James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 As soon as I saw what this was, I knew I had to make a story out of it. It might be rubbish, and it might only last for a season, but the OTF CM Challenge with FC Gronigen always meant that there was going to be a story. The question is, by the end, will Raptor want me managing this "great" team Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Share Posted September 17, 2004 As soon as I saw what this was, I knew I had to make a story out of it. It might be rubbish, and it might only last for a season, but the OTF CM Challenge with FC Gronigen always meant that there was going to be a story. The question is, by the end, will Raptor want me managing this "great" team Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 And I start by spelling their name wrong Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 A bit of History FC GRONINGEN: THE UPS AND DOWNS OF THE 'PRIDE OF THE NORTH' Even though FC Groningen's honors list is still blank, and the club spent two recent years in the First Division, recently, no club in Holland will under-estimate games against FC Groningen. Simply because the white and green side has that special aureole of a big club, which - with all due respect - clubs such as RKC and AZ have not, even if they're higher on the league table. There's that intangible halo of pride around FC Groningen, just because they have a real traditional stadium, a real fanatical fanbase, a real football atmosphere. And of course they're from a real city: Groningen, by far the largest city in the northern Netherlands. Or rather: the only city in the north, as the people of beautiful old Groningen will correct you. They refer to themselves as Stadjers, the local word for 'city people', and to FC Groningen as 'the FC'. Because there's only one 'Pride of the North' - simple as that. They're known for being stubborn and proud, but also for being faithful. Which came in very useful in the FC's history, which shows some remarkable ups, as well as a few painful downs. The city's football pride, GVAV, changed its name in 1971. New-born FC Groningen had a modest start, in the First Division. The tide changed when coach, Theo Verlangen, took over. His second name is the Dutch word for 'desire' or 'longing' - and that's what the fans did: longing for the Eredivisie and for the success a city like Groningen deserves. The promotion came in 1980 and qualification for the UEFA Cup followed in 1983, achieved by a team of local heroes. Groningen had its own 'KKK' in those days: the dynamic midfield consisting of Keukens, Koeman and Koeman. Yes, indeed: Ronald and Erwin Koeman started their careers in the green and white strip of the FC. The heroic 3-0 victory over Atletico Madrid in an electric Oosterpark Stadium, in 1983, is probably one of the sweetest memories of the older Groningen supporter. But the best team FC Groningen ever had, came to stand some six years later. Led by local hero, Jan van Dijk, the team blew away Ajax in the semi final of the Dutch national cup in 1989: 3-0. PSV was a too strong in the final. Two years later, the club had its best season ever. Briljant striker couple, Hennie Meijer and 'the Magician of Macedonia', Milko Djurovski, were the revelation of Dutch football. FC Groningen battles for the title until the end, but could not keep up with PSV, in the end. Beautiful memories, but - typical for FC Groningen history - both the 'golden era' of the 1980s was followed by a tragedy of almost fatal impact. Chairman, Renze de Vries, got involved in a nasty case of tax fraud. Ajax had survived a similar case a few years earlier, in 1988. FC Groningen was forced to think economically, a football euphemism for selling the best players and coaches, without signing replacements. The good days were over and the worst was yet to come. The spring of 1998 brought was no-one had ever expected: the unbelievable, devastating relegation of 'the Pride of the North'. Two long, dark, frustrating years in the basement of Dutch professional football followed, but the crowd Oosterpark Stadium never let the team down, proving that a city like Groningen and a club like 'the FC' does simply not belong in the First Division. The one and only Mr FC Groningen, Jan van Dijk, midfielder of the succesful 1980s teams, was the man to bring the FC back into the Eredivisie as a coach, with his two sons, born and raised Stadjers playing in the first team. Next goal: bringing the glory of the 80s back. And when a Groninger really wants something, it usually happens. (MP) FC GRONINGEN FACTS Founded: 16 June, 1971 (continuation of GVAV, founded 26 January, 1921) City: Groningen Stadium: Oosterpark Stadion Capacity: 13,000 Official website: http://www.fcgroningen.nl Honors: * No national or international trophies won. