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Mickey

Mickey was in the middle of preparing for a reserve match at Aggborough against Swansea when the call came from Owen. With Nick Heath not playing in the fixture at the weekend there was a spot open on the right. Dean Bennett had resumed some light training but would still be out for a further week to ten days anyway. This time though Mickey learned he would have to settle for a place on the bench - as Rombo had been elected to make his first professional start and appearance for the club instead. It was a decision he accepted without any problems. Being on the bench for matches still gave him satisfaction - being so close to the action knowing you could be called upon at any moment always kept the blood pumping. The news was swiftly relayed to Jack Warner and various family members.

Saturday 8th September
Third Division Match 6 @ Vetchfield

Swansea City v Kidderminster Harriers

For Owen the week had proceeded with a great deal of positive news. Both Dean Bennett and Drewe Broughton had started some fitness and light ball work since their injuries and would be back in action within two weeks. Rombo had performed well enough in training to be selected to start on the right, whilst Mickey was content with his role on the bench. The anniversary occasion with Sally had been very enjoyable indeed, and he was using a fair bit of mental strength to try and stop passing his mind back to what they got up to that night. It was quite embarrassing giving the pre match talk in a squatted position.

Swansea had not made a great start to their campaign and lay near the foot of the table with two points to their name so far and clearly thoughts were on earning another away victory. Lee Ayres was back into the centre of defence whilst Ian Foster returned in place of Steve Howard up front - and indeed it was Fosters early contribution that helped create the first goal of the match early on for Bo Henriksen. Making a lightening start to the game, Ian and Bo had already missed shots before the goal arrived in the 5th minute. Rombo was running all over the place eager to impress and it was his cross that found Foster in the area. Despite his shot being blocked, the rebound fell to the Dane and Henriksen slotted in his second of the season - and it kick started a fiery Kidderminster display.

Mickey on the bench was enjoying the spectacle, an early goal ensured Kidderminster were in the ascendancy and though he had to admit Rombo was doing well, Mickey felt he could play comfortably out there too. It was all smiles on the away bench, especially when ten minutes later more work from the energetic front two created the opening for a second goal. Henriksen's power got him past Ian Foster, whose trickery incited a foul in the area and a penalty was awarded. Winner of the pre-season penalty shoot out competition Lee Yates stepped up to take the kick and the 17 year old blasted in the second goal - and the visitors bench cheered mightily along with the traveling support. 2-0 up and they were in the comfort zone.

However, not three minutes later and there was a sense of deja vu as Owen lost another player to injury - leaving him questioning his own training methods and wondering if any of it was too intense. Young Lee was the victim this time, having to pull out with a bruised thigh. In his place was Sean Flynn and the experienced man did calm the midfield down, ensuring there would be disrupted momentum. Towards half time, John Williams and James Thomas both had shots saved by Frazer Digby as the home side tried to capitalize on complacency in the Kiddy camp, fortunately failing.

With a gee up at half time, and a safer choice of pre packaged sandwich for Mickey, it was game on once more - and the visitors in trying to regain authority on the match picked up quick yellow cards - for Sean Parrish and Scott Stamps. However, following a brief Swansea flurry - a killer third goal came Kidderminster's way and the points were effectively sealed. A free kick from Stamps was cleared - but only to the feet of Rombo on the right. The Portuguese demonstrated a touch of the continental flair to evade David Smith, carried it down the right flank before centering wonderfully for Stamps to smash in with his left foot. At 3-0 with half an hour to go - Owen felt confident - promptly withdrawing both Henriksen - for Howard, and Rombo - to applause from the away fans - for Mickey.

This was a better chance to impress - with the team full of confidence and result more or less known. A few neat touches and swift passes with his colleagues soon followed as he fitted in with the movement without any problems - though there was little incentive amongst his team mates to really search for a fourth. They were conserving energy - which was probably fair enough. With 5 minutes to go - Owen was irked yet again as now Ian Foster would be taken off injured with some kind of foot injury - and it was down to 10 men for the visitors. Despite being passed a couple of times by their left full back, Mickey still managed to make his own impression - ignoring the jeers to lob his marker, run round collect the ball on his foot and then scissor volley the ball perfectly inside to Howard. It was the kind of touch that perhaps explained a foreign presence in the crowd that afternoon...


