sortitoutsi
Football Manager Graphics
- FM24 Graphics
- FM24 Player Faces
- FM24 Logos
- FM24 Kits
- FM24 Backgrounds
- FM24 Installation Instructions
Football Manager Guides Database
Football Manager Data Update
Football Manager Shortlists
- FM24/25 Update Guides
- FM24/25 Update Shortlists
- Best FM24/25 Update Wonderkids
- Cheap FM24/25 Update Wonderkids
- FM24/25 Update Young Players aged 21-25
- FM24/25 Update Best Free Players
- FM24/25 Update Expiring Contracts
- FM24/25 Update Bargain Players
- FM24/25 Update Injury Prone Players
- FM24/25 Update Richest Clubs
- Best FM24/25 Update Facilities
- FM24 Guides
- FM24 Shortlists
- Best FM24 Wonderkids
- Cheap FM24 Wonderkids
- FM24 Young Players aged 21-25
- FM24 Best Free Players
- FM24 Expiring Contracts
- FM24 Bargain Players
- FM24 Injury Prone Players
- FM24 Richest Clubs
- Best FM24 Facilities
This site is not endorsed by Sports Interactive or SEGA and is intended for entertainment purposes only. The views expressed on this site are the views of the individual contributors and not those of Sports Interactive or SEGA.
DNZY
Nation: Macedonia
Media Prediction (Odds): 8th/10 (100-1)
Expectations: Avoid automatic relegation
Pros: Philosophies fit in perfectly with my style. Willing to grant one of my demands. Generous wage budget to offer.
Cons: Very competitive league at present. No particular 'marquee' player in squad.
RESULT:
Maybe, maybe not. You'll soon find out.
DNZY
Your boy is back, this time in a brand new nation. Dipping my toes back into some Balkan atmosphere, FYR Macedonia calling my name for the first time. Famous for Alexander the Great and Mother Teresa, the club FK Renova (ФК Ренова) have a rather long way to go to reach that level of familiarity. The club are young, only founded in 2003, derived from a footballing school which received massive investments from locals to fully establish themselves as a semi-professional side within the nation. There have been recent rifts since the club formed between Macedonians and Albanians but is seen as 'muti-ethnic', mainly because of their local rivals KF Shkëndija which appeals to mostly Albanians and FK Teteks who lean more towards the Macedonians - Renova find that middleground. They are nicknamed 'Гипсари' or Gypsies/Gypsums and play between all red and all blue kits.
The club are located within a small village called Džepčište (Џепчиште) near the municipality of Tetovo where they play their home games. With a small population of roughly 4000, amazingly only there are less than 100 Macedonians that reside there, the other 99% are Albanians/Kosovians, no surprise as the village lies only 12km from Kosovo border. The Šar Mountains and stand between the two, crossing into as far as northeastern Albania with it's 1600km areaspan. One of the village's most noticeable landmarks is the Macedonian Orthodox Church pictured above.
Renova groundshare with current Macedonian champions KF Shkëndija in the formerly titled Gradski Stadion Tetovo, however a massive renovation project in 2015/2016 by Shkëndija's owners Ecolog International renamed the stadium to Ecolog Arena. Originally opened in 1982, the stadium only held one international friendly between Macedonia and Albania in 1994 with a 5-1 win for the Macedonians. A further €7.7m project towards 2017 further expanded the stadium to facilitate more international spectacles, rising to a 15,000 capacity. The surface is grass based with all but one stand being open air.
FK Renova's history has been on a positive trajectory in the early years, sealing consecutive promotions to reach the top flight in 2005 to where they've cemented themselves to this day. Between 2009 and 2013 have been the most joyous years for the club, winning the Prva Мakedonska Fudbalska Liga title in 2009 for this first and only time in their history by five points ahead of Rabotnički, marred by a rather disjointed and controversial league season under the hood. Two years later in 2012 they lifted a first Kup na Makedonija, defeating Rabotnički 3-1 in the final. The furthest European adventure came in 2011, entering the Champions League 2Q Round, but fell short to Cypriot side Omonia. Recent years haven't been so luxurious, settling for midtable finishes. FM years seem to have carried that onwards, making them somewhat of a yo-yo side but bouncing back from the 2. MFL swiftly.
SQUAD
Entering the dressing room to my surprise, not a bad set of players...but definitely pale to what Infonet have to offer now. While our depth may not be so copious, there are plenty of exciting youth prospects relishing in being selected into the senior squad. Plenty of experienced heads too to offer that balance, and a random Venezuelan token thrown into the mixture. Should be interesting.
KEY PLAYER - Sasa Huremovic - M(C)
Definitely our strongest central midfielder, an area which requires a major revamp. The Bosnian's recent end of season form hasn't exactly been glowing neon green but I'll allow some overhead as he's only 22. Has got the basics to a solid playmaker, but his lack of pace and positioning does leave me a bit nervous. Hope to get him purring for the start of the season.
Not the only position we need to strengthen, how timely our current assistant manager decides to piss off north to Kosovian side Ferizaj. Literally had an induction in the morning and by dusk he disappeared.
EXPECTATIONS
They wanted avoiding the drop, so I took it up a notch by saying we'd make it to mid-table. Was that silly? Just wait until they see my transfers with that extra allowance of funds. Quarter finals of the Macedonian Cup is achievable as there looks to be only two obstacles to reach it, first is a non-league side from what I gather. Will I make myself Nealon the Great? You're right, probably not.
DNZY
TRANSFERS
IN
A busy transfer window already, however I can only take credit for three of them...and yes you can guess I've been rummaging through my closet to find old friends to join me.
Martin Bastig - GK - free transfer from Infonet
Didn't take a lot of persuading to obtain Bastig's name on a one year deal. Relegated to number two at Infonet but assured to be numero uno at Renova. The 33 year old wise, tall 6'5" figure can still flourish with his strong reflexes, vertical leap and solid agility. Not saying he'll keep clean sheets but definitely can keep the goal tally down as we aim to galvanise our back four.
Tomas Juska - D(C) - free transfer from Infonet
And here's one of them. Tomas has completely fallen out of favour at my former employers and much like Bastig he could hardly refuse working with me again. Easily the best centre back I could find who was willing, just entering into his early thirties with strength of 17 and his HMT still at a desirable level. Was never really mentally well-rounded but definitely a starter considering the subpar options in reserve.
Kevin Petersoo - D(R) - £1k from Flora Tallinn
Finally, one from Flora. Kõiv declined the reunion, so Petersoo was the best alternative. Mentals are perfect for this level including such strong determination to perhaps influence the young'uns. Bit sluggish so we won't push very far forward but nevertheless a sturdy option.
FRIENDLIES
Meh, preseason came with teething problems as expected but a credible draw to former Kosovo champions Ferizaj. Gluts of goals aren't really our forté.
The wonderful crowd at Betfair decided to lump up the odds, doubling to 200-1 to finish top. Fair enough, but are you seriously writing off our early chances already with me in charge?
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
FIRST ROUND DRAW
Milano Kumanovo kickstart our cup campaign. Non leaguers just as I predicted.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 1
Surprised Pelister with a bolt from the blue in a game we barely got a foothold in. The favourites didn't take long to open the scoring after a long ball carved right through us to allow Seferi easy passageway. Knuckling under the pressure, we actually retrieved something from the game when Panovski tried his luck from range which the keeper had no answer to. Pelister will be fuming, but you have to take your chances.
