SOS-I

[Faramir]

fergus- thanks for the compliment and the well wishes, both are appreciated

***

3.3.12

Yeovil (2) AFC Wimbledon (1)

Yeovil- R.Crosby 52 M.Nicholson 90

AFC- A.McLean 46

MOM- Michael Nicholson, Yeovil

Yeovil capped a determined comeback effort with a goal in second half extra time to edge AFC Wimbledon 2-1. A scoreless first half was highlighted by strong play by both backlines as they made timely interventions to help their keepers keep the match locked at 0-0. AFC struck in the opening moments of the second half when a good pass from Alex Bishop sprung Lee Peac@ck on the left side. Peac@ck crossed back to the center and Aaron McLean overpowered Mark Goodman to head past Lee John. Yeovil got back to even when Rob Crosby outleaped Alex Bishop and deflected a pass from Michael Nicholson past Dean Delany. The Huish Park fans went home very happy when Nicholson boomed a 25 yard free kick past Delany in second half extra time to score a dramatic matchwinner.

DC- It wasn't our best effort, we didn't play particularly well with the ball and wasted some good chances. It was a tough loss, but one of those that will happen to even the best of clubs on occasion. We just need to play better against Cambridge to get momentum for our showdown match with Burton Albion.

[Faramir]

7.3.12

Cambridge (0) AFC Wimbledon (2)

Cambridge- None

AFC- L.Peac@ck 40 A.McLean 55

MOM- Alex Saunders, AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon wasn't particularly sharp in their match at Abbey Stadium, but last place Cambridge demonstrated again why they are well on their way down to relegation with an uninspired performance in the 2-0 AFC win. The home fans were less than pleased with Cambridge's struggles and let Manager Mark Kennedy know in no uncertain terms. AFC had a difficult time taking advantage of Cambridge's disorganization through much of the first half as they were a bit out of sync with the return of Jamie Parker to the lineup and having to use Ryan Shawcross and Alex Saunders on the wings. Saunders earned his MOM honours with a brilliant pass that zipped through a crowd to find Lee Peac@ck ready on the far post. Before keeper Gary Montgomery could react- Peac@ck had drilled a shot in off the underside of the bar. AFC's 2nd goal seemed to finish off the tatters of Cambridge spirit as Shawcross made a deft short pass that allowed Aaron McLean to take the ball around Montgomery and fire a shot into the short side of the net inside the right post. With the 2-0 lead and a dispirited opponent- AFC was content to work hard in the midfield and run out the clock on another clean sheet.

DC- Another workmanlike effort. We need to play much better in our weekend match at Burton Albion, but hopefully the win gives us some needed impetus going into that key match.

[Faramir]

10.3.12

Burton Albion (1) AFC Wimbledon (1)

Burton Albion- J.Jones 31

AFC- J.Parker 81

MOM- Dean Delany, AFC Wimbledon

In a roaring good match, AFC Wimbledon found a way to fight back and earn a 1-1 draw in a match filled with great moments. Burton Albion was clearly the fresher club in the first half and they played a crisp, aggressive passing attack that had AFC on their backheels. The difference in the first half was clearly the stellar play of AFC keeper Dean Delany, who kept AFC in the match despite their lethargic play. Delany made terrific saves on Burton Albion's dynamo tandem of Michael Rankine and Kevin Rooney. It was AFC's turn to have problem with the pace of play as they were a step slow throghout the half and the home side finally made them pay when Delany stopped Rooney's initial blast, but Jamie Jones swooped in to fire it into the far side of the net for his 1st goal. After halftime, AFC showed much more organization and life and began generating chances of their own. Mark Gibson made good saves against both Lee Peac@ck and Aaron McLean to keep AFC off the board. When Peac@ck left with a minor injury- Pagguy Zunda became Burton Albion's nemesis. Zunda raced down the pitch on a counter and fired a shot that blew by Gibson- but rattled back off the crossbar. Zunda then went in one-on-one, but Gibson made a brilliant diving parry and pushed the ball around the post. The pressure finally paid off when Jamie Parker dove and deflected a corner from Alex Saunders past Gibson for a dramatic equalizer. AFC backed off their pressure at that point and almost paid a dear price when they allowed John Paul Mills alone in front- but he missed over the top of the net to the huge groan from the Eton Park crowd. Both sides had one last good chance, but Zunda shot wide and Rankine's header sailed over the bar as the clubs had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

DC- The draw was a lot better result for us than them- as they needed a win to get back within a point of us. We played a terrible first half, but Delany showed he was class again with his play today and then we showed our heart with another strong fightback. We lost Lee Peac@ck for the remainder of the season with a leg injury.