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 Forget Introductions, Let's Get Down to Business I knew that this would be tough, but I had already brought a small Janaese J-League 2 side to a title snatching 100 points, so I was confident of a high finish. Just to show the optimism of the board, I was allowed £240k to invest in new players and rebuild the side. Heh, what's that about? Anyway, I had to have an initial look through the side, of course, and asses what I had available to me from the start.... Goalkeepers 13. Roy Beukenkamp He is, without doubt, our best goalkeeper, and will have the number one jersey this season. He's got fantastic reflexes, and is a real calming influence at the back Others: 26. Jeroen Lambers, 1. Mike Romer Defenders Right Backs 2. Kurt Elshot 26 year old who has been capped at schoolboy level for the national side. He's very pacey, and with what will be a 4-4-2 formation with attacking full backs, that will come in handy. Has played 155 games for the club. 12. Lesley Fellinga 17 year old, who seems to better suited in the centre. I doubt he'll be integral for us, but we'll see. Left Backs 8. Mathias Florén Capped for Sweden twice, the 26 year old is our only "proper" left back. He's a far more defense oriented player, who is strong, and is more then adequate at marking. 22. Bjorn Schilder 24 year old who is transfer listed. He seems decent all round, but is surplus to requirements, and so therefore is up to bring us some extra cash. Central 3. Regillio Vrede In his prime at 30, he makes one half of a very good partnership at the back. Quick and brave, he will be vital to how well we do this season - his first at the club. 5. Arnold Kruiswijk Just 18, but already a first team player. Arnold will make his first appearances for the club this season - starting in defence. 16. Sander van Gessel 26 year old schoolboy international who can also play at left back. He's decent, but not really good enough for me. Will be in the squad, however. Other: 18. Antoine van der Linden (listed) Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 Midfielders Right 20. Mile Krstev 11 caps and 3 goals for the 26 year old Macedonian, who can play defensively and attacking. He's a fantastic looking player, and I'm sure a player of his ability won't struggle to find a place. Avid Smit Very pacey player on loan from PSV. Smit is one of the guys that I feel could be dynamic off the bench. 17. Rolf Landerl Has one cap for Austria, and can also play up front. Landerl is likely to be just a squad player. Left 21. Ignacio Tuhuteru Quick 29 year old who has been capped at schoolboy level for the Dutch. Scored 8 times for us last season. 14. Chris de Witte A good squad player, again. The 25 year old Belgian is in his first season at the club. 29. Brian Pinas Funny name, funny player really. Quite quick, but not much else about him. Central 6. Hugo A Brazilian international Well, at schoolboy level some 10 years ago, at least. Our 28 year old playmaker will be the most vital cog in our midfield engine. 15. Melchior Schoenmakers A more defensive player, and decent too. But he will have to fight hard to get into the starting 11. 19. Paul Matthijs My other option for the centre, right now, Matthijs is a very determined, natural leader. Others: 27. Ray Gian Carlo Frankel, 23. Jóhannes Hardarson, 25. Marcel Pennekoek Forwards Just two in the squad, ffs 10. Martin Drent 33, good finisher, but bloody slow. 4 goals last season :/ 9. Glenn Salmon First season at the club - but he looks utterly fantastic. Good finisher, and quite quick too Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raptor Posted September 17, 2004 Share Posted September 17, 2004 Story of the Year Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 It gets even better when I say I won my first friendly 2-1 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 25/7 First Boost 2 games into the preseason, and things are very promising. Away to Oldenburg, Glenn Salmon scored twice is a convincing 2-1 win. And despite going down 1-0 to HSV, we put in a decent performance, with a weakened side. We've also signed centre back Chris Zoricich from Margate for £18k. Capped 72 times for New Zealand, Chris is a fine player, who adds a lot of experience to the back. On top of this, we've loaned Alexis Nicholas in for the season from Chelsea. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 1/8 More of the same We continue to plow along nicely in the preseason. A 1-1 draw with St. Pauli saw Roman Hristov score on his debut, and another debutant scored in a 2-0 away victory at ACV. Striker Fali Montes joined Martin Drent on the scoresheet. Three more signings for us. Winger Rumen Hristov joining for £40k from Maritsa. Fali Montes joining in a deal that will be worth £160k for Corralejo, as well as snapping up Santos on a free. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 12/8 Let's Prove them Wrong With the season just days away, we've been announced as 500-1 outsiders for the title. The preseason ended with a 1-0 loss to Haarlem, and a poor 1-1 draw with De Graafschap (Montes). We are clearly up for the start of the season, and I've every confidence that the team will start the season well... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 17/4 It Begins RKC vs. FC Groningen Mandemakers Stadion Odds: RCK 6-4, Draw 2-1, FCG 13-8 Team News: Ignacio Tuhuteru was the only player unavailable after picking up a gashed leg in training. Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Krstev, Hristov, Nicolas, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Smit, Drent, Pinas, Matthijs Groningen Deliver James Marshall is already fast becoming a fans' favourite at hsi new club, after leading FC Groningen to an opening day victory at RKC. Groningen, who dominated from the start, will be very happy to ahve got 3 points from a game where they may have expected to get none. The first half looked liked it would finish a draw. A boring, tepid affair, in which both clubs were struggled to string together many passes, or create anything of note. Then the breakthrough. 2 minutes after the interval, and debutant Glenn Salmon struck. A long corner from Hristov volleyed in emphatically at the far post by the South African. Following that, Groningen had a few chances, but didn't come close to another goal. Their best chance coming in stoppage time, when Kurt Elshot put Avid Smit in over the top, but the on loan man from PSV scuffed a cross towards the unmarked Santos. RKC 0-1 FC Groningen (Salmon 47) MOM: Salmon A fantastic start to the season, but there is bad news. Alexis Nicolas will be out for three weeks after collecting a knee injuty. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 20/8 FC Groningen vs. ADO Den Haag Euroborg Odds: FCG 4-5, Draw 2-1, ADO 3-1 Team News: Nicolas and Tuhuteru out. Smit starts on the wing, with Krstev moving into the middle. Groningen Forced to Grind Groniger Dagblad In their first home game of the season, Groningen fell short of expectations left following the season's opener. A dull 0-0 draw with Den Haag which saw few chances - most to the visitors. Roy Stroeve will feel hard done by when, after 61 minutes, he swivelled past Vrede and sent in a crashing shot - only to see it rattle the crossbar. ADO also forced good saves from Beukenkamp off a fierce freekick, and a corner. The home side were average at best, with one moment of genius poorly missed by Hristov. A beautiful passing move down the left flank between he and Floren resulted in a skied shot well over from the Bulgarian, who will be disappointed he didn't score his first goal for the club. Overall, though, another clean sheet. And with Feyenoord up at the weekend - Groningen will be happy for 4 points, and 2 clean sheets, from their opening two fixtures. Groningen 0-0 ADO Den Haag MOM: Mensah (ADO) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Smit, Hristov (De Witte 65), Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon (Drent 65) Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, De Witte, Drent, Pinas, Matthijs Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 I'm still wondering why I wrote 17/4 as the date for my first game Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 24/8 Feyenoord vs. FC Groningen De Kuip Odds: Feyenoord 4-7, Draw 5-2, FCG 4-1 Team News: More injuries Rumen Hristov is out for about a week with a neck injury, which means De Witte will be drafted in! Groningen Proove Too Tough at the Back Groniger Dagblad Groningen will be going home to what could be a heroes welcome after a brilliant draw at De Kuip. Groningen are quickly becoming a team with one of the best defenses in the Eredivisie - as they didn't even allow the league leaders and highest scorers a shot on goal. The stoic defense is quickly becoming a tradmeark of their style - but with points away to one of the "Big Three" won, no one will complain. In fact, it is perhaps most ironic that the best chance fell to the visitors, as Glenn Salmon created half a yard - only to see his shot saved onto the underside of the crossbar. It was one of the few times they attacked, in what was a game they clearly came to not concede in. They didn't, and after 3 games sit in a healthy 10th spot. Feyenoord 0-0 FC Groningen MOM: Beukenkamp Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich (Kruiswijk 62); Smit (Pinas 62), De Witte, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Landerl, Drent, Pinas, Matthijs Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> Pos Team Pld Won Drn Lst For Ag G.D. Pts 1st FC Utrecht 3 0 0 0 9 1 +8 9 2nd PSV 3 3 0 0 4 0 +4 9 3rd Feyenoord 3 2 1 0 6 0 +6 7 4th Roda JC 3 2 1 0 5 1 +4 7 5th ADO Den Haag 3 2 1 0 4 1 +3 7 6th AZ 3 2 0 1 8 3 +5 6 7th Ajax 3 2 0 1 9 5 +4 6 8th Willem II 3 2 0 1 5 1 +4 6 9th Zwolle 3 2 0 1 4 2 +2 6 10th FC Groningen 3 1 2 0 1 0 +1 5 11th Heerenveen 3 1 0 2 3 5 -2 3 12th RBC 3 1 0 2 4 7 -3 3 13th NEC 3 1 0 2 3 6 -3 3 14th Volendam 3 0 1 2 1 6 -5 1 15th NAC Breda 3 0 0 3 3 9 -6 0 16th RKC 3 0 0 3 0 6 -6 0 17th Vitesse 3 0 0 3 1 8 -7 0 18th FC Twente 3 0 0 3 1 10 -9 0 </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 Oh, balls Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Terk Posted September 17, 2004 Share Posted September 17, 2004 i got your table as straight as i could hope it's alright for you oh, and nice start as well Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 17, 2004 Author Share Posted September 17, 2004 That table will do, thanks Terk Next time I won't do it 5 minutes before I go to bed Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 18, 2004 Author Share Posted September 18, 2004 31/8 FC Groningen vs. FC Twente Euroborg Odds: FCG 5-4, Draw 11-5, FCT 7-4 Team News: Elshot suspended, Fallinga, Nicolas, and Hristov injured. Tuhuteru starts. Twente Lose 4th in a Row as Groningen Dominate Groniger Dagblad The scoreline gives the game no justice. 