MATCHDAY 2
I'm actually lost for words, what a huge headstart this could be. That man Panovski at it again, this time with an even weaker effort which somehow trickled over the line to stun Makedonija before the break. Temperatures rose in the second half with a flurry of yellows, one too many for Skando to reduce us to ten. Thinking it would make the game tougher, we held the ball so well and resulted in us scoring only six minutes later from Rumen Tsvetanov to lift the fans into raptures. Fidan Progni reduced the lead on the counter and so found the net again in injury time - sadly for him only the side netting. Huge win in a game we expected an odds-on defeat.
MATCHDAY 3
All square at Rabotnički to maintain our unbeaten start. Can't say there were many talking points, only an early red card for them after the restart. Even with the man advantage we consolidated ourselves, but a late Rabotnički chance could've ruined it but Nenov's effort went straight at Bastig.
MATCHDAY 4
Three draws from four, paving over what was such a disappointment in us going forward. Sileks definitely had the better of us, their lone striker Noveski forced Bastig into a top drawer save while we barely made it into their final third. Frustrating for both sides, however we're much the happier with the point.
Just when our defensive framework was taking proper shape.
MATCHDAY 5
No shame in this defeat (despite being local rivals), Shkëndija are proper heavyweights. So much so that their only goal came from a central midfielder Ramadani finishes like an experienced number 9, grabbing his sixth goal this season already with a left footed screamer which not even David De Gea could get to. All about damage limitation as we weathered their massive storm but only one got through. No need to ask us about how we did, in desperate need of creativity and a capable striker.
MATCHDAY 6
Slightly gutted about this one, definitely a winnable game but settled for yet another draw. Lying in eighth place, it didn't stop Bregalnica hitting the front when Georgievski finished smartly at Bastig's near post. To our credit we rustled up the response from Damian Fabianski, orchestrating the free kick that found it's way back to him to dribble his way through and unleashing venom. Final 45 minutes were no great shakes.
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
FIRST ROUND
Troublesome when we can't put away non league opposition with a weakened team. What's even more concerning is that MK squandered the best two chances of the game, blazing both of them over when put through. Venezuelan Villavicencio had a clear chance also, problem was he got his angles wrong and drove it into the side netting. Went down to penalties, actually scoring all five for a chance with MK denied by Kalambov in net to just about make it through.
SECOND ROUND DRAW
Rabotnički over two legs in the next round. Doable but we're far from favourites.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Draw specialists it seems (five out of seven to be exact) but considering our tough opening month of games, I'm thrilled so far. The stunning win over Makedonija gives us a huge lift in the early stages and defeat to Shkëndija as previously mentioned is nothing to be ashamed of. Goals are very few and far between, defensively looking good - mainly because Bastig is playing brilliantly between the sticks.
LEAGUE TABLE
Midtable is the objective, so far so good in sitting sixth. Not far off the top positions should we start overachieving and with the bottom three sides still not registering a win yet it's looking good. Long way to go though, let's not count our chickens just yet.
SEPTEMBER 2049 SCHEDULE
Winless Skopje and Shkupi coming up to potentially ramble up a few more wins, Vardar and Pelister surely there to put us down. In between lies the first leg of the cup with Rabotnički at home.
Claus Clausen1
DNZY
___________________________________________
NEW SIGNINGS
Deadline day came and went, acquiring two very capable strikers to perhaps inject a few more goals into this team.
Mikko Syväjärvi - ST(C) - free transfer from Kalju
Considering our strikers have no finishing above 10, Mikko's 15 finishing should almost guarantee success. Being highly critical, first touch and off the all are so-so but good for the division while his anticipation might scupper him slightly. Still at only 20, plenty of time to improve and could be the simplistic poacher we need for goals.
Sokol Bregaji - ST(C) - season long loan from Sileks
The more well-rounded figure to support Mikko up top. Far more composed and anticipated despite his standard level of finishing. The big selling point is his perfect flair to sprinkle his magic on forward plays. These two combined should work very well side by side and perhaps grab us a few more wins on the board.
Slightly worrying that we're now down to just Petersoo at right back for a couple of weeks.
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 7
Talk about instant impact, front two combined delightfully to claim a rather convincing win over Skopje. Syväjärvi set away Bregaji to rally home the first before we fell asleep at the back, allowing the home side to respond quickly. Bregaji made sure his first wasn't a fluke with an outstanding darting solo run on the counter and maintained his composure to put it away to restore the lead. If that wasn't good enough, he assisted Fabianski late on for the third to ensure us of a much needed win. Solid debut!
MATCHDAY 8
In a meeting that had Vardar written all over it, we had the final laugh to rescue a big point. A goal in the first twenty minutes should have had Vardar hungry for more, but instead it gave us huge encouragement. Bregaji spurned two big chances in either half, but one unlikely hero stood out from the shadows - Tomas Juska. Needed two bites to beat GK Petrov at his near post to take a very unlikely point against the Macedonian champions.
MATCHDAY 9
Should be nicknamed the cat burglars, because Pelister have been completely robbed. Didn't have a sniff in the game, instead trying to swat away a dominant Pelister attack. Goran Mitrev had a mixed performance; breaking the deadlock on 65 minutes from a powerful header, but ended up bottling two huge efforts which would have buried us alive. A tactical sub preluded to the most unlikely of equalisers, Damian Fabianski coming on in the 80th and scoring two minutes later with a sublime left boot on the half volley from Lleshi's cross. Frustrated them first game, now they must be livid.
MATCHDAY 10
Proper firecracker of a game this, so open and end to end, importantly on the right end of the scoreline. Valon Shehu opened his account for the season, drilling in Bregaji's pull back into the box. Shkupi didn't make it easy for us, stinging us with a counter attack to level it up going in at half time. A well executed corner restored the lead, centre backs Juska and Duro combining for a headed goal. The game swung our way afterwards with Shehu replicating his first goal to spawn a two goal win over the relegation fearfuls.
Certainly not what I was expecting when taking this job.
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
SECOND ROUND, FIRST LEG (HOME)
A major managerial milestone, settling into my 1,000th game as manager. Should get this framed.
As for the game...in a word - shocking to watch. We'll take it though.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Still a little bit draw happy but no defeats this month. Bregaji is a breath of fresh air in this team, bringing much needed excitement to our forward play. Nothing from Mikko so far, but patience needed.
LEAGUE TABLE
I mean this makes for surprising viewing, only a point off the European places at this early stage is marvellous. Still only that one defeat, and that was to the side at the top of the league. Not even thinking about relegation this year.
OCTOBER 2049 SCHEDULE
A fine blend of teams next month starting away to Makedonija GP before consecutive meetings with Rabotnički. Shkëndija are the only side I fear, while Sileks and Bregalnica I feel quietly prepared.
bigmattb28
DNZY
___________________________________________
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 11
Even contest ends even. Makedonija's gameplan was to screw us over from set plays, Stojanov duly succeeding via a free kick. Loan striker Bregaji continues to impress with a quickfire equaliser to go in level at the break. Both sides squandered sitters on the flip, Bastig saving brilliantly from Todorovski while Duro's free header was too tame to trouble their keeper. Syväjärvi remains without a goal since his arrival, rattling the post late doors to let them off the hook.
