[FM13] Avoiding the drop with Darmstadt

[deltablue]

Got anyone you might be able to sell for decent money or take a chunk out of the wage bill?

[Mark Heath]

I only have two players worth anything that would take a chunk out of our debt, and they are Richter and Frode - my best centre-back and best defensive midfielder. They've both got just over a year left on their contract and I can't afford to offer them a new one, so I might have to take the tough decision to move them on this summer.

[Mark Heath]

Winter Break - Dec 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Offenbach (H, Friendly) 1-3 We fielded a lot of fringe players so it wasn't a huge surprise to go behind early. However, we got back into it, and Hanspeter Buck scored a great goal. He'll be featuring in the first team as soon as he turns 16. They regained the lead with a fluke goal and added a late third.

Heidelberg (H, Friendly) 3-0 We fielded a stronger side against weaker opposition. We failed to trouble them in the first half, but we took the lead in the second half. Condemi scored a lovely free kick. Would be nice to see one of those in the league. We should have won by a much greater margin. However, we had the disastrous news that Nsor picked up an injury that will keep him out for 8-10 months! It's a bitter blow, as he's been sensational this season. We'll probably terminate his loan, and try to find a replacement for him.

SVW Mannheim (H, Friendly) 0-1 We had the better of the first half, but they took the lead with a great free kick. We couldn't turn our dominance into a goal, and our fans had to endure another defeat against our local rivals in a friendly. We have a terrible record against them.

We've loaned 27 year old German striker Stefan Kutschke to replace Nsor. He's a very different type of player, more of a target man. But he's the best we could find at short notice.

FSV Frankfurt (H, Friendly) 0-4 Another friendly against strong opposition. They scored two fantastic first half goals. We could only manage long-range efforts. Two late goals for them left us facing an embarrassing scoreline.

Wormatia Worms (H, Friendly) 0-4 We fell behind on the break and conceded again just before half-time. We conceded two more in the second half. It wraps up a diabolical set of performances this winter break.

[Mark Heath]

Jan & Feb 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

So we enter the second half of the season with a weakened squad and low on morale. One nice thing is that now a number of our youth team have reached the age of 17 and can be used in the first team squad. We'll still have to wait for Hanspeter Buck though.

Bielefeld (H) 2-1 We got off to a flying start through Lindemann. He should have added another. We conceded from a penalty, but regained the lead through Debordeaux. We held on really well, and this is a great way to bounce back from our recent bad run of form.

Chemnitz (A) 1-3 We fell behind early as they scored with a scorching long-range effort, but we were fortuitously level as Debordeaux's low ball across the box was turned in by a defender. But they were soon in front again. We should have equalised early in the second half, but ended up falling further behind through an own goal of our own. In terms of chances we created a lot more than them. It was terrible finishing that cost us the game, with Thomalla especially guilty.

Offenbach (H) 0-2 We got off to an awful start, conceding two early goals. We were being utterly outplayed and clung on until half-time. We attempted to reshuffle tactically, but nothing we tried could loosen their grip on the game, and we sunk to a second disappointing defeat.

Unterhaching (A) 1-1 A good chance to get a win against one of the poorer sides in the division. We were very much on top, but our finishing at the moment is hopeless, and we went behind after a defensive mixup. We salvaged a point as new loan signing Kutschke levelled late on in his first appearance for us.

Erfurt (H) 1-2 We failed to convert numerous great chances in the first half, and eventually took the lead through Kutschke. But Erfurt who had been second best all game only needed two chances to score two and win the game. An absolutely sickening result.

Burghausen (A) 0-5 A really tough away game against one of the title contenders. We conceded twice in quick succession in the first half. Another goal conceded early in the second half extinguished any hope of a comeback. A useless performance, and no amount of tactical reshuffling made the slightest difference. We conceded two more and had one of our own disallowed. This dreadful run of recent form now puts us back into the relegation battle.

[Mark Heath]

Mar 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Halle (H) 0-2 We played well in the first half, creating several good chances. But fell behind just before the break. In the second half we created lots of good shooting opportunities but our finishing was attrocious. We created twice as many goalscoring opportunities as them, but somehow lost this game. They scored again in injury time.

Saarbrucken (A) 3-5 Finally we got our noses in front in a game, taking an early lead on the counter attack. But they annihilated us in the second half with four goals in quick succession. Lindemann and Schoonjans then reduced the deficit, but a penalty made it 5-3. I am at a complete loss to know how to get these players to perform at the moment.

Karlsruhe (H) 2-2 We're now in 17th and Karslruhe are top of the table. We lasted 20 minutes before going behind. We drew level after a tactical reshuffle but soon conceded again. Thomalla had a glorious chance to end his several month goal drought but completely blew it. In the second half we created several more fantastic chances to equalise and missed them all. Thomalla then failed to convert an even easier chance than his first half one. Finally 17 year old Larrieu put one away. A point is better than a defeat, but we should have one this comfortably.

Sandhausen (A) 1-1 We got off to a flying start, with Thomalla finally breaking his interminable goal drought. We were ahead for less than a minute. We created good chances to regain the lead, with Thomalla looking lively. But we couldn't snatch a winner. Another wasted opportunity to end this terrible winless sequence.

[deltablue]

You'll probably be able to hang on in there with the 8 point gap.

[Mark Heath]

Yes, 34 points is actually often enough to stay up in this division. Still would be nice to get at least 40.

[Mark Heath]

Apr 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Aachen (H) 2-1 Aachen are struggling in the league this season, so we see this as a big opportunity to get a win. We fell behind early in the game. We were all over them, and managed to draw level. We couldn't convert any of our chances until five minutes from time, Thomalla put us in front and we were able to hang on for a crucial win.

Paderborn (A) 2-1 We've dropped our keeper and Gorka for this match. Gorka has been disappointing all season, and Suljagic has been a big part of why we've done so badly this season. Skaljic, a product of our youth system gets a chance in goal. We took the lead, but sadly the only thing Skaljic did all half was pick the ball out of his net. A great pass from Debordeaux released Thomalla who put us in front. Then a second, very similar goal secured a second win on the trot, which guarantees we avoid relegation.

Koblenz (H) 2-2 Koblenz' season is nothing short of incredible. Predicted to finish bottom, with a terrible squad, they are still very much in the title race, just one point off the top. We started really well, and took the lead through Thomalla. We were in complete control and missed a glorious chance for a second. We were made to pay as they equalised very soon after. But we responded well and regained the lead. They equalised again directly from the kickoff. Very disappointing not to win this one, as we completely dominated the game.

