schedule. You must talk to me about the reason we are here; to determine your mental state. The results of the blood test show that your alcohol content is 1.5%. To put it into perspective the drink drive limit is 0.02%. It’s 09:45 on a Tuesday morning for God’s sake.”

“Look I don’t have a problem, I just like a drink now and again. Sometimes I get into a mood and go a bit heavy, no damage is done and only my flatmate knows. Just tell him that I am fine and we can carry on with our lives.”

He slammed the door on his way out, he was not in the mood to be spoken to like a child, he was 35 for crying out loud. The best thing about being an adult was that he could do what he wanted, when he wanted.

He just caught the Victoria fast train back to Brighton and stared out the window as they crossed the Thames, and the buildings and busy life turned into tree’s and open fields. He relaxed, he was not a fan of the big city and its problems, he was a farm boy from Ireland and felt more at home in the quiet. He thought about his life on the way home and looked at his watch. It was 11am and some of the pubs would be opening up, perfect.

Concentrating on putting his ticket in the machine, he didn’t see the big bloke in front of him and apologised as he tried to walk past him, wondering why he always did that when it wasn’t really his fault. A big hand shot out and blocked his path, he looked up.

“Tony! What are you doing here? Why aren’t you at work?”

He said nothing and beckoned him to follow. He had a look on his face that he knew meant trouble. They sat in the car silently, and they headed up Dyke Road and out onto the A27 to Shoreham. He stared out the window the whole way, and hoped they were off to look at some potential training facility locations.

“Bit far out isn’t Tone? I don’t fancy making my way here every day.”

He was ignored so he carried on staring at the world they were driving by. They turned onto the A283 and he dozed off in the tranquillity of the car’s movement and gentle sounds.

He awoke an hour later with a start, the dribble was tricking from the corner of his mouth and was soaking into his t-shirt. He was confused and looked for landmarks, but it all looked familiar yet new. Then they passed Liphook station, and he tried for the life of him to remember where he had seen that name before.

A few minutes later they were passing farms and Connor instantly smiled, reminded of the nicer childhood memories, and they drove onto the gravel of a lodge called Crouch House. The tyres on the gravel crunched a warning to the occupants and a man walked out that looked strangely familiar.

“What’s the story morning glory mate? Have you taken me on a dirty weekend? Wait, what day is it?”

“It’s for your own good mate, I’m doing it as I care”

He got out the car, retrieved something from the boot and then opened the passenger door. Connor looked down and it was his light suitcase, so it was a dirty weekend the sly old fox. He got out and they both walked over to the waiting Concierge, who started to look even more like someone he knew but couldn’t quite place.

Then he put his hand up to wave for someone to take the bags and Connor instantly had an recollective image appear in his head. He screamed and turned to run away.

[mistahc]

The man was faster and stronger, and even with the head start he wasn’t given a sporting chance. Well, not yet anyway.

Tony Adams and Tony Gloom dragged him back and he struggled and squealed.

“You can’t do this to me! I’ll bloody quit Tone, QPR just offered me the manager’s job and I’ll take that. From Sunday League to Premier League in 2 years, it’s the dream and I can be shot of doing this everyday. I won't have to wake up thinking about this poxy club any more, so stuff it and stuff you. They are offering me £7.5K a week. A week! You don’t even bloody pay me! Tony Fernandes said I could have £7.75 million for transfers, you can’t even give £7. I'd be a mug to turn it down”

His friend and Chairman stopped struggling as it was heavily rumoured in the papers, so he knew he was telling the truth, an offer must have been made. There would only be one winner in the battle of the Tony’s though, as the ex-Arsenal player wrestled him in to his Sporting Chance Clinic.

“Hello Connor, glad to have you here. First thing, I cannot stress enough how much we value confidentiality here. You will need to sign this waiver as most of our guests are in the public eye and won't want their secrets in the papers.”

Connor was in a Tony sandwich, flanked by the men as he sat in the chair and signed the forms under duress. His concentration drifted to the books on shelves, and the way the different sizes made a jagged pattern irritated him slightly as it reminded him of Snake on the Nokia that he was once obsessed with. He sharply turned his head and his attention back as his sentence was read out by the Chief Executive opposite him.

“You’ve been enrolled in a 26 day residential programme in a caring and supportive environment where you can begin the journey of recovery. Clients live in a shared house and commit to a 7 day per week compulsory programme, designed to treat your body, mind and spirit. As well as individual one to one counselling and group therapy our clients experience a range of complimentary therapies including: Shiatsu massage, Equine Assisted Therapy and Asyuna meditation.”

“Oh feck off, there’s nothing wrong me. I want to go home”

The mood changed, but he continued.

“Physical needs are addressed with a full medical examination on arrival, a carefully worked out nutritional programme, full fitness test and individual fitness programmes. Additionally we have football training and physiotherapy on a weekly basis and you have full use of gym, swimming and spa facilities. Walking, mountain biking, tennis and ping-pong are also on offer.”

That sounded better. The man continued, with the recipients full intentness.

“Our programme for recovery from addictions is based on the 12-step philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous and attendance at 12 step meetings is an integral part of treatment. While we make every effort to support and encourage our clients we are also well aware that the ultimate responsibility rests with them. Self reflection, written work and clients’ support for one another are, we believe, as important as the work we do.”

That did not. He hated the idea of sharing his personal life with others, and could not write for toffee as he was dyslexic. He started thinking about how cruel it was to give suffers a condition that was hard to spell when the man carried on.

“The mental aspect focuses on self-defeating behaviour patterns and the treatment plan is designed to help the individual understand how these patterns have contributed to a downward spiral affecting every aspect of their lives, from their relationships right through to their performance in the sporting arena.”

He exhaled deeply. Perhaps it would do him some good to finally face up to his life and problems. He looked to his Chairman who spoke to him properly for the first time.

“Mate, sorry it’s turned out like this, it was the recommendation from the assessment today. You were good after the Vauxhall game but you had another bad patch and I didn’t know what to do. So I called Tony Adams for a chat about it. It’s best not to have any outside contact so I’ve taken your phone, door keys, cash and bank cards. I'll will tell everyone you are on a scouting trip to look for players. You hardly speak to anyone anyway so they should be fine as the squad and team are on holiday for the month. I’ll tell QPR and anyone else that you are not interested too yeah? I’ll pop in and see you once a week.”

Connor just stared at him. He was right, but he was too busy dealing with the reflection of a month’s sobriety. He didn't think that had happened since the day Zoe took his son from him, and it was his comfort blanket from the world he lived in. He had a thought and looked up.

“Tone?”

“Yeah?”

“Can I still see the free transfer list and get the Clinic to tell you who I want?”

His friend put his hand on his shoulder caringly and nodded his agreement. That was another addiction of his, but one step at a time. Besides, he usually found some excellent talent and the club would need it for their march onwards. He then enquired if his name-sake had a hot-tub as the month was going to be a major set-back.

Connor was taken to his new room and sat on the rather spacious and comfy bed. There were no bars on the window but he was in Prison. He wept at the wonder of how it had all come to this; kidnapped and forced to stay in a luxury accommodation. It was hell.

After the emotion had passed he took a good look around. It had Tea-Making facilities, a fridge, a wide-screen TV, DVD player, a few DVD’s and some books. He unpacked and thanked his lucky stars. Tony had packed a few useful items; his laptop so he had Football Manager to keep him amused, and some burned DVDs titled The Best of Preston Park Celtic Volumes 1-9.

Once settled, he headed to his introductory examinations to fill in lots of paperwork presumably for a test of boredom tolerance. He was to be prodded, probed, poked, tested and God knows what else. He was then able to go and meet the other inhabitants at dinner.

He walked into the dining room and it felt like an episode of Celebrity Big Brother. He made a mental note to look for hidden cameras and introduced himself to the famous footballers, athletes and sports people present.

He found a seat next to a beautiful female Olympian who told him discretely she was in for sex addiction while giving him the eye. He then was presented a menu of Michelin Star quality food and greedily eyed up the steak. Perhaps it wouldn’t be so bad after all.

[mistahc]

Tony was bored in the flat without his friend, feeling guilty that he had betrayed him. He had checked in and the report said he had settled in well in the first weeks, but was still having trouble sharing and opening up in therapy.

He skimmed the football news and whistled to himself.

“Brighton sold Bridcutt for £6.25 million, he was a free transfer when they got him. That's the kind of business we need to do. Ooohh, Blue Square Premier Side Altrincham have gone professional. Hope that’s us next year.”

He looked to the empty chair next to him, the chocolate brown leather indentations outlined the shape of where a figure usually sat. He felt a wave of immense guilt. He turned the image into a drunken figure comatosed through extreme alcohol consumption with an empty bottle of Jack Daniels in hand. He recalled the number of times he had seen that image, and the feeling of dread as he gradually approached to look for signs of life.

It re-enforced his comfort in his actions and he took to the Fans unofficial message board forum 'The Flying Pig'. They had voted Clive Delaney as Fans' Player of Year. That surprised him as he thought Dário was immense and was his personal choice.

He read some of the transfer speculation and it was laughable. Someone was asking for the a big man upfront and was disappointed that they didn’t sign ex-Ireland international Conor Sammon, who Tranmere snapped up for £55K. A poster had said that the club were signing Adam Le Fondre from Brighton who was available for £85, but it all depended on if the Championship side could replace him with Ivan Klasnic from Bolton, who was transfer-listed and available on a free. Another poster was “in the know” and that the club were signing 32 year old Leon Osman from Everton for £500K. He laughed out loud at that one as the club transfer budget was £140K but he did not even want to spend that much. The Wage Budget of £11K would not accommodate his current £25K per week either so clearly a pipe dream.

Someone had helpfully posted a thread about the summers transfer activity Connor had coordinated from his isolation.

Out -

Colin Cassidy - Gillingham - £2k

Michael Reay had retired but moved to Ambassador role at club.

Released on a free - Mooney, Winters, Hancock, McCoy, Bradley, Hayward, Davey, Rose, Moore, Marsh, Gillings, Neville

The fans were a bit unhappy about Mooney going.

In -

Wouter Vranckem - Free - 34 DM/MC Belgium, one fan compared him to his fellow countryman Hazard who was bought by Man Utd for 38 million

Alexander Kacanikic - Free - 21 AMLC Sweden - Ex-Liverpool and Fulham. 5 star potential.

Alex Lynch - Free - 18 GK Wales, ex-Peterborough

Phillip Roberts – Free – 19 SC Ireland, ex-Arsenal

Matthew Lund – Free – 22 DM/M/MAC Northern Ireland, ex-Stoke

Solomon Taiwo – Free – 28 DM/MC Nigeria

Oktay Korkmaz – Free – 18 DR Denmark/Turkey – Personally recommended by Madsen, the fans were excited about this one, even though they had never heard of him.

Derek ‘Debbie’ McGee – Free – 20 GK Ireland – Many were pleased about this and wanted his name on the back of their shirts. This surprised him and he guessed that as he had never played a competitive game for Sligo, it must be the lack of characters in his name making it much cheaper than Zapata-Caicedo or McEnteggart.

The fans were optimistically predicting big things, and they were excited about the first official game of the new season in Isthmian Charity Shield, in which they faced the Alan Boon Cup final opponents Leiston, again at Victory Road.

The game was not far away so he made another call to the Clinic for an update.

"Sporting chance clinic, Maria speaking, how can I help you?"

“Hi Maria, can I be transferred to Henrietta please?”

“Yes of course, please hold caller………… they tried to make me go to rehab but I said 'no, no, no'. Yes I've been black but when I come back you'll know know know. I ain't got the time and if my daddy thinks I'm fine. He's tried to make me go to rehab but I……..…….. Henrietta Bowden-Jones, Consultant Psychiatrist, how can I help?”

“Hi, it’s Tony Gloom for an update on the Patient code named Jack Daniels please.”

“Can I can the secure password please”

He sighed and forced the words out.

“Tony is a dick”

“Thank you, sorry to giggle, he has forgiven you now if it makes you feel any better. Right, he’s socialising well, no evidence of him nipping down the local pub which is good, and his writing is coming along. He is very popular and is helping the others really well, but he’s still not sharing and we are at a loss what to do. He stares out of the window in one on one situations, and stays silent in the group. He can not start the 12 steps until he admits he is powerless over his addiction. We’ll have to keep him in longer.”

“He can’t! He needs to be back at work and I am struggling to cover the costs of his treatment. Can’t you give him electric shock therapy or something?”

“It’s not the 1930’s Mr Gloom. One idea is that perhaps if you were to join us he might open up. Can you come tomorrow and we’ll give it a go? If he perhaps sees you open up about something, maybe he will too?”

Tony reluctantly agreed and the next day was signing a waiver and entered the group therapy session.

Julian was the Senior Therapist at the clinic and alluded a calming and trustworthy influence. He was a nice guy and he beckoned Tony to help himself to the tea and coffee and to then take a seat in the circle. Tony caught sight of Connor who was evidently surprised to see him.

It was not what he expected. He had images of hard plastic chairs and a community hall type place. This was comfy leather armchairs, bright and airy, and a plush modern interior. No wonder it cost so much. Julian started.

“Welcome everyone, remember this is the circle of trust. Everything you say must not leave this room, and we need to be supportive at all times. Does anyone want to go first?”

A tall young man stood up, full of confidence and charm, evidently used to having everyone’s attention due to his smouldering good looks and money. He introduced himself for the benefit of the newcomer as the group had all been here before.

“Hi mate, you probably recognise me from Match of the Day and know I am a Premiership footballer. Well I have a drug problem. I am currently banned from the game for a year, although my club don’t have to share that fact so the official statement is I am out with a long term injury. My problems started when I was a kid on the council estate I grew up in; we were always up to no good and got in trouble with the law. It sounds cliché but football did save me, kept me away while my mates got into more serious stuff and deeper trouble. Anyway, long story short, I signed for my club at 12, and moved to a nicer area when I got my first pro-contract, but my mates are still my mates like. We still hung out and went on the town where I would throw money about to get us laid. Anyway, it was then I tried Cocaine and I’ve been on it ever since. I needed it man, it gave the confidence I needed and I played rubbish without it. We normally know when we have to give a sample so you just calm it down a bit beforehand or make sure you are injured and miss the game. This one time though the nominated player had to go to hospital after a nasty injury during the match, and as I had missed a few tests they called me in. I was busted. My manager was furious and sent me here. So here I am. 3 weeks without coke and I feel normal and know I need to change my life around. The people here have been brilliant and shown me that I need to leave my past and friends behind. Football is my life and it’s all I want, I just want to get out on that pitch again.”

The circle clapped and the golfer put his arm round him supportively.

They went round, a rather gorgeous woman talked about her sex addiction and Tony thought he caught sight of a lingering look between her and Connor. The golfer talked about depression caused by the stress of expectancy and how it felt to take a shot for a major title, and what it was like to miss it. And someone he didn't recognise talked about gambling and his addiction to the feeling of winning, and how he blew £50K in one night at a casino.

Then there was just Connor and Tony left to talk. The group sat awkwardly in the silence and the two of them mentally duelled, willing the other to go first. Julian cleared his throat and made a move to close the session. It was evident Connor wasn’t moving, so Tony went for it. He needed him back and was going to use shock therapy to do it.

“Hi, my name is Tony, and I am best friends with an alcoholic”

He ran through what it was like to live with his friend and spared no detail, however embarrassing it was for the two of them. Connor sank lower and lower in his seat, and never wanted a drink more than that moment. He was close to tears when it was over. It was brutal, it was damning, it was soul-destroying. But it was the kick up the arse he needed. He was at rock bottom and felt the need to climb his way back up. So for the first time in his life, he spoke about it.

[mistahc]

“My name is Connor, and I am an alcoholic. So was my father, and probably his father before that. I don’t know why my father drank, but I know why I do. It makes me love and hate myself at the same time. It makes me feel nothing and I welcome it with open arms. I have fears that it helps me avoid. I have horrific recurring dreams that I am drowning which seems to go on for ever, and it feels so real, like I am really there.”

Julian cut in. He was chewing his pen, looking eager that the Irishman was finally sharing his feelings. He used his hands to animate his words, over-exaggerating the use of his fingers making them look like sea anemones.

“Dreams of drowning are a common dream about fear of failure and losing. Dreams that you are moving in slow motion indicate that you are currently facing hardships and obstacles. Similar to drowning is the falling dreams which can be a fear of abandonment. Tell me, do you feel over-whelmed and insecure in the periods when you are having these dreams?”

Connor had started his confession with his eyes closed, and this jolted him back to the room and he didn’t look comfortable again. Tony sensed he was about to clam up and after his long pause, jumped in to keep the momentum.

“I have vivid recurring dreams too, also with water but I am being chased by a massive crocodile. What does that mean?”

Julian over-used his hands again, and looked like he was squeezing some imaginary breasts.

“Well chase dreams are quite common and often reflect a situation that you are afraid in confronting. The crocodile may represent a hidden danger, and sometimes can represent a fear of financial failure or a business collapsing. The crocodile teeth could also be important here, they may symbolise a warning.”

“So I am not going to get eaten by a big Crocodile then?”

“No, no, dreams are from our subconscious, it is very rare that they are precognitive. Anyway, sorry Connor I interrupted you, please continue. ”

“Well I hate to lose, so that theory makes sense. Look I’m finding this hard, can we wrap up? I’ve admitted it; I am an alcoholic, it's got a powerful all-consuming hold on me. What more do you want?”

“Well we could continue in a more private environment if you prefer? If you share and release your self from this burden, you’ll be ready to go home and can leave. ”

He was now cupping and groping an invisible bottom with his hand movements. The group looked slightly annoyed. They had bared their souls in his company, and felt fair was fair that they should hear his dirty story. Julian waved them away, but Connor didn’t seem to mind that Tony stayed, in fact he positioned his seat to face him as he was distracted by the hand movements. Julian took the role of observer as he breathed deep, and continued.

“I don’t know where to go with this? Drinking makes me feel comfort in the dark, when I don’t want to live in the world.”

“Tell me about the first day you had a drink. Did you sneak a cheeky sip from a half empty can at a party as a kid like me?”

“No, never touched a drop until I was 20, never wanted to be like my father.”

“Tell me about him.”

Connor chuckled ironically, and his eyes wet.

“He was my idol as a kid. Took me everywhere with him. I looked up to him and my fondest memory with him was watching Ray Houghton head in against England in the 1988 Euro’s. He played football with me and held me aloft when I replicated the goal in the garden. He was my hero. Then one night I was woken up by a massive row, and found him beating my mum. I tried to stop him but he just picked me up and I could smell the sweet drink on him, and I now know it was whiskey . He was hammered and threw me like a rag doll away. I ran back and clamped myself to his leg and he tried to shake me off. As he was on the one leg he lost his balance and toppled over and smashed his head. I thought I’d killed him. My mother grabbed me and we ran to her sisters for the night. She took us home the next day and I never understood it. Like a lamb to the slaughter she was, and it was more of the same for years after that. I hated him from that night. Never forgiving him for ruining my idyllic childhood, and I got out as quick as I could, swearing to never be like him”.

“Do you think that was the first time he was violent? Maybe something started it, loss of job or something.”

“Nah, he was bad to the bone man. I never saw what a **** he was before then, but it was glaringly obvious after that.”

“You said you first started drinking when you when 20. You were so against it, what happened?”

Connor was silent and Tony could see the question had pained him. He gave him time to digest it and encouraged him with a caring smile. Connor wiped a tear from his cheek and told the story of how he met a beautiful girl, fell in love, and became adults too soon by an accidental conception. He spoke of the day he came back to find her gone with just a letter taunting him.

“She left me mate, took my baby from me. I loved her so much and he was my world. I rang her dad who told me she’d gone to Spain and wouldn’t tell anyone where she went. She always liked to travel. It was my fault, I didn’t earn enough money so she had to give up her course. I was empty and wanted to die. Then I saw the bottle which must have been left from a party or something. It tasted foul but after a few it got better and so did the empty feeling.”

“Have you seen them since?”

Connor stared at the floor looking at something that wasn’t there, a memory of the painful past of an empty cot. He was gently weeping and his face was moist from crying. Tony looked at Julian who gave him had motions to carry on which looked like he was making Pizza. Tony gave him the international hand movements that enough was enough and got his friend some tissues. Then a thought hit him.

“What did the letter say?”

Connor looked up, his eyes were red and his t-shirt covered in tears and snot. He gulped between sobs and pulled a crumpled letter out of his pocket. It was unopened. He sniffed and pleaded to be taken home, promising he had no desire to drink any more and just wanted normality.

Tony checked him out and the Clinic told he of their aftercare programme of counselling that was available any time. He thanked them, and thought he could probably do it himself for free.

In the car he told him that QPR were still waiting for his final decision. Connor was staring at the world whizzing by and said he’d reject them tomorrow. Going elsewhere was just going to be more pressure which he couldn’t deal with right now, and he doubted any other Chairman would ever do as much for him as his friend could. Besides, he was determined to beat Brighton and wanted to see how his new signings would play. The truth was he had set his sights on the Premier League and would not rest until he got the club there as he hated losing.

[mistahc]

Tony woke up to the small of bacon filling nostrils, he moved his hand to the emptiness of the other side of the bed and found a sleeping girlfriend. He opened his eyes with a start amid confusion. They must be being burgled and the cheeky sods are making a sandwich. He jumped up and run out roaring.

“Put it away mate, who wants to see that. I’m making bacon sarnies and the kettles boiled. Tea or coffee?”

Tony looked in Connors eyes and saw something was different. He was sober!

“Ummmm, coffee please, bla…. white please”

Connor was excitedly rabbiting away about the first pre-season training session, and he picked up something about offering extended leave for the main players and chance for new signings to shine. It was the most energised he’d seen him in ages.

Connor spent the day watching Brighton train and on discussions with the staff found out Ben Dickenson and Calum Sheriff were available to loan and would be interested. He decided they weren’t better than what he had so passed. He was having a look at the Bridcutt cash in action and didn’t think the team looked as good. In truth he feared for them for the coming season.

Later, he excitedly met the team down the local park. One asked why players will still getting cut if they weren’t getting the training facilities and still here, playing amongst the joggers, dog walkers, and what the dogs left behind. Connor explained about the mandatory stadium expansion, and there were a few grumbles. There were more with his announcement.

“Right, so for the first time the reserves are playing competitively, As always the club want to win, so we are taking it seriously. This means some of you first teamers are going to get relegated, but on the plus side you’ll be playing at least, and anyone who impresses will get in to the first team. I’ll base it on the Charity Shield line-up, so you’ve got two games and training to impress me.

Some of the players looked shattered in the run and his assistant recommended that Devlin, Varley, Gallifuoco, Hummel, McEnteggart, Lee and Dário, were all give extra time off as they were knackered. Connor agreed so they were given extended leave for an extra two weeks.

Training went well and before you knew it the first Friendly game was upon them, against Avon Rockleaze, played on a Tuesday night to match the same day of the week as the Charity Shield. They started the season as they finished the last, with 3 injuries to Helan, Zola, Walsh. The cursed left-back position was both dead legs. Maybe they didn’t want to play?

The Sunday was a special day from Graham Clarke, who turned 16. Connor wasn’t invited but managed to slip him a card with an unusually generous gift. He promised himself that one day they would celebrate it as father and son, but as the boy thought his dad was dead it probably wasn’t the best time to bring it up or jump out a cake.

The 2nd friendly was the annual bench mark against Brighton, again playing Vicente. Each year they could see signs of improvement, and they had a few new quality signings. Alexander Kacaniklic was traditional a left winger, but was competent centrally. He hadn’t had much opportunity at Liverpool, before being traded as part exchange in the swap deal for Paul Konchesky with Lauri Dalla Valle. Fulham loaned him out to Championship side Watford, where he played 19 games but was still released by Fulham. His scout rated him, so did his assistant manager . In the 20th minute he showed why, picking up a Bolger cross inside the box and then coolly slotting home. There were subs galore and it was looking promising until Will Hoskins scored an 83rd minute equaliser. It looked like ending in a draw until sub Zapata-Caicedo got brought down in the box, and a penalty was given.

Wouter Vrancken had 17 years and 400 league games in the Belgian Pro-League, so was the coolest head in the ground as he stepped up to bury it. They had beaten their famous neighbours 2-1, and Gus Poyet was not happy. The Argus report said the minnow had luck on their side but the facts were clear, they had 6 shots on targets to Brighton’s 4, and they won 2-1 so who cared what the papers said.

In the post-match interview there were some seriously sour grapes. The 4 year term Brighton Manager made left no-one without any doubt in their minds with his comment.

“I think most people are aware that I’m not his biggest fan, we don’t see eye to eye on many things”

Frank Williams of BBC Sussex stirred the pot and asked the popular manager Connor for a response.

“I get on really well with Gus. Well I thought I did, we had a few drinks down the pub 2 years ago, and have exchanged a few pleasant texts. Was his serious?”

The next friendly was an easy 5-1 and they managed to get through the game without injuries.

So here it was, competitive football again, with déjà vu as they were here just 3 months ago to win the Alan Boon Cup 5-0. They had only strengthened their ranks with youth players, so a repeat was not out of the question as the quality brought in was a step above, and debuts would be made.

The first team was picked – Madsen, Korkmaz, Murray, Hysky, Delaney, Vrancken, Taiwo, Rubbins, Kacaniklic, Lee and Dário.

This meant new signings McGee and Roberts, and Hummel, Dunne, Lyskov, Bolger and Walsh were demoted, and all got the hump. After conversations they were all told to prove themselves. Lyskov and Roberts had the best attitude, relishing the challenge, but Dunne had a full blown argument as he didn’t think he needed to prove himself. He backed down eventually but still found himself on the transfer list. The rest agreed to prove themselves.

Connor riled the players and David Lee was not looking over his shoulder at the queue of technically gifted players wanting his place, as he was clearly looking towards the goal. In the last 2 finals Dário got a hat trick, Lee went one better with 4. He won the match ball and the Man of the Match award. The club won £1K and their 9th honour, the fans were delighted and so was Tony. He tapped his back pocket and said every little helped.

There were some new staff too. 3 new scouts came in on non-contracts and all recommended the same 31 year old keeper. The physio was upgraded, and a new defensive coach was brought in.

The next friendly was the now traditional foreign opposition, Belgian side Tubize were visiting, and were beaten 2-1.

The last friendly always was a big indication of Connor’s thinking. He always played his first choice 11, with the second on the bench, swapping at half time. The line-up was:

Madsen, Lorkmaz, Delaney, Hysky, Murray, Vrancken, Rubbins, Taiwo, Kacaniklic, Lee and Dário

McCann, Varley, Gallifucoco, Devline, Hélan, Walsh, Lund, McEnteggart, Gac, Roberts, and Clarke.

It was a team of two halves, the first won 3-0, the second-string won 5-1 to complete a 8-1 victory, lit up by a magical goal by Gac and a hat trick for Lund.

In truth, the game rarely made him think twice about his starting 11 but Lund was dazzling in his Man of the Match performance.

02.07.13 - Friendly – Avan Rockleaze (H) W 2-0 – Lund, Delaney

09.07.13 – Friendly – Brighton (H) W 2-1 – Kacaniklic, Vrancken

16.07.13 – Friendly – Ivybridge (H) W 5-1 – Gallifuoco, Roberts(2), Taiwo, Kacaniklic

23.07.12 – Isthmian Charity Shield (A) W 4-1- Lee(4)

30.07.13 – Friendly - Tubize (H) W 2-1 – Roberts, Dário

05.08.13 – Friendly – Fareham (H) W 8-1 - Kacaniklic(2), Delaney, Gac, Lund(3), McEnteggart

[mistahc]

Doris the tea-lady was waiting in the canteen, the hot water was ready as she anticipated the arrival of players and staff. It was the first day of the season and she was really excited and was poised for action. Bognor Regis were the visitors and she wouldn’t make their tea, they could use the vending machine as she was strictly reserved for the home club. David Lee was the first in so she pounced as he loved a cuppa.