1-0, again. Clean Sheet, again. But Groningen could have scored 3 or 4 quite easily against a very poor Twente side. It did, however, take half an hour for the home team to break down the Twente defense, as a corner was twice headed at goal by Glenn Salmon - both times terrifically saved by the outstanding ten Rouwelaar. Just minutes later, though, a long ball from the back was headed into the path of Fali Montes by the big South African - and Montes couldn't miss. A rifling right footed volley in at the near post - a fantastic way to open his account for the club. After the interval, Twente again stood firm, until Groningen started playing. Arnold Kruiswijk - playing at right back - laying it off for Krstev, who's left footed curling drive missed the post by inches. Minutes later - and a De Witte freekick from the side of the area was headed towards goal by the revelling Hugo - only to see it come back off the post. Then, with ten minutes left, came the best chance of the match. A corner well drifted in by Tuhuteru saw the whistle blow. Penalty for pushing. Up stepped Glenn Salmon, who's spot kick went dreadfully over the bar. Overall, however, a solid performance and another good result, which sees Groningen well into the top half. FC Groningen 1-0 FC Twente (Montes 34. Salmon missed pen 80) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Kruiswijk, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; De Witte, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, van Gessel, Landerl, Drent, Smit, Matthijs Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 18, 2004 Author Share Posted September 18, 2004 14/9 FC Utrecht vs. FC Groningen Nieuw Galgenwaard Odds: FCU 5-4, Draw 11-5, FCG 7-4 Team News: Hristov injured. Nicolas and Elshot return Groningen Outclassed by Leaders Perhaps slightly unlucky, but FC Groningen today learned how tough it is at the top. Fighting against a team with the best record in the league, Groningen fought a good battle - before falling undone to some great football. The first goal conceded by Groningen this season was a stunner from Tanghe. The winger fighting his way into the area, before blasting one over and past the helpless Beukenkamp. Groningen's reply was stellar. Substitute Santos scoring his first for the club, after Hugo played in Fali Montes. Montes returned the pass, and Hugo found a wide open Santos - who finished well. But the joy lasted for less then 30 seconds. As Utrecht counter attacked from the kickoff - with a good cross finidng the head of Calabro. Utrecht took advantage of poor marking for the third - as a corner was flicked in at the back post. The visitors didn't give up, and both Santos and Hugo could have scored from tough chances, but overall deserved to lose. For the first time, their defence was unorganised and shabby - the manager has to make sure that's the last. FC Utrecht 3-1 FC Groningen (Tanghe 62, Calabro 67, van der Bergh 72; Santos 66) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Krstev, De Witte, Nicolas (Smit HT), Hugo; Montes, Salmon (Santos 64) Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Landerl, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 18, 2004 Author Share Posted September 18, 2004 21/9 (10th) FC Groningen vs. Vitesse (12th) Euroborg Team News: Unchanged 18 Groningen Bounce Back in Stunning Style Following a disappointing result last week, Groningen returned to early season form by demolishing Vitesse in front of almost 20,000 fans at the Euroborg. It was the home team from start to finish, and their dominance showed with their first real attacking showing of the season. Quarter of an houe in, and the lively Glenn Salmon was tripped in the area - penalty. The South African stepped up, and rifled it into the bottom left hand corner. 10 minutes later, and Salmon was involved again. This time playing a perfect pass into Fali Montes - and the Spaniard took it round the keeper before running the ball into the goal - the game wrapped up by half time. Chances were created immediately into the second half, also. As a Tuhuteru corner found Salmon at the near post, and the striker headed home unmarked. Looking for a hattrick, Salmon then spurned a good chance near the end - electing to shoot rather then pass, although he was unlucky as he hit the bar. There was still more action though, as sustitute Didier Marcel received his marching orders 3 minutes from the end for a wreckless foul on Santos - a second yellow card. Santos, it was, who had the last laugh, as he dispossesed a defender on the half way line - and ran to the penalty area, before placing the ball into the far corner. Fantastic performance - and surely Groningen are a team to beat this season. FC Groningen 4-0 Vitesse (Salmon 15 pen, 50, Montes 23, Santos 90; Martel s/o 87) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Krstev, De Witte, Nicolas, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Landerl, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 We've been drawn away to Zwolle in the Dutch FA Cup 3rd Round 30/9 (8th) Zwolle vs. FC Groningen (7th) Oosterenk Team News: Fali Montes suspended. Hristov still injured. Groningen in Sintilating Form Again! In a preview of the Dutch Cup match, Groningen proved that last week's thrashing was no one off with a mesmerizing performance