The 2002-03 campaign was a turbulent, nervy fight for survival for FC Groningen as The Pride of the North finished a precarious 15th in the Eredivisie, narrowly avoiding the relegation play-offs on goal difference. The season, which saw the mid-season appointment of legendary manager Ron Jans, was set against the backdrop of future superstar Arjen Robben's departure to PSV. Leading the line was the rugged, talismanic center-forward Martin Drent, whose 7 crucial goals proved vital in a campaign built on defensive grit and a respectable run to the KNVB Cup quarter-finals, marking a tense, unforgettable escape from the drop.