“Would you like a nice cup of tea David?”

“Oh yes please Doris, you know the way straight to my heart. I missed you over the break, my wife just can’t replicate your brilliance.”

She giggled and made him a cup just as he liked it. She always thought he scored goals in relation to his tea drinking, so gave him one whenever she could to boost his proficiency. They chatted for a few minutes until Clive Delaney came in, and he was a big tea drinker too, most of the Irish lads were.

“Clive? Would you like a brew?”

“Ah, you know me so well Doris, make it a mug.”

He joined Lee and they chatted and sipped away, and Doris was delighted to watch them bond and relax. It was like an advert for the Irish version of friends, set in a tea shop, but with two blokes. The door opened and she looked up excitedly. Her heart sank when it was the new signing Kacaniklic, but she tried anyway.

“WOULD….. YOU…. LIKE…. A….NICE….. CUP….. OF…. TEA?”

She completed the insult with a decent charade at drinking a cup, and he responded in perfect English to her embarrassment.

“No thanks, I prefer water before matches to hydrate myself, not a fan of hot drinks.”

She smiled at him mortified. Thankfully Connor was the next in, and he was straight over. She liked him as he was such a nice man, even if he was obviously an alcoholic. He was in a dry patch though; she could always tell as he would shave, iron his clothes, and groom his hair. And he drank tea. In his bad patches he’d be a mess; unkempt hair, clothes like he slept in them, and deodorant to mask the fact he hadn’t showered. And he drank coffee. All the years of watching detective TV programmes had paid off.

She watched as the rest of the team entered and made anyone willing a cup. Soon the manager gathered the squad and named his first choice team but with Lund replacing Taiwo. He motivated the players like a Baptist preacher and they headed for the changing room to get ready. That was his knack all right; he could make them fell ten foot tall and invincible. She liked him, and was glad he was sticking around longer and rejected the big clubs trying to tempt him.

She watched Lund miss-hit a hi-five with Harry Rubbins to celebrate his inclusion with his new midfield partner, and noted that the problem with new signings is they need some time to gel as a team.

Most of the players left, with just Simon Dunne and young Derek McGee still in the canteen. She didn’t trust them, as they didn’t seem to like tea. She was tidying up and she overheard them talking.

“I’ll tell ya Derek, I can’t believe I’m out the side again. I’m good enough to be in the first team, I have no idea why he shoved me in the reserves. He’s a gob***** and I can’t stand him”

“Same here Disco, I reckon I am the best keeper by far, and I should be playing too.”

She shook her head at the youth of today. They should be happy to be at a family club like this, but were arrogant like a lot of the kids their age. It would be a better place when Dunne finally left, he was unsettling the side. She knew Connor was trying to get rid of him, offering him to clubs weekly in an attempt. The other clubs seem to know he was a trouble-maker, which was a shame as he was a talented footballer.

“Why don’t you play well for the reserves and prove it you idiots and stop complaining.”

“Excuse me?”

“I said ‘why don’t you have some of the tea I’ve got in reserve and drink it, it’s like gravy.’”

“What ya on about you crazy old bat? C’mon D Mac, let’s get outta here.”

She sure didn’t like that boy; there was something not right about him.

Meanwhile on the pitch, the team were warming up without the use of hot drinks. Bognor was considered a derby game by some regardless of the 30 mile distance, it was a good opponent for Preston Park Celtic’s first home game in the Blue Square South.

The clubs had met in the league before, in the first season in the Ryman South. Both clubs were promoted but due to geographical location went to different leagues. Both had back to back promotions, Bognor finished second after their opponents today, then 1st in Evo-Stik Southern Premier.

Doris snuck out to watch the game, she only needed a few minutes before half-time to get the drinks made. It was a sad state of affairs that the lads these days now preferred isotonic drinks over tea. The era of real oranges at half-time was long gone, and sadly Doris knew she didn’t belong is this day and age. As the club got more successful they’d be bringing in nutritionists and her days would be numbered and she’d find herself jobless. It was what happened when she was at Brighton and Hove Albion, and she was delighted when this club was formed and she instantly offered her services, passing the interview with flying colours the minute they tasted her creations.

She watched Dário and Lee combine well, and she rated them as a front pairing at this level. She had seen many great players live in her time serving tea at the Goldstone Ground; Liddell, Hunt, Souness, Case, Grobbelaar, Neal, Thompson, Hansen, Lawrenson, Kennnedy, Lee, Whelan, Johnston, Dalglish, Rush, Whiteside, Stapleton, Robson, Bruce, Pallister, Irwin, McClair, Ince, Hughes, Wilkins, McIlroy, Macari, Jordan, Beckham’s debut in 1992, Ossie Ardiles, Hoddle, Clemance, Jennings, Rice, O’Leary, Brady, Rix, Sunderland, Sansom, Groves, Lukic, Winterburn, Rocastle, Walker, Aldridge, Bobby Charlton, Lampard, James, Campbell.

The list went on. She knew talent when she saw it and for the level this team were a cut above. She gasped as Lund smashed a world class 35 yarder in on his debut. She ooooo’d when Kacaniklic crossed in a free-kick for Hysky to head home, and she whooped when the Swede pounced on a loose ball to make it 3-0 within 35 minutes. She happily went off to make the tea.

At half-time she wheeled the trolley in and gave the manager his brew and a choice of biscuits, and he began his team talk. He was Churchill-esq in his inspirational words, and she noted the mood was relaxed, and she waved them off and tidied up. She beamed with pride as he told her the cuppa was perfect as always. Her work was complete.

She watched the second half and was gob-smacked as Murray was carried off. Yet another injury to a left-back, and she was at a loss to be able to explain why. Connor made three subs, also taking off Hysky and Dário for light knocks. Devlin, Hélan and Clarke came on. The gangly teenager didn’t seem to have much technical ability but again found the magic touch to complete the 4-0 rout. She was impressed, and on that showing the league was a formality again.

All in all it was a good start for the club with 297 people turning up to watch. Hopefully the attendance was the start of an increase in supporters. For the first time the club were not synchronized by playing home games at the same time as Brighton, and this might help them boost the crowd with those looking for a cheaper alternative to the Championship sides away games.

Her only worry was the manager leaving, as surely a top 6 club would be in for him at this rate.

10.08.13 - League - Bognor Regis (H) W 4-0 - Lund, Hysky, Kacaniklic, Clarke

[mistahc]

Tony and Connor were cursing the fixture computer, which was sending them on the 3 hour mid-week trip to Bath on the Tuesday the same day as Denmark U21’s were playing, so there was no Madsen or Oktay Korkmaz available. The right-back was born in Copenhagen and despite his Turkish parents, was happy to play for the country of his birth.

They discussed the club finances to pass the time. No-one wanted to buy any of their players, so it was a case of release them for free or keep them. Tony confirmed 57 season tickets were sold, which was a new record. The clubs reputation was growing, and their fan-base with it. This had inflated the balance to £713K.

Tony looked over the faces on the long journey, exacerbated by rush hour traffic. He struggled to recognise one of them.

“Who’s the kid next to Craig Walsh?”

Connor tutted as he had to unclip his seat-belt to get up to look round.

“That’s Philip Roberts, used to play for Arsenal. I say play, he turned out for the youth team mainly, didn’t set the world alight so they released him.”

“Oh. And?”

“And what?”

“What’s he doing here?”

“Oh right, David Lee’s daughter is ill and Graham got his GCSE results today, so he’s one of three strikers. He’ll play some part today, to see what he’s all about.”

“You’re the boss Connor. And who’s that larking about at the back, with the big mouth?”

Connor sighed as he had done his belt up again, so again unbuckled and turned round.”

“Oh that’s that Derek McGee, we got him after Sligo released him. Nick said he had a load of potential. As Madsen is away he’s here with McCann as the two keepers, I might play him to check him out. He seems decent enough but completely eccentric. We’ve suffered a bit with absence actually, so it’s a bit of a reserve side frankly, with only Delaney, Kacaniklic and Dário from Saturday. Devlin, Hélan, Gallifuoco, Devlin, Hummel, Walsh and Taiwo are playing, and I think I’ll give McGee and Roberts a chance.

Former England International Andy Sinton was managing Bath, and his organised team held the visitors to 0-0 at Half-Time. Connor riled and motivated to great effect, with 3 set-pieces playing dividends. Gallifuoco headed in two corners, and Hummel finished from a free-kick to get an excellent 3-0 away win. There was also yet another mystery injury. Dário signalled he couldn’t continue, but like Murray in the last game, the Physio could not find any sign of injury.

On the coach on the way back, the friends struck up conversation again.

“I need a hobby. It’s getting really hard to fill my day to occupy my mind and stop the temptation to drink when I am lonely. I’ve watched so many DVD box-sets and played the PS3 so much my thumbs have blisters. I need to get out the house. Any ideas?”

“Get a job? Something part-time maybe? You can do some work for me?”

“I couldn’t work in a shop or office again, I like the freedom to do my own thing. Anyway, I already work for you, you just don’t pay me, you aren’t getting free labour as well. When are you going to offer me a paid contract by the way? I turned down a £390K a year job at QPR for you.”

“Ummmmmm, well we can’t really afford it. You love it here anyway, and QPR are going to the dogs”

“True, and I will be here until the day I get us to the top tier. I’ve got this strange urge to bring an Icelandic International to the club. Not sure why…..”

He trailed off in thought for a few moments, then out of nowhere threw a curve ball.

“Have you still got that mate who trains Greyhounds?”

The next day Connor was the proud owner of a young pup named Thelma. He could walk it whenever he wanted, visit every day, and watch her race 3 times a week. He even planned to take her in when she retired. It would provide the companionship and distraction he needed. Although it wouldn’t help his mild gambling addiction.

Connor was visited by Graham to share his good GCSE results and for career advice. The lad told him he wanted to finish his studies and concentrate on football. The manager did a deal with him, stick with A-Levels, and he would help him develop and play him in the next match. He asked him to try and re-train to AMC to increase his chances of playing. He asked the experienced Vrancken to tutor his son. He didn’t tell him that he was his secret child obviously, only he and Zoe knew that and both seemed keen on keeping it to themselves as the boy was told his father died, and they were both worried about how he’d take the bombshell of exposing the lie.

In the next game against Boreham Wood, there were still some fitness issues. Varley came in to right back, and Clarke replaced Dário up front, the rest was the new set of first choice. A 362 crowd saw Clarke set up Lee to bury it right before half-time, and Clarke buried a Varley cross in the second half. 3 games, 3 wins, 3 clean sheets, and 9 goals. It was all smiles until the Physio confirmed the extent of Delaney’s injury, it a hip injury, so he was off to see a specialist and out for 3 months.

All the players were upset about the injury, except one. Simon Dunne was a happy chappy, as he sensed first team football was coming.

And he was right; he was loaned out to Tooting after Doris had had a quite word in Connor’s ear. The problem with a bad apple is they can easily upset the barrel. Andy Devlin even revealed to the press that his departure had brought a breath of fresh air to the club as he blamed him for the lack of unity in the dressing room.

Gallifuoco and Devlin were possibilities for cover, but Murray was the man who was given the spot, with Hélan taking a starting berth at left-back. Shane O’Brien also got a loan move to Northwood.

The injuries continued with Kacaniklic and Hélan carried off in the 3-1 away win to Dartford. Lee scored twice between substitute Rubbins goal. Luckily the form was continuing too.

The last game of the month saw Chelmsford visit the Withdean, and Tony was delighted at the 322 turnout. Connor was not delighted at his make-shift team of Madsen, Devline, Murray, Hysky, Gallifuoco, Vrancken, Taiwo, Lund, Rubbins, Lee and Dário. They were in the first month of the season and already had 3 of the first team injured. It was an easy 2-0 win and Lee was a handful and created two goals for Rubbins and Dário.

Manager of the Month was awarded to the media-friendly manager, who celebrated by taking the dog for a walk.

13.08.13 – League – Bath (A) W 3-0 – Gallifuoco(2), Hummel

17.08.13 – League – Boreham Wood (H) W 2-0 – Lee, Clarke

24.08.13 – League – Dartford (A) W 3-1 – Lee(2), Rubbins

31.08.13 – League – Chelmsford (H) W 2-0 – Rubbins, Dário

[mistahc]

Connor was sat at an owner's table at Hove dog track with the team. His puppy was making her debut race on the Sunday racing, and he wanted to see her run so they all went for a team bondingsession. Thelma had a bundle of potential and from an early age showed great speed. Being Irish, she shared her owners luck; in her trials she was blocked and clocked up just enough to qualify for the racing, but slow enough to enter at the lowest level. If the field opened up for her, she would walk it. Or run it as it were.

The bookies had seen the trial times and she was an outsider, so they all took advantage. Thelma was a middle runner so ran off trap 5, and she had a good start as the other dogs didn't block her. The lads cheered their encouraged as she broke free of the field, and they screamed her name as she crossed the finishing line by 8 clear lengths. The jubilation was greater than when they won their first trophy.

Connor was delighted with the double victory, and very proud of his girl. After the winners presentation he showed his affection with pats, hugs and mini-sausages, until he was distracted by a distinct Northern Irish accent.

"Is that ya dag? She's a real beaut."

"Thanks, she's my little winner today."

"I know ya so I do. Sure I've seen ya before somewhere, ya bin to Lurgan? I used ta play for Glenavon so I did, I know ya from there do I?"

"Don't think so, although I am a Football Manager at Preston Park Celtic."

"Sweet jaysus that's it, I remember seeing ya on the TV after betting Man U. I'm after leaving Armagh and trying my luck over here, bin trying to git a trial with the big clubs like. I'm down here as my brother's dogs are running. Can I train with you boys for a while?"

"Yes of course, no problem. What position do you play?"

"Up front, I'm the next David Healy. I've scored 5 goals for the U21's, I'm a better player than he was at my age. Barry Grant's the name."

"Everybody wants to be a striker" he thought to himself. Still 5 U21 goals was not to be sniffed at, and he also had 12 Premier League goals to his name. Admittedly it was the Danske Bank Northeren Irish PL, but top level football none the less. He'd offer him a non-contract and put him in the reserves.

On the Wednesday they were again cursing the fixture computer as they had Newport away, yet another long distance night game. All the well-paid went, leaving those with school or work behind. It was an easy 3-1 win with Dário netting twice, and Rubbins getting the over. Lund was taken off injured to add to the tally, and was out for 2 weeks. It was a sad state of affairs that the once Quarter-Finalists of the European Cup Winners Cup were sliding into further oblivion.

The next game was a bit easier and a shorter distance to travel. Saturday saw a trip to Staines away, who didn't have anyone called Ali G for them, but did have ex-Irish International Nick Colgan, although the 40 year old's career peaked 20 years prior when he signed for Chelsea. Gac, Madsen, Korkmaz, and Roberts were absent as playing for U19’s. and Dário was off with the Mozambique squad. There were also fitness issues from the mid-week game and the reserves playing. As there was a week break until the next game, a strong team was played in the easy 2-0 win, Hysky, Bolger got the goals.

Connor was laying out the cones for training when Martin Madsen and Oktay Korkmaz came bouncing over. It was Madsen who took the lead.

"Boss, when we with the Danish squad I was talking to my friend Claus Rytter. He plays on the wings and up front, and he scores a bucket-load against me in training and he's a great penalty and free-kick taker. He's without a club since leaving B93. He didn't play any games there but I tell you, he's an amazing talent and played 8 U21 games at only 17. We've told him about the club and he wants to come here. He injured himself in the match, but will be back in a couple of weeks. I reckon you should sign him."

"Well Martin, you should be a scout when you retire. What do you reckon Oktay? You must have played against him in training too?"

"He's tricky to defend against, he can dribble, head and finish and has great technique. If that wasn't enough he has great work-rate and team-work too. He'll be the next Jon Dahl Tomasson."

"So says the next Torben Piechnik. Mads, do me a favour, when you find the next Laudrup brothers , let me know."

And so a fourth great Dane joined the club, and Connor reckoned he was going to be Mastiff. So did the coaches and they hadn't even seen him play yet. Madsen had come up trumps again.

The team now had two home games and again were overloaded with strikers. They would have to up their game to stay in the side. Lee always rose to the task and scored twice in the 3-0 win, Taiwo scored the other, his first for the club.

In the second game, Canvey Island were undone by a Dário-inspired side, who scored in the 3-1 win. Danish right back Korkmaz scored his first, and Kacaniklic continued the tradition of hard to spell players scoring from the AMC role. The side had now played an unprecedented 9 league games in a row without the whiff of a cup game or even having their ball in a hat.

They now travelled to Woking on the Tuesday, who were joint holders of the most FA Trophy wins at three. Something the Sussex club could replicate if they ever got drawn in it. Connor was beginning to fear they had been forgotten about or forgot to submit some paperwork or something. A strong team was played, with Lund returning and Clarke replacing an unfit Dário. He kept up his amazing record by scoring in the 4-0 win but it was the Serbia-born Swede Kacaniklic who stole the show yet again with two great goals and an assist.

He was signed to generate funds with a profitable future sale but was quickly becoming indispensable. Connor couldn't wait to unleash this superior team loose in the FA Cup and sensed more giant-killing. He had an itch to scratch and wanted another go at Liverpool, and reckoned their former player would also relish the opportunity to put one over his old employers.

04.09.13 - League - Newport (A) - W 3-1 - Dário(2), Rubbins

07.09.13 - League - Staines (A) - W 2-0 - Hysky, Bolger

14.09.13 - League - Havant & W (H) W 3-0 - Taiwo, Lee(2)

21.09.13 - League - Canvey Island (H) W3-1 - Kacaniklic, Korkmaz, Dário

24.09.13 - League - Woking (A) W 4-0 - Kacaniklic(2), Lund, Clarke

[mistahc]

Connor was delighted that the reserves were playing competitively this year as it gave him more games to watch, which kept him busy and free from his thoughts. Thye had a mixed start to the season so he thought he'd go and see them play away to Dover. He was impressed with young Irish U19 international striker Philip Roberts, who he saw score his 7th in 7 games. He had pace and good finishing, and starred in the win.

After the game he congratulated him but was caught aback by his demands for first team football. He explained that Lee and Dário were first choice, and he'd have to earn his place. He was not impressed and put in a transfer request. To spite the arrogance the request was accepted, and as the young lad stormed off, Connor called over his assistant who ran the reserves to get his opinion.

"I reckon he could play in the Blue Square Premier now, and he's about as good as I reckon that young Dane is. He's not a patch on Dário, but better than Lee. 2nd best striker at the club I reckon. If he fulfils his potential I reckon he could play league 1. If you are going to let him go I hope you get more than the £2K you got for Cassidy, who's been playing at league 2 level. He's worth about £50K I reckon."

Connor mused. He had abundance of strikers, tall ones, short ones, skilful ones, rubbish ones. 15 in total, although he only really wanted to keep Clarke, Zapata-Caicedo and Rytter to one day replace Dário and Lee. The rest could go if he could off-load them, as it was impossible to keep them all happy. He put him on the bench for the next game against Thurrock away. Some of the players brought their WAG's to go shopping in Lakeside while Kacaniklic scored two to take a 2-0 lead into half-tume. Dário took a nasty tackle and came off with a gashed leg, Roberts was sent on to shine and to put himself in the shop window, but it was Lee who yet again rose to the occasion and scored two late goals to complete a man of the match performance.

The Irishman was not technically as good as the other strikers and was only 5ft 10. The coaches didn't rate him, but he was determined and had 11 goals in 10 games for the season, and 84 for the club. He had the record for:

Most goals in a match (5)

Most in a season (44)

Most league goals in a season (20)

Highest average rating in a season (7.68)

Most Man of the Matches in a season (16)

Most league goals for the club (40)

He had won the first player of the year which had made him a favourite at the club was the next years winner Delaney. There was no doubt that his goals that knocked out Man Utd would give him legendary status in the club's history.

As such it broke the managers heart that he would probably end up a bit part player going forward.

So he was not in the mood when young Irishmen Craig Walsh and Derek McGee handed transfer requests in for lack of first team football. Both were reluctantly accepted. While they weren't viewed as good enough for the first team, they were good back-up and had great potential. Connor just wished they could be happy waiting.

It therefore upset him when Tomas Lyskov also handed his request in. The first Danish export was probably the best left-back in the league when he joined, but had fallen down the pecking order since. It was a sign of the clubs growth that these players that once shone had been upgraded. But it was football, and the best managers could not afford to be sentimental.

Finally, after 11 league games, it was finally FA Cup action. The club missed a few round of qualifiers and came in at the forth stage against Blue Square North side Gainsborough. Dário was out injured, joining Delaney on the treatment table. A decision had to be made, replacing Dário could be anyone of Bolger, Roberts, Lammy, Zapata-Caicedo, Grant, Rytter or Clarke. The assistant said Roberts, but there was room in football for sentimentality, he took the youngsters Clarke and Rytter with him instead.

28.09.13 - League - Thurrock (A) - W 4-1 - Kacaniklic(2), Lee(2)

[mistahc]

Claus Rytter was excited, very, very excited. He was about to make his début in English football, in the famous FA Cup no less. He had been at the club just a few weeks but it already felt like home. He lived in a shared house with his Danish friends Martin, Oktay and Thomas, and a Swede Alex. He was disappointed to arrive injured after suffering a thigh strain playing for Denmark U21's, but knew it wouldn't be long before he was playing.

He had agreed to join the club over the phone before even coming over after Martin had told him about playing at Anfield, as he wanted that too. His friends had said the club's facilities were basic and they weren't kidding; the facilities were no better than his old club's in the Danish second division. He thought the club were on the way to big things though, and he hoped to one day be as big as Per Kroldrup who went on to play for Everton and Italy. He hoped this move would get him noticed and a dream move somewhere.

The club seemed friendly and he liked the manager, but found the Chairman rather scary, and the tea-lady rather insistent. He had watched the first team a few times to support his mates, and was surprised at how good the team were. He thought Dário was incredible, and couldn't wait for the day he could play along side him. He was impressed with Lee who he compared to an old-fashioned English forward who always seemed to be in the right place. His friend Alex was clearly the best player at the club though.

He couldn't sleep the night before, but Thomas sat up with him as he wasn't in the playing squad. It was a shame to see his friend sad and wanting to leave, but he knew that Club Captain Colin would always get to play when fit, the the Frenchman Hélan was very talented. He was third choice and would get little first team action.

They had to take a coach which took over 4 hours and he thought that incredible as back home you could get to Hamburg in that time from Copenhagen. The Danish lads played card games like Hjerterfri and Esmakker Whist to pass the time. They were going to Lincolnshire, and he couldn't understand why all the players were banned from sausage sandwiches in the run up, and told to eat Danish Bacon. He guessed it was that nearly half the team were Scandinavian. He wondered if when it was a lot of Irish players if they had to drink Guinness before matches.

As they were nearing the ground, his manager came over to talk to him and check for nerves, He told him that Madsen had only conceded 5 goals in 10 games in this season and he had said the young Dane could easily beat him in training. He was told he was expecting big things from him with all the rave reviews he had been getting.

The opponents were at the same level as his club, but were in 14th place. They expected to win, and it was surprise that they got the first chance when they got a corner they narrowly headed over.

In the 3rd minute he was still waiting to touch the ball when it broke to Nicky Burns on the 40 yard line. There was no danger though as he was the furthest player forward for the home side and he was faced with Vrancken, the experienced Belgian. He ran at him anyway, and he was surprised when he avoided a tackle all the way into the box. He was even more surprised that the central defenders parted to allow them through, and even more after that the keeper stayed on his line. So he slotted it in with ease. They were 1-0 down already and he could see his new manager go mental on the touchline.

He was determined to do something about it. Things looked up in the 5th, as his mate Korkmaz tackled the left back and raced clear to centre a great ball into the 6 yard box right at him. He let his instincts take over and finished under the keeper for a début goal made in Denmark.

A minute later he had another chance. The Captain Murray hit a long ball forwards and he saw Lee jump up to head it his way. It fell to his feet and he was turned towards goal and was away. He dribbled his way near the box until he was surrounded by 3 players, and had no-where to go. Then he saw the perfect run by his strike partner so played a beautiful ball for Lee run onto and place it in the net for 2-1. 6 minutes in and a goal and a assist chalked up. He was going to like it here.

A few minutes later he had the ball out on the left side of the pitch and fancied another run at goal. He wasn't sure what happened next, and thought a bus had tried to park on the pitch and accidentally hit him. He was on his back struggling to breath, looking up at the blue sky. He turned his head and saw David Lee squaring up to the right back and guessed he was the bus. Lund helped him to his feet and welcomed him to English football, where this was part of the game. The player was booked, but he had done his job as the wind was knocked out of his sails and he pulled out of every 50-50 after. David Lee put his arm round him later in the game and told him to watch Messi play a game as he would often finish games covered in bruises. He said it was a compliment, which must be another word for bullying.

They equalised to make it 2-2, but Hysky restored the lead for half-time. They equalised again but Kacaniklic restored the lead. Time ticked away until the 88th minute when Gainsborough made it 4-4. They even had the ball in the net in the 93rd minute but the referee disallowed it for a foul. They were almost out of the FA Cup at the first attempt. The would have to replay the game, and he was determined to win as he wanted to play at the big clubs to impress them and get his big move.

The journey back was eventful, they had the radio on and there was hushed silence as they reported from the match, and they said he had a great game. The news also referred to the Manager being favourite for the Southend job, but Martin said that he already turned down a Premier League side so definitely wouldn't go there. He was glad as the manager made the effort to praise him and said that if his debut was that good, he couldn't wait to see what he did next. He then had a quiet moment with Mads, and he felt for his friend as conceding 4 goals was a confidence breaker.

He felt that he had done enough to prove himself, and would get his head down in training until he got another chance. It wouldn't be the replay though as he was off for U19 duty again with Okky. They watched Mads play for the U21's on the Tuesday and win 4-2. On the Wednesday it was their turn. His mind was distracted by the FA Cup replay that was being played at the same time, and he had an average game. Oktay however was Captain, scored and put in a Man of the Match performance.

After the game he got a text from Thomas. They won 3-1, Lee scored a hat trick to make him undroppable with 15 in 12 games. His replacement Clarke got an assist, but Thomas told him Bolger had also put in a transfer request which was accepted. They would play Chesham in the next round, and he was confident he was high up in the pecking order.

05.10.13 - FA Cup 2nd Qual - Gainsborough (A) D 4-4 -Rytter, Lee, Hysky, Kacaniklic

09.10.13 - FA Cup Replay - Gainsborough (H) W 3-1, Lee(3)

[mistahc]

Connor reviewed his available resources, his internationals were not back yet, which was a shame as he wanted to see more of Rytter as he looked a different class. He couldn’t believe he managed to get a talent like that and he felt that at only 17 years he had the world at his feet. But he was glad he had a squad capable of rotation.

He decided to play McGee in goal to give him a chance to impress any visiting scouts. This prompted McCann to also hand in a transfer request. No-one seemed happy to be on the bench or reserves. He balanced fitness and availability and sent out Varley, Helan, Gaillifuoco, Hysky, Taiwo, Lund, Rubbins, Kacaniklic, Clarke and Lee to play Basingstoke at home, and he wondered how many of the 331 in attendance were scouts.

