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October 28 Houmark sexual assault allegation 'fantasy'Courtesy of www.bbcnews.com Ihan Finance footballer Hans Houmark's agent has strongly denied a claim that the player sexually assaulted a woman in a London hotel. The Ex-Danish international was released on Wednesday night after being questioned about a claim that a woman was sexually assaulted on 2 October. Anders Andersson said in a statement that the allegation was the "product of imagination and fantasy". Police confirmed a man in his 30s had been released pending more inquiries. Penthouse suite Mr Andersson said the accusation was "totally and categorically repudiated" and that "investigations will demonstrate, these charges are not based on any credible facts". Houmark, 30, voluntarily went to a police station in Ljubljana and was arrested by officers from Ljubljana Police's specialist Sapphire team. He was questioned for several hours about allegations made by a woman that she was assaulted in the penthouse suite of a hotel the day after Ihan Finance played Olimpija. A man in his 30s also kept an appointment at the police station, but has not been arrested.
October 27 Ihan Finance's Houmark in sexual assault arrestThis story is courtesy of www.bbcnews.com
Ihan Finance footballer Hans Houmark has been released on bail after being arrested on suspicion of sexual assault. Ljubljana Police confirmed a man in his 30s has been released pending further inquiries into the allegation. The Ex-Danish international was questioned about claims a woman was sexually assaulted at a central Ljubljana hotel on 2 October. Ihan Finance said it was "not commenting at the moment". Houmark attended the station and was arrested by officers from Ljubljana Police's specialist Sapphire team. He was held in custody while being interviewed about allegations made by a woman that she was sexually assaulted in the penthouse suite of a hotel the day after Ihan Finance played Olimpija. A man in his 30s also kept an appointment at the police station, but has not been arrested. BBC crime correspondent Neil Bennett said normal procedure was for the police to interview the alleged victim and alleged perpetrator and send a file to the Slovene Prosecution Service to decide whether anyone should be charged.
Hans Houmark, rapist? October 26 the details revealed...Yesterday we brought you the news that page 3 girl, Jordan, had been humiliatingly rejected by Ihan Finance playmaker, Kris Mole in a Ljubljana bar late on Monday night. What we couldn't bring you at the time was Kris' account of what really went on. Well, we received a short email from the man himself today, so we can now finally wrap up the story;
Dear Deal_Real Readers,
You may or may not have read yesterday that I was involved in an 'incident' on Monday night with one Katie Price. I can confirm that the story was true, naturally, as we all know that Deal-Real News don't just make up their stories. I have thought long and hard about whether or not I should reveal what it was that Miss. Price actually whispered into my ear, and in the end I thought 'Jebi Ga!' Why not?
The quite filthy words that came out of her mouth and into my ear were: "How about you, me, a bottle of Tequila, 2 horse-burgers, a hairbrush, and a video-camera go back to my hotel room for a little evening entertainment."
Just the idea being put into my head made me feel quite queazy, resulting in me rejecting the proposal in the way that you have already read in yesterdays in edition.
I am a classy young man and would definitely not, under any circumstances, put myself in such a position. Let's not forget, I am soon to be a happily married man. So, to any other would-be Jordans I say don't waste your time.
I'm glad that I have been able to put the story straight with this email, and I thank Deal-Real News for giving me the chance to do so.
Keep reading Slovenia's favourite daily, and come on Ihan!
Keep the faith.
Yours,
Kris Mole
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana
You can read the original story below
October 25 Leave it out, love, you're a troutPage 3 girl, Jordan, real name Katie Price, left a Ljubljana bar late last night with laughter ringing in her ears. She is in Slovenia for a short break, and it seems that Brighton's favourite dog fancied her chances with Brighton's favourite son, Kris Mole, who just happened to be in the same establishment enjoying a quiet drink with a couple of pals.
One of the barmaids gave us her version of events;
"Well, I looked up to where Kris and a couple of lads were sitting in the corner talking over a couple of pints. The next thing I know, this woman is approaching their table, all the confidence in the world. Of course, none of us here in Slovenia had a clue who she was, I mean, to be honest I still don't. A famous English slut or something, isn't she? Anyway, she went straight over, sat down on Kris' lap and then whispered something into his ear. By now it seemed that everybody in the whole place was watching to see what would happen next. Kris didn't leave us waiting long for the answer though, he shifted her up off of his lap and was clearly heard to say 'leave it out, love. You're a trout. I mean really, turn it in, have you seen yourself lately? Take some advice, go home.' She jumped up, said a couple of obscenities, then hurriedly left the building. It really was quite funny, actually."