Kiel (A) 2-1 We continue to look to next season, playing some inexperienced players in defence, and sticking with the formation that seems to be working very well for us at the moment. We conceded early and struggled to create any real chances. But Lindemann scored a superb individual goal early in the second half. And then a great strike from Thomalla gave us the lead. A great performance again.

[Mark Heath]

May 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Regensburg (H) 0-4 Regensburg are top of the table. A loose pass allowed them to break and take the lead. They were two up soon after. But we were creating more chances and so it was horribly unlucky that they added a third through a wayward cross. Soon after it was four - they had converted every single effort on goal. We hit the post in the last minute summing up our day. A good performance, but an awful result.

Wehen (A) 1-1 We end the season away to the bottom of the table side. We fell behind early in the game. We were completely overrun in the first half, but improved in the second and drew level, but couldn't snatch a win. We finish in 14th with just 45 points, considerably worse than we managed last season.

Final table

Final Stats

Our training facilities were downgraded as our financial situation continues to deteriorate despite me once again staying well inside our meagre wage budget. We can't afford to renew Lindemann's contract, which is a great shame, because he was one of our best players last season. More concerning is that most of our best players have just one year remaining on their contract, and we can't afford to renew most of them. It means we'll face a tough decision on whether to cash in now on the likes of Richter, Condemi and Frode, or let them go.

A glimmer of hope?

[deltablue]

Hope that comes to something.

[Mark Heath]

Preseason Jun & Jul 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Edenkoben (H) 5-0 Thomalla and Debordeaux scored twice each in the first half as we dismantled the weak opposition. Thomalla completed his hat-trick in the second half to wrap up a very comfortable win.

Bjorn Lindemann was voted fans player of the season for last season. It looks increasingly likely that his time at the club will come to an end.

Our wage budget has been slashed even further, making offering any contract extensions a complete impossibility.

The club has a new chairman:

He's refinanced our debt with a new long-term bank loan, but sadly this has not translated to any kind of increase in the wage budget.

SVV Manheim (H, Friendly) 1-0 We've lost all five of the matches we've played against our fierce rivals Mannheim under my management. We were on top for the whole game but couldn't find a breakthrough until injury time when Condemi snatched a winner.

Lindemann has left the club at the end of his contract. It means we're inside our wage budget, but there is very little scope for new signings.

Oberusel (H, Friendly) 5-0 We dominated from start to finish against inferior opposition and comfortably won this one.

We're hoping to sneak in two transfers despite our meagre wage budget. 18 year old Ulf Gohlert is a central attacking midfielder who had been released by Dortmund. He's hopefully going to help us fill the gap vacated by Lindemann.

Landau (H, Friendly) 4-0 Another very comfortable one-sided game, and some of the goals we scored were top quality. Gohlert got a debut goal.

We've confirmed the other of the two free transfers I wanted to make this summer. Hans-Georg Wiechers is an 18 year old centre-back released in the summer by Bayern Munich who looks a fantastic player already. It means we're over wage budget and so I'll be trying to get rid of Gorka, whose attitude has been very poor over the last season.

Metternich (H, Friendly) 4-0 Buck scored twice in another friendly we completely dominated.

We've made Dennis Richter club captain and Lukas Frode vice-captain. The concerning thing is that both have contracts due to expire next summer and we simply don't have the financial resources to offer them new deals at the moment.

Eppingen (H, Friendly) 4-0 We took the lead after just 22 seconds in this one. Blot added another with a magnificent free kick, and we strolled to victory. Hopefully this pre-season has been good for team morale, even if all our opponents were very weak sides.

We've managed to shift Benjamin Gorka to Sandhausen on a free transfer, to help keep our wage budget under control. He was becoming a bit of a divisive character in the squad, which is a shame because he was sensational for us for several seasons.

[Mark Heath]

Squad Analysis Jul 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

I actually feel quite positive about our squad for this season. A number of our young players now have a whole season of first team football behind them and are looking a lot better for it. We also have Hanspeter Buck available, who is a lightning quick forward, and could develop into a real star. Our main weaknesses are goalkeeper and left-back, and in the attacking midfield positions, we have plenty of exciting young players, but not too much experience.

This season we're going to play with a narrower formation that worked well for us at the end of last season, and also fits better with the players we have at our disposal. The main challenge is working out who takes Lindemann's role as playmaker. We're going to try using Condemi there, which will mean retraining him to play centrally.

Goalkeeper: Rastko Suljagic had a poor season last year, but he's still young so I'm hoping this season will be a marked improvement. Anes Skaljic remains backup, with Luca Pusceddu required for if our first two are called on U21 duty again.

Left-back: Salimo Sylla didn't exactly have a brilliant season last year, so again we're hoping for improvement. As backup, Markus Heller has been promoted from our youth team, and has good potential, so hopefully will get to play.

Right-back: Fabian Holthaus will be right-back once again. We don't have a natural backup.

Centre-back: Denis Richter is a top quality centre-back, and hopefully we can extend his contract before the season ends. We have big expectations for Hans-Georg Wiechers, who we are hoping can step right into the first team. Sebastian Starke Hedlund and Kevin Guillou offer good options in reserve.

Defensive Midfield: Lukas Frode will be anchor man, alongside Joshua Kimmich. This position is one of our weakest for cover. Sacha Traser has been promoted from our youth team, and Teddy Blot or Debordeaux could fill in there.

Attacking Midfield: Emmanuel Debordeaux looks our best option to take on Lindemann's playmaker role. We are also hopeful that Lorenzo Condemi can be retrained to play there and finally start to put in some consistent performances. We also have lots of exciting young players in this position including Herve Larrieu, Marcel Ohler, and Ulf Gohlert.

Striker: Denis Thomalla will lead the line again. Hopefully he can continue his form from the end of last season. We also have the very exciting Hanspeter Buck who will doubtless get plenty of game time. Tail Schoonjans is a useful backup option.

The media are predicting we'll finish 18th this season. I'm aiming for our first top half finish under my management.

[Mark Heath]

Jul-Aug 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Aalen (A) 3-0 Very tough opponents for our first game. Aalen were relegated from 2. Liga and have some very good players. We got off to an unbelievable start as Thomalla went on a solo run and fired us into the lead. We looked very good going forwards, and Thomalla scored a second superb goal. Aalen were creating chances themselves but our defence held firm. Our impressive performance continued into the second half, where we added a third. Thomalla missed out on his hat-trick hitting the post. A remarkable performance, and a thoroughly deserved win.

We've loaned a keeper - 25 German keeper Benjamin Bellot provides good cover and competition for Suljagic.

We've sold right winger Manuel Marras for just £500. He never really featured for us much, and doesn't fit our new tactical system. It also helps to keep our wage budget down which is slightly over what is allowed. However, with our debt refinancing, I actually think we don't need to be quite so frugal, as it was interest payments that were crippling us in previous seasons.

