Kristiansund started the season once again billed as potential overperformers and surprise package, even if they have been doing quite well in recent seasons and have accumulated a pretty strong and capable squad.
Yet, even the optimists among their fans hardly expected the campaign they would have as Christian Michelsen made a solid and assured start and only went from strength to strength after that. They went on a run of just two losses in the opening 13 games and placed themselves firmly in the upper echelon of teams battling for Europe.
What made this Kristiansund side better than the ones from previous seasons was the stunning goalscoring ability and impact that Amahl Pellegrino had from the left wing. The maverick attacking player immediately settled and started getting goals for fun, showing real urgency and purpose and leading the team from the front.
They barely had a wobble and maintained the pace, getting five wins in six in August, and then going on a run of five games without a loss in the autumn. However, they faced some stern opposition in Vålerenga and Rosenborg for the European places and there was always the feeling that they are just a bit short. They still remained within a chance of a top-four spot until the final day but eventually missed out and finished fifth.
Nevertheless, this has been a widely successful season for Kristiansund and once again reinforced the notion that Christian Michelsen may well be the best manager in the league.