Kris Mole wasn't available for comment this morning when we tried to talk to him on the telephone, likewise a spokesperson for Jordan gave a no comment answer when questioned on the happenings of last night.
All of the witnesses that we did manage to get hold of who were present at the bar last night have given pretty much the same account as the barmaid. We will continue to push Kris Mole for his story, so watch this space.
 Jordan, not a chance with a class bloke like Kris Mole
Deal-Real news Agency,
Ljubljana October 24 The waiting's over... and doesn't it feel great! Ihan Finance supporters in Ljubljana, Saturday night
The city of Ljubljana is recovering this Monday morning from a weekend spent celebrating the first ever league victory for the city's favourite adopted sons, Ihan Finance Football Club.
The amazing result came against Vir on Saturday afternoon as the boys came from a goal down at half-time to eventually take the points with a 2-1 victory. The result was no more than they deserved either, as they fought toughly right from the kick-off for every single ball. You could have been forgiven when Vir scored the opening goal of the game for getting that feeling of 'here we go again, let the floodgates open now.' But the script this week was written by a different author, namely the players of the home team. Both goals were well finished by the clubs' top scorer this season, Dragan Calič, but it would be unfair to pick anyone out for special attention as the whole team, including the substitutes who played and just as much those who didn't, gave their all to contribute to this momentus victory.
The blowing of the final whistle was met with a pitch invasion by over 65000 supporters, all desperately trying to share in the celebrations with the team and also to collect a souvenir from a day that will live long in the memory. The players celebrated with a massive bundles in the centre circle, followed by the flowing of champagne and beer in the dressing room as everybody jumped up and down to the extremely loud sound of Ihan midfielder, Rob Logie, playing the bagpipes. What the opposition dressing room must have been thinking is anyone's guess.
Into the evening and the players were out for a night on the town, dressed in fancy-dress costumes, for not only were they celebrating their first ever win, but also that afternoon club captain, Iain Macleod had played his final ever game of football, finally accepting that his battle with the knee injury that has plagued him for so many years is ready to come to an end.
Most of the players made the effort to dress up, some more than others, as Dave Ibbotson stuck on a Hawaiian shirt and came as a Hawaiian, whereas Kris Mole came dressed as his girlfriend, wearing a pink skirt, a tight black top, and even a lady's coat.
We caught up with Kris Mole this morning to see how he was feeling after this long weekend, here's what he had to say;
"OI OI! Alright lads, it feels a bit good, doesn't it? Don't ask me about Saturday night's festivities, because I really don't remember a lot, only that the security of Global Nightclub wouldn't let me in, so now is my time to name and shame them. That doesn't matter though, what does matter is that we got our first win, just like I told you we would. The whole team was fantastic, and now what we really have to do is to work hard and make sure that this result wasn't a one-off. We want people to know that we are here to compete, not just to make up the numbers, and just watch this space because the only way is up. I wanna thank Iain for everything he has done for the club this season, he's been a great captain, and I wish him well in his retirement from the game. Also I'll tell the world now that our goalscoring hero Dragan just found out before the game that he, or rather his good wife is expecting twins, so not just shooting doubles on the pitch. Congratulations to him. I'm off now to drink a raw egg in an attempt to shake off this hangover, only joking, of course as a footballer I don't drink. Um, Ok, it's been great, and see you in two weeks time when we give Trmit a damn good thrashing. Come on Ihan!"
It wasn't just the players who were out pissing it up though, as the whole city filled up with revellers from all over Europe, all celebrating the same cause. Fireworks and street parties were the order of the evening as nobody got a wink of sleep.
Well, it seems that the whole weekend was a quality one for the players, fans, and management team of Ihan Finance, and let's hope that it really does become the norm. We'll be there to bring it to you if it does, and also to comiserate with you if it doesnt, because after all we are the official floowers of Ihan Finance Football Club.
 Little did they know at half-time when this picture was taken what the rest of the afternoon would have in store for them
 One of the many firework displays in the centre of Ljubljana
 Above and Below: Ljubljana's old town took on the atmosphere of the Rio Carnival in order to celebrate Ihan Finance's Brazil-like way of playing the beautiful game.
 Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 21 Team buildingThe players, wives, and girfriends of Ihan Finance spent last Sunday at a place just outside of Tržič called Adrenalin Park, on a team-building exercise. The day included some games of trust, followed by the adrenalin activities, then the day was drawn to a close with a huge barbecue in a log cabin.