<pre class="ip-ubbcode-code-pre">

Division 3 Standings (38 matches)

1. AFC Wimbledon 89 pts (Clinched Playoff spot) (+66)

2. Burton Albion 85 pts (+48)

3. Stevenage 72 pts (+25)

4. Cheltenham 68 pts (+40)

5. Enfield 65 pts (+24)

6. Yeovil 65 pts (+19)

7. Swindon 64 pts (+19)

8. Kidderminster 61 pts (+11)

9. Torquay 61 pts (+7)

</pre>

[Faramir]

17.3.12

AFC Wimbledon (3) York (1)

AFC- R.Shields 54 A.McLean 82 A.Holt 90

York- R.Gregory 62

MOM- Aaron McLean, AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon used their perseverness to win late against a determined York side at The Fans' Stadium. York keeper David Stockdale was counting his blessings in the first half as he not only survived AFC hitting the post and crossbar, but he also managed a superb reaction save when York defender Chris Smith flicked a header back toward him that would have gone in for an own goal if not for his getting a hand on it. Stockdale also made good saves on both Robbie Shields and Aaron McLean in close to preserve the scoreless state at halftime. AFC struck for the lead early in the second half after York had hit a post of their own behind Dean Delany. McLean made a beautiful flick on for Shields. Shields, battling both Ben Culshaw and Mark Allen in the air for the ball, made a superb header that slipped past Stockdale to give AFC the lead. AFC squandered their lead when Paul Dunn was caught challenging too far up the pitch and Mark Howell passed over him to Richard Gregory. Gregory had acres of space as he moved in and teed up a blast that Delany got a piece of- but couldn't keep out of the net for the equalizer. AFC surged back to try and regain the lead and after a couple close misses- did just that when Nicky Roberts sent an excellent cross that McLean was able to deflect past Stockdale into the left side of the net. AFC then added the punctuation mark when Andrew Holt, on for Alan Charlton, had his header saved but drove the rebound past Stockdale to make the final score 3-1. The win ensures that AFC Wimbledon will be playing in Division 2 next season.

DC- We showed a good level of grit and determination in rallying to win the match after playing sloppy defense to allow them to even it at 1-1. The cross from Roberts is one of the best I have seen this season. There was a minor celebration for gaining promotion- but the fans were happier than the players, since the players and I are still focused on beating out Burton Albion and winning the Division.

[Faramir]

24.3.12

Swindon (2) AFC Wimbledon (1)

Swindon- J.Tolley 46 D.Marney 71

AFC- Pagguy Zunda 81

MOM- Dean Delany, AFC Wimbledon

Swindon proved they are red hot of late as they easily defeated AFC Wimbledon 2-1 in a match that was much more one-sided than the score would make it appear. Swindon played a crisp passing game the entire match and left AFC floundering in a series of miscues and botched coverages. AFC managed to finish out their lacklustre first half still locked in a scoreless draw thanks to the fine work of keeper Dean Delany. Swindon took charge of the match early in the second half when Tommy Green's pass off a throw-in found Jamie Tolley with enough room to wheel and blast a shot past Delany. Matthew Gibson's fine pass set up Daniel Marney to walk in and fire a high shot past Delany to make it 2-0. AFC didn't fold though as they tried to rally. Pagguy Zunda drew a goal back when he banked home a rebound after Robbie Shields was stopped at close range. The closing moments highlighted AFC's struggles on the day- as both Ryan Shawcross and Nicky Roberts dribbled the ball out of bounds on counterattacks to stymie the last chances in the 2-1 loss.

DC- We didn't play well- at all. We were lucky to be close in the match. Losing Aaron McLean to injury for the match hurt us- as Fabien Brandy played terrible (again). Alan Charlton reinjured himself during the match and will miss a couple weeks- but fortunately Jim Corbett is ready to start playing again. The loss coupled with Burton Albion's win means they are only 1 point back of us in the standings again.

[Faramir]

AFC Gains Gallagher

In a move to shore up their injury riddled forward rotation, AFC Wimbledon today announced the transfer purchase of Paul Gallagher from Barnsley. Gallagher, on the outs at Barnsley and transfer listed the whole season, is a 27 yr old SC who has experience on the Scot Under-21 side. The reported transfer price was a minimal 8K for the well thought of Scottish forward.

DC- We needed help up front right now and this was a transfer deadline deal that should help us until Peter Richardson is back in full health. Richardson is close to returning, but will still need to spend some time building up his fitness. Gallagher is only a stop-gap and isn't signed to a particularly long or expensive contract because of that.

***

March Division 3 Honours

Player of the Month- Michael Rankine, Burton Albion

Young Player of the Month- Kevin Rooney, Burton Albion

Manager of the Month- Nigel Clough, Burton Albion

***

Corbett Out Again

Injury woes continue to haunt AFC Wimbledon as Jim Corbett returned to the injury list with a gashed leg. Corbett suffered the injury in routine training and will likely miss a couple weeks. Alan Charlton seemed set to return, but will also remain out of action for another week due to a sprained ankle.

DC- We will just have to make do, but I really wish Jim had been ready to play. Our only healthy wingers at present are Nicky Roberts and Andrew Holt, so we will likely have to play Shawcross and Saunders out of position again to help out on the wings.

