[FM11] The Damned Biggleswade Town

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 20:48

Chapter 1 - Probably The Best Stadium in the World... Definitely the Worst Team...

Chapter 2 - The Damned Biggleswade Town

Youtube | Twitter | Career Updates | England Levels 7 & 8 Download

Finally time to start my FM2011 career save after spending nearly 5 months hiding in the FM Editor creating my England Levels 7 and 8 edit.

I don't know why...I've moved away from my usual comfort zone of Wiltshire and the South West to Bedfordshire...I've been announced as manager at probably the best stadium in the world... The Carlsberg Stadium in Biggleswade....unfortunately this is home of Biggleswade Town FC in the Zamaretto (Southern) League Division One Central.... there's a long journey to the top of the game, let's see how far I can take Biggleswade Town....

Well... I took Biggleswade to the Ryman League Division One South Championship and into the Ryman Premier Divison, yet after 2 games in the 2012/2013 season I was sacked

So I'm now at Hastings United and intent on inflicting revenge on Biggleswade Town

The story continues....

Game Setup:

Patch 11.3 and 11.3 data with my league edit

Australia - A League (View Only)
Argentina - Primera Division (View Only)
Belgium - Jupiler Pro League (View Only)
Brazil - Brasilerao (View Only)
England - English Regional First Divisions and above - Download
France - Ligue 2 and above
Germany - 2.Bundesliga and above
Greece - Superleague (View Only)
Italy - Serie B and above
Mexico - Primera Mexicana (View Only)
Netherlands - Jupiler League and above
Portugal - Liga Orangina and above
Russia - Prem'er Liga (View Only)
Scotland - Third Division and above
Spain - Liga Adelante and above
South Africa - ASBA Premiership (View Only)
South Korea - K-League (View Only)
Turkey - Super Lig (View Only)
UKraine - Premyer-Liga (View Only)
USA - MLS (View Only)

Custom database with all players based in England, all players from top division clubs in UK and Ireland, all players with a national and continental in the world, and all current international players in the world. Total approx 72,000

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 20:48

Biggleswade Town

Code:

  Season  | Div | Pos  |  FA Cup  | FA Trophy  | Beds Cup | Ave Attendance |  Wage     | 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2010/2011 | Z1C | 3rd  | Prelim   | 1st Qual   | Semi     | 108            |  £120 p/w
2011/2012 | R1S | 1st  | 2nd Qual | 2nd Qual   | Quar     | 97             |  £120 p/w
2012/2013 | RPD | Sacked 29th August 2012

Code:

 Season   |  Pld  |  Won  | Drn  | Lst |  For  | Agg  | GD  | Win Ratio |
2010/2011 |   52  |  26   |  10  |  16 |  64   |  56  |  8  |  50%      |  
2011/2012 |   52  |  30   |  9   |  13 |  99   |  54  |  45 |  57%      | 
2012/2013 |   2   |  1    |  0   |  1  |  4    |  2   |  2  |  50%      |

Hastings United

Code:

  Season  | Div | Pos  |  FA Cup  | FA Trophy  | Sussex Cup | Ave Attendance |  Wage     | 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2012/2013 | R1S | 19th | n/a      | n/a        | 2nd Round  | 291            |  £180 p/w

Code:

 Season   |  Pld  |  Won  | Drn  | Lst |  For  | Agg  | GD  | Win Ratio |
2012/2013 |   32  |  11   |  6   |  15 |  40   |  41  |  -1 |  34%      |

**AK22** · 15-03-2011 20:55

Good luck with this, that's probably the best vid Ive seen too!

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 21:01

Club History

Founded in 1874, Biggleswade Town are a semi-professional English club currently playing in the Zameretto League Division One Central. They play their games at the Carlsberg Stadium and possess basic training facilities and a very basic youth setup. The club is affectionally known as The Waders and retains a fierce rivalry with Biggleswade United and Bedford Town.