A good day seemed to be had by all, especially Kris Mole, who despite taking his time, managed to conquer his fears on one of the challenges. The event in question involved climbing up a 12-meter tall wooden log, then standing upright on the top and then jumping off of it, held by safety ropes of course. The climbing part wasn't a problem for the young playmaker, but once near the top, he just couldn't bring himself to go that little bit extra and stand on the top. After what seemed like hours of listening to the heckling coming from his team-mates below, he finally sucked it in and made it to the peak. Jumping was no problem for him as after a countdown from 3 he flung himself off of the pole.
Apart from this pole-climbing, there was also something called the Flying Fox, which involves being strapped into a harness, then pulled 10 meters up into the air, and then with the pull of a cord you are released and flown through the air to swing like a giant, express pendulum.
We caught up with Kris after the day was over, and he gave us these comments;
"I have to be honest, I was shitting myself up on that pole. Everyone was shouting at me not to look down, so of course I looked down. That was a bad move. I just had this constant feeling that if I would attempt to pull myself up onto that thing, I would fall forward and die. I know it's impossible to fall all the way when you are attached tzo a saftey rope, but instinct doesn't allow you to think logically when you are up there, especially not when at eye-level you have the peaks of the Alps staring at you. Anyway, I did eventually get up there, and afterwards I felt great. It was cool to beat fear. I think the whole team enjoyed themselves today, and also the ladies. It was a nice, relaxing way to spend a Sunday, and hopefully it served in pulling us all together a bit as a team. The barbecue was quality, especially the čevapčiči, they were perfect. What we really need though, is that first league victory. Hopefully it will come on Saturday against Vir. Also, a goal for me would be nice. Cheers."
If you are interested in taking part in a day like this, visit www.humanfish.com
 Kris climbing the pole
 Then attempting to pull himself onto the top
 Ihan midfielder, Hafed, showing how the jump from the top should be done
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 18 Slovenia, not a country for the punterLook on Croatian teletext, what do you see more than anything else? Advertisements for different bookmakers offering different odds.
Go to any English sports website, what do you see? Advertisements for different bookmakers offering different odds.
Look anywhere in Slovenia, what don't you see? Advertisements for different bookmakers offering different odds.
Why is it that in this country if you want to bet you only have one option and that is the government-controlled Sportna Loterija? It is unfair to the everyday man on the street who has no choice but to accept the measly odds offered by the Slovenian betting system. Sure, if you have a credit card it's no problem, you just find a decent foreign-run bookie on the net, but that shouldn't be necessary.
We here at Deal-Real will be pushing a campaign aimed at getting the situation changed here in Slovenia. Stay tuned for the latest.
Deal-Real News,
Ljubljana October 17 Deal-Real News, reporting right from the front lineProof, if any was needed, that Deal-Real News is top dog, came today when Slovenia's national English-language newspaper, The Slovenia Times, published one of our articles "The Slovenian system ", which was first published right here on Deal-Real on September 30th.
This is just another example of Deal-Real News' dedication to providing you with the latest hard-hitting stories from Ljubljana.
Anyone interested can see the article in print by either buying a copy of the Slovenia Times from any good news outlet in Slovenia, or by visiting www.sloveniatimes.com and clicking on the "people" section.
 Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 15 Another stuffingIhan Finance, today notched their 7th league defeat out of seven games.
They arrived at Šmartno, talking about collecting their first points of the season, but 10 minutes into the game and it was clear that the same old story was going to be repeated today.
Ihan's cause wasn't helped by the first half injuries of Alan Chapman (hamstring), and Dave ibbotson (blister), but Šmartno were just too strong on the day.
At half-time they led Ihan by 4 goals to 0, but the first-half hadn't been without goalscoring opportunities for the away team, the best falling to Chapman, who's finish unfortunately wasn't up to scratch after Mole had picked him out perfectly on the far side of the box with an exquisite dink.
The second half went much the same way as the first, with one bright spot for Ihan being the introduction of Jason Abbot to the right back position, who brought some good fight and battling spirit to the role.
Šmartno, though, were enjoying the day, playing some nice one-touch football down the flanks, or coming right through the middle with some nice little flicks.
Kris Mole should have scored in the 70th minute, when the ball was passed in the air to him along the outside of the Šmartno area. He dummied his opponent delightfully, got the ball onto his left foot, but with the ball always going away from him, he smashed his half-volley wide of the target. 2 Minute later and Kris turned provider, as a good ball from Logie was picked up by Mole, just inside the Šmartno half and surrounded by two defenders and with a third closing in. He lifted the ball up over the head of one defender, similar to Gazza's goal against Scotland in Euro 96, then cushioned it with his head into the path of Dragan, who took a touch into the box and stroked the ball into the far corner of the net.
Ihan perhaps should have scored a second 2 minutes later, as Hafed found himself bearing down on goal surrounded by defenders. A simple ball to his right would have found Mole with a clear run in on goal, but he didn't see him, and instead toe-poked a weak shot into the grateful arms of the Šmartno keeper.