[Faramir]

7.4.12

AFC Wimbledon (1) Kidderminster (0)

AFC- R.Shields 85

Kidderminster- None

MOM- Gary Marshall, Kidderminster

It was the Marshall plan for Kidderminster as keeper Gary Marshall was the easy choice as MOM for keeping the visiting side in the match. In the first 20 minutes alone Marshall made three superb saves to leave AFC players shaking their heads as good passing had given Robbie Shields, Paul Gallagher and Jamie Parker good scoring chances. Despite AFC pressure, it remained scoreless at half, though some of the blame could be attributed to near-misses from both Shields and Gallagher on close-in chances. AFC kept their viselike pressure turned up in the second half and after several more near misses, it paid off when Steven Murphy chipped the ball down to Alex Saunders on the left sideline. Saunders made an excellent run and then sent a neat cross for Shields. Shields leaped and snapped a header that scooted past Marshall and just inside the right post for the lone goal in the match. AFC leaned heavily on Dean Delany to hold up the lead and he made excellent saves on both Andy May and Matt Bailey in the closing moments to preserve the close 1-0 win.

DC- Our frustration level was pretty high when we finally scored the match winner. Robbie Shields played well in tandem with Paul Gallagher in Gallagher's AFC debut. We missed some shots that seemed makeable, but Kidderminster defensive coverage was good too and limited some good scoring chances with their strong play. Burton Albion suffered a last-minute 3-2 loss while visiting 19th placed Lincoln, so we are back to having 4 points between us.

***

DC- Suddenly we are swimming in forwards. Lee Peac@ck, Aaron McLean and Peter Richardson all are now match-ready again. Likely it will be Richardson and Peac@ck starting as we face Port Vale for the Vans Trophy in our midweek tilt.

[Faramir]

11.4.12

Port Vale (1) AFC Wimbledon (4) Vans Trophy Final- Wembley

Port Vale- S.Eldershaw 70

AFC- P.Richardson 4,33 A.Saunders 6 L.Peac@ck 89

MOM- Peter Richardson, AFC Wimbledon

When Peter Richardson left midway through the second half he received a standing ovation from the 40,000+ plans attending the Final at Wembley. Before he left Richardson demonstrated why he very likely would have been Division 2 Player of the Year if he hadn't been injured for much of the season. Richardson stepped back into the lineup for the first time in 5 months and it was like he had never been away. His chemistry with leftwinger Alex Saunders was the key ingredient for AFC Wimbledon roaring to a 3-0 halftime lead. When Paul Dunn's looping centering pass sailed over everyone, Richardson was first to the ball. Richardson slotted the ball back to Saunders and headed for the net. Saunders sent the ball right back to Richardson and it was easy for him to slip the ball past Port Vale keeper Tony Elliott for his 10th goal of the season and a quick AFC lead. AFC added to the lead less than two minutes later when Richardson made space for Saunders by dribbling to the left sideline. Saunders filled the open space and Richardson chipped a pass to him. Saunders low blast inside the near left post left Port Vale stunned as they were behind 2-0 at the 6 minute mark. Tony Shields found Andrew Holt unmarked on the right side of the six yard box after a scramble in the Port Vale area. Elliott made a fine parry of Holt's hard shot, but Richardson whisked the rebound into the net before anyone else could react for his 2nd goal of the match. With the 3-0 lead, AFC was content to play more conservatively in the second half. Port Vale took advantage to control most of the play, but they weren't getting many good chances. When they finally had a good chance, Dean Delany was there to scoop it up or knock the ball away. Simon Eldershaw finally broke through to score for Port Vale after Peter Watson got too adventurous and left him free to run down a pass from Paul Evans before firing it past Delany. Port Vale couldn't capitalize further though and AFC clinched the match when Elliott blocked a strong Holt header on a cross from Saunders, but Lee Peac@ck (subbed on for Richardson as AFC Manager Colley didn't want to jeapordize Richardson's recent recovery) pushed in the rebound to make the final margin of the win 4-1 for AFC.

DC- A great match for us and a wonderful result. It was nice to see Peter Richardson step right in and show the large crowd the caliber of player he is. We played a strong match in every phase of play and the result was certainly a deserved one. Both the Board and our fans were ecstatic at the Vans Trophy win.