Swansea City 0 Kidderminster 3 Henriksen 5, Yates pen 16, Stamps 59

Kidderminster: 4-4-2: Digby , Hinton, Stamps , Ayres, Smith ; Blake, Rombo, Yates (inj 20 Flynn), Parrish ; Henriksen(MoM) (Howard 59), Foster.

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Wednesday 12th September
Division 3 Match 7" Aggborough

Kidderminster Harriers v Rushden & Diamonds

With Rushden in mid table but with promotion aspirations of their own and Kidderminster now in 7th after their recent wins, the match was set to be a close one. Of course for Owen there were enforced changes to the side. Steve Howard returned up front in place of the injured Ian Foster, whilst in for Lee Yates came Sean Flynn. For Mickey there was delight as he came in on the left wing this time for Sean Parrish. Matt Lewis took a spot on the bench. Mickey's start had been awarded for his cameo role in the win on Saturday and as per usual family and friends had once more been alerted - to come and offer their full support.

The sight of a three foot tall midget evidently still hadn't lost it's novelty with the latest set of opposing fans to make their mixed reactions known, however the Aggborough were rising to the challenge and out sung their visitors within a few minutes - aided a great deal by the twelfth minute strike from Steve Howard. Sean Flynn had sent a loose ball Howard's way, who subsequently played a swift 1-2 with Rombo to beat a marker, returned the ball to Rombo who moved out wide, and then converted the deep out swinging cross with aplomb. A fine goal and another assist for the Portuguese lad brought celebrations all round - even from Mickey - competition had to be good for him too.

Scott Stamps was called into action soon afterwards at the other end with a perfectly timed tackle as Rushden looked to make an immediate response. Onandi Lowe and Barry Hunter both seeing headers sail wide of the posts. It was an edgy opening for Mickey as well, though after twenty minutes he produced a moment to almost cherish when he skipped between two players, lobbing the ball over the heads, catching it on his right foot, flicking it to his left and then volleying the ball goalwards - only to see it saved by the goalkeeper fairly comfortably. Either side of Billy Turley and it would have been a talked about goal for a while.

That aside Blake and Flynn were stifling their opponents in midfield without really enabling the two wingers to excel much and the first half petered out a little tamely for Owen's liking. However with the lead in the bag he was still fairly happy with how the match was progressing. No injuries so far was another boost. Despite trying to drill in the importance of maintaining the dominance - the extra urgency from the visitors saw Rushden start the better side in the next 15 minutes of the second period. Tiring legs from the Kidderminster side weren't helping either and though the defence were holding out well enough - with Hinton still in admirable form, change was necessary.

The young legs of Danny Williams replaced Sean Flynn in the middle and that extra freshness certainly helped stem the tide, and even saw further chances to extend the lead. Bo Henriksen having collected a through ball from Rombo flicked his first time effort over the bar as well as the keeper sadly. The match was becoming a very tense affair as Rushden were showing greater signs of threatening to spoil the day and get the equaliser their pressure probably merited. With 18 minutes to go, Mickey was substituted having not seen as much of the ball as he'd have liked but still feeling relatively satisfied. Sam Shilton replaced him, whilst Matt Lewis came on for Bo. It helped the sharpness of the side and thankfully by keeping possession better, the team clung for another hard fought victory. Another three points and another clean sheet kept Owen very happy indeed.

Kidderminster 1 Howard 12 Rushden 0

Kidderminster: 4-4-2: Digby , Hinton, Stamps , Ayres, Smith ; Blake, Rombo, Flynn, Nick Nack ( Shilton 72); Henriksen (Lewis 72) Howard.

