Reaching Stella Heights : Brewed In Belgium

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Another great update buddy, I'm really looking forward to your first match and to learning more about this Bleid team.

Out of interest, are you going to be carrying this on when the new blog system is introduced and FM2011 is out?
 
Pompey_Dan said:
Out of interest, are you going to be carrying this on when the new blog system is introduced and FM2011 is out?
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I've not really thought about it to be honest. I'd like to continue but I'm sure I'll be too immersed in the new game to continue writing when it first comes out!
 
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REACHING STELLA HEIGHTS : BREWED IN BELGIUM​

***** ***** *****​

XIV - Behind Closed Doors​


The squad sat patiently as Fox rambled aimlessly after his introduction. He discussed the style that he had planned the team to play, the tactics and formations. Having spent his childhood and teenage years as a defender, it was surprising that he held such attacking and adventurous ideaologies. The team seemed to warm to these plans immediately, encouraged by the ambition and intent that the new manager was showing. Despite media predictions of a last placed finish and instantaneous relegation, FC Bleid would show no respect for their opponents; no fear. After he'd named the squad for today's game, the majority of players left the ground, instructed to return an hour before kick off. Ever the professional, Francisco Diaz stayed behind with first team coach Kevin Bauens, eager to work on his fitness. He'd missed a lot of preseason and was slightly behind the rest of the squad, and would start the match on the bench. His attitude was welcomed by Raphael Viance, who agreed with Fox's decision to make him club captain for the coming season, though the appraisal wouldn't be announced until the start of the season.

* * *​

Twenty one year old left midfieder, Gregory Servais, led his team down the narrow tunnel; an unexpected captain choice given his recent arrival at FC Bleid. Raphael Viance had trained the squad well over the last few weeks, and Fox trusted his judgement completely. Servais looked very assured in the role. The weather had taken a turn for the worse, with gusty drizzle expected throughout the contest. The combination of a blustery wind and an extremely open stadium would make playing conditions very difficult, but Fox was optimistic that his side would win comfortably. Players from both sides were eager to impress their new manager, and trialist Alejandro Guzman seemed particularly fired up, screaming passionately and clapping fiercely as Franckie Quere and Gael Arend got the game underway.

Bleid were keeping possession well, until after three minutes, Guzman played a poor square pass that was intercepted by under nineteen midfielder Julien Deis. He played it backwards, to the feet of Nicolas Heeren who dribbled forward with intent. Meandering past one, he was suddenly scythed down from the side by the over zealous trialist, Alejandro Guzman. It was a dangerous, poorly timed, two-footed challenge, justifiably met by a straight red card and his marching orders.

'Three minutes in and he's off already?' thought Fox as he paced the sideline. 'Maybe he's not got the temperament to play at this level.'

Guzman trudged off with his shameful head hanging, fearful of his manager's reaction, and refusing to make eye contact as he sauntered to the changing rooms. Continuing without their deep lying playmaker, the resilient FC Bleid team pushed on relentlessly. Just minutes later, Arend switched play to the right and the advancing fullback Godart. Spotting the infield sprint of right winger Lamonaca, he slid a precise pass ahead of the beautiful run. Lamonaca twisted and shot in one movement, crashing a low drive against the post with the goalkeeper stranded. It ricocheted away and was hoofed clear as the chance had gone. Striker Franckie Quere had a smart header saved just moments later, before Lamonaca had his second chance of the game. Gael Arend's defence splitting pass found the high flying winger, who had come in off his wing once more. With the opposition 'keeper closing fast, Lamonaca again opted to shoot first time, smashing his effort emphatically into the top corner of the net. The breakthrough had finally come for ten man Bleid after fifteen minutes, and deservedly so.

Ten minutes later, and the second goal came, with Arend and Lamonaca again at the heart of the play. The youth team were struggling to cope with the winger's intelligent movement, and he gathered Arend's pass on the edge of the area, with his back to goal. Quere darted past as Lamonaca swept the ball into his path, and he was through on goal. The Reunion forward slotted accurately to the goalkeeper's front post and wheeled away in celebration, gesturing at his manager and pointing to the name on his shirt. It was an impressive finish and assistant Viance rose in approval, clapping imploringly. The first half came to an end, but not before the under nineteen side had struck the post with a cute effort from the edge of the area. It was proof enough that the contest wasn't yet over, and served as a stern warning heading into the second half. Fox stood, applauding as his players left the field. Despite a numerical disadvantage, they had performed brilliantly to take a two goal lead, and Lamonaca had been absolutely sensational.

***** ***** *****​
 
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Very impressed with the detail going into the game itself, something I never bothered to master.
 