FFS, only would happen to me. There goes any meagre hopes of breaking into the top four or five.
MATCHDAY 12
It was the second of two meetings in three days against Rabotnički, this one hurting more than the first. I dare say we bossed the first half, Syväjärvi fluffed a one on one and Panovski tested the woodwork. The visitors ramped up the pressure afterwards with Bastig standing strong to deny three key chances before the nail was put in our coffin. 89th minute corner swung one way and another, failing to clear it properly allowing Georgiev to smash in the winning goal. Harsh on our defenders but can't deny that the better side won.
MATCHDAY 13
More late heartbreak, dissolving to a 2-0 defeat at Sileks. From Syväjärvi failing to deliver for the umpteenth time to Sileks playing crossbar challenge it was a relatively open game. Sadly, the stress got to us again with late goals from Noveski and Jordanov condemning us to three defeats on the bounce.
MATCHDAY 14
Men versus boys on a wet Sunday in Tetovo. Two well struck efforts by Sokol Gashi (though the second I thought Bastig could have done better) continues our losing slump. Rarely got into their final third while Shkëndija set up base camp in our half all game. Well on their way to winning the league. Bregaji's injury definitely taking it's toll.
MATCHDAY 15
Disastrous. Easily our worst performance in the league. Bregalnica are below us in the league, yet played like they're not even in danger of the drop. Hands on deck as we scrambled away an effort off the line to breathe a sigh of relief, delaying the inevitable. Honestly, the hosts could have walked the ball in which they effectively did as injury time approached. No closing down, no marking, Stiven Brahimi free as a bird to tap in from a simple cross. Not even worth venting at them, waste of time.
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
SECOND ROUND, SECOND LEG (AWAY)
Second half capitulation dumped us out of the Macedonian cup which lit the fuse to our bad form. Amazingly, Syväjärvi found the back of the net with a powerful effort which Selmani should've done better with. Of course, us being us it was only fair that Rabotnički break skin with a free header from a corner before half time. All fell apart after that, Rabotnički dominated with Bledar Kelmendi on the counter to lead for the first time and Iskrenov completing a devastating hat-trick. So near, yet so very far.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
I'll say it again, Bregaji's injury has cost us massively. Unsurprisingly losing five in a row since his torn calf, none of our strikers are stepping up to the plate. Defensively we look more and more brittle with every passing game. Look's like a sit down session is needed with the squad before this spirals out of control.
LEAGUE TABLE
Sucked right back into the relegation picture. Thankfully Makedonija, Skopje and Shkupi are also struggling just below us. Eight point gap to the top five, fair to say we can wipe Europe off the agenda this campaign.
NOVEMBER 2049 SCHEDULE
More spacious November with two must wins. Skopje & Shkupi at home, anything less than six points is cataclysmic. Vardar and Pelister we might just have to tape our butts shut.
bigmattb28
Great reading so far mate hope you can press on from here.
DNZY
___________________________________________
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 16
Took nine games of grinding but finally Syväjärvi chimed in with a lovely triple whammy against lowly Skopje. A 32nd minute penalty got the juices flowing, making him hungry for more. The Finn pounced on the second via a headed clearance off the line which Duro struggled to claim for himself. No question about the third, dribbling into the box and slotting under Todorovski in net. Let's pray this isn't a once in a blue moon occurrence.
MATCHDAY 17
Who saw this coming? Not I. Triumphed against the odds in what were a washed out Vardar side. Syväjärvi looks like he's found his calling with an early strike against the run of play to stun the home crowd. Bastig will feel very hard done by for the equaliser, saving magnificently from Tatic but followed up with a strong hit by Todorovski. For all Vardar's shot and possession, it meant nothing for what happened in injury time. Swapped out a midfielder for defender Ljamcevski and it turned out to be a game changer, heading in from a corner to hand the champions a shock defeat. The 5 (yes, 5) travelling away fans went ballistic.
MATCHDAY 18
Shkupi went 15 games without a win before today and won't get a better chance to end it than here. Looked tactically inept and barely threatened the league's bottom side who looked far more likely to make things happen. The dismissal of our left back Skando didn't help matters at all, yet didn't affect the scoreline. Countering from a Shkupi corner, a wonderfully lofted ball over the top found lone striker Syväjärvi who squeezed in from a tight angle to hold out for an invaluable three points. Far from happy regardless.
MATCHDAY 19
No guts no glory. Despite holding out for an hour, Pelister blew us away throughout. The turn, swivel and defining body blow from Seferi was the difference in a game where they should've piled on us. 16 year old Kristian Lleshi looks like a future hotshot and so nearly delivered the most unlikely of equalisers in injury time but their keeper had his near post covered quite comfortably. Falling short of four wins in a row.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Solid month with nine points, nine points closer to surviving snugly in the league. Mikko Syväjärvi finally got the finger out with the bulk of goals in Bregaji's absence. That Vardar win is still hard to believe.
LEAGUE TABLE
Back into sixth, not too far off an implausible shout at Europe. Although three wins still only leaves us three off Bregalnica in the relegation playoff but automatically drives a massive wedge between the bottom two.
DECEMBER 2049 SCHEDULE
Winter on it's way, only two games before a long break until February. Big importance on the Makedonija GP match, the side level on points with us. Rabotnički take us out until 2050 comes a'knockin'.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 20
Just what the doctor ordered. Very lively first half where our set plays hit the spot, starting with a Huremovic free from 25 yards. The visitors didn't take long to respond as Tomasek lost his marker to convert from an inswinging cross. The ball was back in our court when a flicked floated header by centre back Juska caught out the keeper and rolled in with help from the post. Makedonija looked a lot sharper in the second half, somehow missing a free header from four yards away which left hearts in maw for a splitsecond. Crucial win.
MATCHDAY 21
So much for momentum, bumbling performance at Rabotnički. Two penalties in between a counter attack finished off by Tsonev left us up a creek without a paddle where our forward line hardly tested their fortress. I mean Syväjärvi was presented with a clear cut chance but had no sting and just rolled into the keeper's hands. Not the best result to end the calendar year.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Two results on either side of the scales. Makedonija win is definitely worth more than getting nothing at Rabotnički.
LEAGUE TABLE
Unchanged positionwise, but stretch further away from Bregalnica who picked up nothing. Eight points from second...is it still possible?
DNZY
TRANSFERS
OUT
Managed to pocket a handsome £35k for Haliti who profusely asked for a starting role when he's only on rotation. Entering his thirties now, he's been quite disappointing when playing him and with starlet Lleshi continuing his progress, made the most sense.
IN
A former player, a familiar face and a journeyman legend were brought in over winter.
Bledar Kelmendi - M(L)/AM(L)/AM(C) - free transfer from Rabotnički
Weird series of events leading to reclaiming this boy, left in the summer for £7k to Rabotnički who weren't willing to play him - then comes back six months later on a free? We are absolutely laughing. Operates well on the left, but could slot in behind as a number 10 in a 4-4-1-1. Mentally solid with strong flair and vision to pick out inch perfect passes..which is next on the agenda to improve. Might suit better out wide with his lightweight build and quick feet. Top signing.