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Training Ground

Mickey was off at the side of the pitch having rested awhile after the warm down session on Thursday. It had only been a light session due to the match the previous day, but it had still been fairly tiring - especially in the autumnal sun that had shone down relentlessly, breeze free. He had picked up the paper, as per usual on the canteen side and now was flicking through it whilst walking back to the changing rooms, his team mates sporadically returning at their leisure. There was an interesting piece in the Shuttle which had linked him already with moves away and abroad. With sides such as Utrecht, Kilmarnock and even Sunderland interested in his progress, that had to mean good things. Clearly there was potential within him - after all he hadn't performed that well in his matches so far, so the talent spotters must be pretty knowledgeable. It was the kind of news that brought a warm feeling inside.

" Careful what you read in the papers son" The voice startled Mickey a moment as he turned around.

" Jack? What are you doing here, how are you?"

"I'm well kid. I'm just checking in on your progress. That's the shuttle there I see is it not?"

"Yeah it is! They've got a -"

"I read it Mickey. Be careful though there's always speculation abound. Scouts may have been spotted - but how can the press know who they were after? You've made good steps so far - but keep to the straight and narrow and you'll be fine. Progress and guidance is better than money. If you work hard you'll reap the rewards - with a move upwards if necessary."

"Yeah, I know Jack. Don't worry. I'm happy here - Owen's a good boss and I am happy here! I know I have to establish myself first and it takes time. It's just nice to know you've got admirers y'know? Back up options."

" Assuming it's true."

"Well obviously..."

"Ok, well how did you find last night then?"

"I enjoyed it Jack. Wish I'd scored that goal - would have been an awesome strike!" Mickey was re living the shot in his mind as he spoke.

" I l know I was willing it in myself! But you know - plenty of folk have almost scored wonder goals - you wouldn't believe how many!"

"Oh you killjoy Jack! I know - work hard, reap rewards, blah blah - I am aware of that! Come on! You know me better than others and my determination to prove a point and make a living out of sport?"

"Aye, I'm sorry - just trying to keep you in check that's all."

"Well I can manage fine Jack! No need to be so negative all the time." Mickey replied only half jokingly as he spotted first Dean Bennett spring through delightedly and then Owen walking in through the double doors. He was followed soon after by an irritated looking Stuart Brock.

" I wonder what's up with those two..." Jack wondered aloud.

" Well I don't think Stuart's been happy not playing in goal recently... probably to do with that I imagine... and anyway we'll find out soon enough!"

[quote]

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Saturday 15th August
[ Division 3 Match 8

Boston United v Kidderminster Harriers

For this match against mid table side Boston, Sam Shilton had been recalled to the side to play on the left wing in place of Mickey - who had been demoted to the reserves for a while to gain a few more match practices and was subsequently watching from the stands for this match with his trusty steed Dave for a companion. Owen had also dropped Rombo, who was a bit tired, with Heath coming into the bench and Dean Bennett taking back his spot on the right flank. Craig Hinton who had played every minute so far, could not be dropped given his importance to the side despite feeling less than fresh.

The match however started very poorly as the side on form conceded within two minutes as the defence allowed Stuart Douglas too much space and room in the area to score and Boston were well on top. Indeed Boston looked like the side with three wins on the trot as they kept battering the Kidderminster defence through out the half, with Digby doing what he could to keep the visitors in the match. Sean Flynn was having a poor game in the centre, whilst Dean Bennett was hardly proving why his age should count in his favour for the right wing. At the back too- Hinton was showing the weakness' of needing a rest - being slow to the ball at times.

Flynn was removed at half time for Sean Parrish as Kidderminster had only registered the one long range shot from Bo Henriksen at this point. Nevertheless at 1-0 down you are never out of it, and Mickey, munching on a snickers kept faith that his side would fight their way back into the match in the second half. Within minutes Mark Blake had chipped over their back line for Henriksen - but the striker could only fire at the feet of their goalkeeper. The next attack saw a cross headed by Lee Ayres hit the crossbar, and rebound out into play again. Sadly it proved be merely a brief flurry.