As a club which enjoyed its best spell of success during the 1960s and their last competition win coming as recently as 2009. The Waders are a club with a growing history. Biggleswade Town won the English 9th tier for the only time in 2009, and won the Beds Senior Challenge Cup on eight occasions and finished runners-up on two occasions.

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 21:15

Just setup myself on Youtube so you can follow the videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/uncleronFM when they're uploaded

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 21:26

Originally Posted by AK22

Good luck with this, that's probably the best vid Ive seen too!

Cheers AK22 the vid is a very long introduction to the ground, its a nice modern non-league ground. You can see the dugout where I stand on a matchday towards the end...

**uncle ron** · 15-03-2011 21:56

2010/2011 Preview - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

I've been given a deal until June 2012 worth £140 per week. I've got an AssMan, Physio and Scout at the club so I'll be visiting the job centre soon enough...

Expectations: Respectable top half finish
Transfer budget: £0
Wage budget: £550 p/w (currently spending £645 p/w)
Chairman status: Will listen to offers
Estimated value: £120K
Season ticket holders: 35
Average ticket price: £7
Average season ticket price: £90

AssMan recommended best player: Ashley Fuller

Recommended youth: None!

I'll be posting updated in a similar style to 433Tom with monthly updates of fixtures and goings on at The Carlsberg Stadium.

**Bedford Bulldog** · 15-03-2011 22:55

Best of luck to you with Biggleswade. They were high on my list as a potential team in my current save as they are probably the closest team in Tier 8 to where I live, before I opted for Corinthian Casuals.

**omnivore** · 15-03-2011 23:15

Awesome start.

**Luton Town** · 16-03-2011 00:51

Good luck with Biggleswade but come on Leighton who play at the top of my road at Bell Close

**crouchaldinho** · 16-03-2011 13:13

Ha, nice one!

When I was a kid, I used to live not too far from Biggleswade. Well, in a village halfway between Biggleswade and Hitchin roughly. Obviously, that's not a very interesting fact, but I felt compelled to share it with you. In terms of the football, I was, and still am, more Hitchin Town than Biggleswade Town.

Good luck. I'll be following with interest.

**crouchaldinho** · 16-03-2011 13:14

Cheesy video btw.

**crouchaldinho** · 16-03-2011 13:17

Some very nice local 'derbies' in your league as well. Arlesey Town and Hitchin Town in particular.

**uncle ron** · 16-03-2011 20:17

Originally Posted by crouchaldinho

Ha, nice one!

When I was a kid, I used to live not too far from Biggleswade. Well, in a village halfway between Biggleswade and Hitchin roughly. Obviously, that's not a very interesting fact, but I felt compelled to share it with you. In terms of the football, I was, and still am, more Hitchin Town than Biggleswade Town.

Good luck. I'll be following with interest.

I'd be interested to know where? I recently went to Stotfold to have a look at a site for work, nice village green...

Where do you recommend me a place to buy a house on my massive £140 per week wage at Biggleswade Town?

Originally Posted by crouchaldinho

Cheesy video btw.

Just a tad and very long... can't believe I wasted several minutes of my life familiarising myself with my new surroundings.

Originally Posted by crouchaldinho

Some very nice local 'derbies' in your league as well. Arlesey Town and Hitchin Town in particular.

Hitchin in the league is going to be massive, just hope I can win...

**433tom** · 16-03-2011 20:19

Loved the video tour of the Stadium. Very nice. Best of luck.

**uncle ron** · 16-03-2011 20:25

Originally Posted by 433tom

Loved the video tour of the Stadium. Very nice. Best of luck.

Cheers 443Tom! can't wait to finally start playing this game!

**crouchaldinho** · 16-03-2011 20:50

Originally Posted by uncle ron

I'd be interested to know where? I recently went to Stotfold to have a look at a site for work, nice village green...

Here - http://www.bing.com/maps/?FORM=MMRED...IxNzI4NTE1NjI1

Where do you recommend me a place to buy a house on my massive £140 per week wage at Biggleswade Town?

No idea!

Just a tad and very long... can't believe I wasted several minutes of my life familiarising myself with my new surroundings.