today. They got started after just 24 seconds, when a dreadful backpass was picked up by Hugo, who scored the one-on-one easily. On 15 minutes, the advantage doubled. gnacio Tuhuteru's cross finding the feet of Glenn Salmon, who redirected the ball into the goal for his 4th of the season. Zwolle looked down and dejectected at half time - but it only got worse. Tuhuteru's corner going all the way to the far post for Mile Krstev to nod home well. And it was Krstev who picked up the assist for the 4th goal. A lovely through ball sent Santos on his way, and the Spainiard made it 3 goals in 4 appearances with an emphatic finish. Zwolle created one chance near the end, and were unlucky when Ivan Cvetkov's shot hit the inside of the post and trickled across the line, before it was cleared. But Groningen had the final word, as a De Witte corner was thundered past the keeper by captain Regillio Vrede in stoppage time. Zolle 0-5 FC Groningen (Hugo 1, Salmon 14, Krstev 54, Santos 74, Vrede 90) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Krstev, Tuhuteru (De Witte 57), Nicolas, Hugo; Santos, Salmon (Drent 57) Subs: Pinas, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Landerl, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> Holders - Ajax | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | | FC Utrecht | | 7 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 21 | 4 | +17 | 21 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | PSV | | 7 | 6 | 0 | 1 | 15 | 4 | +11 | 18 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | Feyenoord | | 7 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 17 | 0 | +17 | 17 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | Ajax | | 7 | 5 | 0 | 2 | 17 | 8 | +9 | 15 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | FC Groningen | | 7 | 4 | 2 | 1 | 12 | 3 | +9 | 14 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | AZ | | 7 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 14 | 8 | +6 | 13 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Roda JC | | 7 | 3 | 3 | 1 | 7 | 5 | +2 | 12 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Zwolle | | 7 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 8 | 10 | -2 | 10 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | Heerenveen | | 7 | 3 | 1 | 3 | 7 | 10 | -3 | 10 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | Willem II | | 7 | 3 | 0 | 4 | 9 | 7 | +2 | 9 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 11th | | ADO Den Haag | | 7 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 7 | 10 | -3 | 8 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 12th | | RBC | | 7 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 10 | 17 | -7 | 7 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 13th | | Vitesse | | 7 | 2 | 1 | 4 | 9 | 16 | -7 | 7 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 14th | | NAC Breda | | 7 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 11 | -5 | 5 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15th | | NEC | | 7 | 1 | 2 | 4 | 8 | 15 | -7 | 5 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 16th | | FC Twente | | 7 | 1 | 1 | 5 | 3 | 14 | -11 | 4 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 17th | | Volendam | | 7 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 8 | 19 | -11 | 3 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 18th | | RKC | | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 1 | 18 | -17 | 0 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 5/10 (6th) FC Groningen vs. Willem II (10th) Euroborg Team News: Everyone fit 14 goals in 3 games, as Groningen march on... "Amazing", was all Willem II manager Mark Wotte could say about the performance that saw his side ripped to shreds. Groningen are starting to make serious moves in the Eredivisie, following another performance that wowed the many thousands of fans in the Euroborg. It all began after 20 minutes, when Glenn Salmon's turn and pass put Fali Montes through - and the 31 year old put the ball away fantastically on his way to a hattrick. 5 minutes later, and a corner that wasn't properly cleared led to the 2nd. Ignacio Tuhuteru's cross headed in spectacularly by Mile Krstev. 2-0 looked certain to be the half time score, but Montes grabbed a second just before the whistle thanks, once again, to Salmon, who this time completed a one two that saw Montes left foot a shot into the corner. The second half started in much the same fashion, as Krstev was bundled over after only 2 minutes. Up stepped the reliable Salmon, who sent the keeper the wrong way to make it 4-0. The rout wasn't yet complete - as Fali Montes completed a fantastic hattrick 20 minutes from the end, after a good cross from Hristov was headed past the stranded keeper. FC Groningen 5-0 Willem II (Fali Montes 20,45,70, Krstev 25, Salmon 48(p)) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich (Kruiswijk 85); Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Get on Teletext! Posted September 19, 2004 Share Posted September 19, 2004 Great start James but can you keep it up? Im 4th after 14 games with them And not giving too much away but we have very different starting lineups... Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 I have Ajax next...I've every confidence of showing my true ability Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 Ajax vs. FC Groningen Amsterdam ArenA Umm, Groningen Lose. Badly. Despite playing fantastic football early on, Groningen got absoloutely hammered by an Ajax side, which made the Groningen marking look like that of a woman learning the offisde trap. Fali Montes gave the visitors a deserved lead on the quarter hour, but from then on it was all Ajax. Nelson Boukhari got the equaliser, after drifting in from midfield to put away a rebound. Culina then scored a a well placed shot from the edge of the area, before Sikora scored one of the goals of the season. Collecting the ball on the right hand edge of the area, he used the outside of his right foot and curled in a beaty into the top corner, and off the post. After the break, the shambolic marking continued, as Hatem Trablesi was allowed to come in from right back, and slide in a good cross from van der Gun - once again, unmarked. van der Gun had the last say, too, as a mistake by Kruiswijk put him through with the ball bouncing awkwardly. It posed no problems for the striker, though, who chipped it over the helpless Beukenkamp. Ajax 5-1 FC Groningen (Boukhari 27, Culina 36, Sikora 45, Trabelsi 69, van der Gun 86; Montes 16) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich (Kruiswijk HT); Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev (Nicolas 9), Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 Zwolle vs. FC Groningen FA Cup, 3rd Round Groningen Advance It was back to basics for Groningen this afternoon, as they professionally disposed of Zwolle to advance to the 4th round (where they will play Ajax at home). Fali Montes, again, was the hero, as he brought his season tally up to 8 with a brace of well taken goals. His first was a good move that saw Glenn Salmon's shot parried - only for the Spaniard to gobble up the rebound. Chances were rare, in a game that Groningen dominated by possession, rather then all out attack, and the 2nd goal, late on, was the culmination of that. Some 15 passes strung together, before Santos freed up a bit of space in the area. He drew the defender, and squared it to Montes, who buried it into the near top corner. Overall, a comfortable display, that the visitors will be very happy with. Zwolle 0-2 FC Groningen (Montes 6, 79) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon (Santos 73) Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 2/11 FC Groningen vs. Volendam Euroborg Team News: Elshot out injured (2 weeks) Groningen Fail to Score Despite controlling the game, Groningen failed to create any chances in a p1ss boring game that finished 0-0 FC Groningen 0-0 Volendam Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Fellinga, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raptor Posted September 19, 2004 Share Posted September 19, 2004 We gaan Europa in We gaan Europa in We gaan Europa in WE GAAN EUROPA IN!!! Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 English only Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raptor Posted September 19, 2004 Share Posted September 19, 2004 Verhaal van de Week Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 19, 2004 Author Share Posted September 19, 2004 Ahahaha Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted September 20, 2004 Share Posted September 20, 2004 Congrats Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 20, 2004 Author Share Posted September 20, 2004 8/11 NAC Breda vs. FC Groningen Fujifilm Stadion News: Elshot out Groningen Hold Out for Win In what was a tough, uncompromising game, FC Groningen just managed to hold off struggling NAC Breda to collect all three points. The opening goal came after just two minutes, as Glenn Salmon dummied on his left foot, to create half a yard of space on the edge on the area, before firing a right footed shot past the keeper and in. Salmon netted a second just before the half hour, as Fali Montes overhead pass went straight into his path. The South African barged off two defenders, before nutmegging the keeper. Inevitably, Fali Montes scored - a header from Tuhuteru's corner after 36 minutes - and Groningen were cruising. Minutes into the second half, however, NAC got a goal back, as lax defending allowed Anouar Hamdi a free shot at goal. But from then on, the visitors dominated, with Santos and De Witte both coming close. Breda, however, did give Groningen a scare with a late goal Tamas Peto scoring a scrappy rebound...but it wasn't enough, as Groningen climb a place to 5th in the table. NAC Breda 2-3 FC Groningen (Hamdi 47, Peto 90; Salmon 2, 28, Montes 36) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Fellinga, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru (De Witte 47), Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon (Santos 47) Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 20, 2004 Author Share Posted September 20, 2004 12/11 FC Groningen vs. PSV Euroborg Groningen totally and utterly OWN PSV Groningen hosted PSV in search of their first win over a title challenger, and immediately stunned PSV within the first 10 minutes. Glenn Salmon found the back of the net after 9 minutes gone, as he rose highest of a freekick to head powerfully home. Just three minutes