The game finished 9-1 to Šmartno, with one talking point being the constant arguing between Ihan player-manager Stewart, and the referee. Stewart believed that the referee had shown favouritism towards the home side throughout the game, and he let him know this until well after the final whistle, eventually having to be given some strong words from the league deligate present at the game. We here at Deal-Real News don't feel as though the referee had a bad game, but often when you are in the habit of losing games, you tend to feel that everything and everyone is against you.
 Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 14 Lack of goals a problem for Kris??Ihan Finance player, Kris Mole, has spoken exclusively to Deal-Real News Agency about his lack of goals, his performances so far, Ihan's poor results, and anything else that he felt like mentioning. Here is his interview;
D.R.N.A - So, Kris. First of all, thanks for joining us today. I want to first ask you about your dry-up in goals that has happened over the last couple of months. What do you see as the reason for this? And is it causing you any problems?
Kris - Yea, I had a feeling that that would be the first question out of the hat. It's true that in pre-season I was firing in the goals from all over the place, and that people expected that form to continue into the league season. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case. There are a number of reasons for this. First of all, the system that we have decided to go with in league games means that we only have the lone out-and-out striker, which, against defences of the quality that the league puts us up against each week is a very, very difficult task.
Secondly, I have only played 180 minutes this season as a striker, having recently been moved into more of a play-making position behind the striker, Chapman. In this role, I am able to get more involved in the game, pick the ball up in midfield, and make things happen. Anyone who saw the game last week against Olimpija will know that I put the ball on a plate for Chapman on a number of occasions, finally culminating in him scoring a goal. I'm just as happy to create a goal for someone else as I am to stick it in the net myself. So, to answer the question about whether or not I see this as a problem, my answer is no.
D.R.N.A. - How do you feel about the situation that Ihan Finance currently find themselves in, sitting on the bottom of the league with no points after 6 games?
Kris - Obviously, nobody wants to be down the bottom. But if you look at the table, you see that there is only 8 points separating us with Factor Šmartno in 5th place. Now, if we can go to Šmartno tomorrow and pick up a win, then we are already closing the gap between us and the top half of the league. We just need that first win, a confidence booster, and you will see that we will shoot up the league. I have no doubts about that. It will come.
D.R.N.A - Some of the papers have been a bit unkind to you this week, saying that you're the new George Best or Paul Gascoigne. In other words, wasted talent. What do you say to this?
Kris - Well, they can come and kiss my big, hairy, English arse. Paul Gascoigne was quality, but let's be honest. He's not good enough to clean my boots for me. And as for that george Best fella, come off it. The bloke was from Northern Ireland, and they're comparing me with that.
D.R.N.A - Thank you for your time, Kris. And good luck for tomorrow.
Kris - F?*k off!
October 11 Stand up if you hate ScotlandThe Ihan Finance players have been given Wednesday off, to enable them to go to watch the World Cup qualifier between Slovenia and Scotland in Celje.
Neither team can qualify for the competition any more, but that hasn't stopped Scottish supporters arriving in their thousands in Slovenia for the game. There is still something to play for the Slovenia, as if they do manage to record a win, they will go into the second set of seeded teams for the draw for the qualification groups of Euro2008.
Quite a few of the Ihan lads will be making the trip across Slovenia to Celje, but their loyalties won't all be the same. Ihan's scottish contingent will be travelling in a minibus with the Tartan Army, all kilts and bagpipes. Whereas Kris Mole will be driving up to the game wearing a Slovenian national football jersey and will be hoping for only one result, a home win. When asked about his feelings on this game, he gave us this;
"Oh definitely, there's only one team I want to see win here. There is nothing I would like more than to see all of these boys in skirts that have taken over the city of Ljubljana, crying into their beers come the final whistle. I will definitely be trying to teach the Slovenian supporters the 'Stand up if you hate Scotland' chant.The next best thing to watching an England victory, is watching a Scotland defeat. Plus the fact that Slovenia is my country of residence, and that my fiance comes from here, I only have one choice when it comes to who to support in this one. Come on Slovenia!"
Deal_real News Agency,
Ljubljana, Slovenia
 idiots like this have filled the hotels, pubs, and streets of Ljubljana this week
October 10 a game of two halves Kris Mole, fighting hard against Olimpija
At 3.45pm on Saturday, nobody could quite believe what they had spent the last 45 minutes watching. It had been a quite incredible first half of football between Ihan Finance and Olimpija (Bežigrad). The score was 2-0 to the away side, but Ihan could have and possibly should have gone into the interval either winning, or at least drawing the game.