The team still tore the opposition apart, and Clarke got them the lead in the 13th minute tapped in an easy finish from Lee’s cross. Kacaniklic made it 2-0, and added a third after the break after great work by young Graham. Coming into the 70th minute he was involved again, giving away a penalty by shoving someone over in the box at a corner. A few minutes later it was 3-2 and squeaky bum time.

Just a minute after that Hysky played a long ball for Rubbins, who battled his way into the box and laid it back to Lee, who found Clarke in the box to settle the nerves. 4-2. Taiwo and Gallifuoco finished the games with knocks that saw them out for 3-4 weeks and 10 days respectively. Connor looked up to the footballing God’s and wondered if this was their way of forcing rotation on him.

He sat at home with Tony and watched England thump Maldova 4-0 to qualify for the World Cup in Brazil. His native Ireland won too, but were effectively out now. They had to win against the Faroe Islands, and hope Germany lost at home to an already qualified Sweden, and that Austria would lose away to minnows Kazakhstan. Trapattoni was 74 so Connor expected him to go this summer. He asked Tony if he thought they might consider him like QPR did. He felt it a great honour to manage his country, and while he doubted he could repeat Jack Charlton’s success, he did feel the Irish fans deserved to be at major finals as they were such a great fun-loving crowd.

Just 2 days later they had to play again, away to 12th place Carshalton without the injured and the talented youth who were still away, and a handful of unfit players. And they had Chesham in the FA Cup on the Saturday. It was a near complete reserve side of McCann, Wilkinson, Lyskov, Murray, Hysky, Hummel, Walsh, Vrancken, McEnteggart, Bolger and Zapata-Caicedo. The team triumphed in a 5-3 goal bonanza.

Connor was planning his FA Cup team when the phone rang while he tried to work out which stikers should play. It was Bury Town manager Mick Tate looking to take the young Polish winger Gac on loan, and Connor felt the first team football would be good for his development. He also decided to play Dário and Lee up front against Chesham, due to fitness reasons mainly. They combined for Lee to score his 16th of the season, adding to Lund’s opener. Veteran centre-back Hysky finished the rout.

On the trip back Connor congratulated Hysky and asked him if he fancied tutoring the young Danish Korkmaz, which in Czech was as insulting as saying something about his sister apparently. He sat with the hump about it all the way home.

Connor was right about one thing though, Brighton were struggling and found themselves in the relegation places. Tony Bloom had enough and sacked Gus Poyet. Connor thought it harsh and ungrateful but that’s football. Even after the unkind words Gus had said earlier, Connor sent a commiseration text. He genuinely liked him, and wished him all the best and success where ever he ended up next. Despite being highly regarded in the football world and lived in the Sussex town, he wasn't linked to the job by the press, who correctly identified Gareth Southgate as top of their list.

Connor persisted with Dário and Lee up front against Welling at the Withdean. 412 turned up to watch the home-side hit two shots on target but win 3-1. Luck was on their side, for the opener Dário crossed and Corker cleared it into Kacaniklic’s face and in. The Centre-back went down injured and most of the crowd thought he was faking it to avoid embarrassment. Dário netted the second before half-time. He later pressured Keogh to turn Lee’s cross into his own net to complete a miserable night for the away defence.

Connor was again linked to another job, but again had no interest in leaving. MK Dons were rejected this time.

At so it was FA Cup action again, this time against the once mighty(ish) Stockport County who had dropped to the Blue Square Premier League after a spell in League one and League Cup Semi-Finals in the 1990’s. They were playing away, but the team had enough time between games to be fully fit. For the first time though there was a fully fit squad to choose from. Connor had decisions to make and he really preferred it when he the team picked itself.

Connor had the pad in front of him as he tried to pick a team to travel. He started with the names that picked themselves – Madsen in goal. Korkmaz at right-backk. Hysky at Centre-back, Lund in midfield. Kacaniklic in the hole, Dário upfront.

So, options were the returning Delaney or Murray at centre-back. The former player of the year had lost a bit of pace and was 9 years older. Club Captain Murray had never let him down. Left-back was either Helan or Murray depending on the centre-back pairing.

Defensive holding midfielder was usual Vrancken as he had no pace, but Gallifucoco was also an option, and so was Taiwo, who was unfit after his return to injury so was not in contention. In centre midfield it could be Rubbins or Varley, but again each decision had a knock-on decision.

Up front could be Lee or Rytter or if being nepotistic his son Graham. The top scorer was on great form and had a great partnership with the main man Super Dário.

Choices, choices. So he asked his assistant manager to pick, who went for Murray, Helan, Gallifuoco and Lee. So he went for that as he could pin the blame on him if it went wrong.

5469 saw Dário score twice and Lee net in a 3-1 victory to justify the faith in the first choice pairing. The Irishman was 6th best in the squad on ability and playing at his level according to the staff, but just kept scoring. It was early November and he had 17 goals, 5 more than anyone else in the English league at any level. Kudos was also due to the attacking midfielder Kacaniklic who had 10, 4 more than the nearest midfielder. Randomly a right-back for Farsley had 8 for the season, which was impressive.

The day after Tony and Connor went down to the stadium to see the newly refurbished stadium. The club were averaging 339 fans in the league this season, but would still struggle to fill a 3350 all-seater stadium. The club were nearly 1100 shy of Newport’s average. They wouldn’t get a chance to fill it it the 1st round of the FA Cup, as they were drawn away to either Bromley or FC United.

Connor was having his monthly meeting with his staff when they finally mentioned some players of interest who they thought had high potential. They were signed for purely re-sellable value, but in came Aiden O’Brien (20 SC Ire), Jack Rudge (18 MC Eng), George Conway (18 MC Scot), Louis Cross (18 DC Belg).

12.10.13 - League - Basingstoke (H) W 4-2 - Clarke(2), Kacaniklic(2)

15.10.12 - League - Carshalton (A) W 5-3 -O.G, Zapata-Caicedo, Bolger, Vrancken, Walsh

19.10.13 - FA Cup 3rd Qual - Chesham (A) W 3-0 -Lund, Lee, Hysky

26.10.13 - League - Welling (H) W 3-1 - Kacaniklic, Dário, O.G

02.11.13 - FA Cup 4th Qual - Stockport (A) W 3-1 - Dário(2), Lee

[mistahc]

Colin Murray looked in the mirror and saw the captain of a great football club looking back. He knew he was nothing in the sport before he came to this club; not playing for Cherry Orchard in the Leinster Premier Division, or for Crusaders in the Northern Irish Premier League, or for Longford in the Irish First Division. He did however have 9 games for Kildare county in the Irish First Division before they released him to break his heart. For 3 years he was a labourer and convinced his football career was over, the nearest he came to it was watching it on TV.

He was on a building site in London when he got the call from home, his mother was passing on a message from a bloke who was looking for him. He rang the number from a work phone on the off-chance it was a cunning trick by a debt collection company. It seemed genuine, a non-contract offer from a club new on the scene, so he went to have a quick look around. He arrived at the club to an elderly lady forcing a cup of tea into his hand, and he instantly felt at home. He liked the atmosphere at the club, and joined a training session with another new signing from Ireland called David. It was evident that the pair of them were more talented than the majority of the squad, so he stayed a few more days to play in a friendly. He was off the pace, got booked and they lost 3-1, but he enjoyed it. A week later he was down to play again in a friendly against Championship side Brighton. He was out of his depth and they got mullered 7-0.

He came down for one last game, still unsure if he wanted to get into football again, especially for free. In the 24th minute he headed in a corner and they won 6-0. The bug was back and he was hooked and he moved down almost immediately. There was enough labouring in the area and the Chairman offered him some work, and David Lee offered him a sofa to sleep on until he found a place.

28 months, 111 games and 11 goals later, and here he was settled at the club and in life; his girlfriend Aoife was pregnant, and he was now earning £110 a week. He still did some work on the sites, but it helped keep him fit and strong and he enjoyed the crack.

He was considering his options in a critical time of his life. He was as old as the minute of his first goal, and with a baby on the way was thinking about finances. He didn't want to leave the club, he loved it here. There was a great Irish community and he had played in some great games with memories that would last forever and tell his kid about when (s)he was older.

How many people could say they had captained a team from the 8th level of the English football pyramid to a win in the 4th Round of the FA Cup against Manchester United, one of the greatest clubs in the world? Well obviously just him. He had also felt the pride of captaining his side at Anfield. Twice. He had 8 winners medals, and lifted a Trophy at Wembley. For that he would forever thank his manager for making that call.

He kissed his sleeping girlfriend a silent goodbye and headed to the stadium for the long drive to Cornwall, yet another massive drive for a mid-week game. That meant an early start for him on the site to not lose money, and he'd have his obligatory sleep on the journey. He would be fresh on arrival, and playing in his preferred centre-back position, so would be a bundle of energy when the team lined up against Truro. He epitomised the team's determination to continue their fine league form of 14 wins a row.

In the 2nd minute they won a corner. Since Martin Hysky arrived, he opted to stay back as the Czech was superior in the air. As per normal, he sent him up to cause havoc. He had scored 18 goals for the club since joining 18 months ago, and made it 19. Colin wished he had his ability to sit in the air as he jumped like a salmon dancing on the River Shannon.

Truro had a young striker called Ben Hunt, who previously had played for West Ham. He was a handful. In the 18th minute Hélan played a terrible pass back no-where near Colin, and Hunt was on it like a rat up a drainpipe. The Captain had no choice and had to commit. He desperately stretched out his leg to try and stop the shot, but took the man. The whistle was blown and the ref was heading over and reaching in his top pocket. The local crowd were calling for the red and booed when only the yellow appeared. Luckily, Hysky was deemed to have been able to get back.

He marvelled at the skill as Dário scored a great goal, he really was an inspired signing, and an incredible player. Even at 36 years old they all thought he was capable of playing in the Championship.

He was noticing that Hunt the striker was niggling him, obviously trying to get him sent off. He wasn't going to react, he wasn't that silly. He'd get him when the tackle was clean and just take a bit of the man too. Or he could wait until the area is busy at a corner and accidentally stamp on his foot. The were many options that the ref wouldn't see.

In the 28th minute he was chasing a ball with Hunt and slid it to take the ball and pass it to safety. He got there well before the striker so laughed when he threw himself to the ground theatrically, and it was a clear dive. He saw the ref coming over reaching into his pocket and told the player about the karma coming his way, as diving was always punishable by a yellow. He then turned his back and walked back to his domain.

He was surprised when he heard the whistling from the ref, and half expected to turn round and see a punch-up. Confusion hit him, he was seeing a red but couldn't see who had done what. Then it was evident, the ref had bought the dive and he was off. He was stunned, and started to walk towards the ref. The Belgian vice-captain Vrancken was suddenly in front of him and ushered him off, taking the arm-band, and he was still dazed as he walked past his manager shouting that Hysky would go centrally and the Belgian would stay back and protect him. He shouted after his Captain as he made his way down the tunnel.

"Get changed son and come back, don't worry about it, we'll still beat them."

As he walked down the tunnel all he could hear was the echo of his stubs, singing like tap shoes. The confusion was turning to annoyance; it was unfair as he didn't do anything wrong. The annoyance turned to anger; he should be on the pitch and his team shouldn't have to play an hour with 10 men. The anger turned to rage; he couldn't wait to get on a pitch with him again, and he'd boot him sky-high. Before he knew it his boot was through the door, and he was hopping on one leg while he tried to get it back out.

He had let his team-mates down and now the club. Still annoyed he had a shower and went back out just in time to see Dário score the 3rd and was a bit happier until just a minute later. Ben Hunt exploited the space where he should have been to clear it, and it was 3-1. The striker then came to celebrate in his face and Colin wondered what the ref would do if he just head-butted him as he had already been sent off. His manager sensed this and pulled him aside and just said "29th March". This puzzled him until he worked it out, it would be the day they were visiting.

At half-time they had a team talk while the maintainence man's face was in the hole as he measured the gap to repair it. The sounds of Tony arguing with the club officials about the cost of replacing it could be heard amplified through the hole like a gramophone. Colin offered to pay himself, but Tony just responded by saying not be to silly as he knew how much he got paid.

The game ended 3-1, which was a fair result. He still sulked on the coach though, it was his first red card of his career. He was given a warning by his manager who knew it was unlucky, but he publicly backed him in the press and confirmed that he will be back in side once the ban was over. Rather unfairly the Press slaughtered him for the comment and said he was “unconcerned by the lack of discipline”, but it was just them trying to fan the flames of a fire that wasn't there.

The next game he was suspended, but went anyway to the away trip as it was a Saturday so what else was he going to do? He 'forgot' to tell girlfriend as she would have wanted him to go shopping, so pretended he was playing. She’d never know, and they'd both be happier for it. Anyway, he was Club Captain so he felt he should be there.

Vrancken replaced him as Captain for the match against Sutton, and Delaney took his place in defence. Some of the unfit players were rested and he was looking forward to seeing exciting young talents Rytter and Clarke upfront. He suspected it could this be the strike pairing of the future. Lee was his best mate and had been since the day he arrived at the club, so he felt comfortable thinking he was not as talented as most, but had a goal-scoring knack. These two lads reminded him of the Dário and Lee partnership; Rytter was the classy skilful one, and Clarke the Irishman with limited ability but the magic touch.

He was delighted that they won 4-0, but was slightly concerned about losing his place until Delaney was carried off in the 43rd minute. Rytter played well, getting an assist, Clarke scored another goal and got an assist. Kacaniklic was an unbelievable talent and scored 2 goals and missed a penalty for the hat trick. The Swede owned the game and the youth put on a dazzling display. There was a slight knock for Taiwo, who was out for 2 weeks.

On the journey back their talismanic Manager was linked to yet another job, this time at Bolton, which was yet again denied.

Murray was eager to play again and get his place back, and had the chance in the FA Trophy game against Corby at home. The young players were away on an international break, so Dário and Lee resumed their partnership upfront, with Vrancken deputising at right back. It was a case of business as usual as the African netted two. To complete the symmetry, Colin sent Hysky up for a late corner for his 20th for the club to repeat the scorers of the last full game he had played.

He was delighted to be playing again, and was having a quick chat with Doris as she made his cup of tea when he noticed her face go sour. He looked round and Simon Dunne walked in bold as brass, and as arrogant as usual.

"Heard you've been letting the side down when keeping my place warm Ruby?"

"Heard they didn't want you at Tooting either mate. Shame you didn't stay there."

They glared at each other until Doris broke the deadlock.

"Here's your tea Colin, it's in your special Club Captain mug. Sorry Simon, I can't make you one as I don't have one with **** on it".

The act of being put in his place by an elderly woman calling him the C word shamed him so he turned around and went off, the cocky swagger gone.

Connor was unaware of this as he watched the FA Cup 2nd round draw on the FA website. They would face either BSS Chelmsford or L2 Oldham if they overcame Bromley. The minnows won 3-0 at home in the replay, so a place in the 3rd Round looked a real possibility.

06.11.13 - League - Truro (A) W 3-1 - Hysky, Dário(2)

09.11.13 - League - Sutton (A) W 4-0 - Kacaniklic(2), Vrancken, Clarke

16.11.13 - FA Trophy 3rd Qual -Corby (H) W 3-0 - Dário(2), Hysky

[mistahc]

Connor was watching Ireland lose against Bosnia in a friendly, which was rumoured to be Trapattoni’s last game. It was a 3-2 classic, and not befitting the manager's defensive game. Tony was out for the night, and it must have been serious with his girlfriend as he was missing football and Curry night. He was comparing the current Ireland squad to his old favourites as a kid, and paired Aldridge with Long, Houghton with McCarthy, and Staunton with Clark. Oh how they needed a Bonner and McGrath, the team was woefully short of quality.

The 74 year old did quit after the game as expected, and retired from football, with Chris Hughton considered the favourite. 'Who he dares wins' he thought, so he applied. His thinking was that if QPR made an offer and thought him capable of the Premier League, then surely he was in with a hope, even as an outsider.

The papers laughed off his interest as desperation, saying he had no chance of getting the job. The Irish FA spokesman continued the hilarity by dismissing his chances too, and said they will not be considering the application. He was glad his ambition made people laugh so much.

He wrote the spokesman an email to question how the press were made aware of his interest as he didn’t tell anyone. He also pointed out that he had managed his team to 145 wins in 155 games and his 93% win ratio was superior to every manager in the world, with the closest to him on any decent number of games played was Mancini at 66%. He stated that his reputation was perceived as National, and he had beaten Manchester United while in his first year at the club. He finished with the expectation that Hughton would get the job and be kept on for years of mediocre football and depriving the Irish of major tournament appearances, and the fans deserved better than that.

The lack of respect hit his confidence, and he wanted to drink for the first time in months. He yearned for it, and wanted to block out the feelings of rejection. It didn't help that he was alone. He flicked through the TV to find a film to keep him occupied, Leaving Las Vega, Bad Santa, Cocktail, Sideways, Withnail and I, the Rum Dairy, and Once Were Warriors. It was like the planning schedule was set up to taunt and test him. He had avoided therapy since leaving the clinic, but had been going to the AA to seek comfort from those who truly understood. He called his sponsor Stewart, who kept him on track with his wise words.

He was still down when he arrived for the home game against Tunbridge, and the Irish lads had put up a big banner saying “Connor for Ireland – a true Paddy Hero.”. It lifted him, and he he thanked them all with a little tear in his eye. Colin Murray came up and said that on the behalf of the club, they were delighted he was staying, and Ireland’s loss with their gain. Connor mumbled a thanks and that he actually intended to do them both at the same time as he had enough time on his hands. Most missed that by he saw his Captain raise his eyebrows.

The game started well, with Murray heading in a corner in only the 3rd minute. Just two minutes later, David Lee picked up the ball and finished a mazy run with aplomb. There was a few chants of “Easy, Easy” from the 415 crowd. In the 44th minute Lee crossed to Dário who was fouled for a penalty, and Vrancken coolly slotted home. Dário completed the rout with a 49th minute tap-in. The Angels pulled one back, but it was a relaxed finish and the game ended 4-1.

Hughton was hired as expected and waxed lyrically naming Ciaran Clark of Aston Villa as the main man for the nation. Connor still felt he was the better choice and was still sore that they laughed him off. He wondered if he ever would get the opportunity to prove them wrong, and really hoped he would. Aston Villa sacked Martin O'Neil and he was again linked by the press, and he couldn't understand why he was mocked for thinking he could manage his country.

He was determined to have a good run in the FA Cup to prove a point, and was hoping for lucky draws to get them to the Quarter Finals. The route was looking likely, first up was Blue Square Premier Bromley with a tie against Chelmsford next who were also in the Blue Square South. Dário was on an international break, so Rytter was brought in to replace him. It was a scrappy game in front of a 2626 crowd, with 35 free-kicks in the 90 minutes. It was 0-0 with limited chances and coming into the 83rd minute. The away side had one shot on target all game and a draw was looking likely.

Suddenly a chance, the keeper played the ball to the right back, who played it dangerously to the centre-back with Rytter lurking. He failed to control it and the Dane seized the opportunity to finish beautifully from outside the box. A lucky 1-0 win with only 2 shots on target, and 42% possession. They were into the second round.

Next up was Sutton at the Withdean in the FA Trophy. Some of the players were unfit players and he had one eye on the Wednesday game. They had beaten them 4-0 away in the league recently, so it was a good chance to give the fringe players a game. There were as many injuries as goals in the 3-1 win and a next round tie away to Romulus.

This of course meant the first team were fit and raring to go, and they easily destroyed Weston-super-Mare in the league 5-0 at home, the biggest win of the season.

The wheels were firmly on the bus and they were in great form for the Chelmsford FA Cup, even playing them away did not faze the players. But it was a struggle, with a tight 2-1 win, again with more goals for Lee and Dário, making it a round 20 and 15 for the season respectively. They were through and that was all that was important.

The players now only joined up for the big draws, and it got no bigger than the FA Cup 3rd round. Except maybe the 4th round, or the 5th, etc. They gathered excitedly at the ground to watch the TV, players like Korkmaz and Rytter seemed the most excited as the prospect of a Premiership giant.

The teams were read out one by one, right to the very end with Swansea at home to Huddersfield. There were just two balls left, theirs and Liverpool. Some hands were on heads. others were in the air. They would play the Merseyside giants for the 3rd time in as many seasons. They got the home draw this time though, and Connor hoped the setting of the epic Manchester United win would inspire a repeat. The new players were delighted, the rest were too but it was Déjà vu rather than a once in a lifetime opportunity. Connor did fancy his chances though, and Kacaniklic had a point to prove to the club who let him go so easily. Tony was delighted, as it would be a sell-out and a record crowd.

23.11.13 - League - Tonbridge (H) W 4-1 - Murray, Lee, Vrancken, Dário

27.11.13 - FA Cup 1st Rnd - Bromley (A) W 1-0 - Rytter

30.11.13 - FAT 1st Rnd - Sutton (H) W 3-1 - Zapata-Caicedo, Gahan, Lyskov

04.12.13 - League - Weston-super-Mare (H) W 5-0 -Taiwo, Dário(2), O.G, Lee

07.12.13 - FA Cup 2nd Rnd - Chelmsford (A) W 2-1 - Lee, Dário

[mistahc]

Claus Rytter was hugging his best mate Okyay Korkmaz. The Danish U19 pair had joined the club on the recommendation of their international team mate Martin Madsen, who played a season at the club already and that included an appearance at Anfield and Wembley. Both had come from the lower Danish leagues and they wanted to experience that too. They were ecstatic and dancing around like loons, and they caught sight of a cool Swede in Kacaniklic and mobbed him.

Their house-mate Alex had played for Liverpool, and was playing very well for the club this season to show them and others what they were missing. They knew he would love to get the goal to knock them out the cup. So did Claus, but he had to get himself a place in the team. He knew he'd have some games, as they had the busy Christmas period coming up which included 3 games in 6 games before the big game.

It came in the next game as they travelled to Dorchester. He would play upfront with Dário, and Kacaniklc promised him that he would set him up if he got the chance. He wasn't the only one trying to impress for a cup place, and fellow fringe players Devlin, Gallifuoco, Delaney, Hummel and Walsh had a chance to show the manager what they could do.

Walsh crossed for Galli to head home a corner and Dário finished sweetly yet again, but chances were hard to come by for the youngster. He had a couple of snap shots, with only one hitting the target, but the ball fell to him near the corner flag in the 92nd minute. He passed accurately, right onto Alex's foot, who finished easily. It wasn't the goal he wanted, but he was pleased to get the assist at least.

In the mid-week FA Trophy game against Romulus he was sad to see he had not done enough to start, taking a place on the bench. As he was wondering what the club were named after as he thought it was a type of cloud, he watched Dário and Lee both score in the 3-1 win. Getting back in the side was going to be hard.

His next chance was against Salisbury at home but he was surprised to see a new signing being unveiled. He really hopped it wasn't a striker, and was disappointed for his friend Thomas that it was a left-back called Luke Garbutt who was released by Everton. This was a good signing for the club though, who had played 40 games in League 2 with Cheltenham on loan. It was good news for Madsen though, as the manager sent McGee on loan to Lewes, cementing his friend's hold on the number 1 jersey.

The game was explosive, and he could feel the tempers fraying from the bench.

Lee was booked in just 4 minutes after upending a defender. Garbutt hit the post on his début, and Lund was also booked for a foul. He was then called into action as was sent to warm up as Lee had been taken out and hobbling off with an injury, but was frustrated to see the big striker wanted to continue.

It was 0-0 at half-time, and after the re-start Dário had his name taken for a foul, he would be suspended for the next game. In the 53rd minute Lee had shaken off his injury and scored, running onto a great Taiwo through ball.

In the 63rd minute Vrancken also so yellow, the 5th from 13 fouls. In the 75th minute the points were safe, his friend Kacaniklic had a great mazy run before unleashing a monster drive against the bar. It was still shaking when Dário dived at it to direct it goal wards with his head, it should have been his 18th of the season, but Lee helped it over the line to claim his 23rd.

The team avoided the potential of injuries by slowing the game down and the clock ticked to the 94th minute when Vrancken cut out a cross, but got tackled by Wright, he dispossessed him back but the ref blew the whistle, flashed a yellow and a red, and pointed to the spot indicating there was holding. Rytter was on his feet furious, that was the second poor decision for a red for the club in recent times. Matthew Lund also didn't agree and wasn't shy in telling the ref so. The captain Murray calmed him down and he got a telling off from the ref. The team's discipline was gone.

Claus was delighted that his manager publicly denied interest in the Norwich job after Villa poached their manager Lambert, another job his was linked with. Or maybe it would be good as he might sign him, as he obviously rated him as he told him he'd be replacing Dário in the away game against Maidenhead on Boxing day. A cynic might have thought that the experienced pro's got suspended on purpose to force an absence.

It was another chance to shine, and he was determined to take it with both hands. He had scored 2 goals in 2 games in the cups, but had fired two blanks in the league. He was determined to get his name on the score sheet. He made his first impact of note in the 13th minute, teeing up Lund to rifle in a stunning finish. 15 minutes later he fired a half volley wide from a narrow angle. He was getting closer.

On 32 minutes Lee was brought down for a free-kick and the young Dane claimed it. It was shooting distance but he spurned glory for the win and floated a great ball in and saw the keeper claim it as Lee fell to the floor. The ref gave the penalty for a shove. Rytter seized his chance and stepped up confidently.

He looked in the keeper's eyes, and could feel his heart beating. He stepped back a few steps, and maintained eye contact, he was cool. He ran out and placed it perfectly into the corner for his first League goal, and hoped it was one of many to come. Lund and Murray completed the 4-1 score-line. He was bouncing with confidence, and just hoped he'd get to play some part against the Premier League team.

He arrived back from the match with Mads and Alex and was full of joy. Until he sat with his mate Oktay and saw his face when he told him he reckoned he might have played his way into the team to play Liverpool.

"What? What is it you Hængerøv"

"Well I am playing against them for sure, and so is Dário and Vrancken the clever so and so's"

"I'm confused?"

"Well they got suspended for today on purpose didn't they. That way they miss the game but return for Saturday at Bognor, a week before the Liverpool game. They will then be unfit for the midweek game and subsequently fit for the FA Cup. You on the other hand will be unfit for Bognor now, and will play midweek instead. Bet you a million quid Lee didn't run around much and you did."

Claus did some mental arithmetic and his face began to look like someone who had done eenie-meenie-mo and realised he started in a way that would see him lose. His friend Thomas interjected.

"Don't worry Claus, there is precedent of Connor changing his mind based on performances, he did it against Liverpool when I played. Lammy scored twice in mid-week and did so well he was kept in the team. Just play well there and you'll be good. If that doesn't convince you, then think about how he put Lund in before the charity shield. If not, I'll kick someone in training for you"

They all fell about laughing.

Claus was sitting on the bench watching his side play Bognor. Okky was right, he was struggling for fitness, and yet Dário and Lee were fit enough to play. They had used their experience and were set up for the big game. 'C'est le vie' he thought, the club had a spate on injuries at one point so you never know. Or at least he might be able to come off the bench at some point. Thomas was right, he had to do well midweek, when he expected to start with Clarke. He liked playing with him luckily, he had good character.

He could tell the players were trying to avoid injury, but even in third gear they were comfortable. Dário scored both in the 2-1 win. The club were entering the New Year with 42 goals between their first choice strike pairing, and he'd have a hell of a job getting one of their places. He checked out the Premiership table, Liverpool were still 9th after losing the last two games, and they also had a game on the Wednesday against top of the table Spurs.