With the players suffering some stiffness from either recent injuries or having played every minute, Boston were deciding the tempo and a second goal on 64 minutes won them the match. David Town scored it, and Boston had their points. It was made worse when 5 minutes before time Stuart Douglas notched a second having easily beaten Craig Hinton to a loose ball and a 3-0 scoreline for once probably did reflect the game. Owen and Mickey were both highly frustrated with the result - but all the same, it was such a poor performance it had to be a blip - the slightly illogical logic used to explain the result.

Boston 3 Douglas 2, 84, Town 64 Kidderminster 0

Kidderminster: 4-4-2: Digby , Hinton, Stamps , Ayres, Smith ; Blake, Bennett (72Heath), Flynn (Parrish 45), Shilton; Henriksen (Lewis 72) Howard.

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News Round Up

After the loss to Boston, Owen realised he needed to bring in some more players if he could afford to, as the injuries had already taken their toll so far. Craig Hinton needed back up and a few speculative loan bids were fired off for right backs known to be available. After two failed attempts to bring in Aston Villa's Leon Hylton, and Ranger's Maurice Ross - he finally struck lucky two days later with Nottingham Forest's John Thompson . The utility player was looking for first team action and he was skilful. He had the versatility to add cover to the rest of the squad and he arrived on a one month's loan with a possible view to extending it should it prove successful. Funds were raised on the Monday 17th when the sale of Stuart Brock to Hartlepool was officially confirmed. He moved for 40,000 pounds and would free up a little space in the wage department for another newcomer should one become available.

Owen meanwhile had to fend off an angry Sean Flynn. The midfielder had been awarded an official warning for his efforts or lack thereof against Boston. He did not have fitness as a valid excuse like one or two and it had been the midfield area that Boston had bossed so effectively that had led to the loss, but Sean felt a little victimised over the decision. Bo was whinging half the time about not moving to a bigger club as Owen looked to curb any potential disaffection. The ideal would be to sell Bo and bring in another striker - but the risk of not finding a suitable replacement was too great at the current time.

Positive news was there again though as Drewe Broughton Ian Foster and Lee Yates, all returned from training during the week, in time for the next league match at home to Lincoln - the chance to rectify the errors of the Boston match. For Mickey once more training had passed reasonably well - though he was working with some of the oyunger members of the squad - a far cry from that move to Sunderland he was thinking about the other day.

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Saturday 22nd September
Division 3 Match 9

Kidderminster Harriers v Lincoln

The quest to right the Boston wrongs began reasonably well as Kidderminster came out the brighter side in this clash of the play off hopefuls. Rombo was returned to the right wing again, with his efforts thus far clearly impressing Owen in training, whilst Mickey was left enviously watching from the sidelines. What Mickey didn't know however was that was more than just footballing reasons for his exclusion this afternoon. That very morning Owen and received an interesting fax. Drewe Broughton's return from injury saw him take just his second start of the season, whilst Lee Yates also returned to the centre of midfield. There was no room for Ian Foster however. John Thompson on loan from Forest made his first start as Hinton was rested, whilst Ian Joy made a return to the left back slot after Stamps was left out.

The much changed side then started in fresher spirits having not been involved in the midweek League Cup second round action - whereas their opponents had - and on 22 minutes the home crowd, with Mickey present as per usual were celebrating an opening goal from Rombo - and what a special goal it was. Hamilton, Camm and then Sedgemore were all left trailing in his wake as the winger darted on a mazy run towards goal letting fly at an angle, and finding the roof of the opposing corner. A fine strike which helped lift the hosts.

It did also revive Lincoln too and reminded them they had to play hard to earn their results as they fought back in their own way, forcing a save from Digby and testing out Thompson for the first time at right back - with Thompson passing with ease. Indeed the vitality within the two full backs seemed to have invigorated the rest of the side - with Yates enjoying a fine game alongside the experienced Blake - as Owen grew ever convinced they had the right partnerswhip going in the centre. However after Stephen Garfoot fired wide on 38 minutes, the hosts didn't heed the warning too well, allowing Ben Sedgemore to exact some revenge for Rombo's work, by curling a shot in from 20 yards on the move to seemingly restore parity by the break.