We've made another signing. 17 year old defensive midfielder David Wiemann provides some much needed squad cover for Frode and Kimmich. It means we have good cover in almost all areas of the pitch.

A long-term injury to Kevin Guillou means that we're a little light on centre-backs. We'll loan one if we pick up another injury there. Tail Schoonjans has requested a transfer, which I've granted. He's effectively third choice striker. We'll try to find a promising youngster to replace him if he goes.

Erfurt (H) 2-1 We started really brightly, and Thomalla gave us the lead. Debordeaux hit the bar, and Larrieu lashed in a superb second from distance. Suljagic made a good save when they hit us on the counter. He's already looking much improved from last season. Erfurt were much improved in the second half and pulled one back. We missed a few decent chances to extend our lead, but held on for a deserved victory.

Aachen (A) 0-0 We were playing really well, but somehow failed to turn our numerous chances into a goal. Buck made his debut, and his pace up front looks like it could be a fantastic asset for us.

I decided to ask the board if our wage budget could be increased a bit, now that our financial situation is improved. However, they denied my request.

Havelse (H) 4-0 For several years now we've had the lowest wage budget in 3.Liga, but newly promoted Havelse are even more strapped for cash than we are, and don't look cut out for this level. We hit the bar in the first minute, and Debordeaux gave us the lead. It was once again a dominant performance, and Wiechers got his first goal for the club, heading in a corner. Thomalla scored two second half goals to wrap up another superb win.

Trier (A) 2-0 We start a run of three games in quick succession against another newly promoted side. We hit the post and had some good chances, but they looked dangerous too, and had a goal disallowed. Larrieu eventually broke the deadlock. We survived a few scares and a late goal from Gohlert wrapped up the win, that takes us top of the table.

Paderborn (H) 1-2 Just one days rest before this game against one of the stronger sides in our division necessitated some rotation. It was an evenly matched first half, and we edged in front through Thomalla. In the second half they were all over us, and we couldn't turn the tide. Eventually they equalised and then took the lead. Ohler missed an absolute sitter to deny us an equaliser. Paderborn go top above us.

We've offloaded Tail Schoonjans to Kassel on a free, as our wage bill is well over the current allowed amount. We can always loan a striker if we get injuries, and we have a few youth strikers who have now reached the age of 17 who could be called on in emergencies.

Offenbach (H) 2-0 We started well and had much the better of the first half, and eventually the goal we deserved came through Gohlert. He hit the post in the second half with a great strike and was generally a threat throughout. Richter eventually added a second for us. A great performance and a thoroughly deserved win. We end the month on top on goal difference, although there are four teams level on points with us.

[Mark Heath]

Sep 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Saarbrucken (A) 2-0 We've lost all four previous games against Saarbrucken under my management. They've had a poor start to the season. On loan keeper Bellot is going to play his first game today as Suljagic is on U21 duty for Serbia. We started well, and Frode put us in front from a corner. A tremendous save from their keeper denied us a second. We had a few narrow escapes before Buck got away on the counter to register his first senior goal for us.

We had very bad news that Condemi will miss almost 2 months through injury. He's been superb this season despite being played out of position.

Kiel (H) 1-1 Kiel have started the season well. Their star player is our former striker Benjamin Forster. They hit us on the break to take an early lead. They nullified our attacking threat in the first half. We were gifted an equaliser as Debordeax turned in a poor goalkeeping clearance. We came close on a few occasions to snatching a winner, but had to settle for a point.

Halle (A) 3-1 We took the lead from a corner, but they equalised through former Darmstadt player Zielinsky. However, Ohler restored our lead soon after. We controlled the game, but it wasn't until near the end that Buck wrapped up the win.

Koblenz (H) 3-1 Unlike last season where they mounted a title challenge against all the odds, this season has been more of a struggle for Koblenz. Weichers gave us an early lead, heading in a corner. Then Sylla added another, his first goal for the club. He nearly got a second, hitting the post. Sylla kept cropping up in good positions and got a second early in the second half. We dominated the match, but they pulled one back late on.

Munster (A) 0-1 Most of our efforts on goal were from long-range. A good save from Sujalic prevented them from taking the lead against the run of play. We were wasteful with our chances, and conceded a last-minute corner. A very disappointing result, and a game we should have won. We ended with 10 men due to two injuries. We're still top though.

[Mark Heath]

Oct 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Grossapach (H) 0-2 We're giving Buck his first ever start up front after Thomalla has hit a poor run of form. They took the lead through Hartmann who always seems to score against us. An own goal left us with a mountain to climb. We put them under pressure, but a series of amazing saves denied us the goal we deserved. We were the better team by a long way in this match. We've lost our top spot.

Bielefeld (A) 1-1 Our goalkeepers are away on U21 international duty again, so on loan keeper Bellot will play in this tricky away tie. We got into some dangerous situations but poor finishing let us down. We fell behind just before the break. Thomalla wasted a glorious chance to equalise. We kept pressing and finally Kimmich equalised. A draw was probably a fair result in the end.

Rostock (H) 2-0 Rostock were relegated last season and have a strong looking squad. Finally Condemi is back from his lengthy injury, and we play Buck up front as Thomalla is out of form at the moment. We got off to a great start with Condemi and Buck both scoring. We were in complete control and should have added more. They had a few decent chances but thankfully their finishing was poor. A great result.

Chemnitz (A) 1-2 Chemnitz are 19th, and without a win so far this season. We hit the post and had them under sustained pressure from the start., and eventually they made a defensive error which we capitalised on. However, our failure to turn our complete domination of the game into goals was punished as they scored two in quick succession. We went on to miss two fantastic opportunities to equalise. A dreadful way to throw away the game.

RW Essen (H) 0-3 A big game against one of the form teams in the division at the moment. We started well, but they took the lead with their first attack. Condemi missed when it seemed easier to score, and then they scored with their next two attacks. 3-0 down at half-time despite being much the better team was hard to take. Thomalla hit one post and then hit the rebound against the other. We created loads of clear-cut chances and couldn't convert any of them. An unbelievable defeat completely against the run of play. This has happening far too often recently. We can't seem to get results despite dominating matches.

[Mark Heath]

Nov-Dec 2016 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Sandhausen (A) 0-1 We were under a lot of early pressure but we eventually got into the game. However, we fell behind. We played well in an evenly matched game, but yet again we didn't get the result our play deserved. We're rapidly slipping back down the table now.