Conor McParland - D(C) - unattached free agent
Unbreakable relationship. Fourth club he's joined with me at the helm, been successful at each one - will the trend continue? You already know his story, CJL legend through and through.
Jaanus Vazinski - DM/M(C) - unattached free agent
Had a little tug of war with his agent following his release from Infonet, but delighted to welcome Jaanus back on the journey with me. Central midfield has been rather disjointed during passages of play lately but Vazinski might be the stick of glue needed to piece it back together. Average on paper, but above average on the playing field. Also now becomes the highest earner at the club with £800p/w.
FRIENDLIES
Didn't exactly shine during preseason but didn't disgrace ourselves on the scorelines. A decent win over Sutjeska being the highlight.
FEBRUARY 2050 SCHEDULE
Back to the grind in a few days with home games welcoming Sileks and a potential six pointer with Bregalnica pencilled either side of a really tough away day to local rivals Shkëndija.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 22
2050 starts off in positive light, outmuscling Sileks to a 2-1 win. Teenager Kristian Lleshi showed great maturity, getting involved in both goals..well..winning an early penalty which Syväjärvi put away. Sileks smartly levelled moments later with a route one ball and two passes later Noveski curled one past Bastig. The combination of wingers restored our lead as Fabianski fed to Lleshi who fiercely drove it home. The remainder of the game drew a bit flat, though Bastig saved well from Noveski to deny another equaliser. Well earned win.
MATCHDAY 23
Pfft. Shkëndija are untouchable as far as I'm concerned. Strolling to the title and made us their bitch in a four goal drubbing. We honestly didn't play badly, just their finishing accuracy was too damn good. A double from Meta, plus Todorovski and Muleci sinking us without a trace.
MATCHDAY 24
Too close for comfort as Huremovic's late strike saved us from a serious second half meltdown. Sokol Bregaji returned to the teamsheet after his torn calf and announced himself in the best way possible to give us the lead. Huremovic's 30 yard free doubled the tally to have us cruising. Bregalnica fought their way back however as taking our foot off the pedal offered grave repercussions to lose our two goal lead right in front of our eyes. Thankfully the Bosnian playmaker retrieved the designated three points with ten minutes left as Bregalnica failed to clear a penalty box scramble. Big sigh of relief.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
February went better than expected, winning two important games in the fight for survival. So glad to have Bregaji back to spruce up the attacking creativity and Huremovic seriously improved in the middle. In all honesty I expected nothing from the Shkëndija game.
LEAGUE TABLE
Relegation fears look to be a thing of the past as a nice 12 point gap opens between us and eighth placed Bregalnica. Closer to the European spots if anything, but it's a very ambitious goal. Mid-table safety is good enough for me.
MARCH 2050 SCHEDULE
Exact same as the November schedule, exact same expectations.
Dan
DNZY
___________________________________________
YOUTH INTAKE
That time of year again, and very positive outcome for our first intake at Renova. Three very strong candidates including one who is almost fit for first team action.
Mario Hoxha - M(C) - youth intake
Doesn't immediately jump out from the page but with strong first touch and first rate passing, Mario just needs to keep his head down to improve his mental game. Just needs the right tutor to push his determination up a few paces. Future looks bright.
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 25
Yeah...this never happened...I wish at least. So pathetic going forward and once we gave away the penalty on the hour mark, things collectively got worse. One became three within ten minutes, firstly a route one ball by the keeper resulted in an assist to Markevski before Dervishi's second of the game tore us asunder. We'll definitely regret this if European qualification is on the line.
MATCHDAY 26
Think we'll probably be the more disappointed of the two. We were bossing Vardar for large portions of the game, deservedly leading through Sokol Bregaji's close range effort. Not more than 30 seconds it took for Vardar to reply, boy was it a reply from Huang Hao (who is Portuguese) with an absolute stunner. A set play undid all our good work when Nikolovski got onto it despite Bastig's attempts to keep it out with only seven minutes to play. Just desserts when we responded in the same manner, teenage sensation Kristian Lleshi found free on the right channel to sweep it home past the flailing arms of Markovski. Great performance, deserved more than a point.
MATCHDAY 27
Wasteful Shkupi are all but down as we sailed to victory. Courageous of them playing a 4-3-3 gave us ample space to exploit them from crosses, sure enough Jaanus Vazinski delivered two hammer blows in either half to put the shrimps in their place. Fabianski cut in from the left to curl a beauty into the top corner for further punishment while Shkupi wallowed in their own failures. Back to the second tier for you boys.
MATCHDAY 28
A huge win on paper brushed over a terrible viewing at the Ecolog Arena. A rather controversial penalty was the gateway to our success, Mikko Syväjärvi the man with the key. Barely anything else happened, Pelister usually play to a strong standard but looked jumbled and not up to the task. Massive boost for us.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
A month that started off horrendously ended the complete opposite. Perhaps the Skopje defeat brought us together because we've been playing with a lot more confidence, especially the middle creating a lot more. Vazinski finally ticking in the central midfield.
LEAGUE TABLE
Sadly, I don't see us winning the title but Europa League is certainly achievable. Three away from third and only seven from second, but lets not get ahead of ourselves just yet. Relegation is completely out of the frame.
APRIL 2050 SCHEDULE
April brings some tough games, none more so than the final encounter with the soon to be champs Shkëndija. Makedonija and Sileks are definitely winnable whereas our record with Rabotnički is quite poor. Will we be able to secure any wins?
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 29
Team selection blunder may have cost us here. Decided to drop Bregaji for Kelmendi in a 4-4-1-1 but it seemed to backfire. All things said, we didn't play badly, just that Ivanovski's early close range finish made it difficult for us. Couldn't create anything troublesome, even when Bregaji came on in the last twenty minutes but far too late to make impact. Onus is on me.
MATCHDAY 30
Note to self: never drop Bregaji again - the Sileks loanee proved pivotal in an important first win over Rabotnički. A bright spell put the visitors on the ropes, culminating in a deserved lead with some cascading liquid football into the returning Bregaji for 1-0....that lasted as long as popping on the kettle when an unmarked Stoitsov open-handedly restored parity, Petersoo very much to blame. Rabotnički began to sand us down for the majority of the second half, but it had no effect for what happened next. Jaanus Vazinski picked out a pinpoint pass to Sokol, dancing around two or three defenders before sliding it home and winning the game late on. Massive!
Of course he has...
MATCHDAY 31
Wow, never saw that first half coming. Bregaji ineligible re his loan deal, plus no Kelmendi meant we were significantly weaker, however it didn't show with three unanswered goals in the first half had us cruising. Rare sight seeing Adis Skando on the scoresheet, getting on the end of a free kick followed by striking duo Tsvetanov and Syväjärvi within ninety seconds of each other. Big Bastig played a blinder with nine saves, but could do nothing about their goal back, proper stunner. Europa League race definitely hotting up.
MATCHDAY 32
A bumper-packed local derby carrying a lot on the line for either side ended in a drab stalemate. Shkëndija only needed a point to wrap up the title, meanwhile dropping two points is a lot better than nothing at all. For all of Shkëndija's control, it was us who came closest to bulging the net - Syväjärvi forcing Nedelkovski into a necessary save. We'll happily take that result.