The game against Bath was a key moment in his career; if he didn't get a chance to impress against Liverpool he might not get another for another year, so he had to prove his worth. The team was Madsen, Wilkinson, Lyskov, Delaney, Gallifuoco, Hummel, Walsh, Gahan, McEnteggart, Clarke and Rytter.

He took 8 minutes to score his forth goal for the club and showed some great skills in the 2-0 win. He hoped it was enough to impress the boss and he finished the game shattered. Liverppol drew with Spurs, and it could all hinge on the team they put out.

11.12.13 - League - Dorchester (A) W 3-1 - Gallifuoco, Dário, Kacaniklic

14.12.13 - FAT 2nd Rnd - Romulus (A) W 3-1 - Lund, Dário, Lee,

21.12.13 - League - Salisbury (H) W 2-1 - Lee(2)

26.12.13 - League - Maidenhead (A) W 4-1 - Lund(2), Rytter, Murray

28.12.13 - League - Bognor Regis (A) W 2-1 - Dário(2)

01.01.14 - League - Bath (H) W 2-0 - Rytter, McEnteggart

[mistahc]

And so here it was, FA Cup third round day. Connor woke excitedly like a child on Christmas Day. He looked at his watch and it was 8am, so he got up to make a cup of tea and breakfast, which obviously was a bacon sandwich. Tony heard the sounds in the kitchen and joined him, and when it was ready sat at the table and looked at the frost covering the roof tops and discussed the coming day.

"Picked your team?"

"Yes, Madseon, Korkmaz, Hysky, Murray, Hélan, Vrancken, Taiwo, Lund, Kacaniklic, Lee and Dário. It's the first choice team these days."

"Lee rather than Rytter? He's been looking eager and looks a great prospect"

"Yes, Lee has a great knack of getting goals. That boy has talent all right but run himself into the ground in the mid-week game so don't think he's fit enough to start. I might bring him off the bench to catch them by surprise."

They carried on discussing the team individuals, and chatted generally about the day and other matches, complaining that they were not put on TV which would have boosted the funds.

They went to the ground early, and was pleased to find a lot of the players there relaxing in the common area. They joined them to watch the early FA Cup of Manchester United versus fellow Premiership side Fulham. The fixture had no romance in Connor's eyes, and he grumbled that even Blue Square Premier side Cambridge playing Man City would have been a better choice.

He got word the Liverpool coach had arrived and noted Pardew was either giving them more respect, or took the FA Cup more seriously than his predecessors. The first two off the coach were Reina and Gerrard, and Connor closed his eyes and breathed deeply in response.

Tony distracted the players with his truffle shuffle dance, and Connor prepared his words carefully.

"So here we are. Our patch, our terms. We haven't done ourselves justice in our last two games against them, so lets rectify that. Are we up for this? The opposition today are irrelevant, we have to be mentally ready to play whoever is out there, and know we can win. It'll be a record crowd out there, doesn't matter that it's 90% Sussex based Liverpool fans, let's give them something to cheer about. Don't give them any respect, just go for it."

They went out to mild applause and did their warm ups, and soon Andre Mariner called Colin Murray to join him and Dirk Kuyt for a coin toss. Murray celebrated the small victory, but it didn't matter which way they played as both ends were empty, with only one stand for the crowd.

They lined up and shook hands with the opposition. Reina, Flanagan, Carragher, Demidov, Robinson, Henderon, Uzochukwu, Shelvey, Downing, Pacheco, Kuyt, and subs Doni, Gerrard, Cole, Johnson, Meteb, Sterling, and Ziegler. Every player had full or youth international experience, and it was a stronger team than expected.

Both teams had a game plan. In the 2nd minute Kacaniklic picked up the ball in midfield and ran at them, and was roughly taken down by Shelvey who was booked for his efforts. In total, Liverpool committed 16 fouls and were given 5 yellows.

The game was scrappy, and there were limited chances and the home side were happy to take them into the break at 0-0.

A different Liverpool came out for the second half and Madsen pulled of a world class save to deny Kuyt after the re-start, and then saved again from Carragher's header from the resulting corner.

Liverpool were desperate, and on came their talismanic Captain Stevie Gerrard in the 54th minute, with the Egyptian striker Meteb, who have 54 international goals.

Chances were lacking, so Connor played his own trump card and replaced Lee with Rytter in the 82nd minute. The game was heading to a goal-less stalemate, and any goal was likely to win it.

Claus Rytter had dreamed of this moment, and would give everything to score, but opportunities were rarer than a Jamie Carragher goal. The iconic player was marking Dário, who at 36 was a year older than him. His pace was not what it once was so he relied on his superior ability to read the game and stop danger before it occurred. So he was surprised when Alex Kacaniklic played a high ball from his own half as the striker disappeared from behind him and ran onto it in acres of space. His centre-back partner was heading back fast and forced him out wide safely.

With all of his back four in the area and the striker in the corner, he thought the striker would head to the corner flag to run down time and get a replay. There was no-one he could pass to anyway. That was when he made his second error of judgement, as his young strike partner had ghosted in late, and beautifully finished the cross in the bottom of the net.

Claus Rytter went wild and ran towards the fans, looking for his mates to join him. It was the 91st minute and he had just scored the winning goal to knock Liverpool out of the FA Cup. He soon found himself in the arms of a fan who had made his way onto the pitch, and as he wriggled away from the embrace he saw a good few hundred on the pitch. He saw his manager and Chairman celebrating wildly, dancing around the pig mascot.

The ref was trying to restore order and told Colin Murray there was still time to play, so they ushered the crowd off the pitch to finish off the last few minutes.

Liverpool kicked off, passed it back to Carragher, who found Gerrard who hit a superb ball for Meteb, who hit a beauty of a through ball for Shelvey, who got to the edge of the area and laid it across. The centre-back Demidov finished with class, it was 1-1 with the last kick of the game.

It sounded like the whole crowd celebrated the dramatic twist, but the home players sank to their knees. They would have to do it again.

The dressing seemed like one suffering from defeat not a draw with the famous team. Connor told them how proud he was that they got so close, just for it to be snatched away. He also reminded them a draw was a great result, and gave them the opportunity to play at Anfield again, boosting the clubs finances. He saw Rytter and Korkmaz's face light up at the prospect.

The FA Cup 4th round draw would see the winners face Bury of League 1 away, who despite being 22nd and in the relegation places, beat Championship side Bournemouth to progress.

The Wednesday saw the team travel to Boreham Wood in the league. To be fit for the following week, the first choice team had to play, and luckily they were all fit and raring to go, eager to cement their place for the trip to the Premier League side. The front three of Kacaniklic, Dário and Lee all scored in an easy 3-0 win.

Saturday saw the 2nd choice side line up in the FA Trophy game against Nuneaton at home, with a opportunity to show what they could do and perhaps steal a place. Rytter scored again in the 2-0 win, to make it 6 goals in 8 games, and impressed his manager with his commitment and direct running.

04.01.13 - FA Cup 3rd Rnd - Liverpool (H) D 1-1 - Rytter

08.01.13 - League - Boreham Wood (A) W 3-0 - Dário, Kacaniklic, Lee

11.01.13 - FAT 3rd Rnd - Nuneaton (H) W 2-0 - Rytter, O.G

[mistahc]

The cup had not been involved in a replay before, the previous draws all coming in the League. Someone had to win tonight, even if it relied on extra times and penalties.

A mid-week trip to Liverpool was not good for the working population. Colin Murray arranged for a day off from the building site, and the manager hoped the others would do the same to get an early start. Of the Scandinavian contingent, Kacaniklic was the highest earner of £575 a week and didn't need to work, neither did Madsen or Rytter. Oktay Korkmaz was only on a £5 a week contract, but his friends all agreed that they would cover his rent for him. So he only had to work part-time, which he did in Reece Palmer's advertising firm, so a day off was a given.

They left at lunchtime, full of optimism and excitement at the rare opportunity to play at a Premier League ground. Captain Colin Murray and Striker Lee would be playing for the 3rd time in as many seasons, but were still excited none the less. Joining them as having played there before were Dário, Hysky, Madsen and Kacaniklic, although the latter had only played there with his previous club. New to the experience were Lund, Taiwo, Garbutt, Korkmaz and Vrancken. The bench would be warmed by McCann, Delaney, Rubbins, Roberts, Hélan, Gallifuco and Rytter.

The chatter was animated, but the traffic heavy so it was slow going. Tony went up to see Barry the coach driver to check their progress, bored with the same view of the M25 traffic. He came back excitedly and told the team to crowd round the left side windows.

A luxury coach was on the side the road having broken down, as they passed the unmistakeable Kazenga Lua Lua was on the back seat peering out with his beats by Dr Dre headphones on. His Brighton side were on the way to Wigan in their replay and seemed to be the cause of the traffic jam. Tony did the truffle shuffle to taunt them and the players joined in with various dancing, nudity and aping. Ex-England International Gareth Southgate's face was a picture, and he closed the curtain on the scene. Craig Mackail-Smith at least showed a sense of humour and his long golden locks flicked as he jerked his head back in laughter.

It helped relax the mood further as they headed up. At the Stadium the bus driver insisted he'd stay and keep an eye on his wheels to avoid a repeat of the last visit. The players had a quick tour and Connor stood in awe once again at the Liverpool Trophy room. The last few decades had been sparse but this club had history deep in it's bones, and it's glory years were the envy of the world. His friend and Chairman stood alongside and eyed up the European Cup.

"Maybe one day eh? We can but dream."

"I doubt it somehow, but League football is the short-term goal and I reckon this team could hold their own. When are we going to get a Trophy cabinet Tony? I'm worried about the flat getting broken into and the house insurance is sky high?"

"Let's hope we get the finances this year. Winning today would help." He smiled, but Connor got the sense he was serious.

A few hours later the players were warming up as the crowd were slowly filling the stadium. A small group of away supporters were in the corner, and had come in fancy dress. They were having fun, so Connor sent his players over to sample the atmosphere and keep the close bond.

Both Chairman and Manager were in the club tracksuits so joined in on shooting practise for fun, and one of Tony's wayward shots managed to hit a ball-boy with power. He went over and helped the boy up, and turned round to a volley of shots coming his way to the amusement of the lad.

It was then time to head back into the changing rooms for the team talk. Connor looked at the faces and body language and could see the beginnings of nerves appearing. so he addressed them with confidence.

"Here we are again, third time in a row for me. We've choked the last two times, so I don't want to see it again. They kicked us out of the last game so you know they are scared of us, so let's kick back. You know we've got the edge right? We aren't expected to win, the bookies reckon we are 50-1 to even come close. You know something though? I think we can win. I'm so confident I've put £1000 on it. Why? Because you are a brilliant team. You could hold you own in league football, you've proved it time and time again. You are a unit, so go out there and play as one, keep it tight and get the ball up to Dário and Alex, who will get the ball into the box for David to tap in it. Do you know why I am so confident that we'll win today? Because tomorrow some of you will be back to work, Colin will be on the site tomorrow smashing down walls, and today he'll be breaking down Liverpool's spirits. For us there is no tomorrow, so let's go and play for today. Who's with me?"

Colin Murray roared with passion, his heart of a lion pounded, making his adrenaline filled veins throb. He clenched his fists and shouted encouragement to his team. And they headed for the exit. There were no nerves when they lined up at the tunnel, and Murray eye-balled Joe Cole as the armband holders stood shoulder to shoulder. The Ex-England international looked at his feet and the first battle was won.

In the traditional handshake each player firmly griped their opposition, eyes steeled and the squeeze too tight and for too long. The psychology war-fare had begun. They took heart at the opposition line-up, Doni in goal, Flanagan, Robinson, Demidov, a young 17 year old dender Stark replaced Carragher in the heart of defence, Rodriguez, Adam, Henderson, Cole, Pacheco, Meteb. It was a team filled with experience, but not as strong as it could have been. More importantly, it was beatable.

They took their positions as Gerry and the Pace-makers boomed out. The players didn't blink an eye as it was on repeat on the bus on the way up. Their manager had desensitised them to the power, and told them the song was about the under-dog and to imagine the fans were singing for them.

The 33,642 crowd were full of voice, and it hit a crescendo as Lee Probert put the whistle to his lips and blew. Dário rolled the ball to Lee, who passed back to Vrancken and the game was under way. It took just 2 minutes for the home sides class to show, Meteb got the ball and created space and had an easy chance to score, but Murray lent on him and he put into the side netting.

The game was controlled and both sides were cautious, Dário created some space and released ex-Evertonian Garbutt down the wing to play a decent cross in, Henderson had to header it wide. The corner came to nothing, and neither did Liverpool's a few minutes later.

Liverpool then took the ascendancy, they had 5 good chances with Madsen and Murray instrumental in preventing a goal. Rodriguez scored a fantastic driving header to the delight of the home crowd, who turned their attention to the linesman flag for correctly calling it off-side. The Reds continued to pour forward and again Madsen denied them with a superb couple of saves.

At half-time the team sat exhausted in the dressing room. They were bruised, battered, twisted and truned, but had put their bodies on the line to keep the game goaless. They had performed heroics at the back, and knew if they kept that up they would at least get a chance in a penalty shoot out.

The second half was more open, and Liverpool showed their intent from the kick-off attacking immediately. Even with a battering-ram they couldn't get through and it was end to end as the minnows broke at every opportunity. Vrancken superbly denied Adam with a perfect tackle in the box, prompting the Scotsman to appeal for a penalty.

Dário fired wide and they sniffed a breakaway goal. Madsen saved yet again, and Liverpool made their first change swapping Cole with Bresciano. Connor was already having his own thoughts at a substitution and sent Rytter to warm-up.

He often played David Lee as he always found himself in the right place to score. Technically he wasn't gifted, but he put himself about a bit and had the knack of getting vital goals. His double against Manchester United would long live in the memory and sealed his club legend status. Connor know the young Dane had great skill and potential, and his trickery could surprise the youth-academy Centre-back. He also was fired up beyond belief and raring to go. Connor had noticed his left left shaking the whole game in anticipation of getting a chance.

In the 59th minute Lee's number was up and he applauded the fans as he came off, and they gave him a deserved standing ovation. Rytter had a spring in his step as he took to the pitch, his confidence evident. His manager reckoned he would be a handy outlet if they got a chance to break.

In the 62nd minute the sub made an immediate impact. Bresciano dived and got his head on the ball and could have kicked himself as it sailed wide. That was another good chance. The minnows were hanging on in there despite heavy pressure from the giants.

They goal kick was hoofed upfield and Lund lost the ball to Henderson who drove his side forward again, interchanging passes beautifully between Pachedo, Rodriguez and Meteb until Robinson flighted a great ball to the near post. It was Vrancken who got his head to it first and headed it clear, where Dário picked it up and advanced with the ball on the counter attack, jinxing past the the young defender Stark. He made it to the by-line and crossed the ball low and hard to the left, where Rytter used his left foot for a half volley.

5 minutes the young Dane was on the bench, three minutes ago he was jogging on the pitch. Now he was celebrating a goal thanks to the superb vision of the God-like Dário. Tony commented to his manager that yet again a tactical move of his was the difference, for once he could agree.

It fired up their illustrius opponents who came at then in waves. Again the passing was breath-taking as they pinged it around the pitch and Pacheco released Henderson in the box. Murray was already on the danger and slid in to make a crucial intervention as Madsen collected the loose ball.

Anfield erupted in cheers as the Englishman fell to the floor, but the ref put his hand behind his back to prompt fury, and the Liverpool players could not believe a penalty wasn't given. They surrounded the ref and protested furiously. Everyone in the ground thought it was stone-walled, and so did all of the players on the pitch, even Murray. The Dane Madsen saw his chance and hoofed it to Garbutt while the opposition players were distracted, a slick passing move saw him pass it to Murray, to Lund, and then Kacaniklic release Dário who stormed into the box to be taken down by Stark. Chaos then ensued.

Lee Probert was standing with his hands behond his back, both sets of players were remonstrating that they should have had a penalty. Up in the TV Gantry Chris Kamara was trying to describe the incredible scenes to the Soccer Saturday team. They managed a view of the penalties and said that both were actually brilliant tackles and the ref was right.

In the technical area the staff were unaware of the expert analysis with the benefit of the TV replays, so they were arguing like an old married couple. A minor scuffle broke out between coaches Joseba Barandiaran and Rodolfo Borrell, the heated debate in their native Spanish to the bemusement of the other staff. Connor got in between them to calm things down.

On the pitch it was similar scenes as Colin Murray tried to protect the ref, and his vice-captain Vrancken steered his players away. They were 1-0 up, the didn't need to protest. The ref warned Meteb of his comments and the tempers calmed enough to continue.

The decision drove Liverpool forward and they won a free-kick near the box. Demidov ran forward in an attempt to repeat his dramatic equaliser in the previous game. The experienced Dário took a spot near the half-way line, noticing the whole opposition were forward in a desperate attempt to score and had only left the young Robinson in the centre circle, who saw him and jogged over.

Rodriguez floated the free-kick in, and Hysky threw himself in front of Meteb and he tried to fire it in, the ball bounced freely, dangerously in the 6 yard box. Garbutt was on the near post and ran at the loose ball, Henderson was an equal distance away and heading for it too, it was 50/50 on who would get there first.

It was the young left back and he hoofed it away to relieve the pressure and it flew towards where Dário had intelligently positioned himself, and it was coming right for him. The African showed his brilliant technique to trap the ball in front of the opposition bench, Pardew gasping at the skill, thankful he had his back to goal and was in the spot Xavi Alsonso had scored from against Newcastle.

He didn't shoot though, he turned around and danced past Robinson who was blocking his route to goal and steamed forward. He was now on the half-way line faced with no obstacles but an ex-Brazilian international keeper, and he ran forward. The young left-back was still with him so he ran diagonly to keep him at distance and belying his age ran into the box, Robinson seized his last chance and slid in, Doni was narrowing the angles and coming towards him. The Kop behind him held their breath and the crowd was silent.

Connor was on his feet in anticipation. Tony was beside him, his hand clamped on his friends arm. Both could see the run that Rytter had made from his own area to get up alongside him, the rest of the Liverpool players trailing in his wake. The Mozambique national had scored 15 international goals, 141 league goals in Portugal, South Africa and the UAE, and 46 goals since joining the club in the twilight of his career. And he only had one thing on his mind, and it was the ever decreasing space between Doni and his near post.

The finish was superb, probably one of the best of his career, and he ran to the home fans doing his trademark celebration of clamping his hands together in prayer and thanking God. Jeff Stelling on Soccer Saturday diverted the action back to Anfield as Chris Kamara gave his report.

"UNBELIEVABLE Jeff!!! As soon as the ref got the place calm, Liverpool won a dangerous free-kick but the defence were superb again, the ball was launched forward to Dário who ran the length of the pitch to score a sensational goal. You don't save those and it was a great goal, and one worthy of slaying any Giant. Liverpool 0 Preston Park Celtic of the Blue Square South 2, the tiny club are at it again and have 15 minutes to hold out. I'm sure you'll be back for more updates as this match is going to have a great finish.The home fans are restless and showing their displeasure. Back to you at the studio".

Liverpool attacked from the kick-off and poured forward. Vrancken again cleared to Dário and he released Kacaniklic to re-start another counter-attack. The young Swede was determined to score and was brought down as he pulled the trigger. He still wanted a go, so asked Vrancken to tee him up for a drive, with his great strike being tipped over for a corner. He took it and they forced more, wasting precious time. They were finishing strongly, and the opponents weren't be given a chance to get back into the game.

The tannoy announcement gave the news that Dário had deservedly won Man of the Match, and said there would be 3 minutes of stoppage time. The crowd roared, but the home players didn't respond and a tame Adam effort was all they could muster. The game was over, and the minnows had finally beaten their opponents on their forth time of asking.

The Liverpool players restarted their moans at the referee as he went off to a chorus of boo's. Connor and Tony didn't care as they danced and hugged jubilantly. Their players on the pitch celebrated wildly and collectively, with Dário getting the credit he deserved. As they headed for the dressing Jamie Carragher pulled Murray aside to tell him that he felt his performance was worthy of any that he had completed for his own side. The Irishman was delighted, and would repeat the story for years to come.

The players celebrated in the dressing room, on the coach, and long into the night. Those who took the day off mysteriously had a 24 hour bug the next day and needed the day off.

They would play Bury in the next round, and who would bet against them to make the 5th round. Certainly not their manager who had finally got the big bet win he needed to clear off his mortgage.

15.01.13 - FA Cup 3rd rnd replay - Liverpool (A) W 2-0 - Rytter, Dário.

[mistahc]

Connor awoke foggy, but sober. It was really hard not to get involved with the drinking, but he had been sober for nearly 6 months and didn't want to lose that fantastic effort.

He spritely jogged to the newsagent and bought the paper. There were front page news. Admitedly it was only a small mention referencing the score, but they had the whole of the back page and more. The photo was of Dário prayer celebration and the headline read 'Liverpoo" He bet they wished he was called Dávid instead so they could do a 'David slays Golaith' headline. He did wonder why they didn't do a 'Super Dário' or 'Santa Claus has come to town' to celebrate the youngsters goal, as Liverpool had played well.

He knocked on Tony's door and the smell of stale beer greeted him as he opened it. Tony's head was under the covers so he read the beginning of the article to him.

"Fans of Preston Park Celtic are pinching themselves after their side endured an onslaught from the mighty Liverpool yet still managed to emerge with an amazing 2-0 win."

"I know I was there. Bugger off and come back in a few hours, my head is pounding"

"Okay, when you are up I'll show you some pictures of you with some superhero's and smurfs."

"Huh?"

"We took some fans back with us on the coach and we all had a party."

"Urrrgghh, let me sleep"

Connor shrugged his shoulders and sat in the living room to read the rest of the piece. It championed Dário for his performance and his superb solo effort, mentioning his record breaking appearances and goals for his country. It spoke of the penalty appeals and Madsen's heroics in goal, and of the defences fine performance in keeping a clean sheet. And he was proud, so very proud.

Later that evening the staff came round for their monthly meeting and football night. The recommended some players and on discussion with Tony, they agreed to make offers to some players capable of playing in the higher leagues who had been released from Premier League clubs. More than anything they had re-sellable value, but like Kacaniklic might turn into vital first team players. Offers were made for:

Mirko Ranieri - 21 year old Italian Goalkeeper, released by Spurs

Sam Johnstone - 20 - England GK, ex-Man Utd

Emmanuel Mendy - 23 - Spain DR - ex-Liverpool

Daniel Boateng - 21 - Ghana DRC - ex-Arsenal

Gwion Edwards - 20 - Wales MC - ex-Swansea

They didn't sign in time for the next match against Dartford. The hero's of Anfield had exhausted themselves, so rotation saw some rested. Not Dário though, as he kept himself supremely fit. And he continued his form to score twice in the 3-0 win. Kacaniklic broke his toe though and was out for 2 months, which was a massive blow to the cup run. Rubbins and McEnteggart were alerted to a possible return to the team.

They were absent in the next game despite their availability, as Connor wanted consistency and they would get their integration with the second string. Lund was given the attacking midfielder spot, with Hummel returning to the defensive midfielder spot.

There was also a major, but expected change. The emergence of Rytter saw Lee dropped to the bench, the player had only scored 1 in the last 6 games. Connor liked to think it wasn't a permanent situation, but he had to do what was right for the team. Rytter didn't score but got an assist in the 4-2 win, Dário of course scored, making it 16 goals in 14 games, taking him to joint top scorer for the season at 24.

The Saturday saw the team travel to Histon for the FA Trophy, and with the FA Cup the following week Connor played a strong team, deciding to play the second string for the mid-week league game.

It was now decision time, would he persist with Lee, the club hero. Or play the young Dane and help develop him and give him game time. One had hand the experience Lee would not be over-awed by any experience, and would probably not be first choice next season so could make the most of his swansong. On the other, he could play the league games and add to his record league goal tally and Rytter playing with Clarke would develop a partnership that would be the future of the club.

He realised the main reason he wanted him to play was sentimental. He had a lot of affection for him and Murray as early signings and helping the club get this far. He had to think with his head and not his heart. Lee again sat on the bench, and Rytter was given another chance to impress and make the shirt his own.

Fate played it's part though, and after Gallifuco had scored the first goal, Vrancken took a nasty injury. Without a suitable midfielder on the bench, Lee came on at half-time and they went to three up front. He promptly scored two and they ran out 4-0 winners. He always had the knack of playing out if his skin whenever his place for threatened.

There was good news financially as well, as the Bury game was chosen for TV, the ITV bosses impressed by their performance against Liverpool. The £10K payment was an additional boost.

The Wednesday saw the team welcome Newport in the League. Do to fitness, the new boys were given a run out, and Lee played upfront with Clarke. They combined twice with Lee scoring twice off the youngsters passes, completing a 3-0 victory.

Next up was FA Cup weekend, and the 4 and a half hour drive to Bury on the Sunday. Connor and Tony were delighted to watch fellow non-leaguers Grimsby of the BSP as the Saturday early kick-off. Man City destroyed them 6-0 and they hoped it was not a sign of things to come.

Sunday was an early start, so they all met at the ground early. It would be the first choice team but Connor was a bit unsure who that was these days. Vrancken and Kacanikilc would miss out due to injury, and there was a decision to make up front. Either way both Lee and Rytter were making the trip so Connor thought he'd decide while on the coach. They got as far as the M25 when they got the call, the match had been called off due to a waterlogged pitch. They turned round and headed home glumly, and decided to go back to the ground to watch the Sunday matches. Afterwards they watched the 5th round draw and knew they would play Wigan at home, likely another sell-out and much needed cash.

There was some disappointment though, as it meant another day off work for the part-timers as the game was on the following Wednesday.

On the plus side there was a squad who were match-fit and ready to go, but with the key midfielders still missing. Rytter was chosen up front, and it took 4 minutes to make an impact. He burst into the box and was fouled for a penalty, and dusted himself off to take it. It was a good effort but the keeper chose right and saved it, but Harry Rubbins buried the rebound for 1-0. Dário added a second before the break and it was cruise control. In the 73rd minute and the game safe, Lee was sent on to replace a tiring Dário and he scored 2 to prove his worth and confirm the 4-0 victory. They now faced Wigan, who were 17th in the Premier League and had beaten Brighton and Crystal Palace.

On the way back on the coach. Alan Humphreys told his manager that he'd noticed Rytter had been showing remarkable improvements during recent training sessions and that he felt the exposure to first-team football had been a factor in his development.

As always with a big game, Connor's mind was wandering and eager for the FA Cup game. It was where the impossible challenge was for him. There just two league games to go, then a FA Trophy game which had to be the second choice if they stood any chance of the FA Cup quarter-finals.

The first team smashed Havant 4-0 away on the Saturday, with Lee returning but Dário getting a hat trick. They had 30 goals and 28 respectively, still far superior from any other player in England.

The Wednesday saw Woking visit, and the same team played. Dário scored twice in the 4-1 to make it 30 for the season. Confidence was high, injuries were minimal, and club now faced Stocksbridge in the FA Trophy. The team were 3rd in the Evo-Stik North, but Connor hoped his second choice team would be strong enough to easily win.

Connor was relishing seeing the young strikers in action, and was delighted when they swapped passes for Clarke to score in only the 3rd minute. They were the future of this club and it did surprise him no-one had tried to buy them. They completed a 2-1 first leg win, and now awaited the visit of Wigan. They would be a tough test as manager Keith Millen confirmed he was playing the first team, although they had drawn 1 and lost 4 of the last Premier League matches they were still Premiership quality.