Kris said:
Very impressed with the detail going into the game itself, something I never bothered to master.
Click to expand...

Thanks mate, :D although I'm not too happy with the writing myself. I feel like there is something missing - I'm in the halfway house between really detailed and not detailed much at all. I have found it difficult on occasion to make the update short enough to not look like a daunting read, hence having to stop at half time in this game.

I reckon I'd be better off writing a full blown book with long chapters etc
 
fuelledbypassion said:
Thanks mate, :D although I'm not too happy with the writing myself. I feel like there is something missing - I'm in the halfway house between really detailed and not detailed much at all. I have found it difficult on occasion to make the update short enough to not look like a daunting read, hence having to stop at half time in this game.

I reckon I'd be better off writing a full blown book with long chapters etc
Click to expand...

I feel the same at times, I always want to put in more detail and back story than I should for an FM Story. I fear people would lose interest.
 
REACHING STELLA HEIGHTS : BREWED IN BELGIUM​

***** ***** *****​

XV - The Super Sub


The team talk was simple for Fox. FC Bleid had been dominating possession and creating real openings, threatening with every attack.

'More of the same, please lads,' he concluded with his chairman translating.

He'd resisted the temptation to make any changes to personnel just yet, but it was likely that many of the players would begin to tire as the second half progressed.

The match restarted as it had finished for Bleid, with expert ball retention and constant pressure. Their under nineteen opponents were forced into some desperate defending at times, but remained resolute for the first twenty minutes of the half. Unable to create any clear chances, Fox opted to shake things up a bit, giving a debut to his new signing, as well as opportunities for the two other trialists. Francisco Diaz replaced Godart at right fullback; not his natural position by any means, but one that he may have to provide cover for this season. Brazilian attacking midfielder, Rafael, took the place of the impressive Gael Arend, while Rwandan striker, Kamanzi, displaced lone front man Franckie Quere.

Kamanzi was a completely different prospect for the opposition defenders, with predatory instincts and genuine pace; a stark contrast to the way Quere played the game. Within a minute of his introduction, he had found the net with a real poacher's effort. A poor clearance from the youth team goalkeeper fell to the feet of left winger Gregory Servais, while Kamanzi was already on the move. The captain's pinpoint through ball picked out the sublimely timed run, and the Rwandan hitman did the rest. A three goal lead, and the perfect way to introduce himself to the onlooking manager.

Moments after play resumed, Bleid's left sided defender, Mamadou Coulibaly, gave away possession cheaply, and the youngsters countered quickly. Fantastic play from explosive right winger, Kyllian Thomas, saw him jink past the Ivorian, before showing centre back Do Rosario a clean set of heels. His teasing cross though, was expertly cleared by newcomer, Diaz. He was looking solid in his new, less familiar, defensive role. As the ball reached substitute Rafael on the halfway line, he clashed with his marker in innocuous fashion, and was left writhing in a heap of agony. His debut for the club had lasted just three minutes. Fox had hoped that the injury wasn't serious, as the Brazilian limped off with head physio, Maxence Veithen, supporting his weight. If he was unable to take part in training, before his trial period ended in a fortnight's time, Fox would be unable to pass judgement on his ability. He'd leave without securing a contract. Rafael was replaced by sixteen year old right winger, Spyridon Herzet, as Gaetano Lamonaca was pushed into his more favoured, central position.

Herzet was involved immediately, receiving Diaz's freekick and gliding past the opposition midfielder. His early cross was well defended by the backpedalling centre half, whose clearance fell to Lamonaca, twenty five yards out. His control was exceptional, and without thought he shifted it right, onto his preferred foot, before unleashing an unstoppable drive. The ball was still gathering speed as it struck the back of the net, immaculately placed in the top corner. It was a special goal, and Lamonaca's second of the match. He was already looking like a key player heading into Fox's first season in charge.

Ten minutes later and the captain completed the rout, following a superb long range pass from centre back Quentin Vandermaelen. It was a composed, if simple finish, but the Bleid winger was allowed far too much space in truth. Kamanzi continued to look lively, creating a few decent chances for himself, but the game finished soon after. A comprehensive five goals to nil, and with ten men for the entire ninety minutes; the new manager was more than pleased with the outcome.

Gaetano Lamonaca was undoubtedly the man of the match, creating a goal for Quere and adding two himself. The spine of the team was very solid, with notable substitute cameos from recent aquisition Francisco Diaz and trialist Karim Kamanzi. It was a great start to management for Fox, but the preseason programme would more than test his Bleid squad. The only concern was Rafael's impact leg injury, and he would receive treatment throughout the evening. Hopefully his FC Bleid career hadn't ended before it had even begun...