[Faramir]

14.4.12

Rushden (3) AFC Wimbledon (2)

Rushden- R.Davis 18,29,53

AFC- P.Richardson 19,57

MOM- Ray Davis, Rushden

Ray Davis was trouble for AFC Wimbledon as they could not contain him and that resulted in a disappointing 3-2 loss at Nene Park. The major difference in the match was that Andy Gibson was stellar in the Rushden net- AFC had many good scoring chances in both halves- and Dean Delany just wasn't as sharp as he has been most of the season. Rushden took the early lead when Davis broke through to deflect a centering pass from Chris Harris inside the right post. AFC pegged Rushden back immediately as Alex Bishop sent a ball into space on the right and Aaron McLean made a determined effort as he ran it down before it went out of bounds. McLean took the ball to the touchline before sending a tight cross that Peter Richardson was able to knock past Gibson. Davis scored his 2nd of the match when Alton Thelwell saw Davis come unmarked to the middle as Bishop and Tony Shields both went walkabout. Davis had plenty of time to blast a shot past Delany. Davis completed his hat-trick in the second half when Bishop was unable to keep him under wraps as he headed another pass from Harris by Delany. Richardson got AFC back into the match again when Alex Saunders' perfect chip pass left him an easy tap-in past Gibson. Gibson stymied Richardson the rest of the way- as he managed to make 4 excellent saves on good chances for Richardson. It looked like McLean would have a shot to even the match, but he was tired and was caught with a last-minute saving tackle that kept him from scoring late in the second half. The loss allows Burton Albion to move back within a point of AFC for top spot.

DC- We had as many good scoring chances as they did, but Davis got the better of Dean Delany today and Peter Richardson was frustrated by Gibson. I was holding out hope we could come back and manage a draw, but we came up short today.

[Faramir]

McLean Out For Season

AFC Wimbledon forward Aaron McLean will miss the remainder of the season due to a calf injury that will require rehabilitation. AFC fans were discouraged by the news, but AFC manager Dave Colley was nonplussed, "Though we would love to have Aaron in the lineup, we have the depth to surivive his injury and we just want him to work toward being ready to start training after the summer break."

DC- It was a bad time to lose Aaron, but we do have enough depth to overcome his loss.

***

21.4.12

AFC Wimbledon (2) Hartlepool (0)

AFC- P.Richardson 38 L.Peac@ck 54-P

Hartlepool- None

MOM- Lee Peac@ck, AFC Wimbledon

AFC Wimbledon rebounded from their loss to Rushden with a strong defensive performance at Kingsmeadow as they saw off visiting Hartlepool by a 2-0 score. Both sides surged up and down the pitch in the first half and each had good chances to score. Jason Stanley missed just wide of the post early on and then Paul Rachubka snared a rising shot from him midway through the first half. AFC saw Alan Charlton have his shot smothered by Gary Owen and then Peter Richardson's free kick bounced back off the crossbar. AFC grabbed the lead later in the half when Charlton used his blinding speed to gain just enough room to send a cross to the near right post. Richardson again showed his great sense for being in the right place around the net as he had been trailing the play, but broke in to head the cross inside the right post past Owen. Both sides worked hard in the early part of the second half- trying to gain the important next goal. Hartlepool's Simon Bates strenuously protested when the referee whistled him for a handball in the area, but his protests were in vain. Lee Peac@ck stepped up and drove the penalty kick home to give AFC a 2-0 lead. AFC played more defensively for the remainder of the match and squashed the rally attempts of Hartlepool through strong midfield play to keep the clean sheet for Rachubka. Burton Albion continued to dog AFC as they won 3-1 at struggling Southend to remain a point behind.

DC- It wasn't a picture perfect performance for us, but we did enough things right to earn the win. Rachubka played the entire match with a minor injury as he hadn't told anyone before going out on the pitch with it.

[Faramir]

DC- It is interesting to reflect on Leyton Orient's fortunes since I left. Will (Drabek) retired at the end of the season (NOTE- this is just for purposes of this story, 'The Bet' will continue on as seperate reality where Drabek doesn't retire) I left. Tony Parkes has been the Manager since then and there were lots of changes. They quit playing David Poole and dumped him to Bradford City- where he is now unhappy about not getting to play. They stocked up on old, 'storied' names- Hernan Crespo, David Trezeguet, Wilfrid Bouma among others and the only regulars from my time there still starting are Sebastien Frey, David Fox and Christopher Eagles. They finished 7th last season and currently are 4th this season. They are still alive in UEFA Cup Semifinals and are due to face Real Sociedad for the chance to move to the Finals. It isn't the same close-knit club now that I left.

***

28.4.12

Stevenage (1) AFC Wimbledon (0)

Stevenage- M.Ingram 78

AFC- None

MOM- Ian Wilson, Stevenage

Despite dominating their match Broadhall Way, AFC Wimbledon lost a close match 1-0 to Stevenage when the home side scored a late goal on their 1st shot of the match. AFC pressured Stevenage throughout the first half and pounded away at keeper Ian Wilson, but had nothing to show for their efforts at halftime as Wilson had kept them at bay. The second half continued as AFC put together a couple superb chances, only to see Wilson stop both Jim Corbett and Peter Richardson from in close. Stevenage struck for the lone goal against the flow of play. Krisztian Szollar sent an excellent through ball that zipped past both Alex Bishop and David Woodward and found Mark Ingram at the edge of the six yard box. Ingram snapped his shot and Dean Delany got a hand on it- but couldn't keep it out of the net. AFC desperately tried to gain the equalizer, but were denied any good fortune in suffering the frustrating 1-0 loss. Burton Albion missed their chance to take over the top spot when they were stunned by a late Kidderminster goal that saw them lose 1-0 at home and remain a point behind AFC.