Burghausen (H) 1-1 Every game seems the same at the moment. We hit the post and the bar. We were in complete control. We created loads of great chances. Their keeper made several superb saves. We conceded from their first and only real effort on goal. We did at least get one goal. I have no clue what we have to do to win matches at the moment.

Aalen (H) 1-2 We hit the bar and had a goal disallowed. But we took the lead through Kimmich. Aalen were however looking very good and eventually drew level. They then scored another within 20 seconds of the restart. We hit the post yet again, and missed an open goal in the last minute. Nothing seems to be going our way at the moment.

Erfurt (A) 2-2 Erfurt are 19th in the league so we have a good chance to end our recent dismal run of results. We started well and Thomalla bundled the ball in to finally end his goal drought. A complete fluke of a goal gave Erfurt an equaliser. They then scored again. It looked like yet another horrible defeat completely against the run of play but Buck equalised. Still we should have won this by a large margin. Any hopes of promotion this season are evaporating fast.

Aachen (H) 2-0 A tricky game against 2nd placed Aachen. Condemi hit the bar with a free kick. We took the lead with a goal on the counter attack. Thomalla then headed in a free kick. We held on for a great win that breaks a very poor run of form before we go into the winter break.

[Mark Heath]

Winter Break Jan 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Eintracht Frankfurt (H, Friendly) 1-1 We fielded a second string side against Bundesliga opposition so we were expecting to be outclassed. They soon took the lead, but we held our own and equalised through Ohler. A good performance.

We've been trying to tie up contracts for lots of our players whose contracts are expiring this summer. We've got most of them done, although it has taken us significantly over wage budget. Richter looks like the one player who we won't be able to hold onto which is a great shame.

Heidelberg (H, Friendly) 2-0 Again we fielded a second 11. We were comfortably in control, and Larrieu gave us the lead and Hedlund headed in a second from a corner. We probably should have won by a much greater margin.

FSV Frankfurt (H, Friendly) 1-0 It was a boring game with few chances for either side before we brought on some substitutes and grabbed a winner. Another good result against opponents from a higher level.

SVW Mannheim (H, Friendly) 1-2 We took the lead after great work from Kimmich. They equalised just before half-time. We lost two defenders to injury. We fell behind early in the second half. We should have won this.

Lahnstein (H, Friendly) 3-0 We struggled to break down our opponents defences and they had a goal disallowed. However, we eventually broke the deadlock and ended up comfortable winners.

SV Oberhausen (H, Friendly) 4-1 We scored a couple of early goals, but they scored with their only effort on goal. Thomalla and Buck both scored, hopefully boosting their confidence for the second half of the season.

[Mark Heath]

Jan-Feb 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Havelse (A) 1-0 Our opponents today are rock bottom of the league with only one win all season. Thomalla failed to convert a great chance to give us the lead and Condemi saw a great shot well saved. Richter managed to get unmarked in the area to give us the lead. Thomalla was then guilty of another horrible miss. Thankfully they were so poor in attack that they couldn't punish us for our poor finishing. We lose Holthaus to injury for a month though.

Trier (H) 2-1 We started brightly and Buck gave us the lead. We were guilty again of missing some great chances, but the second goal eventually came early in the second half. It was a completely one-sided game with Trier offering no attacking threat whatsoever. A great win, but our only regret was not scoring more. Their first effort on goal, deep into injury time went in. We move third, but we are a long way off catching the top two.

Paderborn (A) 2-0 We took the lead with a goal on the counter-attack. We should have wrapped it up early in the second half. Buck fired wide when clean through on goal, and we had a goal disallowed. They had a man sent off and Buck scored a second.

Unfortunately Gohlert is injured until the end of the season. We may need to loan someone if we get another long-term injury in attacking positions.

Offenbach (A) 1-0 Both teams nullified each other for much of the first half. Buck gave us the lead midway through the second half. We held on nervously to record another consecutive win.

Saarbrucken (H) 1-1 We went behind early, but equalised immediately from a corner. Buck missed a good chance to put us ahead. We played well in the second half and their keeper made a couple of superb saves. We hit the bar twice, and their keeper made another fine save. We were very unlucky not to come away with all three points.

Kiel (A) 3-0 Kiel are one place below us in the table, and feature former Darmstadt players Lindemann and Forster, both of whom we would have kept had we been able to afford their wages. Buck gave us the lead. Richter added a second from a corner. Buck scrambled in a third late on to wrap up a great performance.

[Mark Heath]

Mar 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Halle (H) 2-1 Buck had an early goal disallowed, but he scored another soon after. We were controlling the game but survived some near misses and eventually they drew level. Buck restored our lead.

Koblenz (A) 0-0 We struggled to create enough real chances and had to settle for a point.

Richter picked up a five week injury, which could jeopardise our bid for promotion.

Munster (H) 0-0 We're also missing our keeper and the Hedlund who would have deputised for Richter due to U21 international duty. We struggled to create real chances and our best one fell to our stand-in centreback who fired wide. A very frustrating result.

Grossapach (A) 3-2 We should have been two up inside the first 10 minutes. Eventually Buck gave us the lead. A terrible goal kick from Suljagic gifted them an equaliser. We regained the lead from a corner. Infuriatingly, we still couldn't hold onto our lead. But deep into injury time we snatched a winner, keeping alive our chances of getting into 3rd which is a promotion playoff place. The two sides above us both lost, but it seems unlikely that we will catch them.

[Mark Heath]

Apr 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Rostock (A) 0-2 We failed to convert two clearcut chances in the opening minutes. They took the lead midway through the half. We missed two more great chances early in the second half. We conceded again late on. A frustrating defeat in a game we had more than enough chances to win.

Bielefeld (H) 2-0 We started the game well and Debordeaux gave us the lead. Larrieu added a second early in the second half. It was an excellent performance, and we should have won by a much larger margin. It keeps us in contention for a third place.

Chemnitz (H) 0-0 They frustrated us in the first half. We piled on the pressure in the second half and spurned two glorious chances to snatch a late winner. A disappointing result against one of the weakest sides in the division. We're still third but only just.

RW Essen (A) 2-0 A difficult match against second placed RW Essen. We played well in the first half, and Thomalla gave us the lead. Buck came on as a substitute and added a second. A very good performance against one of the strongest teams in the division. The win means there's an outside chance we could snatch second place, but we still have work to do to secure third as Aachen are breathing down our necks.

[Mark Heath]

May 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 3. Liga

Sandhausen (H) 2-1 We were playing well and a stunning goal on the counter-attack from Debordeaux gave us the lead. We had them under sustained pressure. The second goal we deserved came early in the second half from Thomalla. We started to get nervous though and they hit the woodwork twice and had a penalty saved. We seemed to have weathered the storm but 10 minutes from time they pulled one back, setting up a tense ending. We held on though and actually move up to 2nd. This sets up a tense final day where we could finish 2nd for automatic promotion, third for a playoff, or fourth to miss out altogether.

