NOVEL NEXT Chapter 38: Clash of Rivals
"Revenge is a dish best served... cold and calculated." – Noah Clarke
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The city was buzzing with anticipation as the first round of the cup loomed large. For many fans, the rivalry between Ravenhill Rangers and Stonebridge City wasn't just about football; it was personal. Stonebridge's coach, Alex Warner, had made no secret of his desire for payback after their narrow loss in the preseason friendly.
Noah, however, was unshaken. The atmosphere at the training ground remained focused, the players sensing the weight of the upcoming match.
"Elijah," Noah said during a tactical drill, "remember how they targeted the midfield in the last game? Warner will double down on that. You'll need to be quicker on the turn and sharper with your distribution."
He turned to Aaron McLean. "And you'll be their primary target. Expect heavy marking. Be patient, draw their defenders out, and create space for Jamie and Callum to exploit."
Jake Collins added, "Stonebridge thrives on second balls. Tom, Liam, you'll need to dominate the aerial duels. Keep it clean, no cheap fouls."
The players nodded, their resolve evident.
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Seated under the bright lights of the media room, Noah faced the press.
"Coach Clarke, Warner has been quite vocal about his plans for revenge. What's your response?" one reporter asked.
Noah smirked, leaning into the microphone. "Football isn't won with words; it's won on the pitch. If he wants to focus on revenge, that's his choice. We'll focus on our game."
Another reporter pressed, "Do you think the cup offers a distraction from your league campaign?"
"Our goal is simple," Noah replied. "Win every game we can. Whether it's the league or the cup, we take it one match at a time."
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Stonebridge Stadium was a cauldron of noise. Their fans jeered Ravenhill's players as they warmed up, waving banners that read, "No Mercy for Ravenhill!" The chants were deafening, with Stonebridge supporters screaming their infamous war cry, "Bleed blue!"
Noah observed quietly from the touchline, his expression unreadable. Jake leaned over. "They're out for blood."
"Good," Noah replied. "Pressure makes people reckless."
The starting XI was announced:
GK: Danny Holmes
DEF: Tom Ashworth, Liam Porter, Jordan Miles
MID: Elijah Cole, Callum Shaw, Jamie Weston
FWD: Aaron McLean, Marcus Davis
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The match began with Stonebridge pressing high, much like Ridgeway had done. But unlike their previous opponent, Stonebridge's attacks carried a sharper edge.
10' –
A looping cross from Stonebridge's star midfielder, Carter Blake, found their striker, Josh Grant, whose header forced a stunning save from Danny Holmes. The Stonebridge fans roared in frustration, but Danny remained calm, rallying his defenders.
Noah clapped his hands from the sideline. "Stay focused! Don't give them an inch!"
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20' –
Ravenhill struggled to gain control in the midfield as Warner's team flooded the center of the pitch. Recognizing the imbalance, Noah gestured to Jamie and Marcus, instructing them to drop deeper and support Elijah.
The shift paid off almost immediately.
25' –
Elijah intercepted a risky pass from Carter Blake and launched a quick ball to Aaron, who held off two defenders before laying it off to Jamie. With a burst of pace, Jamie drove into the box, but his shot was blocked at the last moment.
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In the dressing room, the players were visibly frustrated.
"They're suffocating us," Callum said, shaking his head.
"That's their game plan," Noah replied calmly. "But they're overcommitting. If we keep our shape and stay patient, they'll crack."
He turned to Marcus. "You'll swap wings with Aaron. Their left-back is too aggressive; he'll leave gaps. Exploit them."
Noah's voice hardened as he addressed the team. "This is where we show our character. Stick to the plan, and trust each other."
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Stonebridge came out swinging, their fans urging them forward.
60'
A clash in the box saw Liam Porter go down under a heavy challenge from Josh Grant. The referee waved play on, infuriating Ravenhill's bench. Jake was livid, but Noah held up a hand, keeping his assistant from protesting too strongly.
"Focus on the game," Noah said firmly.
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75'
Ravenhill's patience finally paid off. A swift passing move between Elijah, Callum, and Jamie tore through Stonebridge's midfield. Jamie's perfectly weighted through ball found Aaron, who coolly slotted it past the keeper.
The away section erupted as Aaron sprinted toward the fans, his arms outstretched in celebration.
Stonebridge 0-1 Ravenhill.
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Warner threw everything forward, bringing on an extra striker in a desperate attempt to find an equalizer.
85' –
Tom Ashworth and Liam Porter stood firm, repelling wave after wave of attacks. Danny Holmes made a crucial save in the dying moments, tipping a thunderous shot from Carter Blake over the bar.
90+4' –
The referee's whistle brought relief and jubilation. Ravenhill had weathered the storm, securing a hard-fought victory.
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As the players celebrated, Noah approached Warner for the customary handshake.
"Revenge will have to wait," Noah said with a faint smirk.
Warner's jaw tightened, but he forced a polite smile. "Enjoy it while it lasts, Clarke."
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In the dressing room, Noah addressed the team.
"This is just the beginning," he said. "The league is still our priority, but nights like these prove what we're capable of. Enjoy it, but don't lose focus. There's more to come."
As the players cheered, Noah's system pinged with an analysis:
"Match Insights: Tactical patience overcame midfield overload. Key performers: Elijah Cole (interceptions), Aaron McLean (goal). Next challenge – improving defensive transitions."
Noah smiled faintly. The cup win was a statement, but the real battle lay ahead in the league.