Thankfully though Kidderminster, amidst some highly vociferous chants from the crowd and directions by Owen made the perfect reaction to the goal by striking back almost instantly. With the ball loose in midfield, Rombo tucked it out left to Ian Joy down the left wing. The full back crossed deep - but found Drewe Broughton with perfection to restore the lead. Drewe's tally for the season now 2 out of 2. Mickey then swiftly left for refreshments, whilst Owen warned his team not to fall asleep again in the second half.

Unsurprisingly Lincoln came out fired up in the second half but Kidderminster matched them and were able to limit Lincoln to long range efforts. Just shy of the hour mark Owen brought on Nick Heath and Matt Lewis for Rombo and Broughton respectively - and the two leaving the pitch earned a massive hand from the crowd for their efforts - even though Mickey was now switching his attention to fighting for the left wing spot if Rombo was going to keep playing like this. Their fresh impetus certainly helped and when Lewis came on a few minutes later for Bo Henriksen, the hosts were keeping the ball well. With quarter of an hour to play the rewards duly followed as a match killing goal finally arrived - this time a first goal for Matt Lewis strike. Mark Blake was the creator, running and chipping from midfield, Lewis finished well. 3 more points kept everyone happy again.

Kidderminster 3 Rombo 22, Broughton 43, Lewis 76 Lincoln 1 Sedgemore 41

4-4-2: Digby , Thompson, Stamps , Ayres, Smith ; Blake, Rombo, Yates, Parrish; Henriksen (65 Howard) Broughton (72 Lewis).

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Chairman's Office, Aggborough
Present are Donald Smith, Chairman, and Owen Newitt, Manager

" Ok then Owen where do you want to go from here?"

"Well I think we're on course for a good season Don, but as always the side will need strengthening. I like Steve Howard and John Thompson but whether we can make those deals permanent..."

"We can't at the moment Owen. Finances are tight. We've sold Brock which helps and as I understand we are looking to find a club for Andy Ducros is that right?"

"Yes. I had a word with him the other day - he understands the situation. He's not getting football here and he's not in my plans."

"Well that might rise a little more cash... but what sort of players are we talking here?"

"Well Don - We need another right back permanently. I would love to sign John - or at least get his loan deal covered until the summer. He is very talented. I know we aren't paying his wages at the moment but if it would sweeten bargaining at the other ednd there's one. Then we are going to need a second goalkeeper. Frazer is 34, whilst I have serious reservations over Danby. He's young and I'll encourage him all the same but that's a potential weak spot. Up front we are doing ok - but we may need another striker. Bo's attitude is letting us down at the moment."

"Well we could sell him for a decent fee, I am sure..."

"I'd rather be certain of my replacement for him first though. In midfield we have young talent doing well, but some off performers so far. Blake is experienced and holding the fort well, but Sean Flynn and to a lesser extent Parrish aren't performing as expected. They will do for now, but we have little in reserve."

"What about Mickey? Did you get the fax?"

"I did Don, and I don't know. He's a good player with potential - but I know that's a big move for him. Both of them would be?"

"Both Owen?"

"Yeah, there was the offer from Utrecht and one from Kilmarnock too - they're offering 100k straight up."

"Ok, so it's your call. If you want serious strengthening to your squad - you'll have to sell either Bo or Mickey, I'm afraid."

"Right, well I'll get the scouts looking for forwards, and will think about moving Bo on, but negotiate the fees for Mickey. Utrecht are offering 200k, and 10% sell on fee. I want 275k and a 25% sell on from both clubs. At least if we get that, we've got some extra financial security should he prove to live up to his potential."

"Are you sure Owen? We can keep him and just sell Bo now. There' s no pressure to sell and he could become a more saleable asset down the line..."