The buzz before the match in the Ihan Finance camp was electric, as all of the players knew that they were going out to play their biggest game of the season so far, and with nothing to lose.
Ihan's followers were so nearly sent into dreamland in the 20th minute of the game, when, with the score still at 0-0 and both teams evenly matched, Kris Mole nodded a ball through two defenders into the run of Alan Chapman, who took the ball in his stride and found himself with just the goalkeeper to beat. Unfortunately he took the wrong decision and tried to go around the keeper, when maybe if he had just knocked it quickly the scoreline could have been one that would send shockwaves around the globe. Maybe nerves got to him, but Alan Chapman after making such a good run really should have put Ihan Finance 1-0 up.
2 Minutes later and the miss was to prove even more costly, as what looked like a foul on Ihan goalkeeper Hans Houmark went un-noticed by the referee, and with the Dane still lying down injured, the ball found its way across the six-yard box where it was met by an Olimpija head, and nodded into an open net. It wasn't what Ihan deserved, but that's the way the game goes.
Still, the home team battled bravely, and with 2 minutes until the half-time whistle, still trailed by just the one goal. Then, on the stroke of half-time, a quick break from Olimpija led to a cross again being put onto the head of a striker free at the back post, 2-0.
At half-time though, it was still the away team that was most worried and under pressure, as they had been given the hardest 45 minutes of their season so far.
Kris Mole, playing just behind the striker as a creative provider, was absolutely superb, winning everything that came near him, and also showing great vision and accuracy with his defence splitting passes.
No substitutions were made at half-time, and out came the players for the start of the second half.
Unfortunately, Olimpija managed to score two early goals, effectively killing off any hopes of a fightback from Ihan Finance. After that, fatigue set in, as Ihan's players began to feel the efforts of the first half. The score went to 5-0, but then Kris Mole picked up another loose ball in the centre circle, took a quick look, and played a delightully angled pass through to the oncoming Alan Chapman, who this time did manage to go around the keeper and knock the ball into the open net. Ihan's fans were ecstatic.
2 Minutes later, and Mole again won the ball in the middle of the park, and once again sent Chapman through to a one-on-one with the keeper, this time he went for power, but somehow the keeper managed to stretch himself and stopped the ball from flying into the top corner. Olimpija then scored another 4 goals, including a penalty, as Ihan seemed to lose all momentum. 9-1 to the away team, a very unfair scoreline.
With two minutes to go the play of the day happened, when Kris Mole collected the ball around 30 yards from Olimpija's goal. This time he didn't play a throughball, but faked a shot and turned inside a defender. He then continued his run, turning the Olimpija defence inside-out in the process, then when he found himself inside the penalty area, he took a shot, which he dragged wide of the post. He took a bit of stick from his team-mates for not passing the ball at the last minute, but surely there is nobody who would have passed in the same situation. The run meritted a shot, not least because he had spent the whole match trying to be provider to others.
After the game both teams went to a special dinner together, arranged by the Olimpija ownership.
Ihan Finance may have lost the match, but their fighting spirit and good attitude won them many friends.
 NK Olimpija, 2003-2004
October 07 Bring on Olimpija
One of the biggest fixtures in world football takes place tomorrow, as NK Bežigrad (Olimpija) travel to Mengeš to pit their wits against Ihan Finance.
It is a game that has the whole of Slovenia, and most of Europe, licking their lips in anticipation. Olimpija, who at the end of last season were relegated from division 1 due to financial problems, have won all 5 of their opening league games this season, while over in the Ihan Finance camp they find themselves in completely the opposite scenario, having lost 5 out of 5. Most are expecting tomorrow's game to go with form, and for Olimpija to waltz to a thrashing of a victory. But, Ihan striker Kris Mole has a different view on how things will go;
"Yea, obviously the pundits and the common man on the street are not giving us a chance, but if you look at some other so-called easy games recently, you will see that anything is possible. Jevnica got beaten by Belinka just last week, I mean, come on, who would have given Belinka even a hope of losing by less than 5? All of the lads are well fired up for this one, this is our cup final, whereas for them, they are expecting to just come here and have a stroll in the park. I think that if can get at them from the start, we might just raise a few eyebrows. In the immortal words of Corporal Jones of Dad's Army; They don't like it up em, Mr. Manwaring."
We will be there tomorrow, reporting back all of the latest, and we have also put a reporter in with the travelling Ihan Finance Red Army to bring you all the latest from the fans side.
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 05 Uniform of the SouthernerIt's everybody's favourite Deal-Real columnist, back again, this time to try to shed some light on the situation regarding the apparently mandatory wearing of denim amongst members of the ex-Yugoslav republics now living in Slovenia.