DC- Wilson had our number today. We played well enough to win- but made one mistake defensively and paid dearly for it. We were fortunate that Burton Albion lost as well. Two matches remain- we have Notts County (a difficult club for us) at Kingsmeadow and then we travel to close the season at mid-table Colchester. Burton Albion has two road matches left- against Boston United and then finishing out at Rushden.

[Faramir]

Injuries Pile Up at AFC

AFC Wimbledon, already battling problems with injuries, will be missing two more players for the remainder of the season. Key defender Alex Bishop suffered a bad gash on his leg and will be out while recovering from being patched up. Midfielder Alex Saunders is fighting hamstring problems and has also been ruled out for the rest of the season.

DC- Losing Bishop hurt and I will have to hope that Paul Hooper is up to stepping into his place in the lineup. Saunders loss is less of a problem as we have enough healthy midfielders to cope at present.

***

April 2012 Division 3 Honours

Player of the Month- Dave Hall, Dag & Red

Young Player of the Month- John Hayward, Rushden

Manager of the Month- Mark Seagraves, Dag & Red

[Faramir]

5.5.12

AFC Wimbledon (2) Notts County (1)

AFC- L.Peac@ck 19 J.Gardner 62-OG

Notts Co- K.Anderson 89

MOM- Peter Watson, AFC Wimbledon

It was eerily quiet as the final moments of the match wound down and then both the fans and players exploded with delight at the final whistle. AFC Wimbledon had hung on for a 2-1 win and coupled with Burton Albion's 2-1 loss at Boston, AFC had captured the 3rd Division Championship. AFC seemed surprisingly unphased by the pressure as they went about their business of attacking the Notts County keeper John Gardner. It might have been a deadly resolve on AFC's part- after the embarrassing 6-1 loss they had suffered to Notts County earlier in the season- easily their worst defeat of the season. After Gardner had smothered a couple feeble early chances, he had no chance of stopping Lee Peac@ck's blast from the edge of the six yard box. Peter Watson had threaded a through ball by three Notts County players to pick out Peac@ck in the area. Both sides appeared to sense the pressure and the beginning of the second half was closely played. Jim Corbett's hard work broke the match open for AFC. He battled his way down the pitch, getting past two would be tacklers before breaking in from the right. Corbett's sizzling cross was set to find Peter Richardson unmarked at the far post, but Gardner leapt and appeared to grab off the cross. Unfortunately for him, the spin on the cross proved too much to handle and he juggled the ball into the net for an own goal. AFC was content to play a more conservative approach after that and it almost proved fatal. Simon Mason sent a quick pass out to Paul Austin on the left sideline and just as quickly Austin moved it to Kevin Anderson. Anderson moved unhindered down the left side as Paul Dunn desperately tried to catch up. Anderson's hard low blast from an impossible angle was missed by Dean Delany as it went inside the right post to give Notts County hope. AFC extinguished that hope with strong midfield work as they preserved the win and began the celebration. It was revealed after the match that Delany had broken two ribs during the match and had somehow managed to finish the match out. Burton Albion lost 2-1 when Boston scored a goal midway through the second half- as Burton Albion played with only 10 men because Jonathan Paul Mills had been sent off in first half extra time.

DC- It has been a season long battle with Burton Albion and I am sincerely glad it is over. Now I don't have to worry about closing with a road match. We have battled injuries to key players and have been able to overcome our obstacles thanks to players contributing whenever they could. It has been a great season for us.

[Faramir]

DC- The call came out of the blue. The job offers had quieted down and I really hadn't had to even consider any in awhile. The offer was one of those especially intriguing- and though they were pressing me for an immediate answer, I managed to wangle an hour's time to make my decision.

The club offering was Norwich. I could understand their need for an immediate response. They were three days from their final match and were clinging to 6th place in Division 2- the last playoff slot. Their final match was hosting 5th place Walsall, while 7th place Crystal Palace was only 1 point behind Norwich. The Board dearly wanted to make the playoffs and that was why they wanted an immediate answer.

It was an interesting offer to be sure. Norwich itself was well off and though I knew little about the players on their squad- they couldn't be too bad to still be in 6th place at this late juncture. I called Will Drabek to get his opinion because I respected him so much. Will was very encouraging, "Look. You pulled AFC Wimbledon back from the brink and now they are headed to Division 2 play because of you. This is a good chance for you to make the next step and gain some more recognition. I think you should take it."

That was good enough for me, never mind the fact that those same thoughts had echoed in my head before I called him. It was a chance to prove myself at the next level- something I was eager to do. I called the Chairman back and told him I would take the job.

My next calls were to my AFC staff and players- I wanted to tell each of them personally. It was a sad parting after what we had been through together, but they all understood the opportunity. I left early in the morning for Norwich...