***** ***** *****​
 
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You should consider starting every game with ten men if this is how the team perform! ;)

Great update, still following, still loving it.
 
I'm loving this story! Keep it up :) .
 
Just read through all of this and it is absolutely brilliant!

One of the best on the site. :)
 
Cheers for all the positive comments guys. I appreciate the time that you all spend reading the updates and hope you'll continue to follow :)


REACHING STELLA HEIGHTS : BREWED IN BELGIUM​

***** ***** *****​

XVI - Renato's Requisition


There was a week before Bleid's next friendly, a home fixture against dutch non-league side Gelders Veenendaalse Voetbal Vereniging (GVVV). Raphael Viance had persuaded Fox that the reckless Argentine, Alejandro Guzman, should have his trial period extended by another week. It would be his last chance to shine.

In stark contrast to yesterday's swirling winds and persistent rainfall, the bright, blistering sunshine entrapped the Stade Jaques N'doumbe. It seems that the weather in Belgium was as unpredictable as it was in Fox's homeland. The manager and his assistant sat uncomfortably, awaiting the scan results following the Brazilian trialist's leg injury. If it was serious, Fox would be forced to persue other targets. There was an uneasy pause as the apprehensive pair struggled to communicate, the language still a clear barrier, before the Bleid chairman broke the daunting silence. He gently knocked on the hardwood door, the sound echoing throughout the small office space, before being beckoned inside.

'Good morning Daniel,' greeted Renato, nodding in acknowledgement. 'Raphael,' he gestured again as he stepped into the crowded room. 'I have news of Rafael's injury, it isn't as bad as it first appeared. It's just a dead leg, but he may have to sit out the next game. Maxence will monitor his progress in training this week.'

'That is good news for the lad. At least he'll get an opportunity to play. Could you ask Maxence to keep me updated?' the relieved manager enquired.

'Of course. He'll be in contact daily. I've also got a requisition of my own. I'd like one of you to attend the national trial day in Antwerp. It'll be full of Belgian free agents,' the chairman implored.

'Well, as much as I'd love to go myself, I really would like to take training this week,' pleaded Fox. 'I need to get to know the players a little better, but perhaps Raphael could go in my stead.'

The three came to a swift agreement, and the manager made arrangements for the trials. With the bulk of the existing squad made up of defenders, he gave specific instruction for his assistant to look out for attacking players. The core of the squad seemed strong, although he had concerns over a few positions, the most pressing being the goalkeeping situation. The trio of 'keepers at Fox's disposal were very young and inexperienced, and it was an obvious weakness for FC Bleid. Hopefully Viance would unearth a gem in Antwerp.

* * *​

The harsh afternoon sun burned brightly as Fox stepped onto the playing surface at Bleid's expansive training grounds. The pitch quality was awful, nothing like the gleaming carpet at their stadium, but the new manager had anticipated as much. The indoor facilities were equally poor. Newly appointed team captain Francisco Diaz stood by his manager's side, ready and willing to translate as best he could. His English was improving, but was still limited at best.

As the players stretched, preparing for their intense fitness programme, there was a notable absentee. Karim Kamanzi had been withdrawn by chief physio Maxence Veithen, who would conduct a full medical today with his contract negotiations impending.

***** ***** *****​
 
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REACHING STELLA HEIGHTS : BREWED IN BELGIUM​

***** ***** *****​

XVII - The Jewel Of Antwerp


Fox's assistant manager arrived at the Bosuilstadion in Antwerp almost an hour before the opening game, allowing himself enough time to tour the facilities and view the impressive honours list. The monumental sixteen thousand seater stadium was the home of Second Division giants Royal Antwerp FC, their trophy cabinet bulging with Pro League and Cup silverware as Raphael Viance absorbed the distinctions in astonishment. He yearned to replicate this success at FC Bleid. Raphael continued through the commodious corridor, passing numerous recognizable player portraits that decorated the immaculate, polished walls. He stopped at just one, studying it carefully, amazed by the artistry and likeness. It was Sam Lavan, an Israeli player that was on trial back in Bleid, who had endured two tough seasons with Royal Antwerp only four years ago. It really proved his calibre; that he was so well thought of at such a reputable club. The excited coach pulled himself away from the captivating Antwerp history, proceeding to the end of the hallway and traversing the spiralling staircase to the executive lounge. The extravagant room was half filled, and bodies continued to filter in from it's many entrances as the kick off neared. Raphael meandered through the crowd towards the large, elaborate oak bar and purchased a strong drink, before being ushered into an executive box along with a handful of guests. From here, he'd scrutinize the trialist action.