Burghausen (A) 2-1 For the final day, Aachen are at home to Havelse, the worst side in the league, so we can assume they will win that. RW Essen are at home to 5th placed Kiel. It means a draw is probably not enough. We're away to 11th placed Burghausen. We played brilliantly in the first half and took the lead through Thomalla. He then rounded the keeper to score a second. We held on comfortably until the 88th minute when they pulled one back. It set up a very nervous final five minutes, but we held on to secure automatic promotion!

[Conardo]

Congratulation!!

[Maw74]

Well done on promotion, I share your frustration when you dominate a game and opponents score with their only shot on target.

Emmanuel Debordeaux is a great name.

[Mark Heath]

thanks Conardo and Maw74, nice to be finally out of this division

[Mark Heath]

Preseason Jun & Jul 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Wormatia Worms (H, Friendly) 2-0 Buck scored twice to secure the win, but our team looked tired.

Richter is proving almost impossible to sign. We can almost afford the wages he wants, but he also wants a match highest earner clause, which I'm not prepared to offer.

Karlsruhe (A, Friendly) 3-0 To be honest the team were too tired to play this game, but it gives us an early chance to gauge our strength against 2.Liga opposition.. Buck gave us the lead, and added a second soon after. Thomalla made it three. We had so many injuries we ended up with 6 centre-backs on the pitch.

We've signed a new centre-back 18 year old Lorenzo De Caprio who was released by Frankfurt, and may be required to step right into the first team if we lose Dennis Richter.

SVW Mannheim (H, Friendly) 1-0 The squad are still really struggling for fitness. Our new signing De Caprio scored a debut headed goal. One of our midfielders was shown a straight red.

Our second summer signing is 18 year old striker Bulut Bayrakli, released by Schalke this summer. It means we now have three strikers in the squad.

Alsenborn (H, Friendly) 4-0 We should have won this by a huge margin, but our finishing was poor. Three late goals made the score a bit more reflective of the gulf in quality.

We've signed 18 year old midfielder Michael Becker on a free transfer after our scouts raved about his outstanding potential.

Elversberg (H, Friendly) 1-1 After a shaky start, Thomalla gave us the lead. They equalised in the second half. A poor performance.

Landau (H, Friendly) 1-0 We struggled to find a way through despite dominating this match. We eventually got a winner.

We've made what I expect to be our final signing of the summer. 18 year old goalkeeper Andreas Preuss joins us after being released on a free by Frankfurt.

I've persuaded the board to spend some money improving the youth facilities.

1860 Munchen (H, Friendly) 0-0 A tough final friendly against Bundesliga opposition. We created very few real chances, but defensively we looked OK.

[Mark Heath]

Squad Analysis Jul 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

In terms of numbers, we've got more than enough players in our squad. However, we have a very inexperienced squad, owing to the fact that we can't afford the wages of older players. I think we'll struggle this season, although the players we have at the club all should

Goalkeeper: Rastko Suljagic (22) had a good season last year and will need to be on top form this year. Andreas Preuss (18) will be backup keeper, and Anes Skaljic (19) is third choice.

Right-back: Fabian Holthaus (22) first choice, and Nikica Ereiz (18) is backup although he's not really ready yet.

Left-back: Salimo Sylla is 23 and continues to be first choice, with Markus Heller (18) a promising backup option.

Centre-back: Hans-Georg Wiechers (19) had a great season last year, and new signing Lorenzo De Caprio is 18 so we lack experience at centre-back now that Richter has left. As backups we have Sebastian Starke Hedlund (22) and Kevin Gillou (19), both of whom have developed slowly. Michal Juscczak (17) is on loan at Saarbrucken in 3.Liga, and hopefully will develop fast.

Defensive midfield: Lukas Frode and Joshua Kimmich, both 22, will be our defensive midfield pairing, with David Wiemann (18) already looking ready to challenge. We've also got Sascha Traser (18) and Teddy Blot (19) available for cover.

Attacking midfield. Lorenzo Condemi (21), Emmanuel Debordeaux (24) and Herve Larrieu (19) established themselves firmly as our first choice three last season. As backups we have Michael Becker (18), Ulf Gohlert (19) and Marcell Ohler (22).

Strikers: Denis Thomalla (24) and Hanspeter Buck (18) will compete for the lone striker position. Bulut Bayrakli (18) will hopefully go on loan.

[Mark Heath]

Aug 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Freiburg (A) 0-2 Freiburg narrowly missed out on promotion last year, and are media favourites to finish top. The media expect us to finish bottom. We face a real battle on our hands to avoid relegation. We did surprisingly well in the first half although Suljagic needed to make a superb save just before half-time. Thomalla was denied by a really good save, but we conceded two in quick succession after. We hit the bar and had our finishing been a bit better we could have easily come away with a point in this one.

We've loaned striker Bulut Bayrakli out to SVW Mannheim for the season, as hopefully we'll only be using Thomalla and Buck.

Kaiserslauten (H) 1-1 Another really tough fixture against a side who were relegated last year and feature some well-known players such as former Juventus and Arsenal striker Lukas Podolski. We hit the bar early in the game, and were soon ahead through Condemi. But Kaiserslauten soon drew level. Suljagic made a great save to keep us level, and they had a man sent off. Buck went on a great solo run but shot wide. They had another man sent off and then we hit the bar. We probably should have won this given our two man advantage for the last few minutes.

We've loaned Teddy Blot to Stuttgarter Kickers.

Stegaurach (A, DFB Pokal 1st Round) 2-0 Our first game in the DFB Pokal cup, and we have a kind draw. It gives us a bit of a chance to rotate the side a little. Becker gave us the lead on his first start for us. Our finishing was extremely poor, and it wasn't until the 75th minute that we finally put another effort on target with Gohlert converting a low cross.

St Pauli (A) 2-1 We've not had a kind set of fixtures to open the season. St Pauli are another of the top sides in this division although they’ve had a poor start to the season. It was a quiet and even first half, and our best chance fell to Sylla. We took the lead from a corner, and they had an equaliser ruled out. Then Holthaus of all people got away on the break and scored a very rare goal to give us an unlikely two goal lead. We were in control of the game, but they pulled one back to set up a tense final 20 minutes, but we clung on for a great victory.

[Jolanthustrel]

I recognise some of the players you've got in your squad. Benjamin Bellot, Joshua Kimmich, and Denis Thomalla are still in my RB Leipzig Squad at the moment. Thomalla looks like he scored regularly for you though.

Congrats on the promotion too!