18.01.14 - League - Dartford (H) W 3-0 - Dário(2), Hélan

22.01.14 - League - Chelmsford (A) W 4-2 - Dário, Lund, Hysky, Vrancken

25.01.14 - FAT 4th Rnd 0 Histon (A) W 4-0 - Gallifuoco, Murray, Lee(2)

29.01.14 - League - Newport (H) W 3-0 - Hélan, Lee(2)

05.02.14 - FA Cup 4th Rnd - Bury (A) W 4-0 - Rubbins, Dário, Lee(2)

08.12.14 - League - Havant & W (A) W 4-0 - Dário(3), Vrancken

12.02.14 - League - Woking (H) W 4-1 - Dário(2), Murray, O.G

15.02.14 - FAT SF 1st leg - Stocksbridge (H) WS 2-1 - Clarke, Hélan

[mistahc]

Preston Park Celtic had a brilliant Cup pedigree for a club of their stature. They had made the fifth round of the FA Cup in the first season, losing to Liverpool despite being ahead with 10 minutes to go. It was Deja Vu the following season as they lost to Liverpool again at Anfield, but this time in the third round. So here they were in the fifth round again.

The team were not performing as strongly this season, drawing against Gainsborough and Liverpool, before winning the replays. They won 20 out of 21 cup games in season one, 17 of 18 in season 2, and 14 of 16 so far this season. That made 51 from 55 in total, and a win percentage of nearly 93%. They were Cup specialists, but arguably they might be up against their toughest opposition, as it would be one that would grace the Premier League if there was no cup game. No reserves, no youngsters, and no ageing legends. It would be the team sent out to preserve Premier League survival if given the chance.

The FA Trophy second leg on the Saturday brought the game forward to the Wednesday night. The underpaid worked in their day jobs, safe in the knowledge that they'd still be at the ground with a few hours to relax and be ready for kick off. The team was known beforehand, it would be the strongest possible in Kacaniklic's absence. Madsen, Korkmaz, Hysky, Murray, Garbutt, Vrancken, Taiwo, Rubbins, Lund, Lee and Dário.

The players were laughing and joking as Sky Sports News had breaking news of the opposition line-up, and they all looked up in silence in anticipation.

"Wigan are clearly trying to avoid an cupset here, they have Oman international Ali Al-Habsi in goal, Barbados International Emmerson Boyce at right-back, Paraguay International Antolin Alcaraz and Scottish international Christophe Berra at centre-back, ex-Chelsea Patrick van Aanholt at left-back, Steven N'Zonzi and Danish International Nikki Zimmer in the centre of midfield, Dutch International Ronnie Stam on the right wing, Scottish International Tom Cairney on the left wing, and Argentina International Mauro Boselli and Franco di Santo up front. Not an Englishman among them, and their opponents only have two in Garbutt and Rubbins. It really has an international feel in the famous English FA Cup here."

It was a sell-out, 3350 tickets were sold and the place was rammed. Tony doubted these were Wigan fans from down south, so they must have attracted a lot of neutrals. The place was colourful, with the underdog well represented in the hope of yet another giant killing. He was optimistic the fans would get a good show.

In the dressing room Connor was rallying his troops, choosing to blast out the Rocky theme tune as he walked out with raised arms and doing the jog. He threw a couple of air punches to cheers, and danced a little jig on his feet.

"They'll be more scared of us than we will be of them, LET'S HAVE IT!!"

His players roared and swung fake punches at him as they ran out, and he ducked and weaved like a pro. It was easy when the opponent wasn't trying to actually hit him. He walked towards his place on the bench and stood soaking up the atmosphere, it was just a shame it was raining. He looked to Tony; his friend, his chairman, and his fellow fan. The opposition kicked the game off to loud cheers and passed the ball about with class.

"I've got a good feeling about this Ton....."

He was interrupted by a cheer. From kick-off they had passed it around, launched it to the head of Di Santo, who headed it down for Boselli to score. 1-0 and they hadn't even touched the ball. The crowd quietened down and Dário and Lee kicked the game off again, and Tony was shaking his head.

"What was that Connor? You were saying something about a good fe......"

The place erupted again. Dario had used his skill to break forward at pace, but Stam cut out his pass. Rubbins slid in and released Garbutt, who's trickery on the wing gave him the space to cross hard and low and Dário nipped in to equalize. 1-1 and Connor hadn't even sat down yet.

The game had started at breakneck speed and it had two goals in as many minutes. Iain Dowie was reporting for Sky Sports and was just gob-smacked and his report was just gibberish, and had to be translated by Jim White to confirm the score and scorers.

It was frenzied; Taiwo missed a good chance, Madsen made a fine save to force a corner which was cleared. Wigan broke again and forced another corner. It was crossed in and Boselli hit a beauty Madsen reactively saved and it flew in the air, the striker dived at it with his head forcing another save and it went across the face of the goal. Oktay Korkmaz was standing at his post and just watched it fall to Alcaraz, and held his head in his hands as he had the simplest of finishes. 2-1 after 11 minutes.

The minnows pushed forward in response and good defensive work denied Lee and Dário. It was then frantic end to end stuff with chances galore, until Murray started a slick passing move that eventually saw Lee released by Rubbins and he finished to make it 2-2. Connor was exhausted just watching.

Wigan then had lots of chances to get ahead again, with luck and Madsen denying them. The ref called time on a thrilling half and it was an exhausted team in the dressing room. As they sat there breathless Connor just applauded and remarked on their character, and tried to inspire them once more.

From the re-start Dário went on a trademark surging run, his brilliant solo effort ending with the post denying him fame. Di Santo then had his moment, and a diving header glory ruled out by the linesman's flag. It was end to end and Connor's neck was hurting like a Wimbledon final. The tennis, not the 1988 FA Crazy gang one.

Wigan were still trying the make their dominance count and were negated by the crossbar and Madsen, before Boselli finally gave them the lead for the third time. The part-timers heads dropped and the were lucky as opportunities to kill the gave off were spurned.

The clock showed 86 minutes when Madsen hit a hopeful lump forward, and Lee clashed heads as he went up for it and went out for a home throw-in. He spurned treatment as Korkmaz moved up for the throw-in deep in enemy territory, choosing instead to rub his head gingerly unaware of the position of the defensive line. And that's where he stayed when the throw fell at his feet, miles free of the defence and just 6 yards from the by-line. Patrick van Aarnolt caught sight of both Lee and a shattered Dário on the six yard line in front of the goal. He urgently looked for his team mates who were on the edge of the box, and in desperation lifted his arm up and looked to the linesman. The flag stayed down and he tried to track back, Lee hit it hard and low across to his strike partner, and Dário turned it in. 3-3.

The young Dutchman complained to the linesman, but was told correctly that you couldn't be off-side from a throw in. They defended like giants, hoofing the ball clear whenever they could until the final whistle brought relief and ecstasy. Like a prize fighter they had lasted the rounds and lived to fight a replay a few weeks later.

The fans were delighted with the ding-dong battle and Tony hoped they had won over some more neutrals. They couldn't have failed to be impressed by the attacking football and never say die attitude. He was also secretly delighted by the financial benefits of a full house at the DW Stadium,

Connor tended to his bloodied troops who given everything, and they were too tired to be dancing about in celebration. Lee had a bloody nose, Taiwo had a gash in his leg, and all of them were shattered. And they still had 5 games to get out the way before the replay. At least they would have the Saturday off to recover.

19.02.14 - FA Cup 5th Rnd - Wigan (H) D 3-3 - Dário(2), Lee

[mistahc]

Connor was talking his Greyhound Thelma dog for a walk in the local pub, walking with and his namesake pet Labrador. They have to move quickly as a kid buried a shot past his friend, and in-between two jumpers for goalposts in their direction. It was a magical sight and a special moment, as the scorer ran and slid on his knees in front of them in his replica Preston Park Celtic jersey. They looked at each and started up a chant.

“Sign him up, sign him up, sign him up”

The kid got up and turned and ran back and the name on the back of his shirt was clearly visible and the scorer was pointing at the letters spelling his idol with his thumbs. The manager turned to his chief scout.

“So that’s the kid who bought the ‘Dário’ shirt from the stand outside the ground. Nice to see one of ours among the Brighton, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Man Utd shirts out there.”

“Yeah, nice to see, that’s our future fan base right there. I wonder if he’ll turn up for the open youth trials in a couple of weeks. We’ve got enough strikers though, our squad is massive.”

“Good job too, I want to give the first team a nice relaxing weekend off. They need to put their feet up and watch the FA Cup matches, they deserve it.”

“They do, but Colin Murray said his girlfriend is nagging him to tidy up the spare room. Apparently he’s been promising her for months he’d do it when he had some time off. Don’t envy him telling her those instructions.”

“True, Aoife is not a woman you want to be on the receiving end of. I’ll tell her for him, and tell her he is vital to our plans and must rest.”

“You’re brave.”

“I’ll do it by text and then turn my phone off”

He was grinning, but serious.

Connor was insistent the second team left early for the trip to Sheffield for the FA Trophy semi-final second leg, some might think it was to avoid Aoife's anger. Tony was sure his phone was vibrating as someone was repeatedly calling his mobile as they cruised up the A23 to face Stocksbridge, but didn't fancy her wrath either.

It was a glimpse into the future to see both Clarke and Rytter score the goals in the 2-0 win. Another FA Trophy final awaited at Wembley, this time against BSP side Aldershot.

Everyone gathered for Sunday's FA Cup Quarter-Final draw, even Captain Murray just to get some peace and quiet. While they didn't expect to beat Wigan, they just wanted to see their name alongside the likes of Arsenal and Man City. They whooped with joy as it was the Gunners away if they achieved the impossible. It was good to dream.

The club now had three league games in a row. Firstly 330 watched them beat Staines 2-0. Rytter deputised for Lee who was still injured and got both the goals.

Next up was a trip to Basingstoke away, and with a week until the next game, it was a choice of an unfit first team, or play the second choice 2 games in a row. He knew it was for the league so wanted to play the first team so they got the glory. Dario set up both of Lee’s goals in another 2-0 win and to confirm the league title.

So here it was, the last league game before the Wigan trip, and Thurrock at home. It was always going to be the second team, and it was an easy 3-0 win. More importantly, only Kacaniklic would be unavailable.

22.02.14 - FA Trophy SF 2nd Rnd - Stocksbridge (A) W 2-0 - Clarke, Rytter

26.02.14 - League - Staines (H) W 2-0 - Rytter(2)

01.03.14 - League - Basingstoke (A) W 2-0 - Lee(2)

08.03.14 - League - Thurrock (H) W 3-0 - Edwards, McEnteggart, Rytter

[mistahc]

Wigan is only 20 miles from Liverpool, so it was another mammoth midweek trip for the club and players. In the 3rd round Championship side Brighton headed up for a replay, broke down en-route, and lost 3-1. Tony didn't want either to be repeated, as was praying for another over-achieving performance so they could go to the Emirates in the next round. A full stadium and likely TV money would come in very handy, as he still wanted to get the training facilities built.

As he pulled into the club car-park, he smiled with pride at the motley crew of players gathered by the coach. He felt a pang of guilt that some of them still had to work in other jobs, and that this absence would mean a loss of earnings for them. He told himself that they were happy to be playing football, and the club progression meant professional status was imminent.

Connor was already at the ground, having a cup of tea with David Lee and Doris. He watched the two club legends chat like old friends, which of course they were. He knew dropping him was inevitable even with his incredible strike rate, and didn't envy his manager for having to be the axe-bearer on his club career. He was an old softy and new he'd offer him a club role of some description. After all of his threats and demands to cut the playing squad, it just continued to grow in size. Only Cassidy went for a fee, but Mooney, Hancock, McCoy, Palmer and Brammel all left on free's and retired from the game. But he knew the bigger clubs would come knocking at some point, bringing in financial profit for the club as the players were sold.

The players had all arrived so the coach headed off, the Chairman taking his usual seat next to Connor where they talked to pass the time. He looked back down the coach and the players were settling into their routines already. Murray was had his pillow and headphones out for his sleep, still dirty from a morning on the building site. Dário, Hysky, Delaney and Vrancken were the ageing pro's and at the back had started up their card school. Garbutt had his PSP out playing games, Lee was watching a movie on his iPad, and the Danish kids were playing their native card games. He looked back to his travelling companion and asked him a very important question.

"Right, who would win in a fight between a honey badger and a Tiger?"

Nearly 5 hours later they arrived, with a good few hours before the match which gave them time to get some per-match dinner, obviously involving bacon.

Tony came into the dressing room as the team were dressed and waiting for their Manager's team talk. He wasn't there yet so Tony knew what to do, and out came the truffle shuffle. A few minutes later some unmistakable music started blaring out, and Connor entered to Eye of the Tiger in full Boxing geara nd started a mime and dance.

He had to admire his motivational skills as the whole team sang along, despite the thumping on the walls from the home dressing room where Keith Millen was trying to show his team how the exploit the opposition's weakness. The team rang onto the pitch fired up, and didn't seemed fazed by the xxx crowd as they kicked off the game to loud cheers.

Tony was impressed with his team, and on 11 minutes Lund back-heeled a through ball for Lee to run onto. Al-Habsi denied him, but Dário fired in the rebound. He leaped into the air with joy, and hugged his miracle-working manager tightly.

Wigan had a few chances to equalise, and on 17 minutes Madsen hoofed a goal-kick forwards and Dário headed it down for Lund, who passed to Taiwo, and again Lee was released. Al-Habsi again rushed out and this time Lee decided not to shoot first time and instead took the ball past him and slid it in the empty net. 2-0 to the Blue Square South side. Tony was over-joyed and celebrated it with intense passion, and started his day-dream of the FA Cup Quarter-Final against Arsenal at the Emirates.

Al-Habsi saved from Dário and anyone watching would be forgiven for not knowing who the Premiership side were. It could be 3-0 and it was too good to be true. And perhaps it was, as Zimling smashed a 40 yarder in off the cross-bar. It was game on.

They say fortune favours the brave. Derek Trotter would call it he who dares wins. Whoever says it, it was a load of rubbish. Connor kept up his attacking play and Dário forced a corner, but they broke with Di Santo who played an easy ball for Boothroyd to get his first goal for the club. 2-2. The Arsenal day-dream was put on hold.

Tony watched through his fingers as there were chances at both ends, and finally the ref signalled the end of a thrilling first half. He was breathless, and chose to skip the half-time team talk in a bid to settle his nerves.

The second half showed the momentum had truly swung and it was all Wigan. They had multiple chances and finally in the 68th minute a game changing moment. Another slick move saw Di Santo release Taylor in acres of space and Garbutt was in no-man's land, the cross was dangerous and low and winger Cairney was coming in fast. Oktay Korkmaz saw the danger and flew in first, taking the ball of his foot. It was athletic, it was brilliant defensive awareness. It was an own goal. The youngster was flat on his back and wished the ground would just swallow him up. Tony felt like crying, and bet the Dane was distraught himself. The crowd didn't help as they gleefully sang "2-0, and you f****d it up" to rub it in.

The team showed great character to keep trying, but alas they just could not get the break they needed and perhaps deserved. Despite Tony willing them on, the game ended 3-2 and they were out. He was gutted, and he knew the team would be too.

The coach was quiet on the long drive home. Connor was silent and looked moody, and Tony knew he'd have to keep an eye on him to stop him drinking. He tried to start a conversation to stop him sinking into whatever hell-hole he falls into.

"We ran them close didn't we? Did we even have a chance?"

"Perhaps, Kacaniklic was sorely missed. Not convinced by the players we have that can cover that position. I was hoping Rytter or Graham would be able to play there by now."

Tony knew there was only one thing that would cheer his mate up, and would bring a smile to his face like a kid in a sweetshop.

"Well, why don't you see if any players are interested."

Connor looked like a child on Christmas day, and thought it best to take the offer before the chairman realised it was youth trial day in a few days time. He liked signing players, so immediately text Alex Kacaniklic if he knew any decent midfielders. A text came back recommending Amin Affane, previously of Bolton and Chelsea. A quick search saw he was 20 and could play central and attacking midfield.

12.03.14 - FA Cup 5th Rnd replay - Wigan (A) L 2-3 - Dário, Lee

[mistahc]

The club had lost their only game of the season, but there was only one thing left to play for as the league was sewn up. The final of the FA Trophy and another trip to Wembley was 18 days away, with just four league games to get back the winning mentality.

Alex put a good word in to his fellow Swedish midfielder and he joined, along with Ryan Brunt, a 20 year old ex-Stoke English striker. And a new nationality joined the fold in Vadims Polakovs, a 20 year old Latvian who could play D/DM/MC. Flexibility was always handy. As expected the youth trials showed nothing of note, but the assistant wanted a youth team so signed most of them. He obviously had his managers desire to sign up every player under the sun.

Affane had a debut to remember and scored twice and getting the man of the match. And he put in some good performances in the league games as they continued the streak and won all four. The form was back in time to the trip to Wembley.

Aldershot were a mid-table Blue Square Premier side, and the match would be a good test for the following season'd expectations. The club were confident, and as last season took a fleet of coaches up with the entire playing and coaching staff and significant others. Even the pouring rain would not dampen their spirits and the party atmosphere was in full swing.

19366 was the official attendance, and on the pitch the first choice team were a class above. Dário scored in the 4th minute, and the Shots equalised in the 8th. Lee headed in a first half winner, and the smaller club didn't look like losing. It was party time again, and the double was complete. The club had recorded their 12 honour in just 3 years.

The following league games were a formality and the club completed a first in history. While previous league winners had remained unbeaten, the club had won every single game in their unstoppable march. It was a fantastic achievement, but tinged with sadness as it would all change from here and the team would be torn apart. From the last match only Murray, Lee and Rubbins played in the first three years ago against Worthing. The sad reality was the club could now attract bigger and better players, and to progress further up the chain, changes would have to be made as league football was one more step away.

The season was also a landmark in that Connor was sober the entire time and enjoying life again. He got to spend time with his secret son, and was carefully shaping him into a man with some first team football, but also ensuring he continued his studies. Some bigger clubs had began sniffing around and he had caught some attention but there was no way he'd be leaving him again.

Yes, life was good for everyone at the club, except those on the fringe who wanted first team football. And there were a few.

Connor sat and summarized the players who had done so well for him in their record breaking year.

GK - Martin Madsen – P53 C31 R6.90

RB – Oktay Korkmaz – P36 G1 A3 M1 R7.19

LB – Luke Garbutt – P17 G0 A9 M3 R7.37 / Jeremy Helan P33 G3 A8 M4 7.37

CB – Martin Hysky – P46 G8 A2 M0 R7.16 / Colin Murray – P44 G5 A1 M1 R7.24 / Giancarlo Gallifuoco – P33 G4 A1 M1 R7.33

DMC – Wouter Vrancken – P42 G5 A13 M0 R7.09 / Erik Hummel – P20 G1 A6 M1 R7.37

MC – Matthew Lund – P40 G8 A5 M4 R7.17 / Solomon Taiwo – P32 G2 A10 M1 R7.11 / Craig Walsh P15 G2 A3 M0 R7.17

AMC – Alexander Kacaniklic – P36 S14 A17 M3 R7.36 / Harry Rubbins – P33 G5 A11 M1 R7.03

SC – David Lee – P45 G40 A14 M12 R7.73 / Dario – P41 G39 A16 M14 R7.75 / Claus Rytter – P24 G12 A7 M1 R7.30 / Graham Clarke – P19 G9 A7 M2 R7.38

The club average league attendance had grown to 344, so the fan-base was growing. And it was no surprise to see Dario named as fans player of year.

And for the third year in a row, despite winning only two manager of the month awards, Connor was named as Manager of the Season. Once again the respected boss was asked to do an interview by the non-league paper, and it was brief. The tone was different and the club were no longer the fairy tale story they once were.

"So Connor, they call your team the Man City of the non-league. How do you feel about the accusation you have bought the title through mercenary players who should be playing at a higher level?"

"It's harsh. We started with nothing and it was our FA Cup runs that have funded our transfer activity. Yes, we have some excellent players but they came to us to play football, not for the money. Why don't you report the fact that Newport have a higher salary per annum than us? Nearly 100k more."

"That may be true, but we have reports that you pay Dário £1200 a week. The player is an international and was the league top scorer with 27. Do you deny that he is not here for the money when many feel he is capable of playing in the Championship?"

"Why don't you ask him? He was a free agent and we offered him an opportunity to play football. He loves it here, and he is a good friend of mine now. He likes the club so much he is now a player/coach and I hope he stays here for a long time to come. And yes, he scored 27 in the league, but we scored 123 in total, so my other players scored 96. David Lee also scored more over the course of the season, and he isn't on big money nor even close to the Ireland set-up."

"Ah yes, unless you got the job of course. How do you feel being publicly humiliated when they actually laughed at your interest?"

"Well the Dublin clique is well known, and obviously they don't want a Cork-man in charge. I'd still like the opportunity one day, but perhaps that won't come. Perhaps the Denmark job will come up and they'll take me more seriously."

"So what's next for you? I hear you turned down a job at QPR last season, but you've been linked with a host of jobs?"

"I've still got a job to do here, I want to get this club to the League, and the current squad are capable of getting us there."

"hhhmmm, so is that a message you won't be signing any new players?"

"No comment"

15.03.14 - League - Carshalton (H) W 3-0 - Affane(2), Rytter

19.03.14 - League - Canvey Island (A) W 2-0 - Affane, Rubbins

22.03.14 - League - Welling (A) W 2-0 - Murray, Lee

26.03.14 - League - Truro (A) W 4-0 - Clarke, Walsh, O.G, O'Brien

30.03.14 - FA Trophy Final - Aldershot (N) W 2-1 - Dário, Lee

05.04.14 - League - Tonbridge (A) W 1-0 - Lee

12.04.14 - League - Sutton Utd (H) W 3-0 - Lee, Dário(2)

19.04.14 - League - Weston-Super-Mare (A) W 2-0 - Lee, Lund

21.04.14 - League - Dorchester (H) W 2-0 - Varley, Cross

26.04.14 - League - Maidenhead (H) W 2-0 - Dário, Lee

03.05.14 - League - Sailsbury (A) W 3-0 - Hysky, Dário(2)

[mistahc]

"danaaaaaa"

Tony had laid an envelope on the table. Connor looked up blankly.

"Open it then!"

Connor slowly opened it and looked confused. A plane ticket to Rio?"

"Whoop whoop! We're off to the World Cup! En-ger-land, En-ger-land, En-ger-land. It's an official scouting trip so it's paid for on club expenses for me, you and Alan. Get packing sunshine."

And off he danced signing Copacabana to get his bag packed, day-dreaming of the skimpy bikini's awaiting him.

They saw Brazil draw with Switzerland in the opening game, and enjoyed the carnival atmosphere. They watched Rooney scored both in the 2-0 win over Bosnia and they witnessed Sweden's shock 3-0 win over Argentina. Both were repeated as England beat Costa Rica to confirm qualification from the group stage.

Shocks continued as Argentina lost again and Burak Yilmaz scored 4 in Turkey's 6-0 win over Chile. Rooney scored again as England made it 3 out of 3 by beating Cameroon 2-1, to face Switzerland rather than Brazil in the second round. So it was disappointing that they lost 1-0. The Swiss were knocked out of the Quarter-finals by Sweden, who made it all the way to the final but lost 4-0 to hosts Brazil, who scored 22 goals. Bureak Yilmaz shared top-scorer with Pato.

They had a great time and obviously didn't get any talent signed, but it wasn't about that. It was about a thanks from the Chairman for a great season while they were both still unpaid. He also had an ulterior motive which became later became clear.

"So, let's get some work done. Connor, I want you to tell me what you want out of this coming season?"

"Huh? Promotion and cup glory obviously. Professional status maybe? I heard Dover, Bromley and Woking jsut announced they have. Why you asking?"

"Well now we've been away for a bit and detached from emotions I thought we could think about how we'll achieve that. The bookies are offering 25-1 on us to win the league. I've had some transfer bids in, Burnley offered £155K for Claus Rytter, Hartlepool have offered £22K for Alex Kacaniklic, and Brentford have offered £26K for Harry Rubbins. To meet League Requirements we need to spend £630K on an extra 500 seats so we need the cash, we lost £425k in the last financial year due to the required improvement.The price of success I suppose. We've been given £5.23K for TV rights, but that won't pay Dário's wages for a month. We need cash. What do you think?"

"Reject them all. I don't want any of my players to leave. And why didn't you just put enough seats in the last time"

"Think about it logically. Alan here says Rubbins at best will be League 1 standard. He wasn't even your first choice last season. Do we need him?"

"He's been loyal since day one though, and has been a great servant to the club"

"Think of it this way then, do you really want to deny him league 2 football?"

"True. I suppose I could pick up some decent free transfers to replace him. Hartlepool's offer is a joke, so tell them where to go. As for Burnley? Well they think Claus is good enough for the Premier League but so do I. And him getting us there will be far more valuable than £155K. They are vital to my team's style of play, I would want a million for each of them if we had to let them go."

"Okay, well I'll see if that's an option then we'll talk further. What about the rest of the squad? We have so many, do we need them all? Alan, how do you rate them?"

Alan was eager to get his report in. His manager had been linked in the press as the leading candidate for the manager jobs at Watford, Newcastle, Swansea, Tottenham, West Brom, Sunderland. If he was to go, he wanted his job.

"Right, not including youth players, we have far too many. Let's run through them all, and I'll give them marks out of 5.

In goal. Ranieri 4.5, Johnstone 4.5, McGee 4.5 Madsen 4 are good. I recommend selling Lynch 2.5, McCann 2.5 and Madsen and making Johnstone first choice."

He looked up and ignored his managers scornful face and continued.

"Right-backs. Korkmaz 4, Boateng 4, Mendy 4, Varley 3.5, Devlin 2.5, Wilkinson 2.5, Zola 1.5. Mendy has agreed agreed a deal elsewhere, so I'd get rid of the lot to be honest. Korkmaz cost us a place in the Quarter-finals with his mistake in the Wigan game, both home and away."

He watched Connor digest the information at the recommendations, and carried on.

"Left-backs. Garbutt 5, Hélan 4.5, Murray 3.5, Lyskov 2.5, Stamp 1.5, Piper 0.5, Carroll 0.5. I'd say keep the first two and sell or release the others."

Even Tony baulked at the thought of selling Club Captain Colin Murray. Alan ignored them.

"Centre-backs. Polakovs 4.5, Gallifuoco 4.5, Douglas 4, Brosnan, 4, Hysky 3.5, Dunne 3, Delaney 2.5, Cross 2, Stamp 1.5, Davies 0.5. I'd keep the first two and get more in."

Connor sighed, but knew Hysky was 38 so it might be time to replace him.

"All the Midfielders here. Firstly the 5's, Rytter, Clarke, and Kacaniklic. The 4.5's of Daly, Affane and Lund. I'd keep them and cut the rest of Grant 4, Rudge 4, Edwards 4, Rubbins 4, McDaid 3.5, Walsh 3.5, Gac 3, Gahan 2.5, Taiwo 2.5, Conway, McEnteggart 2, El-Harrai 2, Hummel 2, Vrancken 2, Alali 2, Emmanuel Lee, Caton, Onyelachi, Doherty, and O'Brien all 0.5's."

Tony and Connor looked at each other. Alan wasn't there in the Sunday league days so had no sentiment, but they knew he was right.

"Finally upfront. Zapata-Caicedo, Brunt and Dário are 4.5. The rest should go. O'Brien and Roberts are the 4's, Bolger 2.5, Lammy and Lee 2, and Sweeney 0.5. I know Lee is a hero here, but he can't cut the mustard any more".