Certainly drew out the crowds, shame they saw nothing special.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Impressive run of form hitting at exactly the right time. Obviously the Makedonija defeat was a disappointment (hopefully not a regret), but the squad are playing with confidence now that relegation is well off the table. Bregaji a key factor in this team, hoping Sileks are open to offers come June.
LEAGUE TABLE
Only four games to go, things are certainly heating up. Reliant on Rabotnički winning the Macedonian Cup final against Bregalnica to open fourth place qualification before we get ahead of ourselves. Such a tight affair between us, Vardar, Sileks and to a lesser extent Pelister in third. Whatever happens in the final month, it'll be a great season.
MAY 2050 SCHEDULE
Man, we are blessed with this final run in. Vardar will definitely be the defining moment at the Philip II Arena where we have beaten them before. The rest are plagued by relegation troubles, but guaranteed they won't back down. Four cup finals metaphorically.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 33
Oh dear Martin Bastig, what have you done? Not quite as bad as Karius, but certainly up there. Reaching for an aerial ball, somehow gets dropped into the back of the net, ruining our strong momentum after Bregaji's early goal. Opened the game up with some important saves at both ends until controversy in the 62nd minute. Bregalnica awarded a penalty, probably just on first glance despite the protests to turn the game on it's head. Luckily Bregalnica felt how we felt losing a lead on the back of a defensive error, getting behind their back four and scrambling it straight to Syväjärvi who couldn't miss. Costly draw, Bastig a stoic figure at full time.
MATCHDAY 34
https://streamable.com/dnqr6
Skopje down with a whimper. Catalogue of comedic defensive howlers had us ROFLing before half time. Two for the Finnish sensation, one for the loan prospect and...make your mind up on how to describe the first. Next up, Vardar which is now make or break.
MATCHDAY 35
Holy Christmas, Vardar completely shellshocked again on their own turf. Syväjärvi the agent of chaos with two early goals thanks to Vardar's awkwardly dispersed back four. The home fans became a lot more vocal once Emini's leaping header found a way back, but quickly silenced again with a truly jaw-dropping 60 yard pass by Petersoo into the sprinting Bregaji who made no mistake. Emini got his head on another to reduce our lead again, only to be reapplied with a superb hat-trick by free scoring Syväjärvi. Firmly in the driving seat going into the final game of the season.
MATCHDAY 36
Took a lot longer than expected but who else but Mikko to nab the crucial winner. Credit to Shkupi's resilient defence for only shipping one, all our probing could have come by the lorryload. Three consecutive wins to close out a very productive opening season in Macedonia.
Two key performers this season without a doubt.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Thank God for my deadline day signings last summer, our front two absolutely killed it this month. Took Syväjärvi eight games to taste a goal in this league, hard to imagine that now with the form he ended on. 7 for the Finn, Bregaji with 3 - definitely top of the shopping list once the window reopens.
FINAL LEAGUE TABLE
Rabotnički winning the Macedonian cup unlocked fourth to qualify for the Europa League...occupied by ourselves! First time into Europe for nearly 40 years, I'm chuffed to be the figure to take them there. Shkëndija unquestionably the best team in the division this year, followed by Rabotnički, Pelister and us all securing Europa League. Vardar distraught, missing out completely. Skopje and Shkupi going down. Bregalnica surviving the relegation playoff.
Claus Clausen1
Looking forward to Euro next season
DNZY
___________________________________________
A successful opening season for myself at Renova, but how about Kristian Lleshi? The 16 year old was like dynamite in a quarry, exploding onto the scene to showcase why he'll be a diamond in the rough for us, winning a 34% result as player of the year and also scooping young player of the year deservedly. Tomas Juska and Damian Fabianski just short of the winning vote but both had strong campaigns. Murmurs about Sasa Huremovic leaving in the summer, but ignoring the media's guff he can sure hit wonderful strikes; his 30 yard free kick against Bregalnica a deserved goal of the season. Easily our best signing of the season was the Finnish finisher Mikko Syväjärvi who did indeed take a while to get settled in, but once the stabilisers came off he just banged them in - 16 goals since his arrival from Kalju.
https://streamable.com/k8tai
Syväjärvi's 16 goal tally waltzed his way to Renova's top goalscorer this year plus also secured four man of the match awards. Wonderboy Lleshi showcased exactly why he's an exciting prospect for us on the right wing, playmaking his way to eight assists and also most consistent with a 7.11 average rating (not brilliant, but at only 16 it summarises how lucky we are to have him). Bosnian midfielder Huremovic strung together the passes better than anyone else with 85% pass completion. Juska in typical Juska fashion got carded most for yellows, but Skando was dismissed twice during the season.
Two of our players made it into the seasonal best XI - Syväjärvi and Lleshi unquestionably deserving their places.
Only second best to the league winner for manager of the season, I'll take it!
Finally, we merited the label of "biggest overachievers", breaking into Europe when we were predicted to only break out of the relegation jail.
DNZY
FK Renova boss David Nealon has become vocal in recent weeks with regards to his future at the club after selling a player without his input.
Left back Adis Skando departed for Cementarnica 55 in a deal worth up to £39k, subject to conditions. While the paperwork was being filed, Nealon was nowhere to be found in the process.
Speaking to Macedonian broadcaster TVART, Nealon admitted that the board overruled any decision made by himself, claiming that the offer was "too good to refuse".
He further went on to say:
Renova travel to Georgia where they face FC Dila Gori in the first leg of the first qualifying phase of the Europa League on Thursday. It is their first European match in nearly forty years.
The news has divided opinions within the supporting fans, some standing by the manager while others feel it was an important profit to make.
The Renova board have not commented on the situation so far.
More to follow.
DNZY
With the strong animosity between myself and the board following the sale of Skando, I took an unexpected U-turn on it to put my signature on a new deal at the club. 20% increase on my wage just to show them who's boss.
TRANSFERS
OUT
A rather big clean out of contracts; Tsvetanov, Hyka, Slavov and Jezdimirovic among the bigger names exiting. The obvious sale of left back Skando without warning obviously boiled my blood.
IN
However it wasn't the be all and end all. Two new cadets come in, one being the obvious replacement at left back and a loanee from Kosovian champions Liria.
Dragan Jovanovski - D(L) - £3.9k from Makedonija GP
Mentally equal with Skando, slightly more clunky too. To be honest I wouldn't have been able to find a better option without breaking the bank but Dragan has an experienced head on him to gain my trust. Garnered a lot of gametime from bigger clubs like Vardar and Rabotnički also helps.
Aldo Masha - M(R)/AM(R) - season long loan from Liria
Only comes in to make up the numbers on the right wing following the clearout. Same sort of quickness as Kristian Lleshi minus the technique and crossing acumen (ironic with 17 flair). Can't guarantee him many appearances but a failsafe if or when disaster strikes.
Also forgot to mention that Sokol Bregaji has agreed to another year on loan. Sileks wanted a staggering £180k for a permanent deal, keep dreaming mate.
Even better news is Mikko Syväjärvi stays put until 2053...though wanting a few release clauses thrown into the mixer should it go belly up for us next season.