We all do it. It's not sad, honest. It's all part of the FM experience.

Hitchin in the league is going to be massive, just hope I can win...

It's going to be a tough one. The league in real life is a two horse race between Hitchin and Arlesey at the moment. The Canaries went to Arlesey last night and came away with a 2-1 win.

I think the Waders are actually doing pretty well too, aren't they? I think they might be in or around the play-offs.

**Nobby_McDonald** · 16-03-2011 23:52

Good luck Ron.

**uncle ron** · 17-03-2011 21:06

Big signing preseason is 29 year old SC David Warner who joined on a free transfer.

David, who started his career at Watford, has been out of the game since leaving Uxbridge in 2009.

I just couldn't resist signing him, excellent attributes for a forward at this level, although he's a bit short of pace.

Unfortunately, he's rather susceptible to injuries. Let's just see if those days are behind him.

Hopefully he won't get injured for too long, as I can't be wasting the £85 per week on his 2 year contract...

**Nobby_McDonald** · 18-03-2011 00:34

He has attributes in double figures. No wonder you signed him up.

**433tom** · 18-03-2011 00:48

Looks like just the right combination of attributes to be a serious goal scorer at Level 7 and 8

**brFM2011** · 18-03-2011 03:08

Liked the vid tbh, also thanks for the Lower leagues + gl!

**m1234566778** · 18-03-2011 07:33

Warner looks impressive.

**Deisler26** · 18-03-2011 08:03

Good luck Uncle Ron and may I also add to the "used to live round there for a bit" chorus. ARLESEY TOWN 4 LYFE! or something.

**crouchaldinho** · 18-03-2011 14:44

An Arlesey boy then Deisler?

I was a couple of miles down the road. Used to do the long walk back from Arlesey train station to Henlow village after getting the train back from a night out in London.

**uncle ron** · 19-03-2011 15:38

Right then...I had only got up to playing the first league game of the season, however I've released a new version of my England Levels 7 and 8 file (Version 4.0.4) today, so I'm starting over again with this new update.

So Warner is history....

**uncle ron** · 19-03-2011 15:40

2010/2011 Preview - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central (2)

I've been given a deal until June 2012 worth £120 per week, not sure why I get £20 less than my first attempt at this save?

I've got an AssMan, Physio and Scout at the club so I'll be visiting the job centre soon enough...

Expectations: Respectable top half finish
Transfer budget: £0
Wage budget: £550 p/w (currently spending £645 p/w)
Chairman status: Happy to stay at club
Estimated value: £120K
Season ticket holders: 35
Average ticket price: £7
Average season ticket price: £90

AssMan recommended best player: Ashley Fuller

Recommended youth: None!

I'll be posting updated in a similar style to 433Tom with monthly updates of fixtures and goings on at The Carlsberg Stadium.

**uncle ron** · 19-03-2011 16:44

3 big pre-season signings this time around:

Ben Zevenbergen - Scout has found a gen with 28 year old MRC. Ben hailos from the Netherlands and last played in England some 10 years ago at Woking. The midfield is looking strong...

Aran Moxam - 17 year old recently released by Doncaster who was more than willing to travel down the A1 to Biggleswade.

Michael Jatto - 33 year old Nigeria previously played at Croydon and Harrow. Brings much needed experience to a young defence. Likely to be named captain for the season.

**uncle ron** · 19-03-2011 19:22

2010/2011 August - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

An indifferent start to the season with 2 league defeats, a narrow win against 9 man Bedfont Town, followed by a tight draw against CRC in the Preliminary Round of the FA Cup.

Scoring goals is the problem. All our goals have come from the central defence....

New captain Michael Jatto is the start so far with a goal and relatively solid performances, shame all the new guys couldn't have started like this...

Goal of the month:

**uncle ron** · 19-03-2011 21:32

2010/2011 September - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

The poor form continued into September.

After being dumped out of the cup at home to CRC in the replay, our lack of goals continued in the next two winless league games.