Connor blew the air from his cheeks. He thought for a minute and responded.

"They say loyalty in football is rare, but some of these are good players and are hero's to the fans. I agree with some of your analysis but there is no way I am selling Colin and David. They've been here since the beginning and are good mates to me. I'd rather have them on the bench that see them playing elsewhere."

"Well, then this club won't progress under you if you insist on playing has-beens. You're a lucky manager anyway and you have no tactics, all you've done is asked the players who they think should come in and got them to get their mates to join. Maybe Tony needs a manager who is not scared of making tough decisions. Tony, what do you say?"

Tony looked at him and wondered where this ambition had come from, and spoke.

"Well, I've listened to your comments. I also listen to those of the fans. They say their legend is the man who's job you think you could do better, and their icon you want to set out to pasture. Connor has built this club up from nothing, and the players play hard for him. That is why the club has been successful. And for that reason, you're fired......"

Regardless of the callous play for the manager's job, Alan did make some good points, but then a clear-out was inevitable.

[mistahc]

Connor had done his research and asked around. He had his eye on some players, but had something special up his sleeve. During the World Cup they were networking, and Connor was very impressed by Australia's young striker Danyal Simpson. He made an approach to sign him but there was no interest. The agent did mention that he had other young talent on his books, with U21 experience.

"Tony, they are a couple of young Aussies interested. I can offer contracts but their clubs want compensation. Is there cash to spend?"

The chairman groaned.

"How much?"

"Well, there's a great midfielder but I doubt he'll get a work permit. But there is another who has a Croatian passport too. I think he'll cost £8K in compensation but can play in the AMC/SC role and can take a great free-kick. If Harry goes, we could use a small bit of that money to get a replacement in. Think of it as an investment into getting us into league football."

"Okay, but it's coming out of your wage budget. Promise me you'll see as many players as you can. It's unfair on them to rot in our reserves. And look at me and listen..... we have no money. Seriously, we have £80k in the bank and that's it. You need to sell."

So Connor did, and off went:

Harry Rubbins – 26K – Brentford (L2)

McCann – free – Altrincham (BSP)

Bolger – free – Chester (BSN)

Mendy – free – Gateshead (BSP)

McGee - £5K – Northampton (L2)

Taiwo - £7k - Chester (BSN)

Edwards - £7k - Bromley (L2)

Released – Lammy, Roberts, Alali, O’Brien, Piper, Davies, Caton, E.Lee, Sweeney, Stamp. 13 youth players.

Dunne – free – Havant (BSS)

Douglas - £7k - Chester (BSN)

Carroll - Retired

Left after contract expired - Wilkinson, Zola, Lyskov, Onyekachi.

The fans were very happy Dunne finally left and thought it would lift the spirits of the dressing room. Doris agreed.

As always Connor could not resist signing some new players, and in came:

Maciej Kisiel – 19 DC Polish

Barry McKenna – 17 AMR Irish

Patryk Kowalczyk – 18 GK Polish

Piet Brouwer – 15 GK Dutch

Gavin Crouch – 18 MRLC English

Samir Jagic -£8k AMC/SC Australian/Croatian

Dale Finnis – 20 DMC/MC Scottish

Martin Kral – 20 MC Czech

Henrik Kuhre – 18 GK Danish

Rune Lauridsen – 17 SC Danish

Ehsan Zamani –19 MC Dutch

Jean-Pierre Perez – 18 DC Belgian

Mathias Jensen – 18 DR Danish

Madsen's connections had swelled the Danish contingent to six as Thomas had left. So they all moved to a bigger house with the Swedes, still collectively pooling their combined weekly wage of over £2k per week.

The new squad was taking place, and they all rotated in the friendlies to get a feel of playing together. By the time they played Cercile Brugge of Belgium, the first and second choice line-up had taken shape.

1st half - GK - Moravec, RB - Jensen, LB - Garbutt, CB - Perez and Kisiel, DMC - Finnis©, MC - Kral and Affane, AMC Kacaniklic, SC -Jagic and Rytter.

2nd Half - Madsen, Boateng, Hélan, Murray, Hysky, Gallifuoco, Polakovs, Zamani, Lund, Dário and Lee.

The two new centre-backs got the goals in the 2-1 win. The first was a superb diving header from the Pole from a Finnis corner. The second was a Jagic free-kick and a firm header from the Belgian against the Pro League side. Regardless of the setting, that was a great result.

The last test was the annual Friendly against Brighton. This had turned into a grudge match since Poyet's complaints last season and the fact the club had since terminated the relationship between them. Southgate's men finished 17th in the Championship the previous year, and hadn't strengthened their side much over the summer.

The match it's self was fantastic for the home side. Affane scored in the 21st, Kacaniklic in the 24th, Jagic got a 2 minute double in the 35th and 37th. Then in the 43rd minute Perez was disgusted at being shown a red for a cynical foul. Garbutt made it 5 in the 73rd which triffered a complete swap of players, and Hysky got the 6th.

It was a crushing 6-0 win, and the bookies instantly slashed their title odds and they were made favourites. It was lucky that Tony and Connor had already got in while it was 25/1.

Connor had also made an effort to boost his back room staff as he had players full of potential and wanted them to develop. He also drafted in his new assistant in Martin Rowlands. Although he had no coaching experience, he had played at Championship level with QPR and 5 caps for Ireland.

The new season drew close and they were optimistic. The only task left was to appoint the club captain, and the potential heart wrenching act of taking it from Murray. He looked at the candidates.

Vrancken was determined, influential and experienced.

Murray was also determined and influential and had been with the club for the last three years.

Sadly neither were likely to play each week. From the first choice team Perez and Finnis were options, as was Dário.

His heart won and Murray retained his armband, with Dário vice captain as he'd play more.

12.07.14 - Friendly - Folkestone (A) W 1-0 - Jagic

16.07.14 - Friendly - Brentford (H) W 2-0 - Kacaniklic, Taiwo

18.07.14 - Friendly - Wingate & Finchley (A) W 1-0 - Lauridsen

21.07.14 - Friendly - Tooting & Mitcham (A) W 4-2 - Jagic(3), Brosnan

26.07.14 - Friendly - Cercle Brugge (H) W 2-1 - Kisiel, Perez

02.08.14 - Friendly - Brighton (H) W 6-0 - Affane, Kacaniklic, Jagic(2), Garbutt, Hysky.

[tenthreeleader]

I really like what you're doing with this. You're sticking with it and putting out a solid product. Keep it up!

[mistahc]

I really like what you're doing with this. You're sticking with it and putting out a solid product. Keep it up!

thanks, to be honest the game has thrown up some beauties for me. I'm not sure if I've ever had a "son" in the game before and one turned up (I think so anyway). I've also had some cracking cup draws and results which have provided the material.

Have to admit I thought the changes lost everyone a few weeks back but been persevering, and was gutted that the Sporting Chance bit might have been missed as I liked the bit with Tony Adam's raising his arm.

[mistahc]

Tony was looking at the finances, and was very pleased they had sold 156 season tickets, a vast improvement on the 57 sold last year. That was at least another 99 glory-hunting new fans. The attendances in pre-season were promising signs of further crowds to come. He was impressed with the league of nations in the team, and in the first game he expected to see 2 Czechs, 2 Danes, 2 Swedes, a Belgian, Scot, English, Pole, and Aussie. And here they were, Sunday League to Premier League in consecutive leagues. Admittedly it was the Blue Square but it was a meteoric rise none the less.

The first game of the season was a big test, as the trip to Hereford saw them play a side that were relegated from league 2 the previous year. But Tony felt this team had a real quality about it, and were a match for any team. Best of all despite the fact the club were spending roughly £500K on wages per year, it was a third of the £1.58 million Luton were spending.

7 players made their debut, but the first major impact was made by a Hereford player, on the legs of Garbutt. It was a red for a vicious two footed tackle by Colbeck. Lucky for them they also had the second was a header from a corner and the home side went 1-0 up and dreaming of an instant return to the league.

Hereford looked strong and in the 44th minute pumped a goal-kick up field. New boy Finnis headed it to Rytter who made a run to the right side before being felled. Other first timer Kral was first to react and hit a perfect ball for Jagic to run on to. After 6 in pre-season he was full of confidence and buried it for 1-1, and a goal-scoring debut.

After a rousing half-time talk Kacaniklic gave the away side the lead, before Finnis sent a corner in for Perez to finish off. 3-1 to the new boys, and a great start to the campaign.

There was no game next due to a reschedule for the International break, Connor would have rather played the game minus those absent and wondered why he didn’t have the choice. Fixture congestion would probably see a weak team anyway, so he'd rather get the game out of the way. So it was a 10 day wait to see the new players in action.

It was Mansfield who were the visitors and another club with a fine league history. Samir Jagic showed his jagged edge to score twice in the massive 5-1 victory to the delight of the 951 crowd. Finnis, Kral and Rytter finished the rout.

The team spirits were high, and the new players didn't seem to need time to gel. And they proved it with a 4-0 win away to Barrow, Jagic banging in a hat-trick.

Tony was gobsmacked at the quality on display but he knew a strong test was coming on the away trip to Luton. The team had fitness issues, and their opponents were in the Championship 8 years prior, so would not be easy. They still managed to squeeze a 2-1 win, which showed the quality in depth. The Chairman was impressed, and just knew that league football was in their grasp.

With the quality of players at his disposal Connor knew dissatisfaction was around the corner. It didn't take long as Derek Boateng went public that he thought he should be first team. 86% of the non-league paper fans didn’t agree, and either did Connor so he transfer listed him. He was later sold him for £8k to Chester, less than what he was worth but club needed the cash.

Tony and Connor were sat looking at the league table. They weren't top as others had played more games, but they had a 100% winning record. The Saturday game against Burton was a milestone, not only was it the 5th consecutive game against a team with League experience, but it was the manager's 200th in management. The Chairman gave his friend a gift to celebrate it, and looked excitedly as he unwrapped it.

"What's this?"

"It's a present to thank you for your loyalty."

Connor looked at the unusual present and wondered what it was for. He was confused but the significance would not become clearer to a later date.

The match was against Burton at home, and rotation was needed and in came Hysky and Clarke.

It was very apt as the manager watched his son get the first, and then under no pressure Jordan Clarke scored an own goal. Connor had to have a good look at the lad to make sure and decided it was highly unlikely to be another of his brood. He was delighted when they held on and was very proud to watch Graham get the man of the match.

The team were on serious form and Grimsby, Forest Green, Lincoln and Histon were easily dispatched. They peaked with two 5-0 wins in a row over Altrincham and Kettering. The latter game saw a sparkling debut from a new signing of Sergio Priso, scoring and setting up a goal.

Tony knew Connor had been tracking the Cameroon midfielder for some time, and despite being only 23 was a very talented player covering central midfield and attacking midfield. He was always joined by Phillip Franz, a 19 year old German full-back who could cover both left and right sides. Both players were destined for big things.

Tony was convinced this was the best team his manager had assembled by far, and just knew they would take the league by storm. He was actually pretty sure they could make a decent FA Cup run this year too. Everything was going swimmingly, and he logged onto the club bank account full of promise and glee.

He thought it was dirt on the screen and rubbed it with his thumb. It was then the realisation set in and he panicked, he I panicked, and he called for Connor.

09.08.14 - League - Hereford (A) W 3-1 -Jagic, Kacaniklic, Perez

19.08.14 - League - Mansfield (H) W 5-1 - Jagic(2), Finnis, Kral, Rytter

23.08.14 - League - Barrow (A) W 4-0 - Jagic(3), Dário

27.08.14 - League - Luton (A) W 2-1 - Kisiel, Rytter

30.08.14 - League - Burton (H) W 2-1 - Clarke, O.G

02.09.14 - League - Grimsby (A) W 2-0 - Jagic(2)

13.09.14 - League - Forest Green (A) W 3-1 - Kacaniklic, Rytter, Jagic

17.09.14 - League - Lincoln (H) W 3-1 - Rytter(2), Jagic

20.09.14 - League - Histon (H) W 4-1 - Jagic, Kacaniklic, Affane, Dário

23.09.14 - League - Altincham (H) W 5-0 - O.G, Kral, Kacaniklic(3)

27.09.14 - League - Kettering (A) W 5-0 - Jagic(2), Priso, Kacaniklic, Rytter

[mistahc]

Tony was screaming hysterically.

“It’s gone, it’s all effing gone.”

“What has gone Tony?”

“IT has, all of IT! It’s gone, it’s disappeared, it’s caput, it no longer exists. It's VANISHED!”

“What are you talking about?”

Tony grabbed him by the t-shirt and their faces were inches apart. Connor could smell the coffee on his breath and could see the tears in his eyes. His friend’s voice was trembling as he spelt it out.

“The… money… has…. effing…. gone.”

“What money has gone? What are you talking about?”

“The club’s bloody money! The account has been cleaned out! We are £169 thousand bloody pounds overdrawn. We don’t even have a bleeding overdraft! I thought it was a mark on the screen. I was rubbing it and wondered what the hell it was as it wasn’t moving. I was going to call you to get me the Pledge out.”

He voice trailed to a whimper and sat down and sobbed quietly. Connor put his arm round him convinced his mate had lost it, then we went to the laptop to clear it all up.

“Ummmm, ‘ere Tony, all the club’s money seems to have gone????”

He went through the account summary and it seemed in the last month they had lost £129K alone, there had to be some mistake. He found the folder with the clubs wages and had a skim through, in a panic that he was the cause of this potential bankruptcy issue. He breathed a sigh of relieve as transpired that it only accounted for £34K. He rubbed his head in confusion and for the first time in a long while he swallowed and licked his lips with anticipation of a drink, the one thing that would make this problem disappear.

“Is that all you pay Doris you tightwad?”

“Get serious, we’re in big trouble here. Where in all that is holy has it gone?”

“When did you last see it? The last I looked we had a couple of million? I rarely go into the accounts. as I rely on you to tell me each month how we are doing. And I work well within the budgets you set me.”

“Oh I don’t know, the last time I checked properly was to pay for the Stadium upgrade at the end of last season and we had nearly a million in there. I’ve got confused as I think we are still contracted to that facility upgrade work, and I’m not sure if that’s paid for or not.“

“Okay, well who has access to the bank account?”

“Just me.”

“And how do you pay people?”

“They send me invoices and I pay them.”

“And don’t you check them?”

“No, not really, we are a family club. We’re all like family……… aren’t we?”

“Yes Tony, but money does funny things to people. Please tell me you keep all the receipts?”

“Of course, for the Taxman. I’ve got them all in my office.”

“Excellent, and they are organised I take it?”

The look told Connor all he needed to know. There was nothing else that they could do but go through all of the paperwork and tally it all up. It was a mammoth task, but one that shed light on Tony’s actual generosity as the expenses he put through were tallied up.

“Right, that’s season ending 2013 complete. £2.197, 095 spent. £1.175.659 on the stadium upgrades, £509,026 on tax, £226,917 on wages, £92, 805 on scouting costs. £77,676 on bonuses. £71,083 on non-footballing costs. But we made £1.6 million that year. £945,718 in gate receipts, £214,736 in prize money. That was a loss of half a million.”

“Okay, that makes sense, we were pretty healthy the previous year, and it was the mandatory Stadium expansion that stung us. The price of success. Have you got last seasons tallied up yet. ”

“Yes, £1.9 million in income, £1.1 in gate receipts and £335K prize money. And there must be some mistake. £2.3 million in expenditure. The highest was scouting costs of £713K? Then ground maintence of £636K, wages of £428K, and then tax of £231K? We lost £400k”

“That can’t be right. Scouting was only £92k the year before, recheck it, we don’t even pay our scouts a wage.”

“I have. Three times. Let me see, Who did we send to Australia? I thought the scouts were restricted to the UK only for scouting? How comes there’s one here for the Maldives? And one for Jamica? I know I like my random nationalities but that seems extreme. How do the expenses get checked?”

Tony was sheep-faced.

“Well, as Jason is chief scout he controls it all, he just submits them and I pay them.”

“What the hell is going on Tone? I don’t think they have recommended anyone that I have signed. Most of my players have been found through player recommendations, by looking at the International youth squads, and by making contact with agents to see who is on their books. Why have we paid the scouting team £713k in a year between 6 of them to scout the UK?”

“I’m not sure Connor, but I am sure as hell going to find out.”

"Well best do it quick, they have submitted nearly £400K already this season, so it's no wonder we are in the brown stuff as we've only made £500K."

Tony had a look of thunder as he placed some calls to cancel all scouting assignments and told them to come back to give their up to date reports. He told them he was very much looking forward to what they had to present. He wasn't sure, but he was convinced he heard the sound of Brazilian Salsa music when on the phone to Jason. Quite frankly, whoever turned up with a suntan was getting a bloody nose.

[Jibby123]

I'd purposely given catching up here a break to see how or if your story would go on, and by re-reading from start to finish earlier today; have to say am really, really impressed so far. Hope you stick with it.

[mistahc]

I'd purposely given catching up here a break to see how or if your story would go on, and by re-reading from start to finish earlier today; have to say am really, really impressed so far. Hope you stick with it.

Fantastic feedback thank you. After so long without any comments it's nice to see a few. I've got a few story plots to bring back, so hoping to get a few more seasons out at least.

[mistahc]

It was a long day looking at receipts and they were tired, but they had to go to the Withdean for the evening game against Hayes and Yeading. They weren’t in the mood for football, and Tony was hoping for a sell-out crowd at triple the price. There was only 831 but it was still better than the 106 who watched their first ever league match.

Doris noticed the serious look on their faces immediately, and forced a cup of tea into their hands to try and cheer them up.

“You gents look a bit solemn tonight, what’s up?”

“Oh nothing, just the usual.”

They shot each other a despondent look, aware that they didn’t want the club’s money woes public as it would worry everyone. Tony would always ensure the players were paid whatever happened, and he was going to speak to the bank about an overdraft first chance he got. The problem with debt is it would quickly mount up, and they had to start turning a profit immediately.

“Oh Doris, has any of the scouting team arrived yet?”

“Haven’t seen them, sure Jason said he was off to New York for a week or something.”

Tony rubbed the bridge of his nose and his eyes with his fore finger and thumb. They were 6 scouts, Jason Pullan, Nick Sheridan, Sam Branfoot, Tom Charlton, Jamie Jones and Ashley Rodgers. It was looking more and more that the chief scout was the man responsible. They went to take their seats and he turned to his manager.

“I should have known he was dodgy, he named his dog after you!”

“I don’t get it Tony, they weren’t paid a wage and I always assumed they did it in their spare time for the love of the game. I had no idea it still cost the club or I wouldn’t have hired so many.”

“The cost of petrol is really making its mark.”

The dry response didn’t cover the guilt that he didn’t check the expenses fully. On the pitch the fortunes were better and they saw Jagic score twice in the 3-0 win. They mutually agreed it would be great if Everton made a huge bid for him. They weren’t aware of any interest, he just had similarities with his fellow Croatian striker Nikica Jelavic so they thought they would probably want him.

After the match they were pleased to see Nick the scout with his brother-in-law David Lee.

“I got here as soon as I could, what’s up?”

“Just eager to see what players you’ve been watching. Any recommendations? Where have you been watching targets?”

“Just the Irish leagues, not a lot going on. Once the club gets a bit bigger a few of the better youngsters might be interested.”

“Oh okay, well all scouting is on temporary hold, have you got any expenses to submit now?”

“Me? Nope, haven’t submitted a single one since I got here, but don’t forget if any of the lads I send you make it big, you make sure I get compensation. Not that you are currently playing any of the kids I sent your way.”

“Well keep it up, and I’m sure you’ll find the next Robbie Keane.”

“David Lee you mean. See you later Connor.”

One down, five to go.

Saturday's home game against Ebbsfleet should see all the scouts attend the staff meeting, and any absence would surely be the guilty culprit.

The match was a distraction for Tony and Connor, but it was a relief to see another 3-0 win, with Jagic scoring yet again. But the main event was yet to come. As the players departed, they headed into the canteen to see the scouting team. It was make or break time.

As they entered the canteen Doris was passing round the tea. They counted the heads present, one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, twelve, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen. One was missing.

They looked at each other, one was missing! They looked at the back of the chatting heads and coughed dramatically to get attention, the faces appeared as they turned and it was evident who was missing.

“Right lads, thanks for coming to the monthly staff meeting. Quick roll call then, read out your names and I’ll mark it for the records.”

“Martin Rowlands, Ass man is in da house.”

“Matthew Joseph, Coach.”

Those present confirmed name and job role, until it came round to Tony.

“And of course we have one absentee, let’s call his mobile and see where he is.”

He put the phone on speaker and the phone went direct to the answer machine and the message played for all to hear.

01.10.14 – League – Hayes and Yeading (H) W 3-0 – Rytter, Jagic(2)

04.10.14 – League – Ebbsfleet (H) W 3-0 – O.G, Rytter, Jagic

[mistahc]

“Hi this is Jason and I’m not currently having fun somewhere, you know what to do…… beeeeeep”

Connor ignored Doris reminding him that he was in New York and left a message.

“Jason, it’s Connor. Mate you are missing the team meeting, call us back and let us know where you are.”

He cut the connection and looked around the room. Expectant eyes looked back so he asked them to go round the room and share their feedback.

Training schedules were suggested, and players recommended, and Connor was blank and staring into space. He was stroking his chin stubble with his knuckle when his rang suddenly rang, and he jumped with a start.

“Jason? Where are you?”

“Connor, sorry about missing the meeting, I’m stuck in York.”

“York?”

He looked at Doris who was busy making more tea, but scratching her head at where she left the sugar.

“Yeah, they have a couple of players I’ve being keeping my eye on and as they are playing a few of opponents thought I’d stay up there a bit. Left my blooming phone charger at home so just got your messages now.”

“Glad you called back. Any chance you come in now as we need to catch up about some important business?”

10 minutes later he completed the numbers and Doris brought out a fresh round of teas. Connor picked up the agenda.

“So glad you all made it. We have a problem. A big problem. We are massively overdrawn and it looks like it’s our scouting expenses. Don’t want any trouble, just want to know who it is. Anyone care to open up?”

There was silence, and eyes darted suspiciously around the room. Obviously no-one seemed keen to speak up and it reminded him of an AA meeting. Doris then interjected.

“Oh, by the way, this is a special brew. It contains passionflower which relaxes the body and is a sedative. The Nazi’s used it in World War 2 as a truth serum.”

Connor coughed and spat warm liquid in front of him and a nervous energy gathered in the room. A few people began to look very shifty. Tony turned to Jason and began the interrogation and got close to the chief scout.

“You were submitting the expenses, were you checking them?”

“Yes of course, I mean no. I didn’t really look if I’m honest. I haven’t done anything wrong. Honest.”

Tony turned his attention to Martin Rowlands.

“What about you? You been thieving from us?”

“Course not! I only got here a few months ago.”

“Oh yeah. The truth serum will stop any lies. Do you wear woman’s underwear?”

“Yes…… what? Course I do…. Eh? Don’t listen! What the hell is this stuff?”

Suddenly a chair banged as it fell over and there was a blur of movement towards the door. The door was flung open, but he was hit and was on the floor seeing stars. The bouncers picked up Ashley Rodgers and dragged him over. The escapee was held up by Colin Murray and David Lee, and Connor was confused, very confused.

Obviously Tony wasn’t as his heavy frame hovered over the thief menacingly.

“Have you been living it up on the club’s money Ash? Care to explain? And I want it back, ALL of it.”

“What the hell has that bitch poisoned me with? I didn’t mean to spend it, honest. It’s just I like holidays, and when you flash the cash the women love you. I’ve spent it all Tony, I don’t have it.”

Colin and David then dragged him kicking and screaming into the changing room, followed by the staff. Even Jason was flexing his knuckles in anger. Just Doris was left and Connor stood their open-mouthed. He turned to her in confusion.

“What the hell just happened? What was in that tea?”

“PG Tips. I’ve been watching a show called the Mentalist and it was all a mind trick. I’m not sure how Martin knew though, but he seemed to play along with that ladies underwear lie.”

[mistahc]

Tony and Connor were walking out of the John Street police station after giving the version of events of how Ashley Rodgers had used the clubs money to pay for some extravagant holidays and extra's. They told how he confessed through guilt then accidentally fell down the stairs as he tried to do a runner.

They had stated it as fraud, the Police said it wasn't as the expenses were submitted, approved and processed. It was his word against theirs as he could have been scouting at their request. In total they had lost ober a million pounds and the Police were telling them it was a case for the Civil courts. They were fuming and argued until the Sargent recalled the fact the offices at the Withdean Stadium were Port-a-cabins and didn't have stairs, so they had made their excuses and left.

“He hasn’t got the money to pay us back, what we going to do? Can we sell any of the players?”

“Half of them are on the transfer list already, but no-one is interested. I’ll offer them out again and see what happens but I doubt we’ll get any offers.”

“Well accept anything that comes our way. We need to reduce our wage-bill and every penny counts.”

“We’ll be alright Tone, the FA Cup starts in a few weeks then we’ll get some extra cash in. We don’t need scouts, I’ll do it. I reckon a big club will be in for some of our players soon, they are definitely good enough for the higher leagues. Just wait, we’ll be a professional league club soon. This time next year, we’ll be millionaires.”

They tried to stay positive to stop the players from finding out and worrying about wages. Tony and Connor projected the coming months, and predicted that with a lucrative away draw in the FA Cup or by selling a few of their prize players, they'd clear the overdraft by the end of January. They knew who their opponents were in the 4th qualifying round in fellow Blue Square team Mansfield, and it was easily winnable.

All the staff were sworn to secrecy about the events, and it helped that they believed a little white lie that the club still had cash to spare. Tony had set a deal up that Ash would work for him installing hot-tubs for free to pay towards his debt.

Luckily the team were not affected mentally and continued to steam-roll the opposition. Jagic kept scoring and got a double in the 3-0 away win to Kidderminster, and Mendy's new club Gateshead were also beaten 3-1. It was then time for the vital trip to Mansfield for the must-win game. If it was on Sky and they knew the facts they'd call it Super Bankruptcy Saving Saturday, and other clubs probably needed the financial boost too.

Dário was replacing an injured Jagic and finally got the breakthrough on 66th minutes. Rytter settled the nerves in the 88th. The team always had the quality to see them off but it wasn't as convincing as it could be. The key aim was complete through, and they were drawn away to League One side Gillingham, who were battling relegation.

Dário continued his return to form with a hat-trick in the first 21 minutes of the 4-2 destruction of Fleetwood, where the game was over at 4-0 in the first half. Despite an attempt at a late comeback with a Magno Vieira double, the never really had a chance to get back in the game.

It was the end of the month so they were able to tally up the finances and pay the wages. Step one was complete; they didn't lose money. They didn't make a lot but the tide was turning in the right direction.

18.10.14 – League – Kidderminster (A) W 3-0 - Kisiel, Jagic(2)

22.10.14 – League – Gateshead (A) W 3-1 - Rytter, Crouch, Kacaniklic

25.10.14 – FA Cup 4th Rnd Qual – Mansfield (A) W 2-0 -Dário, Rytter

29.10.14 – League – Fleetwood (H) W 4-2 - Dário(3), Kral

[mistahc]

November was shaping into an important month; FA Cup 1st and (hopefully) 2nd Round, FA Trophy 1st Round, and top of the table clashes.

As always Connor was forced to work backwards. Gillingham was a week away, so it meant the strongest possible team against Tamworth, with a view to resting them for the midweek game. Jagic was proving to be a snip at £8k and bagged the opener, with his strike partner Rytter doubling the lead. Finnis finishing the scoring and the game off at 3-0.