"I think so Don. Anyway - if they meet our valuation it's a fair offer I think."

"Rihgt you are Owen - are you going to tell Mickey about the bids or not?"

"Only if they accept our valuation. I'll keep him quiet until then. I might let Jack Warner though he's sort of a part time agent of Mickey's."

"Ok, you do that, and I'll get on the line to Holland and Scotland. Good luck with the team Owen."

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Kidderminster Training Ground
Owen Newitt, Mickey Swarfiga, Jack Warner present

" Listen, Jack, Mickey. We've had a bid come in for you son.It's a good one, I wanted to give you the choice."

"Who's made the bid Owen?" Jack asked carefully.

" Utrecht FC. We had one from Kilmarnock too, but they refused to meet our valuation of the - Mickey here. We had a price in mind and it was met. We'd like you to stay Mickey - but I understand your desires."

"Why though gaffer? I haven't played that much so far - what have they seen in me boss?"

"Oh come on now Mickey. You're the one with the determination - you went to Jack, he helped you and now you're here. Don't be modest. You've got talent - and you have an advantage no one else will - that's surprise and your height. Believe me - the mental strength is a big part of how well you do. The skill is clear - it just needs a few nice touches when you've had the opportunity and a scout will be able to work out what potential's there. You're only 17 and got time on your side. That's why."

"He's right Mickey. When you first came to me about wanting to make it - mental aptitude was what I rated as an essential to any success. Now here's your chance. Now think about it."

"Eh? Utrecht are in the top flight of Dutch league are they not? It sounds like a fantastic opportunity Jack! Negative again I see."

"No, just remember - think about the football you'll get. Here you're more likely to be involved more often initially. Over there you may have to bid your time alot longer - maybe a couple of years..."

"Well if that's what it takes... ok Owen? I'm sorry. You've been a great boss here so far and I was enjoying it immensely but this to me is just an offer I can't refuse. Maybe I can be loaned back if they see me as a future prospect?"

"Well Mickey - we can have a look at that option but it may be unlikely. It'll be up to them. If that's your decision then I wish you the best of luck."

"I think it is Owen. I want to move to Holland."

"Ok. Good luck then kiddo - and thanks Jack."

"No problem. You'll give us the number of the Utrecht people to sort out terms?"

"Oh of course. Just go over and see Donald now - he's in his office he'll give you what you need."

"Thanks!" Mickey and Jack began walking over to the office now, whilst Owen looked on somewhat reluctantly. It would be a loss, but only a potential one. The money would help strengthen the squad for the immediate future - and Mickey got his big move. Plus there was still that 25% sell on fee right?

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Saturday 29th September
[i] English Third Division Match 10 [/b]

Bury v Kidderminster Harriers

For Mickey, sitting in the stands for this match he knew it was a goodbye to the brief affair of his that he had enjoyed for Kidderminster and he for one felt extremely grateful to Owen for handing him his big break - therefore leaving Mickey feeling a little guilty at jumping at the first opportunity. However Utrecht would surely be a big move for the youngster? The argument he'd play more first team football staying cut little ice with him. The jump in the facilities at the Dutch club would be a vast improvement, and would easily offset having to wait longer. The attraction of moving overseas appealed to - it seemed so exotic to be able to tell your friends ' hey I'm moving to Holland next week - going to play for Utrecht you know?'. In the same league as sides such as Ajax and PSV with rich histories of success on the continent, he was sure he had made the right choice.

Right know though he was sat watching an unchanged side look to record another win to push themselves further up the table. Bury were a side sitting in twentieth, but Mickey and Owen were only too well aware that unless Kidderminster worked hard they would be made to pay - and in the opening encounters it seemed complacency was commonplace throughout the visitors as Bury took full command of the pitch. The hosts dictated play keeping the defence very busy as Digby had barely a moment spare, whilst Blake and Yates were getting run over in midfield. Rombo wasn't shining, whilst the front men kept coming back into midfield to try and regain possession.