A solid victory over bottom of the table Bedworth was no real surprise, however the 4-0 reverse at rivals Arlesey certainly was...

Strikers are always injured and only 5 goals so far is pathetic!

None of our goals were any good, so here is one by our opposition:

**uncle ron** · 20-03-2011 17:44

2010/2011 October - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

Goals are still like gold dust.

Our top scorer is Michael Jatto with 5 in all comps, 4 in the league, he is of course our central defender.

At this rate we're going to be safe from the drop, but spending your hard earned cash to turn up at Carlsberg Stadium to watch us is pretty boring...at least if your a home fan.

Goal of the month:

What a screamer this is, James Freshwater scores our 3rd in the 3-1 victory over Shepshed in the FA Trophy.

If this isn't goal of the season then I'm in for something special later in the season...

**crouchaldinho** · 20-03-2011 18:02

Lovely goal.

**433tom** · 20-03-2011 18:41

Nice goal. How's your 17 year old striker doing?

**uncle ron** · 20-03-2011 19:05

Originally Posted by 433tom

Nice goal. How's your 17 year old striker doing?

No goals in 9 games

**433tom** · 20-03-2011 19:27

Originally Posted by uncle ron

No goals in 9 games

I bet he comes good. Good pace, first touch, and off the ball atts for his age. You have him on Finishing training?

**uncle ron** · 20-03-2011 19:35

Originally Posted by 433tom

I bet he comes good. Good pace, first touch, and off the ball atts for his age. You have him on Finishing training?

Yea finishing training.

Already November is a much better month for him, much better...

**uncle ron** · 21-03-2011 20:25

2010/2011 November - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

A complete turnaround in fortunes in November came as a welcome relief to all.

17 year old summer signing Aran Moxam started scoring and a more settled team was able to get some wins.

The change in form was help no end by DC David Williams, who joined at the start of the month. Williams immediately formed a great partnership at the back with captain Jatto.

5 wins out of 6 and only 2 conceded.

Things are certainly looking up at Biggleswade

Goal of the month:

Not the best goal...but Moxam's first goal in a Biggleswade shirt certainly raised a smile...

**Luton Town** · 21-03-2011 21:07

A very good month

**AK22** · 21-03-2011 21:34

Good to see a change in your fortunes. It always takes a couple of months for the team to settle and gel, so I'm expecting big things from Biggleswade now!

**uncle ron** · 22-03-2011 21:27

2010/2011 December - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

A month we were ravaged by injuries, yet we only managed to suffer 1 defeat and moved up in the league, closing the gap to the play-offs.

The big injury and probably the reason why we didn't win more was a shoulder injury to Michael Jatto.

Moxam continues to score, now 8 in the league.

Goal of the month:

It has to be another Moxam goal, this one is a shows great composure with a clinical finish after being put through on goal.

**433tom** · 23-03-2011 03:02

Moxam...Moxam...Moxam!

**rjfreeman** · 23-03-2011 03:51

Steady progress up the table.

**uncle ron** · 23-03-2011 19:40

2010/2011 January - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

Now we're cooking with gas...

After the early season inconsistent form we're motoring ahead with 5 wins from 6 games, including a 1-0 win over Barton Rovers to progress in the Bedfordshire Senior Cup.

Although like December's loss against Woodford, when we're poor, we are very poor in the defeat at Slough.

Still...1 point off the play-offs and a nice shiny manager of the month award on a shelf in my office, I couldn't be happier

Goal of the month:

Young winger Jack nicely rounded the keeper and placed a composed shot...

**Luton Town** · 23-03-2011 19:58

If only it wasn't for the bad start to the season

**AK22** · 23-03-2011 20:41

January was a great month, just need to continue to improve the goal difference and you'll be laughing!

**uncle ron** · 24-03-2011 19:50

Originally Posted by Luton Town

If only it wasn't for the bad start to the season

Yea if only some of those early defeats were draws we'd be right in contention of top place...

Originally Posted by AK22

January was a great month, just need to continue to improve the goal difference and you'll be laughing!

