Chapter Four: Champions of the Mud

【Mission—Winter Leaders: Remain in the top three through 1 February; keep three consecutive clean sheets; generate £60,000 non-matchday revenue.】 Lin closed the panel as something struck a locker. Gary had Eli against the metal door. “Say it again,” the captain said. Blood marked Eli's lip. “I said all you lot do is kick the ball out. Without me, we couldn't cross halfway.” Greyport had just surrendered a two-goal lead. Eli lost possession and refused to chase. Covering for him, Gary tore a thigh muscle and would miss six weeks. “Enough.” Lin separated them. Gary pointed at his swelling leg. “You always find his excuse. Late because of attention. Loses it because he's young. Insults Oscar because nobody understands him.