We somehow came though September no worse than we went into it, which given my meddling was an absolute miracle. The fans still hate me, the squad still terrifies me, and a poor run of form could see my head intimately acquainted with some Leazes End rubble, but we’re in the hunt. And that’s all I can ask for at this stage. Old as bloody time Dave Mackay is the first manager to face the chop.
Continue reading “CM89/90 Challenge: October ’89”
There are seven games in September, but we head into the month in high spirits. It might not be as solid or as comfortable as I would have liked, but we’re unbeaten so far with two wins and two draws, and against a couple of good teams too. We’ve conceded four goals in four games, which is too many for a Catenaccio acolyte like me, and we’ve scored six, which probably isn’t enough to be the entertainers Newcastle want, but it’s early days and It’s promising.
Continue reading “CM89/90 Challenge: September ’89”
We return from the continent buoyed by the final two results. The fans are in a slightly better mood and I am more confident in the 4141 that seemed to find its feet, although I do now need to have a frankly terrifying conversation with either Micky Quinn or Mark McGhee. There are bids flying now for the reserves I’ve placed on the transfer list, but the scouts aren’t forthcoming with answers to strengthen the squad. We’ll go with what we have for now and see what happens.
Continue reading “CM89/90: August ’89”
Standing among the rubble at the Leazes End, looking at the new stand, is a good metaphor for the basketcase Newcastle are in 1989. The first XI look impressive. Strong, powerful, bags of talent. But behind them there isn’t very much. Especially at the sharp end of the pitch. We need a left winger, or a centre midfielder to free up Kevin Brock to play out there, and probably two new forwards as cover for McGhee and Quinn.
Continue reading “CM 89/90 Challenge: Pre-Season 89”
It is 1989. The Conservatives have been in power for a decade, despite widespread unpopularity. Labour are unable to capitalise, stuck with infighting between centrists and the traditional Left. The economy is in a fragile state. British holidaymakers are stranded abroad. Liverpool are serious title challengers, looking to make up for this disappointment of the previous season. Man Utd haven’t won a trophy for years. An exciting England team are eyeing potential glory at next year’s World Cup, but are concerned about the heat. And we are out of Europe. It really is 1989, I promise!
Continue reading “Championship Manager 89/90 Challenge: Introduction”