We're still too reliant on Moxam, yet he rarely scores more than 1 per game. 32 goals in 29 games needs improving.

**433tom** · 24-03-2011 23:39

Originally Posted by uncle ron

We're still too reliant on Moxam, yet he rarely scores more than 1 per game. 32 goals in 29 games needs improving.

Wow! Are any bigger clubs showing interest in him yet?

**brFM2011** · 25-03-2011 09:06

Turned things around well haven't ya :P
Hope it continues (y)

**Bedford Bulldog** · 25-03-2011 14:49

Originally Posted by uncle ron

We're still too reliant on Moxam, yet he rarely scores more than 1 per game. 32 goals in 29 games needs improving.

That's about how many my team score in total in 29 games

**uncle ron** · 25-03-2011 19:13

I think I've confused some with the quote

Originally Posted by uncle ron

32 goals in 29 games needs improving.

That wasn't what Moxam has scored this season...the whole team has scored only 32 goals in 29 games so far, so I was making a more general point, we're too reliant on Moxam.

**uncle ron** · 25-03-2011 19:54

2010/2011 February - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

February was a bit of a set back.

Two wins followed by 2 defeats.

Perhaps we're going back to our early season inconsistent form. Was reaching 5th a fleeting flirt with the play-offs?

Goal of the month:

Again it's Moxam, perhaps the goal of the season with this George Weah effort after picking up the ball in his own half...just wish the clip showed a bit more.

**433tom** · 25-03-2011 23:31

Originally Posted by uncle ron

I think I've confused some with the quote

That wasn't what Moxam has scored this season...the whole team has scored only 32 goals in 29 games so far, so I was making a more general point, we're too reliant on Moxam.

I bit......

**uncle ron** · 26-03-2011 17:59

2010/2011 March - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

An unbeaten month in the league which sees Biggleswade climb to 4th place and with just 5 games to go, I'll be very surprised if we don't make the play-offs.

Daventry are runaway leaders and will soon be confirmed as Champions.

Moxam takes the Central League Player of the Month Award for his 4 goals in 4 games.

Only blip was the Bedfordshire Senior Cup defeat, however that's my fault as I fielded a weakened team...don't tell the Bedfordshire FA...

So the league run in is as follows:

AFC Hayes - away
Northwood - home
Soham - away
Woodford - away
Rugby - home

Apart from the Woodford game we should be able to get the wins...might even secure 2nd place...

Goal of the Month

Yet another classy finish from man of the moment Moxam

**uncle ron** · 27-03-2011 16:16

2010/2011 April / May - Biggleswade Town - Zamaretto League Division One Central

It just wasn't to be...

The 3rd place finish was very impressive given our early form. Only 10 points off champions Daventry and well clear in the play-off reckoning.

The play-off semi against Uxbridge was nearly so different.

We took the lead towards the end of the first half and held out until the 81st min.

Players were already knackered at this point and we couldn't press-on during extra time.

Penalties is such a crap way to go out, but in truth...we didn't deserve to go up this season, there's still so much more to do.

Player of the Year - Michael Jatto commanded the defence all season, a great captain.
Young Player of the Year - Aran Moxam finished 3rd in the league goalscoring charts, let's hope he can improve next season...

Goal of the Month:

Jack finished an excellent counter attack with a sublime finish

**uncle ron** · 27-03-2011 16:35

2010/2011 Season Review

Premier League: Chelsea
Championship: Nottm Forest
L1: Peterborough
L2: Rotherham
BSP: Kettering
BSN: AFC Telford
BSS: Chelmsford
NPL: Northwitch
ZPL: Salisbury
RPL: Tonbridge
N1N: Chorley
N1S: Brigg
Z1C: Daventry
Z1S: Gosport
R1N: Grays
R1S: Bognor Regis

FA Cup: Bolton
League Cup: Aston Villa
FA Trophy: Luton

Champions League: Real Madrid
Europa League: Stuttgart

**AK22** · 27-03-2011 17:03

Bad luck missing out on promotion. The playoffs can be horrid, and going out on penalties is even worse. Better luck for next season, and at least you started to score a few more goals towards the end of season too

**uncle ron** · 27-03-2011 17:42

Originally Posted by AK22

Bad luck missing out on promotion. The playoffs can be horrid, and going out on penalties is even worse. Better luck for next season, and at least you started to score a few more goals towards the end of season too

Yes a few tactical changes have had the desired effect with more goals, although now gone are the clean sheets...