[Gr81]

Noooooooooo! Gaffer, You best sign me for your Norwich side!

[Faramir]

Sorry Gr81

Thanks to everyone who followed along on the story. This will be the final post to it. I kept the save game from the point Colley left, so if I ever do get the inclination to return to AFC Wimbledon- it will be with a new story. In the interest of finishing this one though, here is the ending of Dave Colley's season...

Cheers- MD

*********

Canaries Crown Colley

Norwich announced that they had appointed Dave Colley as their new manager. Colley arrives at Norwich from AFC Wimbledon, where he led them to consecutive promotions from the Conference after having helped them avoid relegation. This season Colley's club had suprised the pundits as they clinched the Division 3 title last weekend after a season long battle with Burton Albion. Chairman Munby expressed confidence that Colley was the right person to head the Canaries at this crucial juncture of their season as they hosted Walsall in their final match of the season to determine if they will make the playoffs.

***

DC- I thought that it might be a bit intimidating to join a club in Norwich's particular situation- with so much on the line. Surprisingly, it wasn't hard at all. They were willing to accept me and it was easy to sense they wanted an anchor to grab on to as they faced their final match. With so much on the line, you could quickly sense the pressure and tension in the air around Carrow Road. The club was on the young side- having sold off some veteran players during the season and their was some discontent among the veterans left on the club that Donachie had abandoned the chance for a return to Division 1 to please the Board by padding the bottom line. Considering this also seemed to be have a part in why the Board fired him, I didn't place a lot of stock in that talk. They were ready to get down to work, especially after I laid out what I expected of them and the style of attack we would play. I think the staff, the players and I were all a bit excited to get training for the match against Walsall. The club had a transfer budget of 6.5 Million, but that would be a consideration for after the season- since only free transfer signings would matter at present. The club I inherited was...

Tom Reed- 24 yr old GK- Number 1 keeper and looked like a solid citizen to me.

Ben Rhodes- 21 yr old GK- Young, but had been Number 1 keeper for part of last season and had loads of talent, but a bit eccentric.

Carl McDonald- 20 yr old D/MLC- Had been playing mostly centre back, but I asked him to play at leftback because I wanted to take greater advantage of some of his offensive skills.

Jon Forrester- 22 yr old D/AML- Explosive player, but pace doesn't mean you are a good defender and I got the impression he was much more comfortable in a midfield role.

Jamie Salmon- 18 yr old D/AML- Had been the starting leftback, but his modest pace and acceleration worried me.

Maximilian Aust- 26 yr old DR- One of the few veterans on the club, had capped on Germany's Under-21 side and undoubtably a team leader.

Scott Young- 22 yr old DRC- Despite his youth, one of the steadiest defenders on the club and I expected him to help fill the centre.

Peter Castle- 25 yr old DC- Part of the reason I wanted McDonald to move to fullback was to allow Castle to continue getting time in the middle- steady, not flashy player.

Jason Shackell- 28 yr old DC- Strictly cover as far as I was concerned- had seen some senior time but hadn't distinguished himself much during the season.

Stephen Wright- 28 yr old SW/DC- One of the most unhappy veterans- hadn't played well enough to justify his lofty view of his abilities.

Dave Anderson- 20 yr old DC- In his few apperances had clearly shown he wasn't ready for senior level play- kept on the senior side because of lack of other defenders.

Kenny Milne- 32 yr old DML- Another unhappy veteran- I wasn't sure that he would really have a place in our future and his wages are a bit much to be paying a backup.

Andrew Wright- 27 yr old DMC- Workmanlike midfielder who had played steady, but not outstanding, all season.

Damien Francis- 33 yr old AMC- Club captain and the key player in my mind for our success against Walsall.

Ladislav Volesak- 28 yr old MC- Czech veteran midfielder who was a solid midfielder and likely starter.

Luke Chadwick- 31 yr old AMRL- Had been hurt much of the season and was already out for the rest of the season when I arrived.

Sam Bailey- 24 yr old AMRLC- Steady younger player- didn't look like much more than a good cover player when I arrived.

David Griffiths- 21 yr old AMR- Had shown little in his limited senior play- Lack of pace meant that he probably wouldn't get a chance at winger under my approach.

Andrew Hancock- 17 yr old AMR- Only spotty senior time, but had played well on the reserves during the season- Lacked stamina, but I thought he might be a solid contributor by next season.

Brian Morgan- 22 yr old MC- Had some talent, but hadn't played well in senior play- Already had the reputation for not being a 'team' player when I arrived.

Dominik Bersnjak- 30 yr old AMC- The Slovenian National had been the top corner man for the club this season, but was also one of the unhappy veterans and was still nursing a leg injury when I arrived.

Ian Henderson- 27 yr old FRLC- Had been a steady, if not outstanding forward for the club- with how thin the frontline was I knew he would have to continue his starting role for us.

Dave Black- 20 yr old SC- I liked his talent and his determination- had been the top scorer for the club this season, but was a bit unhappy with his contract (told him we would discuss it further in the summer.)