So next up was a trip to Aldershot for top of the table clash. It was first versus second. The Super Hoops had played and won 17. The Shots had won 13 and draw 4 of their same number of games, but had a 100% home record of played 8 won 8.

Connor was plotting his strategy and something had to give, either the 100% home record, or the away one. He hated losing, but he had to play his second starting eleven as there was the FA Cup a few days later. The main plus side however was his heart was warmed whenever he say Murray, Hysky, Dário and Lee pull on the shirt. In the end only one record look liked to continue as Lee and Hysky scored in the 2-0 win.

At the beginning of the season both Connor and Tony fancied their team to shine in this season's FA Cup against bigger sides. Gillingham was a good test, and despite languishing in 23rd place of League 1 had a decent side. Moral was low though, and this was a glaring chink in their armour. Colin Cassidy had moved to the club in the previous summer for just £2k, and despite keeping a clean sheet on his debut only played the one game and found himself transfer listed.

Connor gave him a quick call and for friendship reasons he gave him a bit of inside information of where his team could be exploited.

The visit to the Priestfield was a sobering one for some of the fans, as some of them were converts from Brighton and Hove Albion. They were still Seagulls fans at heart, but retained a love for grass-roots football which was fulfilled by the lower league club. The Albion were only recently flourishing after some particular turbulent times. Their plight was typical of the "what if's" that could happen in football, and in the 1983 Cup Final a future-shaping event unfolded of which Connor considered the possibilities.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The club were in the old First Division after former England player Alan Mullery as manager led the football club to the First Division in the 1978/79 season. The 1982/83 season saw a wildly inconsistent start for the club, with victories over Arsenal and Manchester United mixed in with heavy defeats. Manager Mike Bailey eventually lost his job at the start of December 1982. Jimmy Melia took over as manager, but was unable to turn the situation around and Brighton ended up being relegated finishing in bottom place.

Despite their relegation, Brighton reached their first (and only to date) FA Cup final and were drawing 2–2 with Manchester United in the match. Brighton's goals were scored by Gordon Smith and Gary Stevens. With virtually the last kick of the game in extra time the commenter screamed "and Smith must score" as the Brighton man had the goal at his mercy.

If he scored, it would be European football and after their relegation a much needed financial boost. If he didn't, then the road to obscurity.

It was actually a save by the Manchester United goalkeeper Gary Bailey that turned the fortunes of the club, sending the game to a replay that Manchester United won 4–0. The slide down the leagues had begun, and the reality where Smith was bundled by his team-mates and the European adventures vanished and the door closed.

In 1996 the club were rock bottom of the football league, the club's financial situation was becoming increasingly precarious and the club's directors had come to a decision that the Goldstone Ground would have to be sold in order to pay off some of the club's huge debts. The team were facing homelessness and relegation to the Conference, and at one point were 13 points adrift.

By the last day of the season,they had to play the team directly below them, Hereford United and if Brighton won or drew, they would be safe. Brighton defender Kerry Mayo scored an own goal in the first half and it looked as though their 77-year league career was over. But a late goal from Robbie Reinelt saved the day and Brighton retained their league status on goal difference.

The sale of the Goldstone ground went through in 1997 and this led to Brighton having to play some 70 miles away at Gillingham's Priestfield stadium until the start of the 99-00 season, when the club started playing their home games at Withdean Stadium, a converted athletics track owned by the local council, where Preston Park Celtic now plied their trade.

At it's peak the Goldstone held 36,747, and it's last game saw 11,500 see the win over Doncaster. Only 1,073 saw the first game at Priestfield, and a generation of fans were lost.

Even the return to playing in the city again with the very apt sponsor of local DJ Fatboy Slim Skint record label didn't bring back the crowds, although they started coming back once Poyet creating an attacking team and the new Stadium was finally agreed. 8,416 watched the last piece of history as they turned out at Withdean for the last time, and were turned over by Huddersfield 3-2. By that point they had already been confirmed as League One Champions, and would start life in their new stadium in the Championship. In a twist of fate (or sentimentality), Doncaster Rovers were the first league visitors to replicate their record as the last visitors to the Goldstone Ground. Connor was one of the 20,219 in attendance to see William Buckely get a 97th minute winner.

It was 1992 when the club were last in the second tier of English football and with their own stadium, and it took a massive 20 years to get back to that point. You couldn't help but wonder what would have happened if Smith had scored.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the end it was a performance to make people sit up and notice, with a stunning 6-0 victory. Even Connor was astounded at the team's performance. Polish defender Kiesel and Kacaniklic both scored twice. It was a thumping. In the second round they drew another League side with Harry Rubbins Brentford visiting, He was a regular in the team so Connor doubted he'd give away anything.

But the thought never left him, and he considered himself lucky that he seemed to be on the path of success, If he thought back to key moments he could point to two early ones; what would have happened if they didn't bounce back after the 7-0 crushing by Brighton? What would have happened if they didn't get a lucky couple of goals to kick start their season against Worthing on the opening day? The club easily still be languishing in the Ryman Isthmian Division 1 South if they didn't get that early belief they could win. The success could all be attributed to David Lee, as his hat-trick against Barrow in the FA Cup 4th preliminary round started the cup run that financially paved the way for better players to join.

31.07.11 - Friendly - Tadley (H) W 6-0 - Murray, Lee(2), McCoy, Onyekachi, O.G

07.08.11 - Friendly - Fleet Spurs (H) W 2-0 - Lee, O.G

Games were again rescheduled as 19 of the squad were called up for international duty. It also meant some decisions, as Jagic turned his back on the country of his birth and opted to play for Croatia. Young Graham Clarke was offered a chance to play for Ireland's youth team and he called his manager to discuss.

"Bossman, I need some advice. I've had a call from Noel King the Irish U19's manager, and he wants me to join the squad for the friendly against Poland. Well I was born in Brighton, so I consider myself English really. What do you think? Should I turn them down?"

"Well, you know these days you aren't fully committed to a country until you play at adult international level. As England haven't called you up it's not a case of why, it's a case of why not. I'm sure your dad would be very proud to see you in the shirt of his country, and I'll tell you what, they are postponing our game so I'll even come and watch and call it a scouting trip."

"Really? That would be brilliant, I'll let him know. Thanks boss, you really have my best interests at heart. My mother says my dad was a waste of space "

And so he went, and Connor watched with immense pride as he came on as a 70th minute sub. He went crazy as he buried a 78th minute winner, that boy really did have a knack for scoring which belied his abilities.

Connor watched the full Irish team lose to Canada 3-0 in their friendly, so emailed the Irish FA to ask if they still felt they had chosen the best man for the job to see them lose to a side ranked 83rd in the world.

In the midweek games Graham wasn't involved and the full side beat Paraguay 4-1 at home. The email came back and simply said "yes".

It was also a key moment for Mozambique as their record capped and goal scorer Dário finally hung up his boots to try and extend his club career.

International break was over, and it was back to lower level football and Fleetwood away in FA Trophy, as the club aimed for a record fourth Trophy win. Some of the international players looked jaded, but Kacaniklic was refreshed due to his break and drew first blood. U21 Scottish International Dale Finnis and Captain Dale Finnis settled it in the 88th minute, and confirmed a trip to Boreham Wood.

With the FA Cup game looming on the Horizon, Club Captain Murray inspired the second string to a laboured 1-0 win over Woking in the league. The run continued.

FA Cup day has a certain magic whatever the level and Harry Rubbins was delighted to return to the ground where he was hero-worshipped in the past. He had visited in the past and had to admit that his midfield replacement in Serge Priso was an incredible player. Brentford also brought their own secret weapon in ex-Cork player Graham Cummins who was free-scoring.

Harry was welcomed into the home canteen and chatted to his old mates happily. He was pleased to be at a successful mid-table club, but had fond memories of his time here and thanked them for offering him a chance after Bristol City had released him.

The game was open and hard fought, and unsurprisingly for some Cummins got the opener. Harry Rubbins was determined to make his mark in his midfield tussle with Priso and was booked for a trip.

The equaliser came from an unexpected source, as young Danish right-back Mathias Jensen scored his first for the club. It had more than an element of luck as he burst down the wing and his crossed with blocked. It fell to Finnis who hit a terrible ball forward, and he only went for it to harass the defender into perhaps making a mistake. By some fluke he managed to tackle him and bury it in the corner. 1-1 right before half-time.

In the 58th minute it was a near repeat as he again combined with Finnis on the right, only to see his cross closed down and deflected away and fell to Priso a good 40 yards out. The strike was worthy of any level, and it cannoned into the top corner. Harry had to applaud.

3 minutes later Garbutt gave away a few kick, and while the game was delayed for a ref lecture, Harry indicated he wanted to take it. He sized it up; it was to the left and he was all of 30 yards away. Czech keeper Moravec was organising his wall and put a player on each post, choosing to take his right of the goal to be prepared for a centre. Harry measured his spot and breathed deep, and tuned out the 2774 crowd. He knew what he could see; if he could bend round the wall and in the top corner about the defender on the post, the keeper would be miles out. It would take accuracy, power and the right bend to make it work. While Beckham and Ronaldo were considered the World's best, experts felt others had better technique. On the opposition team Jagic (16) and Polakovs (17) were technically gifted, and the experts choice was a young Burnley player called Joe McKee (20). Only Seb Larsson came close (19). Rubbins himself was only considered decent ((11).

The ref blew his whistle and Harry held a wet finger to the air to determine wind speed and direction. He thought about statistics and wondered if they accounted for luck, and raised desired to do well against your former club. He took his run up and curled a once in the lifetime world class curler into the top corner, burying it in off the bar, right on the postage stamp.

He chose not to celebrate and this gave him a few seconds to take in the moment and see the whole ground applaud. He then disappeared under a pile of bodies and afforded himself a smile.

4 minutes later Cummins put the league one side ahead to swing the advantage and a 3-2 lead, but the minnows immediately responded with Kiesel turning in a Priso free-kick to complete a remarkable 9 minute period of 4 goals. Preston Park Celtic had the chances to win it, but despite their 61% possession failed to turn it into more goals. It was yet another remarkable cup tie with echoes of the Wigan game.

Importantly they were still in the hat for the third round and Tony prayed for a Top 4 team away.

"Burnley?"

"Yes, not a great draw to be honest, they are currently 4th in the Premier League."

Tony looked to the Heavens and told himself he must ask for a Premier League giant next time.

It was all about the finances as they eagerly tallied up the monthly totals. They breathed a sigh of relief, it was a promising £22k profit and they lived to fight another day, but were still £129k overdrawn.

01.11.14 - League - Tamworth (H) W 3-0 - Jagic, Rytter, Finnis

04.11.14 - League - Aldershot (A) W 2-0 - Lee, Hysky

08.11.14 - FA Cup 1st Round - Gillingham (A) - W 6-0 - Priso, Kacaniklic(2), Kisiel(2), Finnis

22.11.14 - FAT 1st Rnd - Fleetwood (A) W 2-0 - Kacaniklic, Finnis

25.11.14 - League - Woking (A) W 1-0 - Dário

29.11.14 - FA Cup 2nd Rnd - Brentford (H) W 3-3 - Jensen, Priso, Kisiel

[tenthreeleader]

This is an excellent post.

[mistahc]

Tony was yet again eyeing up the club's bank balance.

"Are you trying to make it change with your mind Tony?"

"Huh? Nah, nah, nah, nothing like that. Just worried still. It would be awful to have administrators in stripping us off our assets."

"Players you mean. Don't worry, we've got 8 games in December, that should help. We'll be okay."

And Connor genuinely believed it. He had a game plan though, they had to beat Brentford to avoid selling players to balance the books. First up, they needed to get some league games out off the way. He checked his email and found a new one with Jason's report on York he complied on his visit and had a look. There was some useful stuff regarding long balls over the top, and he kind of regretted letting them all go to reduce costs.

He applied the information and watched with delight as Jagic ran on to three long balls and grabbed a hat-trick in the 6-0 win. It was the perfect warm-up for the FA Cup replay. It was a testament to the Croatian that the legend who’s place he took rated him highly, and David Lee also counted him as a friend.

The second string turned out an equally good display and won 3-1 in Southport, Dário again scoring.

It was then a shortish mid-week trip to Griffin Park, one of Connor's favourite grounds. A pub on each corner and terracing in the away end, and it was a haven for fans of old school stadiums. He took his first choice team, and shook hands firmly with Harry Rubbins while grinning mostly at the 5339 attendance.

The game was tighter this time, and it was Jagic who showed the magic touch just before the break. Inevitably it was Cummins who equalised, and it again went tense as neither side wanted to make a mistake, both eager not to lose the glamour trip to Burnley.

Denmark made the game change as Jensen crossed a diagonal ball for Rytter to finish in the 84th minute. They had been here before and knew it could get snatched away, so kept the composure. Jagic got a 90th minute third which looked to have settled things, until Gary Alexander pulled one back to make a nervy finale.

Relief greeted Connor and Tony on the whistle, and they had made the 3rd round yet again. It was essential to the clubs short-term future, and even if they didn't progress further, the gate receipts from Burnley would be a massive boost.

Connor was again linked as the leading candidate for some Premier League jobs, and again denied interest in leaving. He wanted glory with the club, and wasn't leaving until his job was done. He started off with three main aims; to win a trophy, to get promotion in the league, and to sign an Icelandic player. He had no idea why, it was just something he wanted to do deep down.

He achieved the first two within his first 8 months as a manager, but the last had eluded him. It was like an obsession, he would regularly offer contracts to the U21 players in hope of some acceptance. The dream was more real with their success and he was beginning to get mild interest, and just could not offer the financial packages available.

Omar Guomundsson was in his house in Rekajik, the place of his birth. He was back after a 2 year spell at Breiðablik, an Icelandic Premier League team, where he made 12 appearances before being released. He was bored, and the constant darkness depressed him. He called his agent to see what offers he had, and it was still only from a small club in England who he had refused to even discuss terms with for months now. They had scouted him playing U21 football and he admired their determination, but their lowly stature wasn’t enough. He felt he could be the next Hermann Hreioarsson, but 6 weeks unemployed in the Icelandic winter had been tough and he was relenting. The club were known as giant killers, and had a big Danish following due to having a few players there. He asked his agent to pass on the number for the Danish Keeper Martin Madsen, and he gave him a call to see what life was like there. Despite some glowing references, he still wasn't sure and decided to take a holiday to check it out as Madsen said he could sleep on their sofa.

A week later he was on an Easyjet flight to Gatwick to meet the manager and have a look around, and when he arrived at Gatwick to be picked up by ex-Liverpool player Alex Kacaniklic he was overawed, and made very welcome. He joined the lads in training and thought it was like an American football team. He immediately noticed there was enough left-backs to fill a 5-a-side team and wondered how they felt at seeing yet more competition arrive.

Madsen was playing in the FA Trophy game away to Boreham Wood and he told him he should come as there was room on the coach. He went for the experience, and enjoyed playing cards with the goalkeeper and his friend Oktay. The ground was no better than what he was used to in the Icelandic Premier League, but the quality of football was better than expected. He was particularly impressed by Dário, who despite being 37 and in the twilight of his career showed hints of what a talented player he once was. He noted the German Franz at left-back was a natural right-footer, and guessed that was why he was targeted as the other left-backs clearly weren't up to scratch.

He clapped the victorious team off the pitch and congratulated Dário and Affane on their goals in the easy 2-0 win. He wanted to see more, so joined the team as a spectator to watch a Rytter double sink Lincoln. He was still impressed, so stayed for the next home game as Jagic got both in the 2-0 win against Stockport.

Connor came and sat next to him while he warmed himself up on some English Tea.

"So what do you think? The Danish lads said if you want to stay you can have the spare bed at their house you are staying at. Alex tells me next year they are thinking of upgrading to a house with a swimming pool and gym."

"It's good here. Nice bunch of people. Do you always win 2-0?"

"Ha ha, no, sometimes it's 6. Why don't you stay on a non-contract and train with us? That way you can leave when you want?"

"........okay, you have a deal."

They shook firmly and laughed. And as Connor walked off he turned back.

"Just one more thing, don't suppose you have any friends that you think might come on the same deal?"

Icelandic players are like buses; you wait ages for one than 4 come along at once. In with Guomundsson (21 DLC) came Baldur Hannesson (16, AML/ST), Ingolfur Magnusson (18 DL), Porvaldur Torfason (19 MC/AMC/ST)

They wouldn't officially join the club until January, but once over it would make for a very crowded Scandinavian house, and a killer meatball bill, with 13 of them on the books.

Boxing Day and New Year's Eve saw the end of the 2-0 streak, with a 4-0 win for the first team on the former , with a scoreless second half, and a 3-0 win for the second choice on the latter.

It was looking promising for the Burnley game, and yet another month of profit to help balance the books. The Burnley game alone could see them out of debt.

03.12.14 - League - York (H) W 6-0 - Kacaniklic, Jagic(3), Kisiel, Rytter

06.12.14 - League - Southport (A) W 3-1 -Dário, Clarke, Hysky

10.12.14 - FA Cup 2nd Rnd Replay- Brentford (A) W 3-2 -Jagic (2), Rytter

13.12.14 - FAT 2nd Rnd - Boreham Wood (A) W 2-0 -Dário, Affane

16.12.14 - League - Lincoln (A) W 2-0 - Rytter(2)

23.12.14 - League - Stockport (H) W 2-0 -Jagic(2)

26.12.14 - League - Hereford (H) W 4-0 -Perez, Jagic, Rytter, Kacaniklic

31.12.14 - League - Darlington (H) W 3-0 -Dário, Murray, Affane

[mistahc]

The New Year saw some changes. Ranieri left for £5K to Oxford. He was worth more but it was an attempt to help reduce the clubs financial deficit.

As expected the big clubs were sniffing around the talented first team, and Coventry made a cheeky £33k bid for the star Czech goalie Moravec which was never going to be accepted.

QPR were also targeting 6ft4in Polish Centre-back Kisiel, who was rated by many as having Premier League potential. Connor didn’t want him to go, and keeping their star players was essential over the transfer window. He tried to set a high transfer value to deter any bids, and on checking the paperwork saw that he had a minimum release fee of £180k. He offered a new contract to alter that but his agent was playing hard-ball and all he could get was a minimum transfer fee of £1.9 million. It would have to be sufficient, but at least the amount would finance new training facilities if met.

At 9am the team got together at the Stadium ready for the 5 hour drive to Burnley. It was a clear fresh day in Brighton, but the weather got progressively worse as they drove up North. Tony commented that when they were rich enough, they would start flying for games, or at least stay overnight.

Burnley were still holding forth place, largely thanks to their strike force of Charlie Austin and Jay Rodriguez, and creativity of James McClean in midfield. Stifling them was key, and the weight of expectation was put on the young shoulders of Jensen, Kiesel and Perez, and only the Dane had any experience other than this season. At the average age of 19, it was a tough test.

Jensen put in a man of the match performance but it was more about wasteful Burnley. Despite having 17 clear cut chances and 63% of the possession, they were limited to just 2 shots of target which Moravec was equal to them. It ended 0-0 and a spirited performance from the minnows, and a deserved replay back at the Withdean without Austin who was carried off injured.

Winning service was immediately resumed with a win in Mansfield (minus 7 degrees!) and Halifax before the return fixture. A record crowd was expected due to the ground improvements, and the mood was positive as it was be the Premiership side who had to travel the 300 mile distance midweek in snowy conditions causing a long journey.

It was freezing cold, and the light snow was settling on the pitch. Connor stood with his opposite number Eddie Howe, either side of ref Anthony Taylor. Both were encouraging him to let the game go ahead, as it looked playable to them and neither wanted it delayed. He reluctantly agreed, and signalled to his assistants that they were on. Connor made sure his players had long studs on.

He sent his players out happy that most of them came from climates that meant this was hardly a horrific experience for the Danes, Swedes, Czechs, Poles and Lativans. He was happy that only the Cameroonian Priso and Croatian Jagic wore gloves and a snood, the latter was acceptable due to his birth and upbringing in Melbourne, Australia.

It took just 13 minutes for the first chance, Polakovs picked up the ball by his own area, and a great one touch passing move saw it pinged to Priso, Rytter than Kacaniklic, who turned and played the perfect slide rule pass for Jagic to run on to. 1-0 to the home side.

The Super Hoops dominated the game and won a through in in the 41st minute far up on the left. Rytter received it and after some trickery on the wing fired a cross in, which was headed well clear. Polakovs controlled with his left expertly, rolled it to his right and bent it in from 40 yards.

Straight from kick-off, a slick ball saw Rodriguez race clear and pull one back from a tight angle.It was game on, but you could tell he was struggling without his usual strike partner and with McClean up front rather than midfield.

The second half was subdued, and it took until the 83rd minute for the next goal to come. Jagic started it on the right wing, and passed it inside to Lund who played it to Rytter a good distance out. He saw the run of Jagic and played it through to the right side of the box. The Croat picked it up on the edge of the box and it looked like nothing was on as he was so far wide but he surprised everyone by smashing it in the near post. He clearly was a striker high on confidence to even attempt it from there, but it was a fabulous effort to cap a sensational performance.

Their place in the forth round was confirmed and in truth it was an easy match and the opposition barely turned up. But considering the title of Premier League scalp was also shared by Liverpool and Manchester United, they were in good company. Charlton awaited in the next round, with an away trip to The Valley scheduled in for 31st January.

It was evident confidence at the club was sky high, and it peaked in the following two games at home. Both Barrow and Luton were hit for five. Jagic's hat-trick against the latter made it 29 in league, which was a new record and it was only January.

The first team repeated the 5 goals but uncharacteristically conceded four in the FA Trophy game. It wasn't the first time in a competitive game as Gainsbrough also had scored the amount, but it was a concern as the warm-up game for Charlton.

They would be rested for the league trip to Burton away, and the alarming conceding of goals continued as they found themselves 2-0 down. Kral pulled one back before Half-time but it needed a 91st minute winner from club Legend Super Dário. The goal had put him on 56 league career goals for the club, putting him clear of Lee's 55. He was the new record holder.

It was FA Cup Saturday yet again, and the coaches were full and waiting to set off. Heavy snow was reported in London and Tony was talking to Charlton Chairman Steve Donaldson, who was telling him it was going to go ahead and the pitch was nearly clear. So off they set, full of song and cheer, for the short trip to South London.

They were not convinced by the pitch inspection at 14:30pm, as the ground seemed frozen solid. The Charlton ground staff had cleared the snow but it was still coming down. The fans grew concerned and agitated.

The time was showing 15:06 and the teams were in the dressing room. Connor and Chris Powell were with the ref in the centre circle, watching as the groundsman stuck a fork in repeatedly. Boo's started to ring out.

At 15:20 the Sky Sports reporter was trying to feed back an update and trying to ignore the snowballs being pelted at him from the crowd. The loud-speaker started an announcement and he looked up to the direction as if it would help his hearing. The message was distorted but some words were clear as the postponement was confirmed. The crowd cheered themselves up by pelting the reporter with more snowballs.

Tony made the kind gesture of offering to pay back any extra travel costs, he knew that they had made £250k this month and were finally back in the black. The rescheduled game would take place on the Tuesday night, so at least the whole squad would be fit and raring to go.

The only other transfer activity was Graham Clarke went out on loan to Dover to get some first team experience as his development was stalling in the reserves.

03.01.15 – FA Cup 3rd Rnd – Burnley (A) D 0-0

06.01.15 – League – Mansfield (A) W 3-1 - Priso, Jagic, Dário

10.01.15 – FAT 3rd Rnd – FC Halifax (A) W 2-0 - Clarke(2)

14.01.15 – FA Cup 3rd Rnd Replay – Burnley (H) W 3-1 - Jagic(2), Polakovs

17.01.15 – League – Barrow (H) W 5-0 - Perez, O.G, Rytter, Kacaniklic, Priso

21.01.15 – League – Luton (H) W 5-0 - O.G, Jagic(3), Dário

24.01.15 – FAT 4th Rnd – Hayes & Yeading (A) W 5-4 - Dário, Kral, Jagic, Priso, O.G

28.01.15 – League – Burton (A) W 3-2 - Kral, Murray, Dário

[mistahc]

Tuesday finally saw the FA Cup 4th round game. The team was the same; it was the first choice. It was already known who the victors were in a trip to Championship side West Ham, and the team tasked to do it were Moravec, Jensen, Kisiel, Murray (in for the injured Perez), Franz, Polakovs, Priso, Finnis, Kacaniklic, Rytter and Jagic. Not an Englishman among them, in the countries most historical competition.

They still wanted to win though, and they had a reasonable chance against a side under-performing in the Championship. And they dominated the game, expertly limiting the home side to just one shot on target, and creating five of their own.

In football of course shots on target didn't mean much. Connor had seen games where side had 20 on target, and they still lost 2-0 to a side with only one due to an own goal. Luckily that wasn't the case here as Rytter's 19 minute goal proved to be the winner. West Ham were now targeted, and would be a bit tougher as they were third in the league.

Colin Murray was enjoying a rare run in the first team, and scored a goal to inspire the team to a 2-1 league win over Hayes. He also repeated that in both legs of the FA Trophy Semi-Final against Ebbsfleet to set up another final appearance against Lincoln.

Due to the FA Trophy Semi Final the FA Cup game was postponed and this meant the draw was made before the game. The players grouped together safe in the knowledge that Leeds United of the Championship were the only non-Premier League team in the hat, along with Stoke, Everton, Newcastle and both Manchester giants. Liverpool had been knocked out at home to Blackburn in the 4th round, so for the first time they would not play them in the competition. They just wanted a big club away and a chance to play in a top ground and it was Tony who screamed loudest at getting the 75'797 capacity Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United. It certainly gave an extra incentive to win the next tie, and with Fergie now retired, it was Louis Van Gaal to pit wits against.

It was now time to blow bubbles. Not the Monkey previously owned by Michael Jackson, it is of course the anthem associated with West Ham United. It was FA Cup action again, and once again Preston Park Celtic had an opportunity to be the first post-war non-league side to get past the 5th round with a third attempt. They were the 7th side to try. In recent years Crawley had been beaten by Manchester United in 2010/11, and Kidderminster Harriers lost to West Ham in 93/94. The Super Hoops were knocked out by Liverpool and Wigan, but those were Premiership sides and the Hammers had quality but were only outside promotion hopefuls in the Championship.

With the exception of Murray deputising for Perez, it was the first choice team with Moravec, Jensen, Kisiel, Garbutt, Polakovs, Priso, Finnis, Kacaniklic, Jagic and Rytter joining him on the pitch. The players didn't need a boost, they were itching and ready to go so a team talk was easy. Connor felt the team had developed their mental strength over the years, and he just knew they would not be over-awed by the full Boleyn Ground or the opposition. He was also delighted that Colin Murray was going to be on the pitch to organise things as he played with more heart and courage than anyone he knew.

20'659 fans roared the East London side on, and they had early reason to celebrate as Irish International Simon Cox picked up a cross and hammered in a 3rd minute opener, with Garbutt in a dreamland and playing him on-side.

The minnows deserved credit for attacking and former England Robert Green was a rock before disaster struck. Taylor floated a free kick in for the Hammers in the 25th minute and Kisiel tangled with Abdoulaye Faye as the ball bounced out the box. Incredibly the ref pointed to the spot and the young Pole was incensed and showed the ref what he thought of the decision, with Murray doing well to take him away to avoid a booking.