[Mark Heath]

thanks Jolanhustrel. Kimmich is a first team regular and a fairly consistent performer. Thomalla has been our main striker although Hanspeter Buck who is the best player our youth system has ever produced may well displace him from the first team this season.

[Mark Heath]

Sep 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Duisburg (H) 0-0 Duisburg have had a strong start to the season, and so we're expecting another difficult game. We played really well in the first half, although survived some narrow escapes. Arguably we should have won this, but a point isn't a bad result. Neither of our strikers have scored yet this season.

Bochum (H) 1-1 Bochum were relegated from the Bundesliga last season and have started the season really well. We took the lead with a fantastic solo goal from Debordeaux. They equalised from a corner. Again it was encouraging that we created some decent chances but our finishing let us down.

Augsburg (A) 1-0 Augsberg are perennial mid-table finishers in this league. We had marginally the better of the first half. We looked even better in the second half and were very unlucky not to get our noses in front. They had a man sent off, and from the resulting free kick, Buck scored his first of the season. We squandered several chances to wrap up the win, but held on for a great result. It really does seem as though we can hold our own in this league judging by our performances so far this season.

Ingolstadt (A) 0-2 We started the game fairly well but some sloppy defending let them take the lead. We were creating plenty of chances but our finishing was sloppy. They scored a sensational second and then Wiechers got sent off. They had a man sent off too late on and we had a goal disallowed. It was a harsh result in a game we deserved to get something out of.

Union Berlin (H) 1-1 A game against one of the teams that is struggling in the league. We were marginally the better of the two teams and they had a man sent off early in the second half. But they stunned us by scoring with their only effort on goal. We pushed forward and Thomalla scored a late equaliser. Disappointing we couldn't get all three points in a game we dominated.

FSV Frankfurt (A) 0-1 Our local rivals are top of the league and their best player is Kamvuaka who had a great season on loan with us several years back. There were few chances in the first half for either side. Frankfurt stepped it up a gear in the second half and took the lead. We were very disappointing.

[deltablue]

Well done going up, not too bad a start to the new season either.

[Mark Heath]

thanks deltablue, the start has been fairly encouraging - we've played well in most of our games so far

[Mark Heath]

Oct 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Dresden (H) 3-0 Dresden are bottom of the league but we are only two points above them. We started really well but our finishing was poor and we squandered a whole series of good chances to take the lead. Finally, Kimmich put us in front. Condemi added a second from a free kick, and Buck marked his recent Germany U19 callup with a goal. A superb result that saw Dresden sack their manager, and we stay mid-table. The bad news was that Debordeaux picked up a two month injury which leaves us short in midfield.

Regensburg (H) 0-0 Our former captain Richter moved on a free to Regensburg this summer where he is earning far more than we could have offered him. We were the better team in the first half, but couldn’t find a goal. Buck was denied twice by fantastic goalkeeping. Wiemann also failed to convert a glorious chance in injury time. A painful missed opportunity to pick up three points.

Heidenheim (A) 3-3 We have some severe fixture congestion so we rotate the side. A lovely solo goal from Buck gave us the lead. They equalised with a freak goal. Then we lost Larrieu to injury, but we took the lead again through Buck. He then completed a first-half hat-trick. However they pulled another back just before the break. They then equalised midway through the second half. Dissapointing to let a two goal lead slip but a hard earned point in the end.

Aue (A) 0-1 We have something of an injury crisis in the attacking midfield position at the moment. We created nothing in a dull first half. We improved in the second half, but they took the lead from a corner we failed to fully clear. We had one good chance, but couldn't take it.

[Mark Heath]

Nov & Dec 2017 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Hannover (H, DFB Pokal 2nd Round) 1-3 We've been drawn against Bundesliga opposition for the second round of the cup. It's a big shame we've got so many fixtures on top of each other at the moment though, and so we're hoping that whatever happens it doesn't go to extra time. We started OK, but a loose pass gifted them an early goal. We played quite well and were unlucky to concede again just before half-time. Cruelly we went three down in the second half. We got a late well deserved consolation goal.

Braunschweig (H) 0-1 Just a day's break since the cup game means we go into this match with a very tired squad. We started well and were unlucky not to take the lead, but fell behind soon after. We really should have scored just before the break. We hit the bar for the second time in the match. We looked too tired to get back into the game though, and failed to make the most of the few chances we did create late on. Cruelly we had a goal ruled out in injury time. We're now getting sucked back into the relegation battle.

Hertha BSC (A) 1-0 We've had a good long break during which we've slipped down into the relegation places, and Thomalla has picked up a long-term injury. This will be a difficult game against under-performing opposition, but Debordaux is finally back from injury. We played really well in the first half, and Condemi gave us the lead. We had several great chances to score a secon but their keeper was in sensational form. We held on for a fantastic win. There was awful injury news though. On his return from a six week injury, Debordeaux picked up another six week injury.

We've arranged the signing of 18 year old attacking midfielder Marcel Nehrbauer who had been released by Koln in the summer. He'll give us a bit more squad depth to help cope with the injuries we're picking up at the moment.

Aalen (H) 2-0 We started very positively but couldn't turn our dominance into a goal. Becker got clean through on goal but pulled his short wide. Buck then missed an open goal. We had an effort cleared off the line. But finally we created a chance so incredibly easy that it was impossible to miss. Minutes later Weichers pointlessly got himself sent off for hand-ball in their area. Then Becker got himself sent off for a second yellow. Incredibly though, they conceded a penalty and we were able to extend our lead. They had a goal disallowed but we held on for a deserved victory that we nearly threw away with two ridiculous red cards.

Karlsruhe (H) 7-3 Suspensions and injuries mean we can barely fill the bench at the moment. We took the lead with a goal after just 19 seconds. It was a quiet first half, and they equalised with their first attack. Minutes later they scored a superb second. However, we hit back with a goal on the break. Incredibly we scored another lighting fast goal in the second half to regain the lead. Then three minutes later we were two ahead. Amazingly we added a fifth through Kimmich. Their keeper hadn't made a save all game, and Buck completed a hat-trick a few minutes later. That still wasn't the end of it, Gohlert also completed a hat-trick. In fact their keeper only made his first save in the 83rd minutes. They then scored another goal - our keeper also hadn't saved a single shot all match. A quite incredible match. The win moves us all the way up to 5th in what is a very tight table, with just 10 points between the promotion and relegation places.

Freiburg (H) 0-1 Freiburg are probably the strongest side in this division and are currently third. We played quite well in the first half but all our efforts were from long-range. They took the lead with a perfectly placed free kick. We ended up losing despite creating far more goalscoring opportunities than our opponents.