Kevin Mitchell- 22 yr old FLC- Had played up front under Donachie, but I took one look at his explosive pace on the wing and resolved to see how he would fare out there.

Leon Cooper- 16 yr old FC- Didn't really belong on the senior side, but no other decent options so he had to be up to provide cover for Henderson and Black.

***

DC- After a few days of training I settled on this starting side for our match against Walsall:

GK- T.Reed

DR- M.Aust

DL- C.McDonald

DC- P.Castle

DC- S.Young

ML- K.Mitchell

MR- D.Griffiths

MC- L.Volesak

MC- D.Francis

FC- I.Henderson

FC- D.Black

***

12.5.12

Norwich (0) Walsall (0)

Norwich- None

Walsall- None

MOM- Jimmy Walker, Walsall

It was a 'wait and see' provision as the Carrow Road fans quickly repaired to the local pubs following the scoreless draw. Crystal Palace was still playing and their outcome would determine whether Norwich made the playoffs after Norwich couldn't solve Walsall keeper Jimmy Walker in the scoreless draw. Scary moments awaited new Norwich manager Dave Colley in the opening moments of the match. Chris Hogg shot just wide of the post in Walsall's first trip down the pitch and moments later Peter Castle was forced to make a fantastic saving tackle on Gary Blackburn to avoid what looked like a certain goal. Norwich steadied after the close call and came very close to grabbing the lead. Ian Henderson missed wide and high on decent chances and Walker made a spectacular fingertip save on Kevin Mitchell's volley. Walsall caused consternation again in the closing moments of the first half when Lee Harding's through ball gave Blackburn another good chance, but Tom Reed was able to gather up his shot. Henderson found himself shaking his head in the early stages of the second half as Walker made two more good saves against him to ruin Norwich hopes. Volesak then came close, but it was another fingertip save by Walker to preserve the scoreless state. Walsall, who needed only a draw to preserve their 5th place standing in the table, went into a defensive shell. Norwich came close to making them pay for that choice, but Henderson again found himself denied by Walker's outstretched hand. The final moments wound down without any more good chances and the scoreless draw was a fair result, but little cheering to the anxious Norwich supporters.

DC- We played well for the first time out playing this new attack, but we couldn't trump Walker's dazzling performance. I retreated to my office to watch the rest of the Crystal Palace match. The match wound down and they couldn't break the 1-1 deadlock with Portsmouth despite their frantic efforts with everyone going forward. When the final whistle blew on their 1-1 draw, I finally released my breath as we had survived and would be in the playoffs- going against 3rd place Reading.

***

DC- In the week before the first leg against Reading, I received another surprise phone call. The agent for both Carl Laurie and Orri Freyr Oskarsson asked me if I would be interested in adding the pair to the Norwich roster. Having not kept up on Orient's ways since Drabek had left the club to concentrate on the National side- I hadn't realized that the pair had been released by new manager Tony Parkes. [NOTE- 'The Bet' does not parallel this story) We quickly agreed on contracts for both of them- they would be valuable additions to Norwich and I was eager for them to arrive. He also mentioned a Portugese winger- Luis Dias- who had been released by Orient, and told me how to get ahold of his agent. I quickly negotiated a contract for him to play here as well. It was a boon to get three players already very familiar with the system, who could step right into our lineup and provide us quality play.

***

DC- The buildup in the press to our match against Reading was more intense than I expected. They were still smarting over the 7-0 thrashing we had handed them at Kingsmeadow while I was at AFC Wimbledon in the Vans Trophy South Final. The fact that we had gone on to win the Vans Trophy still didn't set well with them and they were looking forward to coming to Carrow Road and demonstrating their play as they hoped to move up to Division 1. I put little stock (or attention) really to all the gushings in the press. The additions of Oskarsson and Laurie both added vigor to our offense and a bit of backbone to the defense and Carl quickly proved himself a club leader despite having just arrived. The bad note in our training was losing Damien Francis for the rest of the season when he reinjured his leg (had hurt it earlier in the season as well). His loss meant that Oskarsson would have to be the driving force in our midfield.