EUROPA LEAGUE
FIRST QUALIFYING ROUND, FIRST LEG (AWAY)
Far from match fit going into this, somehow recorded not only an away goal but a share of the score going back to our place. Sokol Bregaji picking up from where he left off to cancel out Dila's opener, leading into a tasty second leg.
FIRST QUALIFYING ROUND, SECOND LEG (HOME)
One of our most well organised performances since I've come in. Dila were shooting blanks while we took full advantage. Mikko and Sokol putting nails in the Georgian's coffin without a sniff of a chance. You can tell by the number of shots that Dila were getting panicky and desperate. Resolute defensive work.
SECOND QUALIFYING ROUND DRAW
Danish side Randers are our next test, surprised we'd even get to this stage.
SECOND QUALIFYING ROUND, FIRST LEG (AWAY)
Man, we got so close to defying the odds. Totally against the run of play taking the lead at the end of the first half thanks to their keeper making a dog's dinner of Fabianski's shot, spilled right into Syväjärvi's path for an open goal. The great Danes fought back in the second to turn the game over with Jørgensen and Nielsen shattering our resistance. With all hope lost, in came our own Scandinavian Mikko to grab a dramatic late equaliser...or so I thought. Straight down the other end Tomas Juska impeded a goalscoring threat resulting in a penalty and a second yellow, allowing Søren Larsen to deflate the valiant shift we put in. Two away goals, unfinished business in the return leg.
SECOND QUALIFYING ROUND, SECOND LEG (HOME)
Nah, they were just too good for us. Larsen headed home on the stroke of half time and an explosive Jonas Kirk free kick left us with a mammoth task to come back. Syväjärvi did however leave the game with a positive note deep into injury time with a well composed finish past Aleksandar Dadic. Out, but with some fight in us. Good show in Europe.
Nearly our entire turnover for the year earned in four games. Ka-ching.
SEASON EXPECTATIONS
Back to domestic affairs, as much as I'd love to bank us into the Europa League qualification places again, a mid table expectation is a safe bet. Quarter finals of the cup also doable, potentially aiming further if we're lucky?
Bookies obviously don't fancy us this season, in fact predicting us to go down at 300-1. Don't I deserve a little more credit than that?
That said, they're predicting Syväjärvi to be in and amongst the leading goalscorers this season after last season's flurry.
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
FIRST ROUND DRAW
Last bit of news before I bore you to tears, non league Madžari are our opposition in the first stage of the cup.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 1
Routine win to kick off our season, however not exactly comfortable during the game. Less possession, sloppy passing but blessed with Bregalnica's shaky backline. Mikky lodged his first goal to his account from the penalty spot before some careless backpassing allowed Sokol Bregaji to seal the deal. The dynamic duo working in tandem yet again.
MATCHDAY 2
With Bregaji ineligible against his parent club, a formation change was necessary. Unfortunately it didn't bode well with the opposition who got rather fortunate to lead and then double it with the last third to go. Syväjärvi looked a fish out of water, missing three or four big chances to prompt a change. Mediocre Denis Hoxha came on with very little expectation and what happened next dazzled us all. Two goals off the back of counter attacks in the final eight minutes rescued an unlikely but deserved point. Another striking arrow to add to our bow?
MATCHDAY 3
First defeat in ten league games at the hands of Rabotnički. The early penalty we gave away to Daniel Georgiev threw a sign saying perhaps it wasn't going to be our day. Atmosphere died down a bit until Syväjärvi was presented with a one on one, the angle too tight to hit it anywhere but down the keeper's throat. A darting run from Mario Tsonev confirmed defeat, however not before Bledar Kelmendi reduced arrears with his first goal since returning to the club.
MATCHDAY 4
Back to the olden days of defending to escape with a point. I say escape, we actually had a better chance of winning. Conor McParland had a header cleared off the line at point blank range and Sokol Bregaji hit one first time to bring a key save by Todorov. On the balance of it all, we'll take it.
MATCHDAY 5
Mario Slavov, a player who caused countless disruptions under the hood before his release is now managing Metalurg Skopje - might want to consider a new career. Sure they did cause us one or two problems but came away unscathed and victorious via an own goal plus Syväjärvi breaking his mini goal drought.
MATCHDAY 6
No form of consistency right now, taken down a peg by Makedonija GP. Hristijan Ivanovski with the only goal and probably the only highlight of the game. Really, it was so scrappy with a flood of yellows picked up on the way.
KUP NA MAKEDONIJA
FIRST ROUND
Move along, nothing to see here.....
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Consistency and Renova don't go in the same sentence. Pretty much a game of chance to see which team turns up. Syväjärvi should have performed better this month, chomping at the bit too much and getting no results. Defending also needs some work. At least being out of the cup can swing our focus primarily on the league.
LEAGUE TABLE
Bang average with two wins, two draws and two defeats to lie in sixth.
SEPTEMBER 2050 SCHEDULE
An international break can help us brew before travelling to newly promoted Turnovo next. Followed up by two heavyweights of Vardar and Shkëndija to complete the cycle and return to Bregalnica.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 7
Terrible, inept, sheepish, these words come to mind when watching this fodder. Actually held our own in the first 15-20 minutes, only until Kovalev snuck in to switch us off for the rest of the game. Turnovo looked really comfortable for the most part.
MATCHDAY 8
new tactic, who dis? Discarded the 4-4-2 for the classic 4-1-2-2-1 'V', recalling Dragan Panovski into his natural DM habitat and dropping Syväjärvi for Bregaji - match made in heaven. Three assists from the defensive mid, a hat-trick for Bregaji, another nightmare for Vardar. Five times we've played the "most successful team in Macedonia" and not one defeat. Can we play them every week?
MATCHDAY 9
It's rare we even score against Shkëndija, let alone draw with them. Soaked up the usual pressure before the inevitable breakthrough by a strong Tolipov header to undo our strong defending. Syväjärvi learned from his subpar performances to liaise with Huremovic in creating a very unlikely equaliser to nab a big point against the recent champs.
MATCHDAY 10
Much more like it. Bregalnica attacked early and ran out of steam quickly to put them to the sword in the second half. Jaanus Vazinski rifled a beautiful volley from a corner to finally grease the wheels, doubled in seconds by Syväjärvi, converting from Kristian Lleshi's cross. Boys are back in business.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
After a messy August, September got bent into shape a lot better. The change to the V formation allowed our midfielders more freedom to create while the lone striker can put them away. Not even any trouble picking a starting striker as both Syväjärvi and Bregaji can take turns with one coming off the bench.
LEAGUE TABLE
Quarter of the way in, looking rather well. Six off the leaders Rabotnički and three off second. Could be an extremely close race this season.
OCTOBER 2050 SCHEDULE
Three home matches against winnable opposition, two games away where we'll have to hope and pray. Bring on October.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 11
Total control nearly turned to total tragedy but for Kristian Lleshi's intervention to continue our good form. Huremovic was left unmarked at the far post to tap in the only goal of the first half and immediately after the restart Mikko Syväjärvi put us in complete command of the game. Out of nowhere came Sileks with their first major chance to claw their way back, captain Dragan Jordanov rattling our cage. The pressure got to the squad, jangling with nerves to allow Sileks to equalise heading into the last quarter. The performance eventually justified itself from a late corner, teenage sensation Lleshi left unmarked to hit home the winner. Phew.