Raphael settled into his comfortable chair, sinking into the sumptuous leather as the hulking arms swallowed him further. Many of the players were showing signs of trepidation as the match began, and the first twenty minutes passed rather unspectacularly. Both goalkeepers were poor, flapping at crosses and mishandling the simplest of efforts. Perhaps it was nerves, but neither looked like prospective Bleid performers. As the first half wore on, a number of players showed vast improvement, and the game sparked into life. Simon Okende Omekanda, a right sided midfielder, picked up a pass and immediately looked forward. He played a smart one - two with striker Wanderson, the ball rolled perfectly into the space behind the advancing defender. The composed winger looked up, returning the ball to his onrushing striker to smash a five yard drive past the hapless 'keeper, for a one goal lead. The combination play between the two was exceptional, and a clear indication as to why Wanderson had been so highly coverted by a number of clubs at the trials.

The second half was a more mundane affair, up until the dying minutes when the game's most promising player took possession and drove at the opposition defence. The left winger collected the ball within his own half, skipping past the first challenge and weaving between another two. The ball seemed to stick naturally to his feet as he raced past a fourth defender and angled a perfect cross towards the far post. His team mate rose above the opposing defender with ease to glance it into the corner, barely making any contact. The striker veered away in celebration towards the wide man, acknowledging his role in the creation of the goal. Raphael stood instantly in applause; this was a truly special player and Viance knew that it would be difficult to lure him to Bleid, but he was relishing the challenge. His name? Akwasi Oduro.

***** ***** *****​
 
I'd like to apologise for the lack of updates recently. This story may have to come to a premature end due to my other commitments this month (with FM11 obviously out next month) . I just won't have time to write or play the save unfortunately.

I have played up to the end of the first season and will update later today, (in brief) how the club and I got on

Again I'm very sorry for anyone that was following :'(
 
Shame you're finishing but i guess most people will be with FM11 coming out soon. Look forward to the end of season report anyway.
 
Gutted to read that it's coming to an end mate, look forward to the end of season and update... and possibly an FM11 story on the horizon? ;)
 
Pompey_Dan said:
Gutted to read that it's coming to an end mate, look forward to the end of season and update... and possibly an FM11 story on the horizon? ;)
Click to expand...

There'll definitely be an FM11 story, but whether it will be FC Bleid or not I'm undecided. I may do a story on one of the following:

FC Bleid
Paris Saint Germain
Dortmund
Valencia
Ajax
Fiorentina
Gremio
Stalybridge Celtic
Another Lower League side (starting game as unemployed, sunday league footballer rep)

These are my favourite teams from their respected countries, all through playing FM really (I even went out and bought a PSG shirt!)
 
shame it's comin to an end man :( whats your idea about the borussia story? I love german football so I'll defoz follow.
 
As promised, here is the season summary for FC Bleid:

We started pre-season in style, continuing the great form into the first few months of the season. I was always confident that we would avoid relegation with the players that I had managed to sign, but to finish September in 2nd place was a phenominal feat. We were knocked out on penalties in the 2nd round of the Belgian Cup, but then went on an 8 game unbeaten streak that ended emphatically against league leaders Bocholt in the final game of September.



The next 2 months continued in similar fashion, with just 2 away defeats. We maintained our unbeaten home record and finished November as the top scorers in the division. Olympic Charleroi claimed the first promotion playoff spot after 10 games.​



Again unbeaten in December and January, we continued our promotion charge, despite losing captain and star player, Francisco Diaz on a free transfer. The final victory over Diegem in January saw us qualify for the playoffs as top of the leagues 2nd phase.​



Then came the slump in form that I was fearing, and our title challenge began to falter. We were struggling for goals, and conceding far too many for us to fulfill our ambitions of top spot. Vise claimed a playoff spot.​



The season came to an end, and FC Bleid finished in a respectable 4th position, with a playoff quarter final beckoning. I was delighted considering we were expected to be relegated in last place. On the back of a streak of 9 games without a win, we unexpectedly beat Charleroi in the quarter's, but suffered an agonising defeat in the semi's at the hands of Vise. Guzman missed a 92nd minute penalty to equalise in the 2nd leg, and we were doomed to continue in the 3rd division next season.​


It was a fantastic achievement to finish 4th:​



The end of season slump cost us the title:​


Lamonaca was the standout performer. He, Omekanda and Rosario would be leaving the club at the end of this season:​



Thanks to all my followers, and I hope you will check out my FM11 story in due course!​
 
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