***

19.5.12

Norwich (6) Reading (0) Second Division Playoff Semifinal Leg 1

Norwich- I.Henderson 22 O.Oskarsson 39 D.Black 41,45,65,78

Reading- None

MOM- Dave Black, Norwich

Led by a dominating performance up front from dazzling youngster Dave Black, Norwich drummed Reading out of Carrow Road with a 6-0 win in the 1st leg of their playoff semifinal. Reading expected to direct the tempo of the play in the match, but instead found themselves pressured from the opening whistle as Norwich swarmed over them with their blanket of tight defensive coverage. Norwich took the lead through the hard work of Ian Henderson. Henderson intercepted a poor free kick by Nick Shorey and then battled past defender Ahmet Rifat before firing a precision shot inside the far right post past Stuart Gray for a dramatic 50th goal in his time at Norwich. Maximilian Aust keyed the next goal with a nice lead pass that Dave Black was able to run onto. As Kevin Bobson tried to close Black down, Black snaked a cross past him and Orri Freyr Oskarsson deflected it past Gray for a goal in his Norwich debut. After that the Black show began. Oskarsson dumped a pass to Black just as he came open inside the edge of the area and he rifled a shot past Gray into the left side of the net. Number 2 for Black came after he and Oskarsson had played a neat 1-2 and Oskarsson let loose a blast. Gray parried Oskarsson's shot, but Black slammed the rebound into the net for his 2nd of the match and a stunning 4-0 halftime edge for Norwich. The highlight reel for Black continued in the second half. Leon Cooper, on for a slightly injured Henderson, hooked a pass toward Black. Black overpowered Sean Davies and slid his shot underneath the diving Gray to complete his hat-trick. Just for good measure Black added a 4th goal with a superb soft chip over Gray after Oskarsson's chip pass had found him a step in front of Rifat. The last goal was both Black's 20th of the season and the final marker in the convincing 6-0 win.

DC- Despite all the Reading comments in the press, the past did repeat itself as Black and Oskarsson proved to be the dynamic duo today. Carl Laurie was the undernoticed linchpin in our defense as I asked him to fill the holder midfielder role (instead of his usual fullback spot) and he played beautifully as he blunted all their efforts to get their offense going.

***

23.5.12

Reading (0) Norwich (2) Second Division Playoff Semifinal Leg 2 (Norwich advances on 8-0 aggregate)

Reading- None

Norwich- D.Black 6-P C.Laurie 63

MOM- Tom Reed, Norwich

Buoyed by a sensational performance by keeper Tom Reed, Norwich moved into the Second Divison Playoff Finals on the strength of their 2-0 win at Reading. Norwich took the early lead when Andy Hall pushed Sam Bailey when he was trying to leap to deflect a corner. Dave Black converted the penalty kick to send Reading fans' spirits plummeting. Reading was determined to make amends for their terrible showing at Norwich and stormed back. They spent the remainder of the first half in the Norwich end, but wound up frustrated as Tom Reed kept the sheet clean with a number of very good saves. Reading started the second half in the same manner, swarming the Norwich net- but again Reed stopped the shots as needed. Carl Laurie broke Reading's spirit when his bizarre 60 yard pass turned into his 1st goal at Norwich. Laurie, playing rightback today, lofted a pass into the middle. The ball sailed over Ahmet Rifat, Black and Hall and Stuart Gray apparently lost sight of the ball- because when it landed he didn't react as it bounced lazily into the net. The rest of the match went quietly as Reading knew their promotion hopes were over and their fans left early. Even a late penalty wasn't enough for Reading as Leon Osman missed over the net after Scott Young had been redcarded for tackling from behind in the area.

DC- They outplayed us by a large measure, but I somewhat expected that since I had sat out several key players in favor of a patchwork lineup. Reed made that move pay off handsomely with his fine work in net and now we face Walsall for the right to be promoted to Division 1.

***

2.6.12

Norwich (3) Walsall (1) Second Division Playoff Final, Wembley

Norwich- O.Oskarsson 34,59 K.Mitchell 71

Walsall- G.Blackburn 18

MOM- Orri Freyr Oskarsson, Norwich

Norwich and Walsall now faced a more important showdown as they faced off in Wembley for the right to advance to Division 1. Both sides seemed tentative in the early moments of play as missed passes were the early first half highlights. Walsall struck for the lead when Robert Wardle made a terrific pass to unmolested William Sunsing on the leftwing. Sunsing barely stopped the ball before lofting a centering pass to the edge of the area. Gary Blackburn showed excellent timing as he outleaped Carl McDonald and deflected the pass by Tom Reed. Momentary hesitation doomed Jimmy Walker as Norwich fought back to even the match. Kevin Mitchell sent a searching pass into the area. Walker hesistated momentarily and then was stranded when Orri Freyr Oskarsson turned on the jets to reach the ball and drive it past Walker to make it 1-1 at halftime. David Black and Oskarsson played a deft give-and-go to gain the lead for Norwich in the early stages of the second half. Black moved it to Oskarsson and he just as quickly moved it back as Black broke free of his marker. Black moved down to the six yard box before being closed down and then he hooked a pass across. Oskarsson slipped his marker for a moment and it was great timing as he deflected Black's cross by Walker for his 2nd goal of the match. Oskarsson then set up the clinching goal when he drew the defender to himself and slid it past him to an unmarked Kevin Mitchell. Mitchell drove the ball into the right side of the net to crush Walsall's spirit and make the final score 3-1 as Norwich will finally return to Division 1 play.

DC- Oskarsson's signing was the catalyst for promotion. He added the explosive element to our offense and helped take the pressure off the other players. The season has been a long one for me, but from bringing AFC up from Conference in June to their promotion to now this promotion to Division 1- it has been a magical season.