MATCHDAY 12
Table toppers Rabotnički squeezed us out of an evenly contested match. So pissed off at Kevin Petersoo making the same mistakes at right back, no intent of closing down or positioning himself correctly and with nobody to close down the cross, Mario Tsonev said thank you very much. Georgiev's low drilled free kick sunk us, despite Bregaji's late consolation.
MATCHDAY 13
Underwhelming display at home to Pelister. Sokol Bregaji coming closest for us with the crossbar denying him from just outside the six yard area. The visitors took authority from there, Dimitar Todorovski's header proving decisive in a 1-0 triumph.
MATCHDAY 14
Similar to the Sileks game, but looked nowhere near as comfortable. Mario Slavov's team stung us twice on the counter, the usual committing too many men forward and lack of spatial awareness in between Jaanus Vazinski's leveller. Bastig nearly spilling a free kick had us praying for half time. We woke up and smelled the coffee afterwards, bombarding their goal with a barrage of chances - two of them netted. Syväjärvi taking advantage of a Metalurg aerial mistake to blast home and three minutes later hitting them with our own counter, Fabianski's whipped ball paving the way for Aldo Masha's first goal for the club. Reeling them in like gullible trout.
This is why Masha was introduced. Proper livid. Developing so nicely too which makes it even worse.
MATCHDAY 15
Nowhere near up to par. Incomplete passes, terrible in the air, mistake after mistake, it was a fiasco. Felt bad for Bastig who saved our asses on various occasions but not enough to deny Petrovski and Aluposki's goals to rethink our strategy. Route one to Bregaji was probably our only hope, belting one back. It was all false hope though, Petersoo dragged completely out of position to leave a gap for Aluposki's second and to hand three points on a platter to Makedonija GP.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Sinusoidal month with highs but mostly lows. Definitely need new full backs for certain, might get rid of Petersoo altogether at this rate with his abhorrent displays. Bregaji and Syväjärvi feeding off scraps but do deliver when presented to them. Lleshi's awful injury at Metalurg might be a bad omen for the rest of the season.
LEAGUE TABLE
Funnily enough it hasn't backfired too badly on the table, lots of sides in similar predicaments. Rabotnički the team to catch at the front. Looking over our shoulders a bit too. Also WTF is happening with Vardar??
NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2050 SCHEDULE
Final run in of games before breaking for winter. Comforting that we're at home for a lot of these games, Turnovo is a must win next to keep us out of trouble plus with a good record against Vardar, a result against them would also be nice. The rest is pot luck.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 16
Job done...just. Despite an early penalty from Aldo Masha, Turnovo were tough to break down. Mikko Syväjärvi played the whistle during appeals for a second penalty but smashed it home to make our arguments redundant. Kostov's close range header gave Turnovo a way back but later on should have ended it with a second penalty awarded, Masha denied by the outstretched arm of Igor Bocevski. Good start to the month.
MATCHDAY 17
Vardar did us dirty here. Their second goal completely changed the flow of the game after an evenly balanced first. Sokol Bregaji announced himself early on, only to be thwarted by Igor Ristovski nearly breaking the net to level it up. Physics doesn't even come into question for Vardar's second, Ristovski hit the bar in such a way that it boomeranged straight to Karapetyan for a simple tap in...logic eh? Fidan Progni slaughtered any remainder of hope we had of creating an equaliser.
MATCHDAY 18
Talk about being a deer in headlights. No fight, erratic passing, allowing Shkëndija to bully us all game. Ansi Meta's header somehow crept under the body of Bastig and minutes later failed to keep out Hovhannisyan's penalty. Meta widening the margin further. I know they're good, but I expected something of a fiercer contest.
MATCHDAY 19
Headline speaks for itself, no idea how we came away with this result. Bledar Kelmendi getting fortunate with a lucky deflection into his path for an early second half strike. Bregalnica didn't play much better, truly turgid game.
MATCHDAY 20
A tale of yet another second half collapse. Always seem to get worked up with an early goal, Ondrej Urbanek playing the role as the human shield into his own net within the opening five minutes. The usually ever reliable Bastig was anything but for Sileks' counterstatement, failing to deal with an aerial ball to leave a gaping hole for Blazevski to fill. The pressure got to us again, letting in two simple goals to choke up the three points to the home side. Relegation fears at the back of our mind again.
MATCHDAY 21
Get us to the winter break immediately. When in doubt about your failing tactics not going anywhere, park the bus...almost worked. Set pieces will always be the bane of my existence, Hristo Valkov invited in to place home a free header from a corner. Some things just never change.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Nothing going right, both wins this month were fortunate blessings. Our defenders aren't defending, our midfielders aren't creating, and our strikers like jigsaws that fall to pieces in the box. At least we can stew over this until February.
LEAGUE TABLE
Dangling dangerously over a shark tank. Think Europe looks certainly out of the question, onto survival mode from here onwards.
DNZY
TRANSFERS
OUT
An eleventh hour bid from Sillamäe Kalev to take Petersoo off our hands was too good to refuse. No offence to Kev, but he infuriated me at times and to get five times what we originally paid for him it was a natural course of events. Everybody's happy.
IN
Two recruits got handed the Renova kit during the winter window. One good friend of the save and one 'big' talent (pardoning the glaring innuendo).
Sander Kõiv - D(R) - free transfer from Tammeka Tartu
Tried and tested, also adding the attacking flair from the rear as noticed at Infonet. There were obviously better candidates however Sander isn't afraid of take-ons or drifting into the centre like another certain Estonian did in the past. Obviously has wilted since the glory days, still fancy him to tighten things up in the full back areas.
Dick - ST(C) - unattached free agent
No, that is no nickname nor typo - just plain Dick. Why did I purchase a new striker when I already have two other good options? Impulse. If he looks that before turning 21, imagine him five years down the line. Strong, composed, precise, somebody to grab us a few goals without a shadow of a doubt. The shirt sales might go through the roof, ironically or not.
FRIENDLIES
Bit of everything really, smashed by Montenegro's finest Budućnost, honours even with Bosnian side Borac before a pleasantly surprising take down of forgotten Slovenian champions Domžale with Valon Shehu of all people earning a brace.
In other news, this I found quite interesting with Vazinski second in the Estonian player of the year (correct me if I'm wrong?).
Even better news is seeing Kristian Lleshi rapidly recovering, won't be long before he'll be back in action. Hopefully his bravery doesn't take a hit.
FEBRUARY 2051 SCHEDULE
Facing reality after the harsh Balkan winter, two away days to Pelister and Metalurg Skopje before returning home to face Makedonija GP.
DNZY
YOUTH INTAKE
Last year it was Mario Hoxha, previous year it was Kristian Lleshi, this year...? Nothing special at all.
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 22
Stalemate beginning to a new year, Pelister arguably will be feeling two points were lost. Trialled a 4-3-3 system with Bregaji, Syväjärvi and new signing Dick however it might have left us a little bit too exposed. Pelister piled on chances in the first half, including missing a free header from four yards out that flew over the bar. Counter attacking was our only hope, Bregaji bursting away but denied by Todorov in goal. Sadly fed off scraps all game, might need to rejig this tactic.