Andy Preece on his first start of the season following injury then played in Liam George on 21 minutes and the on form striker was never going to miss, as Bury deservedly took the lead. Though they lost Nicky Hill to injury a few minutes later Bury's rhythm was still not disturbed - which was the most disappointing aspect from Owen's view. Surviving at 1-0 down to half time would have been provided a welcome chance to get back into the match, but when George notched a second shortly before the end of the half it left Bury in a very commanding position.

Mickey decided for old time's sake he'd risk another Burger and fries, with extra cheese just to really upset his stomach, even if Dave was buying, whilst Owen ripped a new one out of most of the players in the dressing room. Few escaped with credit aside from the defence, as both Rombo and Drewe Broughton were subbed off, replaced by Nick Heath and Matt Lewis respectively. There was some pressure on those youngsters there, but after the first few minutes of the second half, it was clear the changes and right kick up the arse had got Kidderminster playing some better football.

With 52 minutes on the clock, young Nick Heath proved his worth with an explosive burst down the right wing with a low cross almost converted by Ian Foster. Instead Danny O'Leary pushed it round for a corner. Heath's corner though proved more successful as to the far post it went, met by the late run of central defender Adie Smith. The quick goal back renewed hop amongst the fans and Mickey. Bury, having started poorly were now clearly edgy and nervous as Kidderminster lifted their game. The excellent Lee Ayres had a header clawed away with Mark Blake's follow up shot only momentarily wide of the post.

Mark Lewis though suffered a terrible injury with a quarter hour to go, which forced Owen into playing Danny Williams in a makeshift strikers role, whilst blasting the fourth official for the ref's failure to punish the opposing player for the foul. Short term indications were that Lewis would be out until the end of the year if that at best. However, the anger was quashed suddenly when Kidderminster surged through once more and found an equaliser you would never have expected at half time. A Lee Ayres header was pushed away for a corner, and then the fantastic Heath whipped in another fine ball and Ian Foster made no mistake this time around. 2-2 was probably a fair reflection on the game as a whole though, even if the final stages did see both sides attack and defend in equal measure - though with no further luck. For Mickey it had been an exciting final game to watch, but now his thoughts were on that plane at 7.30. He was off, with his dad to settle into what promised to be an exciting era in his career.

Bury 2 George 21, 44 Kidderminster 2 Smith 50, Foster 76

4-4-2: Digby , Thompson, Stamps , Ayres, Smith ; Blake, Rombo (Heath 46), Yates, Parrish; Foster, Broughton (46 Lewis inj (Williams 74).

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Right, I'm off on holiday for two weeks so here's the final lot for the meantime...


Utrecht Training Ground, Holland

Mickey came off to the side and sat down on the bench - it had been another bloody hard session out there today. Not that he was complaining of course, the talent on display far outranked that which he had observed at Kidderminster, but it was certainly keeping him active. On the Tuesday 2nd October he'd even made his first appearance for their reserve side. An assist for Yugoslav striker Igor Gluscevic had boosted his confidence and erased a few doubts about settling in. Of course he barely knew more than about 5 words of Dutch so far, all relating to greetings and departures but, for the time being he was thankful he was able to rely on the grasp of English so well held by most of his fellow team mates.

He knew he wouldn't be in the first team at the moment, but his first discussions with director of football Han Berger and manager Foeke Booy had gone well enough to keep him satisfied. His father who had taken time off work to accompany him had also been impressed. He would be returning in about ten days or so as the yong Mickey settled into his small yet comfortably furnished apartment.

He had watched Utrecht's match with Roda and been impressed. They had lost 2-1 admittedly and were currently 15th in the Premier Division but the quality all the same had caught his eye, and the idea he could be a part of that at some point sent shivers down his spine. Of course he had asked about a loan move - out of the question for now until the coaches had assessed his progress but that didn't bother him. He saw it more as a sign he was needed here sooner rather than later and right now, he was about to be called back for a 5 a side match with a few of the first teamers too. This new life wasn't too bad - and once more he was surprised by the slight lack of reaction to his presence.