Kaiserslautern (A) 2-0 Our opponents have just appointed a new manager. We had an early goal disallowed, and then missed a great chance soon after. We were awarded a penalty but Frode failed to convert it. We eventually did take the lead through Larrieu after good work from Holthaus. We then missed two one on ones in quick succession, and then another was saved by their keeper. Our failure to convert numerous easy chances into goals was nearly punished when they hit the post. But late on a horrific goalkeeping error gifted us a second, and we recorded a fantastic and thoroughly deserved win. We go into the winter break in 6th position, but this league remains extremely congested.

[Mark Heath]

Winter Break Jan 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Wormatia Worms (H, Friendly) 3-1 We fielded a second 11 for this game, on a freezing boxing day. Thomalla scored on his return from injury. We scored another and were coasting, but from nowhere they pulled one back. Thomalla scored a sensational long-range strike in the last minute.

Wehen (H, Friendly) 1-1 We were very much on top, and Thomalla gave us the lead. We were in complete control but were punished for failing to convert our chances as they drew level with a rare attack. A disappointing result and fourth choice centre-back Gillou picked up an injury that will see him miss the rest of the season.

Landau (H, Friendly) 6-1 Debordeaux makes his second comeback after two long-term injuries saw him miss the majority of the first half of the season. Becker gave us the lead with a fine strike. The coaches are very excited about his potential and he is beginning to get to grips with his new position. He added a second soon after, and Debordeaux scored either side of half-time. A defensive error gifted them a goal, but we scored two more.

Frankfurt II (H, Friendly) 3-0 Thomalla gave us the lead after just 16 seconds. Wiemann scored an excellent second. A great long-range goal from Debordeaux made it three. Gohlert missed a penalty. We should have won this by a much bigger margin.

Stuttgarter Kickers (H, Friendly) 1-1 We were the better team but our finishing was very poor. Thomalla eventually gave us the lead. He's had a superb winter break. We conceded though just before half-time. We were awful in the second half and didn't come close to snatching a winner.

Yeovil, near the bottom of League 2 offered me a job. I'm not sure why they think I would go there. It's a step down from where I am at the moment.

SVW Mannheim (H, Friendly) 2-2 We end our winter break with our traditional game against our local rivals. We started really well but they took the lead from a corner. We piled on the pressure and Thomalla got us level. Ohler put us ahead soon after. They equalised again though with only their second shot of the game. I changed the whole team round for the final 25 minutes, but Buck put all four of his chances wide. Frode should have scored a winner with the last kick of the game but hit it straight at the keeper.

[Mark Heath]

Feb 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

St Pauli (H) 2-3 We're finally back in action after what has been a long break against one of the weaker sides in the division. We started brilliantly but a terrible backpass gifted them a goal. We created numerous brilliant chances to score, but as before the winter break, our finishing was simply dreadful. An own goal gave them a second. We pulled on back in the first minute of the second half. But they were absolutely clinical and scored again with their third shot of the match. We brought on Thomalla and he pulled another back. But it wasn't enough. A horrible result. There is no way we should have lost this game.

Duisburg (A) 0-0 A tough game against promotion contenders. We started really well, and it was the all too familiar story of failing to convert the chances we were creating. As the game wore on, they began to threaten more. We continued to outplay them in the second half and were denied by a fantastic save from their keeper. We also shot wide twice in superb scoring positions. Another frustrating result, but at least we got a point.

Augsburg (H) 5-2 Another tough game against 2nd placed Augsburg. We took the lead with a free kick from Debordeaux in the first minute. We were playing well and came close to adding a second. Debordeaux then turned in Sylla's cross. Augsburg hadn't threatened our gaol at all until the 35th minute when they scored with their first attack of the match. But we hit back immediately and then added a fourth on the counter attack to wrap up an unbelievable first half. That wasn't even the last action - they pulled another back from a corner. Buck had a goal disallowed in the second half, and failed to convert twice when clean through on goal. But finally he got the goal that secured the win.

Thanks but no thanks. Darmstadt's finances have improved dramatically this season, and League 1 is a step down from the German second division.

Bochum (A) 2-0 Bochum have just moved top of the table. We played well in the first half, and had the better chances. Twice in particular we fired wide when we were in great positions. If we had players who could finish we'd be top of this league. But we did take the lead when Debordeaux turned the rebound from Buck's shot into an unguarded net. Buck added a second in the second half. We held on quite comfortably for a remarkable result that temporarily puts us second. Incredible given our meagre wage bill.

As you can see, our wage bill is the lowest by a considerable margin and a 10th of Kaiserslautern's. So although it's looking very positive that we can comfortably compete in this division, our challenge is going to be affording to keep our young players as they get into their mid-twenties and want proper wages.

[Jolanthustrel]

Nice Win over Augsburg there especially as they are promotion rivals. Are you looking for promotion straight away or do you want to consolidate first? I'm in a similar position in my save where Promotion would be nice but I know I'm going to be seriously outclassed if I get promoted to the 1. Bundesliga.

[Mark Heath]

thanks Jolanthustrel. I think promotion this season would probably be too soon, as we have an extremely young squad with potential, and they need a couple of years to develop into the Bundesliga players I hope they can become. This league is actually quite congested - a couple of wins can take you up to the top, and a few defeats in a row can see you back in the relegation places.

[Jolanthustrel]

Yeah, bit like that at the top of the table with me too. I could go anywhere from 3rd to 9th depending on the results of the round.

I'm a little frustrated with the U17 rule. I have a few 16 year olds or 17 year olds who were 16 at the start of the season that could benefit from some time on the first team subs bench.

Heh, just randomly, Denis Thomalla is on loan to Darmstadt currently in my save.

[Mark Heath]

Mar 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Union Berlin (A) 0-1 Today's opponents are bottom of the league. We've had a bit of a break due to a match getting postponed because of our complete bog of a pitch. We had the better of the first half but Buck failed to convert our best chance. We fell behind from a rare attack from them. Frustratingly we missed another easy chance early in the second half. A game we should have got at least a point out of.

Ingostadt (H) 3-1 Another team who are struggling near the foot of the table and have just appointed a new manager. As in our last game we missed a great chance and fell behind soon after. But Condemi equalised with a free kick. He was denied a second by a fantastic save. We brought on Kimmich for Weimann who was having a poor game, and immediately he scored. There were chances for both teams before Buck wrapped up the win capitalising on a defensive error. It means we already have 37 points, which is almost always enough to stay up in this league.

FSV Frankfurt (H) 2-1 Our local rivals are currently in second place. We were awarded a penalty early on which Frode converted. A stunning save from Suljagic prevented them from drawing level. We should have scored a second in the second half. We added a second through Wiemann who put away a rebound. Frankfurt scored late on, but we held on for great win in a game that we were just about the better team. The win puts us second in the table.