MATCHDAY 23
Rained goals in a thriller with bottom club Metalurg, sealed with a sublime injury time winner. So poor in the build up to Metalurg's opener through Sinani, allowing him to move in acres of space. Then came a spell of four goals in five minutes, two composed finishes by our Brazilian luxury Dick in between a stupid goal conceded to Julian Gega, almost securing a record breaking hattrick if it weren't for him being brought down for a stonewall penalty - Syväjärvi rather selfishly taking duties to lead for the first time in the game. The points were almost secured but for a fabulous strike by Gega into the top corner frustrating us yet again. Into the dying embers, 17 year old Mario Hoxha delivers an unbelievable 25 yard powerhouse to deservedly muscle our way to victory. Heart rate slowly returning to resting state.
You ok hun? x
MATCHDAY 24
All our good work from last week counted for nothing, disintegrating to our 11th defeat of the season. The penalty we gave away we could do nothing about but for Bastig to somehow spill the ball in from a near post cross is almost unforgivable. The third goal by Ivanovski sweetly struck to confirm the L, despite Dick showing our strikers how it's done.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
Mixed bag, the 4-3-3 has helped us score a bit more freely but strains us heavily at the back, conceding six in in two games. Our ageing defence not holding together nicely. Dick though, contributing three goals since he's come in, not bad at all.
LEAGUE TABLE
The close margins between us and ninth is making me anxious, especially since we're much too far away from the top four. Consolidation is the new objective.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 25
Turning into real choke artists now. Dick is working wonders as a deep forward, making the run to head in Bregaji's cross before Syväjärvi drilled low coming to the break. Two up and cruising at half time until a little wobble caused us to capsize in the final twenty minutes, Huremovic dawdling to allow Kovalev an easy snatch and strike to leave Bastig helpless in goal. A scrappy own goal may have given us some breathing space but back came Turnovo with Kovalev's second, slipped behind the defensive four to slide it under Bastig. All we had to do was play it safe, but Bastig didn't get the memo; corner to Turnovo which Bastig made a mess of it as Tosevski got his head to it first and dropped into an empty net. One win in our last six, this is getting far too precarious.
MATCHDAY 26
Luck wasn't going to change against a reformed Vardar side on the brink of the drop. Dropped Bastig for 17 year old backup keeper Andi Beciri...not my wisest decision as we fell two down before the opening quarter elapsed. A quick free kick found Vazinski to hammer home to leave the second half nicely poised. Vardar were far too zeroed in to stop them, rapidly countering an attacking corner with fierce pace, easily finished off by Igor Ristovski. The red-blacks nearly made it a rout, hitting the bar three times but instead hit back at them with Dick's fifth goal in four consecutive games to make things interesting. Had nothing left in the tank afterwards. Dire straits.
MATCHDAY 27
OOF Shkëndija totally FM'd lullllzzzz!!!1 XDDD. Mind you, they were far from their best while we scrapped the 4-3-3 and returned to the conservative 4-1-2-2-1 DM approach. For all their chances, nothing really tested the returning Bastig, in contrast it was us who had the noteworthy plays. Fabianski came close by hitting the near post but the crucial one that counted came from the head of Tomas Juska, towering over everyone to seal an unlikely win.
MATCHDAY 28
Forgotten what back to back wins felt like. Did we get lucky again? Yes. Did we set up a giant bus to keep it that way? Yes. Bregalnica's efforts were all snuffed out before frustration got the better of them, taking McParland clean out for a 65th minute penalty. On loan Aldo Masha took the honours, finishing well out of Borisov's reach. When in doubt, just play things Mourinho.
When he's good, he's very good.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
You can see the difference in tactics just by looking at the scorelines. 4-3-3 - score 5, concede 6, won 0. 4-1-2-2-1DM - score 2, concede 0, win 2. Obviously it isn't the most attractive football we've played but imperative to staying afloat this season.
LEAGUE TABLE
I'm impressed with everything that has come and gone, 5th place is still occupied by us. By no means safe, by no means Europe is out of reach. Steady equilibrium facing into our last eight league games.
APRIL 2051 SCHEDULE
Lots of important six pointers on the horizon, kicking off with the side underneath in Sileks. Tricky away days to sides chasing the title, Rabotnički and leaders Makedonija GP certainly won't bend backwards for us.
DNZY
1.MFL
MATCHDAY 29
Not often I say three wins in a row but Fabianski delivered to do just that. Practically had a field of space to pounce on Lleshi's breakaway in an early counter attack. Lleshi could have had a goal for himself but the bar stood in the way of a cheeky dink over the keeper. Bastig did get called into action when Jordanov flicked a header his way but stopped it comfortably on the line. No April Fool on this occasion.
MATCHDAY 30
Make that four, all by the slender 1-0 scoreline. Dreadful to watch, but one chance drew us into ecstasy. In-form Tomas Juska used his dome to loop a header over the keeper in the last quarter to which Rabotnički couldn't respond. Patience and strong defending pays off.
MATCHDAY 31
Easily our performance of the season, puppeteering Pelister to crumble in the second half. Todorov spilling a free kick right in the direction of Fabianski just four minutes in got us off to the perfect start. With respect we got hit with a sucker punch as Seferi finished off their only well timed play of the game. Second half belonged to Syväjärvi - tormenting the fragile Pelister defence with a sublime hat-trick to seal five consecutive wins. Dignified end to the game no doubt.
Not really though. If anything we were lucky not to break into double figures. But did Pelister leave it there?
Not in the slightest, they're about the "if you can't beat 'em, raid their backroom staff" mentality. Tried to headhunt both our reserve manager and my assistant. Pathetic carry on.
MATCHDAY 32
SIX. SIX WINS IN A ROW. Where on Earth has this form come from and why didn't it resonate earlier? Syväjärvi filling his boots with back to back hat-tricks against the doomed Metalurg Skopje. Didn't have it all our own way, the visitors were wasteful missing three golden pearls before a former loanee in Dejan Vasilev gave them a shred a hope. Not to be, the Gipsari march on.
He was a free transfer. On deadline day. Panic buy? I think not.
MATCHDAY 33
I don't even know what to say anymore. Sasa Huremovic may be leaving in the summer but he's going out with a bang, a top corner netbuster from the edge of the area enough to take down title chasing Makedonija. Another game that dragged on with no substance, but the home side nearly caught us out with a looping header but landed on top of the crossbar and cleared. Playing with flying confidence at the right time.
RESULTS OVERVIEW
A perfect month, not seen that for a very long time. Syväjärvi totally destroying teams, our midfield trio of Huremovic, Vazinski and Mario Hoxha rock solid and our defence dramatically improving. Who's next?
LEAGUE TABLE
Late push for a title? Unbelievable momentum at the moment has shot us right up there with four other sides battling for the prize with three games left. To think I was apprehensive at the thought of a relegation playoff not too long ago.
MAY 2051 SCHEDULE
This could end brilliantly or in tears. The home game against relegation fighters Turnovo is a must win, Vardar away could be a close one and a very difficult final day at home to Shkendija in the upper echelons of the league. Forget permutations, win them all and see where we end up?