As those of you who have read my column before will know, I have recently been spending quite some time in offices designated for foreigners wishing to obtain the right paperwork to be allowed to live peacefully here in Slovenia. Well, apart from learning alot during this time about how Slovenian bureaucracy functions, I also gained another valuable insight into the culture, or rather one of the sub-cultures, that exist here in this beautiful city.
I am talking about the people referred to by Slovenes as "southerners" and their love of denim. Denim jackets, denim jeans, denim shirts, it doesn't matter.
During all of the hours that I have spent queuing in these places, I have been the only Englishman, surrounded by men speaking in strange (well, strange to me) tongues, and holding Bosnian passports in their hands. Not just Bosnian passports, actually, I have also seen a number of Serbian and Croatian documents too, but the majority have been Bosnian.
What became very obvious to me during these visits, was the fact that all of these people seem to dressed from head to toe in denim. Whether the man in question is a Bosnian, a Croat, or a Serb makes no difference, denim is the chosen attire.
Of course, being the thorough journalist that I am, after leaving these offices I took to a little research on the streets, and sure enough, I found that southerners all over the place, not just the ones queuing for visas, are wearing their 'uniform.'
 Above: A typical example of the items of clothing in question.
I want to know why. Is it an identity thing, the same way that skaters wear baggy clothes and gays go tight.Kind of a uniform, if you like? Or is it due to the fact that these clothes are picked up cheap on the street markets of ex-Yugoslavia? Or maybe in the peer groups this is seen as cool or trendy.Or, could it simply be that these people all are born with the same gene that means that they all have a passion for this material?
As for now, I really don't know, but who knows, one day the truth might just smack me right between the eyes. Here's hoping.
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana October 03 Komenda 3-1 Ihan Finance Kris Mole's facial expression explains his feelings at being left on the bench perfectly.
Front row, far left.
Ihan Finance's decision to rest Kris Mole and Dragan Calič against so-called weaker opposition in order to preserve them for next week's big game against Bežigrad (Olimpija) backfired on Saturday, as NK Komenda took full advantage and took the three points.
Mole was far from happy at the decision to leave him on the bench, and it showed. His face was a picture of pure anger throughout the first half as he sat and watched on from the bench. (See the above picture, taken 10 minutes before kick-off).
Ihan started the brighter of the two teams, pushing forward time after time in the opening 15 minutes. But then the traffic started to flow in the other direction as Komenda put the pressure on, and that pressure finally resulted in a sloppy goal being conceded by Ihan. Half-time came, but not before Ihan winger, Colin Jones picked up the team's first yellow card of the season for just one of his numerous late tackles.
At half-time Ihan's management decided it was time to bring on Kris and Dragan, and 20 minutes into the second half, the decision looked to have paid off. Kris chased a lost cause right the way down the left wing, closed down the defender who had picked up the loose ball, knicked it off him, got himself into the penalty box, and then managed to hold off the attention of two Komenda defenders, until eventually all that they could do was chop him down. Penalty. Up stepped Dragan Calič to fire it into the roof of the net.
After that goal, it was all Ihan, but as they pushed for the equaliser, a moment of indecisiveness in the Ihan box led to Komenda's third and final goal and with just a minute left of play, that was game over.
Ihan Finance have now lost 5 games out of 5 this season.
Kris Mole gave us these words; "That was the worst performance we have give all season, it was quite disgusting. I hope that we never play like that again."
When asked for his feelings regarding being left on the bench, he had this to say; "Yea, of course, it hurts not to start the game. I hadn't been told beforehand, so that made it even more difficult to take on the day. The coach told me that he was resting me form next week's big one, and that it was only right to give some of the others in the squad a run out, but none of these sentiments made it any easier for me to swallow. I was glad when I finally did get onto the pitch, and was even more fired-up than usual, as I felt I really had a point to prove. I hope that my performance proved that point, especially the winning of the penalty. This week I'll keep training hard, making sure that I am more than ready for next week's test, and who knows, we might just surprise a few people."
Deal-Real News Agency will be in mengeš for next week's game against Olimpija, and will also be bringing all of the latest news as it happens out of the Ihan Finance camp.
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana September 30 The Slovenian system Being a reporter for the Deal-Real News Agency means that I have to live in a country that is not my own, in this case, Slovenia. As with living in any foreign country, there are certain requirements that must be fulfilled in order to live legally, and not as an 'alien'. This usually means a few minutes of your time, a few pieces of paperwork, and you are on your way, as free to live and work as everybody else. However, in Slovenia, this is not the case.