We've managed to extend the contracts of several players thanks to the leeway we had in our wage budget. We're still £6K per week under the original wage budget in place when I joined the club.

Dresden (A) 0-1 Dresden are bottom of the table. Dresden started really well and missed two good chances before taking the lead. We eventually got going, and should really have drawn level. But we failed to test them enough in the second half, and in the end Dresden deserved the three points.

Heidenheim (H) 0-0 Frode headed against the bar with the goal unguarded. We were playing extremely well and dominated the first half. We missed another great chance in the second half. A wasted opportunity to get three points.

[Mark Heath]

Apr 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Regensburg (A) 0-2 Regensburg are third in the table. We were the better team in the first half and unlucky not to go in ahead. Regensburg took the lead with a controversial penalty. They then scored again. It was a harsh result as we had played well. On top of the defeat, Buck also got injured for three weeks.

Aue (H) 3-0 We rotate the side a little today, having gone three matches without scoring a goal. They had an early goal disallowed. We had plenty of possession but failed to really trouble them. Finally we took the lead through Becker. Larrieu followed up with a second soon after. Thomalla added a late third with a goal on the break. A superb performance and result.

Braunchweig (A) 1-0 We put in a really good first half performance, giving their keeper plenty to do. We continued to dominate the second half, but couldn't convert any of our chances. But five minutes from time Becker gave us the goal our performance deserved. Incredibly we're third in the table with just three games to go despite having lost 10 matches this season.

[Mark Heath]

May 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Karlsruhe (A) 3-0 We took the lead on the counter attack through Condemi. Then a spectacular goal from Larrieu made it two. Condemi made it three with a free kick. The win keeps us third and it is now looking likely that we will get to play a promotion playoff match.

Hertha BSC (H) 2-1 A big game as Hertha are one of a handful of sides who could realistically catch us. We keep faith with Preuss in goal who has kept a series of clean sheets. We lost Larrieu to injury early in the game. We had two good chances but both fell to Wiemann who is not a great finisher. Then they were awarded a penalty which they converted. We played well in the second half and but seemed destined for a cruel defeat until Kimmich, on as a sub for Wiemann bundled the ball in. Two minutes later we were awarded a penalty, which Frode converted. A remarkable comeback which effectively guarantees us a promotion playoff. There is also the outside chance of automatic promotion as second placed Augsburg lost.

Aalen (A) 3-4 We're a few players short for today's game due to injuries, suspensions and international duty. Realistically we're not expecting to sneak automatic promotion as Augsburg are at home to bottom side Dresden. Condemi gave us the lead with a magnificent free kick, which meant we were temporarily at least second in the table. However Augsburg soon took the lead in their game, and Aalen equalised. Buck restored our lead just before half-time. Buck scored his second but they pulled another back. Then a horrible defensive error gifted them an equaliser. Even worse, they scored another soon after. A ridiculous way to throw away a winning position, but it didn't make any difference to our final position. We're in for a promotion playoff which will be against Wolfsburg.

Not a chance! I might be playing Bundesliga football next season. And even if not, I'd rather stay with Darmstadt who have just boosted their finances with £5.3m in prize money.

We've snapped up a very exciting young striker on a free transfer released by Leverkusen. Yannick Hibbeln is 18 and looks like he could very much be competitive with Buck for a first team place next season. He arrives in time to be eligible for the playoff.

[deltablue]

Wow, wasn't expecting that! Good luck in the playoffs, and at least there's no real pressure to win and go up again already.

[Mark Heath]

thanks, I wasn't expecting that either!

[Mark Heath]

Playoff - May 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

Wolfsburg (A, Promotion Playoff Leg 1) 1-2 We can't quite field a first choice eleven as Larrieu is injured, but otherwise we have our best team out. We didn't have much of the ball, but we constructed a few dangerous counter attacks. We took the lead after a ridiculous defensive backpass missed the keeper, hit the post, and Buck was on hand to turn it in. He should have scored again soon after when clean through on goal. They then missed a sitter. Buck burst into the area early in the second half but his shot was saved. We continued to create fantastic chances on the counter attack and were made to pay for failing to convert them as Wolfsburg equalised. We brought on Hibbeln for his debut. But cruelly, they took the lead from a corner minutes from time. An unlucky defeat as we were the better team. At least we got an away goal.

Wolfsburg (H, Promotion Playoff Leg 2) 2-0 Larrieu returns for this biggest game of my managerial career. If we play again like we did in the first leg we have to be in with a chance. We hit the post early on and somehow they managed to scramble the loose ball clear. We were completely in control of the game, as Wolfsburg seemed content to sit back and defend. We had over 70 percent of possession in the first half. Early in the second half, Wiechers bundled the ball in from a corner, to give us the lead on aggregate. Wolfsburg pushed forwards and Debordeaux played Buck in to put us two ahead. Just one goal for Wolfsburg would force extra time and they came perilously close on several occasions, but we clung on to win promotion to the Bundesliga 3-2 on aggregate - far exceeding my wildest expectations for this season. It will however be a monumental challenge now to avoid immediate relegation next season.

League stats:

[dell19]

Congrats on getting promoted. How do you think you'll do in the Bundesliga?

A bit odd that you are getting job offers from a weaker league although maybe the AI boards don't take into account the current season until its over. What nationality is the manager that you've set up?

[Maw74]

That's brilliant, well done, good luck in the Bundesliga, it's gonna be tough but I think you could have a good chance of staying up next season.

The job offers seem a bit poor though.

[Mark Heath]

thanks dell19, Bundesliga will be a struggle with our current squad, and we don't have the wage budget to bring in any experienced players. I think I made my manager dual nationality English and German.

[Mark Heath]

Close Season - May 2018 - SV Darmstadt 98 - 2. Bundesliga

No thanks, I'm going to be managing in the Bundesliga next season, in case you didn't notice although that is quite a healthy wage budget compared to what I've been working with.

Our main priority now for this summer is to find a quality left-back as it remains our weakest link. We also face a difficult decision about what to do about goalkeepers. I'd also like at least one more centre-back in the squad.

Here’s our facilities. We go into the Bundesliga with a wage budget of just £36.5K per week. We do have £7m in the bank though, and with more TV money on the way we should have some scope to get a few new players in.

[dell19]

I think the board might increase the wage budget closer to the start of the season as I think when I got promoted to the premiership I ended up being able to offer 20k a week for a single player. At least your stadium has a decent capacity.

Do you need to ask for the pitch to be relayed or will it improve over the off season anyway?