later, and Mile Krstev doubled the advantage with a fine strike from the edge of the area. Groningen's dominance was totally clear. Rumen Hristov went on a winding run, before cutting onto his left foot and curling a shot into the far corner. And he scored another 10 minutes later - a fantastic 22 yard free kick which left Waterreus helpless. The first half scoring wasn't even done yet - as Mathias Florén collected the scraps of a corner and scored a deflected shot off of ex-Groningen player Arjen Robben. Groningen continued to pummel PSV. Mile Krstev got his second just minutes into the second half after Montes layed him off from just inside the penalty area. With just over 10 minutes to go, Ignacio Tuhuteru got his name on board, after being thread a wonderful pass by Floren, he cut inside the right back, and wrong footed the keeper. That was it, though. But I'm sure no one is complaining at the manner of the record 7-0 victory. FC Groningen 7-0 PSV (Salmon 9, Krstev 12, 53, Hristov 25, 34, Florén 45, Tuhuteru 78) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Fellinga, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 20, 2004 Author Share Posted September 20, 2004 23/11 NEC vs. FC Groningen do Goffert Team news: Elshot returns, Hugo suspended Groningen into Top 3 Groningen are making it a habit of scoring first in games. This time it was Fali Montes who gave them the away advantage, as Tuhuteru's low cross was well redirected into the roof of the net. Their hold on the game was staggering, and Mile Krstev made it 3 in 2 games with a rin past 2 defenders, before aside footed finish from 3 yards. But in the second half, NEC recovered - forcing 5 or 6 fantastic saves from Beukenkamp. But the Groningen keeper was strong, and kept Groningen in it - and ahead, as they held on for a third consecutive win. The win took Groningen up to 3rd in the table, 4 points behind leaders Ajax and unbeaten Utrecht. NEC 0-2 Groningen (Montes 20, Krstev 43) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Nicolas; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Fellinga, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Raptor Posted September 20, 2004 Share Posted September 20, 2004 Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuckin' hell Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 20, 2004 Author Share Posted September 20, 2004 I should apply for the real Groningen job - judging by how well they're doing Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted September 20, 2004 Share Posted September 20, 2004 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by Raptor: Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuckin' hell <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> My sentiments exactly Sod being Groningen boss take over from Fergie Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 30/11 FC Groningen vs. AZ Euroborg Groningen Cruise to Victory Groningen continue to dominate games by scoring first - and early. The trend certaintly wasn't holten against AZ, as Glenn Salmon was gifted an early goal through a goalkeeper/defender miscommunication. Whilst AZ held on until half time, the home side struck early into the second period, after an easy corner was dropped by the keeper to the feet of Hugo - and the midfielder couldn't miss. FC Groningen 2-0 AZ (Salmon 8, Hugo 53) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon (Santos 67) Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 3/12 (6) Heerenveen vs. FC Groningen (3) Abe Lenstra Stadion Team News: Salmon out (injured, 2 weeks) Groningen Return to Basics - but come through Can anyone stop Groningen? Well, Heerenveen got off to the worst possible start, when Mile Krstev broke from midfield to nutmeg the keeper after just 18 seconds But the positive play from both sides ceased mid way through the half, as the final 20 minutes drew to it's dull ending. Groningen happy to be going in at the break one up. And it was the home side that took the initiative in the second half, with Gerald Sibon looking especially dangerous, as Groningen were held within their own third for much of the half. But a defence ispired by the outstanding (again) Chris Zoricich managed to hold out - as Groningen won for the 5th time in a row, and are now firmly stating themselves as contenders for Europe. Heerenveen 0-1 FC Groningen (Krstev 1) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Santos Subs: Fellinga, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Post Match: Kurt Elshot will be suspended for a game after collecting 5 yellow cards. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 7/12 (3) FC Groningen vs. RBC (14) Euroborg Team News: Elshot suspended, Salmon injured. League News: Rafael van der Vaart out for 5 months with a broken pelvis Marshall Works His Magic Again Groningen once again started explosively, but the visitors held them off in the first half - despite Hugo hitting the bar after 22 seconds, and shots from Santos and Hristov both testinf the keeper. In fact, it was Hristov who finally gave Groningen the lead mid way through the second half, as a ball over the top was well brought down, and the Bulgarian fired it past the goalkeepers flailing arms. It's amazing that in a frentic game, those were the only four chances created. But, the reality is, that Groningen have now won 6 on the bounce, and are looking incredibly formidable FC Groningen 1-0 RBC (Hristov 73) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Fellinga, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Santos Subs: Landerl, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 14/12 The Big One (cup wise) FC Groningen vs. Ajax Euroborg Amstel Cup 4th Round (FA Cup) Team News: Salmon injured, Tuhuteru suspended Inspired Groningen Pull Off Major Upset The Ajax team suggested that they underestimated the side just one place below them in the table, but unfortunately for Groningen, they failed to prove Ajax wrong in the first half. It was a half with no clear cut chances for either side - in fact, no shots on target. But the visotrs would have gone in feeling they had the game in their graps. But they didn't. After a fantastic save from Beukenkamp, Groningen flew down the other end, and Santos' flick on found Fali Montes, who scored at his second attempt. From there on it was all Groningen, and their stellar defense proved itself once more, as they move into the quarter finals having disposed of the favourites in a professional manor. They will face FC Twente in the last 8 FC Groningen 1-0 Ajax (Montes 62) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, De Witte, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Santos Subs: Fellinga, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, Landerl Amstel Cup 1/8 Finals: Heracles v. Cambuur Einhoven v. FC Utrecht Groningen v. FC Twente Excelsior v. Ajax Reserves () Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 27/12 Roda JC v FC Groningen Groningen End Year on High Groningen are the in form team in the league - although it didn't look like it for much of the first half against Roda. They had to dog it out, before Glenn Salmon scored a fortunate equaliser, after a clearance bounced off his shin and past the wrong footed keeper. In the second half, there were no signs of improvement, as it seemed Groningen would settle for another 1-0 - and they got it. A grinding it out win to end the year, but heading into 2004, Groningen will be delighted to have already massively exceeded expectations. Roda JC 0-1 FC Groningen (Salmon 36) Line-up (4-4-2): Beukenkamp; Elshot, Florén, Vrede ©, Zoricich; Hristov, Tuhuteru, Krstev, Hugo; Montes, Salmon Subs: Santos, Lambers, Kruiswijk, Nicolas, Drent, Smit, De Witte Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 Equaliser? what a typo Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 <pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre"> Holders - Ajax | Pos | Inf | Team | | Pld | Won | Drn | Lst | For | Ag | G.D. | Pts | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 1st | | Ajax | | 17 | 14 | 1 | 2 | 50 | 14 | +36 | 43 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 2nd | | FC Groningen | | 17 | 12 | 3 | 2 | 35 | 10 | +25 | 39 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 3rd | | PSV | | 17 | 11 | 3 | 3 | 30 | 17 | +13 | 36 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 4th | | FC Utrecht | | 17 | 10 | 5 | 2 | 33 | 13 | +20 | 35 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 5th | | Feyenoord | | 17 | 9 | 5 | 3 | 28 | 11 | +17 | 32 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 6th | | AZ | | 17 | 8 | 5 | 4 | 36 | 19 | +17 | 29 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 7th | | Roda JC | | 17 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 21 | 14 | +7 | 26 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 8th | | Heerenveen | | 17 | 7 | 5 | 5 | 22 | 25 | -3 | 26 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 9th | | NEC | | 17 | 7 | 4 | 6 | 30 | 30 | 0 | 25 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 10th | | Vitesse | | 17 | 6 | 5 | 6 | 23 | 26 | -3 | 23 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 11th | | Zwolle | | 17 | 6 | 2 | 9 | 19 | 29 | -10 | 20 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 12th | | Willem II | | 17 | 6 | 1 | 10 | 20 | 25 | -5 | 19 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 13th | | RBC | | 17 | 5 | 4 | 8 | 22 | 30 | -8 | 19 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 14th | | FC Twente | | 17 | 5 | 2 | 10 | 14 | 30 | -16 | 17 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 15th | | ADO Den Haag | | 17 | 4 | 4 | 9 | 21 | 37 | -16 | 16 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 16th | | RKC | | 17 | 3 | 1 | 13 | 11 | 40 | -29 | 10 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 17th | | NAC Breda | | 17 | 1 | 5 | 11 | 14 | 29 | -15 | 8 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 18th | | Volendam | | 17 | 0 | 4 | 13 | 13 | 43 | -30 | 4 | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| </pre> Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted September 21, 2004 Share Posted September 21, 2004 Champions LEague next season then Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
James M Posted September 21, 2004 Author Share Posted September 21, 2004 Hold your horses....still 17 games to go And that's if there is a next season Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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