This is the most bureaucratic system imaginable. The impression is given that either the whole process is a hidden-camera show joke, or that the powers that be really don't want you to come to work in their country, hoping that you will become so frustrated by the process that eventually you just give up and go home.
No such luck for them in my case, my journalistic duties come first.
To cut a long story short; At the beginning of this year I was told that in order to continue being paid, I had to obtain a piece of paper called a Pavšalist, a permit basically meaning that I am a registered freelance worker. I was told that it was all being sorted out for me by my employers, and all I had to do was wait a week or two.
After two months we were still waiting, being told every day on the phone that it was being processed. After another month, my employees informed me that maybe it would be quicker if I went to get it myself.
"No problem." I said. "I'll just go to the finance office tomorrow and get it."
Oh, how funny that sentence seems a few months later. Off I wandered to the office, to pick up my permit. I wasn't given the piece of paper, though, instead I was told that I must go to a completely different office first, the Office for Foreign Citizens, on the other side of Ljubljana, to apply for a new residency permit. Without the first permit I couldn't get the second.
So, off I went to apply for the residency permit. I took with me the necessary identification and my job contract, and paid the 1785 tolars.
I answered all of the questions asked by the Gestapo-like worker there. Why are you here in Slovenia? How long do you plan to stay? By what means do you support yourself? Do you have any Jewish blood in you? OK, I just made that last one up, but you get the picture.
I was told to wait a few weeks for their answer as to whether or not they would grant me the residency. After another month I was called back to the office to finally collect my piece of paper.
Happy, I rushed the next day to the Finance Office to collect my long-overdue Pavšalist.
"I'm sorry Mr. Mole, we can't give it to you."
"What do you mean, you can't give it to me? I have the residency Permit." I fumed.
"Well, if you look closely, Mr. Mole, you will see that this isn't exactly a residency permit. It states that your address is v tujini, (Abroad). You need one that states your address here in Slovenia."
"Well, can't you just call their office and sort this out? I really need this."
"No, I'm afraid not. We don't have any association with that department."
Two Government offices that don't have any association. How is that possible??
Right, back to square one.....
In the Office for Foreign Citizens. "Why did you give me this? It's not a residency permit."
"Oh, that's because you didn't give us the contract that you have with the landlord of the apartment you rent. You need to show us that, otherwise we can't give you the residency permit."
"So, why the f$%king hell didn't you tell me that before?"
"You didn't ask us."
So, a few days later I'm back at the office, this time with the requested contract. I am again told to wait a few weeks for something to arrive in the post.
Eventually I am informed that I must go back to the office to get my permit. I am given it, but this time I make a point of checking everything on it before leaving the building. The month is now late July, but my permit is only valid until September 1st. Just over a month away.
"Why is it for such a short period?" By now I can't help but laugh.
"because your work contract is only valid until then."
"Well, why didn't you tell me? Then I could have got a new contract made to give to you."
"Because, Mr. Mole, you never asked. It's OK, just come back when this one has expired, bring a new contract, and we'll make you a new permit."
So, next day, off to the Finance Office, Pavšalist collected. Good.
It only took me 8 months to get a simple piece of paper. God bless the Slovenian system.
Well, that was then, and this is now. Time to get my new Residency Permit. Armed with all necessary documents, including my new 2-year work contract, I went today to pick up my new permit.
"Oh no, Mr. Mole. You don't just pick one up. You have to apply for a new one. You must pay 1785 tolars, fill out this form, and wait two to three weeks for our answer in the post."
I wonder how long it will take this time. I am taking bets now.
September 26 Ihan Finance players praise the supporters Ihan Finance striker, Kris Mole, today released a statement thanking the continued support of the fans.
He said: "It's been brilliant. They have been there right from day one, coming in their thousands to every game, and it really makes a difference. Believe me, we will record a victory for you soon. Keep up the support, it doesn't go unnoticed by the players."
The above picture shows Ihan Finance supporters at Saturdays game against Ljubljana. Despite being 4-0 down at the time of the photo, it is clear that spirits were still high. It was also clear that some people never miss a photo opportunity.
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana Signs of improvementThis past Saturday saw NK Ljubljana travel to Mengeš, home of Ihan Finance, for their long-awaited league encounter. Few people gave Ihan any hope of even a point against the team relegated from the 1st division at the end of last season for financial reasons. At least 5 of Ljubljana's starting 11 this week were players left over from last season's top-flight campaign, and the class certainly showed, especially in the middle of the park where some of the touches were sublime. However, Ihan Finance's players hadn't come here to roll over for their opponents, and the game got off to a competitive start. In fact, up until the 18th minute, when Ljubljana managed to find the net, you could have tossed a coin to guess which team would score the first goal of the game, it really was that close. Ihan's players were fighting for every ball, such an improved performance on games gone by. The training that they have been putting in lately was clearly showing some reward.
