It was a hot summers morn when I turned on my PC and decided I wanted a crack at a Div 3 side on CM2. I started the league and at random chose a Div 3 side out of a hat, that team being the pride of the North; Hartlepool.

I observed my team and decided I needed a cheap keeper, centre half and a striker. I had no money so free transfer was the only option. I signed Anthony Betterton in goal at 17 years of age, ex Arsenal giant Ross Taylor and old Leicester striker Craig Hallam. All these players were under 20.

The first season I went up in 3rd spot automatic promotion, with Craig Hallam finishing as top scorer. The second season was even better, winning the Second Division with quite some ease.

It took me 2 seasons to reach the Premier League, beating Coventry in a play-off final. The Premier was at it's best, and I had to match it. I bought in a made-up Piacenza striker Ettore Merlo to keep me up, which we did, finishing 8th, and winning the FA Cup, which subsequnetley put me into the then Cup Winners Cup. I won this the following season, with the help of Barcelona pair Rivaldo and Sonny Anderson.

The following season, I signed a left sided forward from Brazil (who is made up on every game, starting out at Vasco da Gama, in season 1999/2000, on CM9798!!) called Reginaldo, he slowly rose to be the best stiker on the game. I also had the Italian Captain in my defence! This showed me that with persistence and time, a good manager can transform any 3rd div side!!