Up stepped Mark Noble, the 27 year old West Ham Captain with 25 career league goals to his name and expert penalty taker. He took a deep breath and began his run-up, and it was immediately evident the keeper choose wrong and was stranded. The post had it covered though, and brilliantly push it away into the path of the incoming Faubert. From nowhere Dale Finnis slid in perfectly to block the effort, and the away bench could look from behind their fingers again.

It wasn't a classic end to end game like some of their previous FA Cup 5th round matches, and there were limited chances of note before half-time. Connor knew they were lucky to still be in it, and encouraged his side to keep pushing and attacking to get one of their now famous breakaway goals. Or even a lucky goal, any type would do.

And it was the latter that changed the game. A good passing move saw Priso released and he hit a shot that would have lit up the 6 nations. Green hoofed the goal kick up field, and Murray beat Cox to head it back, Kacaniklic hit it forward and wasted it as Jagic could only flick it on with his head goalward and it bounced safely to Green about 15 yards from his goal and 3 yards from the edge of the box. He caught it safely and moved forward to send it back again and the whistle blew for leaving his box.

The error-strewn keeper was booked, and had given away a free kick on the edge of the area. Jagic run forward to take it, suddenly reminded that he was an expert free-kick taker and was signed for that very reason. He also remembered that he could hit them as he hit a beauty over the wall and into the corner just beyond Green's diving reach. Connor and Tony were suddenly up on their feet and dancing in jubilation, hugging each other roughly. Tony commented that he was the best 8 grand that he had ever spent, and that included the Caribbean holiday the previous Christmas.

Connor would never admit that his top goal-scorer was signed as back-up for the AMC position that Kacaniklic held, and that Dário was expected to be playing up front with Rytter. It was exactly the type of luck that was synonymous with his managerial career, and he lapped up the adulation that came his way. Someone rubbed his head and he worried that even more might fall out, but he was still happy as somehow they were drawing.

It was backs against the walls as the non-leaguers defended deep and threw themselves in front of every effort. In the 74th minute Booker hit a long cross in and with the defenders arms up in the air like a 70's Disco Taylor scored a great diving header. The Linesman joined in the dance and correctly raised his flag to the away manager's relief.

Few chances were evident in the latter parts of the game and it was yet another cup draw and replay required, but one that Tony and Connor were happy with as it contributed to a monthly gate receipts of £636K which swelled the clubs finances, and help make £546k in the month. The bankruptcy fears were well beyond them, and the club neared financial security and a safety cushion to pay for meeting league safety standards and still have some left over to finally build the much needed training facilities.

The players got a well deserved rest before the replay a week later, which saw a second string beat Kettering 3-0. All of the goals were scored by the legendary David Lee, which took his club career tally to 57, and his record back from Dário.

03.02.15 - FA Cup 4th Rnd - Charlton (A) W 1-0 - Rytter

07.02.15 - League - Hayes & Yeading (A) W 2-1 - Polakovs, Murray

14.02.15 - FAT SF 1st leg - Ebbsfleet (H) W 5-2 - O.G, Murray, Kacaniklic, Rytter, Dário

17.02.15 - League - Forest Green (H) W 3-1 - Garbutt, Rytter, Jagic

21.02.15 - FAT SF 2nd leg - Ebbsfleet (A) W 2-1 -Torfason, Murray

25.02.15 - FA Cup 5th Rnd - West Ham (A) D 1-1 - Jagic

28.02.15 - League - Kettering (H) W 3-0 - Lee(3)

[mistahc]

In the previous summer Premiership side QPR offered Connor the opportunity to be their new manager. After his surprise rejection, they turned to Ian Holloway to manage the club. Despite the mid-table obscurity of his first season, the following year was spent fighting relegation so he was sacked. The tabloids ran the story that they would go back to the Preston Park Celtic manager again, and that he would take long-fancied target Kisiel with him.

It may have been true that he was short-listed, but it was publicly refuted which gave the club a boost before the FA Cup replay. Connor still had no intention to leave, and they were still on the edge of record-breaking glory. If they were to beat West Ham they would be the first non-league team post war to make the Quarter-Finals, which would be a remarkable achievement with the money in the modern game.

The same team were rested and raring to have another bite of the cherry. Connor had them in the dressing room and took an opportunity to go all Jackanory on them. He looked at their expectant faces while they sat on the benches in front of him, and took a spot in the centre of attention.

"Lads, can you feel the history we are close to making? Let me tell you about a team called Blyth Spartans."

"Who?"

"Exactly. Only six non-league clubs have made the 5th round in post-war FA Cup History."

"What's post-war got to do with it boss?"

"Well frankly pre-war football was rubbish. Nah, only kidding. In 1901 a then non-league Tottenham Hotspur won the FA Cup, the only non-league side to ever do so. In reality though there were the equivalent of League One, so in my book it's hardly comparable to modern football and the four leagues. Doesn't stop the Yids banging on about it though. Anyway, back to the story. I was born in 1978, so I guess it's serendipitous that I have managed a club known for Giant Killing as the 77/78 season was famous for it."

"Was that the year that Hereford beat Newcastle? I remember the goal was on the Match of the Day intro a few years back."

"That was 1971. That year a record breaking 6 non-leaguers made it to the 3rd Round, including Northern League Blyth. They beat fellow non-leaguers Enfield in the 3rd round, Stoke in the 4th, and faced Wrexham in the 5th, when I was just 5 days old. They amazingly went 1-0 up and were holding on until the last minute until Wrexham won a corner, although the ball had clearly gone behind via a Welsh player’s foot. To give himself more room, mid*fielder Les Cartwright moved the corner flag so that it stood at an angle. As Clarke in the Blyth goal collected comfortably, the ref noticed the flag had fallen completely over. He ordered a retake and the flag was balanced into its frozen hole for Cartwright to swing the corner over again. Once more the defence repelled the threat but, incredibly, the flag had fallen over again. Another retake. This time the arc of the cross caught out the Blyth defence and Dixie McNeil managed to force it over the line at the back post. It was the last kick of the game."

"And then what happened boss?"

"They got thumped 4-0 in the replay. But we're a better side than them, so that ain't happening today. Point is, they were the only non-leaguers to get as far as we have this year and last; the 5th round replay. If we win today we'll be in the record books, and as we'll go up again this year, this is our only chance to do that. So what I'm saying is............... LET'S RUDDY HAVE 'EM!!!"

He was greeted back with a roar so loud they would have heard it in the town of Blyth. Well if they had super-sensitive hearing perhaps.

The capacity crowd were equally as passionate as they took to the pitch, and the players were evidently full of confidence. The radio commentators set the mood.

"And here we are at Withdean Stadium, home of Blue Square Premier club Preston Park Celtic as they host Championship side West Ham in this fifth round replay. This tiny club have sparkled these last few years and I was here as they beat the mighty Manchester United a few years back. What's the chances of them doing something amazing again? It's a beautiful spring day here, and the fans are making it something of a carnival atmosphere here. The stadium was made famous by Brighton and Hove Albion when they played here as the worst ground in the league with the worst view for the away fans who are far from the pitch. Pies are good though. Have you played here before Steve?"

"no."

"Oh, okay. Looks like we are ready to kick off. Croatian Jagic has got us started by rolling the kick-off to Dane Rytter, who passes back to Swede Kacaniklic, back to striker Jagic, who passes to Lativan Polakovs, back to Jagic, out to Danish right-back Jensen, to Priso from Cameroon, back to Polakovs, to Priso, to Jensen, ooohh lovely backheel to Kacaniklic, to Jagic, to Scotland's Finnis, to Priso, oh that's a great ball..... RYTTER!!!!! GOOAALL!! The crowd have gone wild. 1-0 and West Ham haven't had a kick! How many passes was that? 15? Incredible stuff, and they couldn't have wished for a better start."

Connor and Tony were hugging each other and dancing, it was the perfect start and they were delighted. Their tails were up and they attacked with venom, and a created more chances. West Ham looked shell-shocked and their manager Alan Shearer wished that a player of his quality was on the pitch as Vaz Te shot wildly.

In the 25th minute the home side attacked again and won a throw in on the left. Rytter had watched Lee stand alone from a throw in during the FA Cup 5th round Wigan game, and thought he'd try his luck. West Ham defenders obviously had the same knowledge of the rules and left him by the corner flag as the ball fell to his feet. The young striker ran at the goal and went for glory and danced his way through before unleashing a shot. The defender stuck out a leg and it bounced dangerously across the goal where Samir Jagic got his head on it it, and directed it into the back of the net.

Connor was in dreamland and celebrated wildly, pumping his fists into the air. They'd been here before and lost it, but it was better to be 2-0 up than 0-2 down.

West Ham were not beaten and took the ascendancy, clearing not wanting to lose. Moravec was resolute in his defiance, and Murray and Kisiel defended like Giants, frustrating the bigger team. Jensen had a rare chance and smashed a shot into the cross-bar from 30 yards. With it still rattling, the young defender then flung himself in front of a shot and it spun off into the crowd. West Ham corner, and the away fans sang "Can you tell us if we score, can you tell us if we score."

They may have been miles away but they worked out Vaz Te had headed the corner in, but the home fans told them anyway.

Despite more chances it stayed 2-1 at half-time, and the home fans were optimistic. Connor motivated his troops and tried to maintain their focus, all they had to do is keep playing.

And they did play, and expertly controlled the game and limited the chances. They even managed the fable of disallowed goals; the off-side diving header, as Kacaniklic celebrated what he thought was a 92nd minute clincher.

It didn't matter, history was made as they won 2-1 and were in the Quarter-Finals. Connor celebrated the history in the making, and Tony was joining him for slightly different reasons; his eyes on the finances of a packed Old Trafford.

As they watched Jagic collect his record breaking 16th Man of the Match for the season, Tony told his manager that he was very glad he let him spend that £8000.

04.03.15 - FA Cup 5th Rnd Rep - West Ham (H) W 2-1 - Rytter, Jagic

[mistahc]

A fortnight later and Connor was sat on the bench in the local park, and he looked up to see Tony confidently strolling towards him.

"Hi buddy, got the day off so thought I'd come and see the youth trials."

"You shouldn't have bothered, the 'talent' is rubbish as usual. When are we going to get that youth academy to make this a worthwhile event? Martin reckons there is just no-where here worth keeping and I agree."

"Well, I've been doing some maths and we could make over a million from Old Trafford ticket sales. That should do it. We might have to name after them if we do get enough cash to pay for it."

"The Trafford centre? Nah, I'd rather name it after one of our players. I'd love to name it after David Lee and make Dário the head of Youth Development."

"Not a bad idea. He is a club hero so I'll think about it. By the way, do we need any more players? We seem to have loads."

"Well not really. We can't get rid of the deadwood and a good amount of our players aren't up to league level. In reality, neither Lee or Murray are, but I want to make sure they play a part in the first game. If we need anything, it's a bit more quality in reserve. Perez was injured and it was Murray who stepped in, so we could do with a decent centre-back. We don't need anyone up front as we have quality there. But no harm in getting some good players in to sell them on."

"True, but if you can't sell them then we are stuck with them on the wage bill."

"Guess so, but we can afford it now. After the West Ham game, the first choice mullered Ebbsfleet easy enough. Rytter's hat-trick showed that he is the man to play alongside Jagic up front. But the 1-0 win over Gateshead showed how our back-up isn't top class. Lee scored again, but we didn't play well or create much, and were lucky to win in truth. We could be playing the likes of Gillingham, Swindon, Rotherham, Crawley, Plymouth, Crewe, Bradford, Oldham, Port Vale, Southend next year. Those players might be able to hold their own, but do we really want to be battling relegation or pushing for top of the table."

Tony thought about it, and agreed. Even with the expected mandatory stadium improvements, they should have cash to spare.

"Okay, get some in, but no more than 3 on contracts until they prove themselves or you can be certain you can sell them on."

Connor jumped up and rubbed his hands together with glee. He told Martin Rowlands he had the choice if he wanted any of the kids and went home to scour the International youth squads. The assistant manager asked him for any decent youth players if he could find them and Connor agreed as the wages would be minimal.

Connor looked at every single U19 and U21 squad and ran through agent files. He also asked his squad for any recommendations. It was why he never brought in any English players, as the youth squads were always full of top prospects signed by top clubs. The random nationalities always had decent players on free transfers.

First in was a 15 year old Cypriot striker, Stelios Zeniou. He was sent straight to the U18 squad.

Next was long-term target Stefano Borraccini. The 20 year old Italian DM/MC had been released by Juventus months ago, but was now willing to discuss terms. Connor was also delighted to snap up 19 year old Finnish defender Niko Roschier who could play right and centre. Again despite being released by HJK months ago, he was only recently willing to talk to him. 19 year old Andri Olafsson was another who also recently gave in, and the 19 year old Icelandic DM/MC joined his friends to complete the 3 contract players.

Non-contracts were accepted by ex-Ajax 20 year Dutch AMRC/SC Tim Drost and ex-Spurs 22 year old Italian Massimo Luongo.

Low wage offers were accepted by Irishmen Des Murphy (19 DRC) and Owen Kelly (21 SC). They made it 94 players in total signed by the manager, with only 15 sold and 62 released, more would leave at the end of the season through sales, retirement and contracts ending.

Things were shaping up nicely and the players signed in time to be eligible to face Manchester United, although the opportunity to play was unlikely as the manager wanted to keep faith with the team that had got them that far.

07.03.15 - League - Ebbsfleet (A) W 4-2 - Rytter(3), Kral

10.03.15 - League - Gateshead (H) W 1-0 - Lee

[mistahc]

For the first time in at least 80 years a non-league team were in the FA Cup Quarter Finals. Preston Park Celtic travelled to Old Trafford to face the famous Manchester United, a team they unbelievably beat in the competition a few years early. In the others, 2 were all Premiership as Everton faced Newcastle, and Spurs played Man City. In the other Stoke face Championship Leeds.

Four games, four clear kick-off times for live TV coverage. But remarkably their game was the only one not rearranged, despite their only FA Cup game in the previous season being televised being a entertaining 4-0 away win over Bury in the 4th round. Connor and Tony were fuming. The only positive was the Saturday 3pm kick-off gave them plenty of time to leave early for the journey, and still have time for a look around.

On the day the friends were happy to not have the camera crew follow them, as it gave them time to relax and not think about the game too much. They got up early and followed the normal ritual of Bacon Sandwiches, tea, and a good chat about the day ahead. They felt no pressure as they didn't expect to win, quite the opposite, so were determined to enjoy the day out.

They got to the ground and made their way to the coach and were delighted to see the players were there bright and early. The team were in good spirits, and most joked about the need for a luxury coach for the next season. Tony promised them that if they won he'd get a top of the range one, and fit a hot tub in the back.

The journey was long, but the mood continued to be relaxed and happy. They arrived at 1pm, and spurned the opportunity to watch Man City beat Spurs in favour of the Stadium tour. Connor had been before in the 80's, but it had been re-developed since and seemed huge. The crowd would be nearly double that an Anfield, and four times more than the DW Stadium, and it was important for Connor that the players not be over-awed.

He had them out on the pitch warming up early and the ground was filling up fast. He also managed to bury a shot at the second time of asking, to add to his goals scored at big ground tally. He was impressed with his teams composure and their focus on their preparations. Even with the crowd half full it was an intimidating atmosphere.

The players sat kitted up in the dressing room while they were being given tactical advice by their manager. The direction was simple, play well and keep the shape, and do it for the fans. It was hardly genius at work, and he made motions with his hands like he was chopping wood. They presumed he meant about keeping straight lines but they couldn't be sure.

Connor ran through the team sheet, but they all knew the line-up as the first choice. Moravec, Jensen, Kisiel, Perez, Garbutt, Polakovs, Priso, Finnis, Kacaniklic, Rytter, and Jagic. He was interrupted by a knock on the door and the forth official waved the home team sheet for their perusal. Martin Rowlands grabbed it and skim read it and looked for approval to read out the names, on his managers nod he had the rooms full attention.

"Looks like a 4-3-3. Lindegaard in goal. Mauricio Isla at right-back, he has 60 caps for Chile. Rafael at left-back. Dejan Lovren at centre-back, he has 43 caps for Croatia. He's partnered by a 16 year old centre-back Adam Thompson, I reckon we should go at him as the weak link. Centre midfield of Carrick, Cleverley, and Young, 90 England caps between them. A young English lad called Brookfield on the right, never heard of him, but Angel Di Maria I do know, 37 caps for Argentina on the left wing. They've got a hot Belgium prospect upfront called Gérard Vangeel, 8 U21 caps for Belgium. JP, guess you know him?"

Perez nodded his head and said that he'd have him in his pocket later. Connor cleared his throat and spoke again.

"Well, that's a reserve team believe it or not. Di Maria is their only player who is playing each week. They've opened a door for us so let's go for it. Right Samir and Claus, take it in turns to run at that young centre-back and see what he's got. JP and Mac, you two come up from the back for free-kicks and corners and let's take them down to China Town."

They all whooped and cheered and ran out onto the pitch. The stadium had filled and it was an incredible scene and atmosphere, but the team were in the zone.

Rytter and Jagic kicked the game off and there was no repeat of the early West Ham goal. United got the ball and Di Maria was released and crossed for Isla to hit a spectacular volley with Moravec gratefully held to his chest.

In the 7th minute they had their first chance, as they broke on the counter-attack, which saw Rytter dribble past Thompson but fired just wide. United attacked again, and a good move saw Vangeel beat the keeper with a header, only to see Jensen miraculously clear off the line. It gave the Dane super-hero like confidence, and he surged forward minutes later leaving Isla for dead before being fouled by the young defender Thompson covering.

Finnis whipped it in low and Perez nipped in front of Isla, brought it down, and fired it in to the corner between Lindegaard and the man on the post. The crowd were silenced, and the players celebrated wildly at scoring the opener. Connor was in dreamland.

Van Gaal was livid and tried to inspire his players from the touchline. It played instant dividends as they won a succession of corners and efforts, but were unable to break though. Young missed a sitter in the 43rd minute and critics wondered that perhaps it was not their day.

The 44th minute made them believe it. United gave away a free kick in the centre-circle, which Perez took short to Polakovs, who played it to Kacaniklic. The Swede majestically turned Carrick and played a delightful through ball for Jagic to run off young Thompson's shoulder to finish beautifully. 2-0 to the non-leaguers on the stroke of half-time.

A chorus of boo's accompanied the half-time whistle as the home crowd showed their disbelief and anger. Van Gaal was clearly regretting playing a second string team, and glared at each and everyone as they came off. Despite only having 2 shots on target, the part-timers took their chances to score both.

Connor was pinching himself but not counting any chickens.

"Amazing stuff lads, but I can guarantee they are going to come at us so keep it together. Good luck."

As expected Man United did press, but it was Jagic's run that was causing them problems until Carrick headed the cross clear and the Premiership side broke at speed. Brookfield released Vangeel, who was expertly shepherded out wide by Kisiel who eventually blocked his cross. Rafael picked up the loose ball and passed it to Young, who was tackled by Priso in the area. The experienced Englishman shamefully went down like he was shot, and the referee Harold Webb fell for it. Penalty, and Carrick made no mistake. Game on, and United had the impetuous.

They rained down shots and chances and the young defence were impressive in their resilience. They held on to the 83rd minute until Di Maria carved them open to square for Vangeel to score an easy tap in. 2-2, and the defence were incensed with the linesman as they felt it was clearly off-side.

Connor held his head in his hands and cursed his luck. A dodgy penalty and an off-side had torn away the historic victory, and he tried to motivate his players to channel their energies into finding a winner.

Jagic again ran at Thompson and was fouled. Finnis wanted a crack, and fired it just wide. Rytter ran rings around Rafael and crossed in for Jagic and it was saved and the clock hit 90 minutes, and the assistant referee signalled 3 minutes.

In the 93rd minute Garbutt was released and crossed it into the bottom of Frank Koolhof and off for a corner, the youngster was brought on as rightback in the 91st minute to run down the clock.

The ref signalled that they could take it but had to be quick. Dales Finnis slowly went towards it, safe in the knowledge they had the one chance then it was game over, and a replay back home. It was 2-2 in the last seconds and a replay was looking likely.

He crossed it in towards the near post, Jean-Piere Perez lost his marker and rose to met it in the 6 year box. Isla came off his post to get in the way, Rafael was desperately trying to pick up his man again, and Lindegaard was stranded. 73,259 people in the crowd held their breath and time stood still. The radio commentator had described the action up until now and continued his broadcast.

"And Perez must score......."

14.03.15 - FA Cup 6th Rnd - Manchester United (A) D 2-2

[mistahc]

In Geneva, Professor Hüber was watching his huge centrifuge machine spin, counting down the time with his hands. It was the culmination of decades of study into Higgs Boson. He may not be the first to find it, but he was determined to be the first to split it. They were deep in a hidden nuclear bunker, and the Nitrogen was poised and ready to be released.

"Time of test. 17:48:00 UTC+1 exactly. Fünf, Vier, Drei, zwei, eins...... JETZT!!!!"

The mechanical arm moved robotically and the Nitrogen was released. A Huge bright light filled the room and the scientists shielded their eyes.

"Did it work? Professor Hüber, did it work?"

"I'm not sure. Test end 17:49:25. That's strange? Did we lose a minute there? We seem to have lost time? What happened? Can we replay the video footage?"

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At 16:48 GMT, time stood still and Connor was frozen but seemed aware of the fact. He panicked, thinking he was having a stoke, then he relaxed in his thoughts. If he was able to move he would have wandered up to the players lounge to have a look at the United players WAG's. And maybe peer down the tops of the more lovely ones and check out the Prawn Sandwiches.

Instead he was looking at JP Perez leaping like a salmon. The only boobs he could see was the united defence who had switched off and given the young Belgian defender all the space in the world to get his head on the corner.

He could see Lindegaard's face who knew he was in no-man's land and his eyes were wide in horror. He looked at the faces behind the goal and could see the fear.

Connor looked to his left, and Tony was shaped in the process of getting up off his seat and either looked like he was either skiing or positioning himself to do a dump over a squat-loo. It depended on your life experiences, and Connor had done neither but had a good imagination.

He would be unable to explain the experience, but if he looked on the internet he would have found a handful of others who shared it. The common theory was there was an unexplained tear in the space time continuum, and some wild speculations suggested this had created an alternative reality from that point on.

Whoever paused the moment released time again and life resumed as Perez struck a fine header that crashed off the bar, and spun over safely. Connor could have sworn the 40 odd thousand behind all breathed out at the same time causing a draft on his neck and the home fans celebrated with relief.

The ball was in the crowd and was bounced around like a volleyball and the fans weren't giving it back, so the ref blew the final whistle and it was a 2-2 draw, and a credible result for the unfancied non-league side.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Back in Geneva, Professor Hüber had looked at his technician who had his head in his hands, and stormed over to get his video replay.

"Herr Burt? Are you okay? Where's my video link? What's this you have on my monitor? How dare you watch football on an internet stream when I am conducting important scientific experiments!!! Move, move. Let me at the desk."

"Sorry Professor, it's just I am a big Manchester United fan and they've just conceded a last minute goal and are out of the FA Cup to a bunch of nobodies."

"Ha, well Bayern München are the best football team in Europe anyway, but we have more important things to do. Get out of the way."

[mistahc]

Connor picked up the Sunday paper excitedly. There was some rubbish on the front about a scientist trying to split the God Particle, but he only had one story he was interested in and flipped to the back page to see the headline Manchester United stunned in FA Cup. He shook his fists in triumph and read the story. Preston Park Celtic had stunned the Premiership giants with a late goal in the 3-2 win, with Belgian Perez the hero with two goals. The club were due an estimated £1.3 million windfall from the gate alone, plus prize money, which was expected to be spent on Stadium upgrades and facilities.

He skipped out of bed and from the depths of Tony's room he heard a plea for silence, so he stopped his singing and put the kettle on. A few minutes later he opened his flat mates door to be greeted with the stench of stale alcohol.

"Made you a brew mate. Where do you want it?"

Tony was not complimentary in the response, and Connor chuckled in return.

"If you want, I doubt it'll fit though, and do you really want your favourite cup up there? You'll never shift the mental image and you won't be able to drink from it again no matter how many times you steam clean it."

He danced off still singing 'Simply the best' and started the Sunday fry-up. Ten minutes later Tony got up to follow the enchanting but unhealthy smells.

"Oh you beauty Connor. Let's have this over the repeats of Match of the Day. Can't wait for the draw later to see who we'll get."

"Tell me about it. We'll get either Newcastle or Man City, or the winner of the game today of either Stoke or Leeds. Obviously I want that option. And at Wembley too, that'll be some decent money."

"Me too. They are not in great form so would rather play them than top of the table City any day. Maybe that game will be on the flipping telly too, not sure what they've got against us as we epitomise the spirit of the FA Cup in my opinion."

They watched the goal over and over again. It was a great header by Perez which crashed off the bar and downwards and in. And each time it crossed the line they cheered.

They later went to join the squad and staff in the canteen and watched 10-man Stoke bully a 2-1 win and the draw followed it. They gathered in complete silence, nervously waiting for the result. With only the four teams it was going to be a quick draw. It was brief, and they were first out of the hat. Most of them repeated the line "Please be Stoke" constantly until the number was drawn. And it worked, they got Stoke. They danced in jubilation as they knew the team were struggling in 19th place in the Premiership and morale was low. They had a chance to make the final, and they couldn't wait.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Connor woke with a start and looked around disoriented. He was having a weird dream that Perez had scored the winner and the ball went in off the bar and not bounced over. He looked at the time and saw the clock showed it was a suitable for getting up. He headed down to the local shop and picked up the Sunday newspaper and was drawn to the headline Scientist plays God so read the first paragraph. He digested the words about the worlds fury of his attempts to split the God Particle due to potential things that could happen. He read the line about a theory of alternate time-lines, and a thought repeatedly bounced in his head, like it was trying to tell him something.

"hhhmmm Bacon, I really fancy a fry up."

So off he went to get the ingredients. On getting to the till, the shop owner greeted him like the old friend he was.

"Mr Connor, hello my friend. Great result at Manchester United yesterday, but why wasn't it on the TV? I had to listen to it on Radio 5. I really thought you'd won it at the end."

"Thanks Nelson. 2-2 is still a great result as we didn't expect to do that well, but being 2-0 up I suppose we could consider ourselves unlucky as it was a clear dive for the penalty. Still, we've got a replay so all is not lost."

"True Mr Connor, but aren't your best players on International duty then? It says so in the paper."

"Huh, really? Nah they'll postpone it due to the call-ups, they usually do."

"The paper must be wrong then, it says you have to play then due to the congestion at the end of the season."

Connor went home and Tony was still asleep so he made a cup of tea and had breakfast over the repeat of Match of the Day. They also mentioned the international games and Connor wished that Perez had scored to avoid a replay. For some reason he thought of the 1983 FA Cup Final and how Smith could have scored for Brighton to win it late on. He feared that the 4-0 return win by Manchester United could be replicated or worse if he was missing his key players. It all depended who was called up, but Denmark and Croatia were playing in the qualifiers which could rule out half the team.

And to top it off the FA Trophy final was just a few days before and he had a massive decision. He either played the first team on the Sunday to increase the chance of winning the FA Trophy or went for broke and played the second choice.

The midweek saw a trip to Histon and he had to choose his squad. The reality was he would only be saving some of the team for International duty. So he rolled the dice and went for broke. He played the second choice in the league game and Lee scored twice along with debutant Kelly. It was an easy 3-1 win, but Connor hoped he was playing this right. Once again he shook his head in the knowledge of how much easier it would have been if Perez's header had gone in.

18.03.15 - League - Histon (A) W 3-1 - Lee(2), Kelly