After 25 minutes, Ljubljana scored a second, but still Ihan's heads stayed up. Then, after a good tackle in the middle by Kris Mole, the loose ball fell to the feet of Dragan Calič, who knocked it past the last defender and continued his run through to goal. An Ihan goal looked certain as Dragan knocked the ball onto his left foot just 10 yards from goal, but a split second before his boot made contact with the ball, a Ledley King-like tackle came from the nearest defender who had somehow managed to get back and the ball was put out for a corner. The move got the crowd excited, and from then until half-time Ihan Finance really started to believe more and more in themselves and tried to take the initiative. Unfortunately, just before half-time, a mis-hap in the Ihan defence led to a third goal for Ljubljana, and as far as winning and losing was concerned, the game was over.
Half-time saw the introduction of attacker, David Ibbotson, brought on to replace defensive midfielder, Thomas Anderson. Ihan still clearly believed that they could take something from this game.
The second half was a good one from the Ihan Finance players, they continued to fight right until the final whistle, and made life difficult for Ljubljana. Unfortunately, Ljubljana's defence held strong throughout, and they also managed to score three more goals in the second half. Final score, 6-0 to Ljubljana.
So many positives will be taken from this match by Ihan Finance, who really are showing improvements with every game. Most people before the game were talking about a double figure scoreline, possibly even the highest defeat so far in Slovenian division 5 history, but it was far from that. Ihan's players did themselves, and their supporters proud with a brave and skillful performance.
Next week the players travel to Komenda, who have only managed to pick up one point so far this season. Many of the pundits are predicting a first Ihan Finance league victory, including Mark Lawrenson of the BBC. You can see his predictions by checking www.bbc.co.uk/football on Friday or Saturday.
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana
Ihan's fans who weren't able to get a ticket for the game watched it on a big screen in the main square of Mengeš. click photo to enlarge
September 22 Hard work pays?? We'll seeIhan Finance's players were last night put through their most rigorous training session so far. The session was conducted by their coach, Lalovic, who arrived at the training ground in Kodeljevo, Ljubljana, telling everyone that he would make them sweat tonight.
The focus of the evening was fitness, fitness, and more fitness, with the balls only playing a small cameo role, as short sprints and endurance activities took centre stage.
The look on most of the players' faces said it all, as this was not what they had turned up to training expecting. It has been obvious in the first three games of the season that lack of fitness has been a problem, but whether or not this kind of intense session is the right way to go about putting that right remains to be seen. The players came away from the ground looking exhausted and fed-up, but the coach was insistent that this is what has to be done. He had this to say; "What I am trying to do here is turn this team's fortunes around. We have scored only once this season and conceded 22 goals in 3 games. That's not good enough. I need to make the attack a bit more dangerous so that they can take some of the pressure off of the defence. To do that, the players' fitness has to be at it's peak. That's what I am working towards. I know that a few of the players were grumbling tonight, but that's the way it is. I am the coach, and what I say goes. Let's not forget that I have been in the game since before most of them were even born, so I know what I'm doing. Those that are moaning now will soon see the effects of my training sessions, and I'm sure that when we are winning games the moaning will stop."
Fans' favourite, Kris Mole, gave us these words this morning ; "I didn't exactly enjoy the training last night, but I guess that training isn't always supposed to be enjoyable, it's supposed to get results, and hopefully that's what it will do. I would have liked to have had a little 7-a-side game at the end or something along those lines, but it wasn't to be. The coach is from the old-school, and that means that fitness has a very high position in the list of priorities. He says that he is going to improve our performances, so we will give him the time and the respect that he needs to do so. I am looking forward to Saturday's match with Ljubljana, and win, lose, or draw, it will be a good experience and a good learning opportunity."
Ihan Finance's Serbian coach, Vuk Lalovic. (Click photo to enlarge.) September 18 Zahovic; "You're having a laugh!"Zlatko Zahovic's agent has rubbished rumours that the ex-Valencia striker would soon be signing for Ihan Finance.
He said that there is no way his client would consider such a move, and that any stories claiming otherwise are just examples of poor journalism trying to sell papers.
Zahovic had this to say; "I don't understand where this story has come from, to be honest. I go for a coffee and some lunch to catch up with a friend of mine {Lalovic}, and the next thing I know, I'm reading about my pending transfer to Ihan Finance. I thought to myself 'You're having a laugh.'
Deal-Real News Agency,
Ljubljana |
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