Next season looks promising, hopefully some good players will be available on a free.

**Luton Town** · 27-03-2011 18:23

Unlucky on missing out on promotion this season good luck for next season though.

**uncle ron** · 27-03-2011 18:32

2011/2012 Preview - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

Despite the settings implemented in my England Levels 7 and 8 file, Biggleswade Town have been moved to the Ryman League for 2011/2012 and rather bizarrely into the Southern Division One.

So no local derbies this season

Expectations: Consolidation
Odds: 10-1
Media Prediction: 17th
Transfer budget: £0
Wage budget: £500 p/w (currently spending £450 p/w)
Chairman status: Happy to stay at club
Estimated value: £130K
Season ticket holders: 35
Average ticket price: £7
Average season ticket price: £90

**433tom** · 28-03-2011 01:07

Originally Posted by uncle ron

[FONT="Georgia"]2011/2012 Preview - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

Despite the settings implemented in my England Levels 7 and 8 file, Biggleswade Town have been moved to the Ryman League for 2011/2012 and rather bizarrely into the Southern Division One.

So no local derbies this season

You better have a talk with Uncle Ron.

**Biscotti** · 28-03-2011 11:55

Originally Posted by 433tom

You better have a talk with Uncle Ron.

I can't tell if that was meant to be a joke, or if you just didn't realise that this is uncle ron's thread...

**433tom** · 28-03-2011 18:30

Originally Posted by Biscotti

I can't tell if that was meant to be a joke, or if you just didn't realise that this is uncle ron's thread...

.....Uncle Ron knows.

**Pangaea** · 30-03-2011 20:03

Originally Posted by uncle ron

I've been given a deal until June 2012 worth £120 per week, not sure why I get £20 less than my first attempt at this save?

You quit and then came begging for your job back. What did you expect, a pay rise?

Good luck next season, that's a great start.

Maybe too early to tell if you haven't played more than this, but how is the difficulty on FM10 v FM11? And what do you think of 11 in general?

**Nobby_McDonald** · 31-03-2011 01:26

Unlucky Ron. Maybe this season...

**uncle ron** · 31-03-2011 08:52

Originally Posted by Pangaea

Maybe too early to tell if you haven't played more than this, but how is the difficulty on FM10 v FM11? And what do you think of 11 in general?

After just a season I'm definitely a fan of FM2011, a vast improvement on 2010. Only game issues I've experienced in game so far has been during some matches when the graphics freeze for about 10 seconds and then recommence, a bit annoying. I might update my graphics drivers...

As for difficulty...seems similar to before and of course you can make this game as difficult as you want to play it.

I'd definitely recommend FM2011 and also my edit this year is so much more realistic than FM2010.

**uncle ron** · 31-03-2011 08:52

Originally Posted by Nobby_McDonald

Unlucky Ron. Maybe this season...

Early signs are looking promising, however Ryman Division One South seems much tougher than the Zamaretto Central.

**Blue_magic** · 31-03-2011 11:30

Just Thought I would say thank you for letting me tour your ground was a great experience

Very nice video!

**Pangaea** · 31-03-2011 16:37

Originally Posted by uncle ron

I'd definitely recommend FM2011 and also my edit this year is so much more realistic than FM2010.

In what way?

Just a small thing, but I prefer the less PR-based names in FM2010. I'd have to change nPower and all that crap if I were to play FM2011. It would annoy me way too much.
Admittedly I haven't play a lot of FM11, but for some reason I just couldn't get into it like with 10. Match engine and graphics look nice tho.

I'll ask here too as you probably don't check the edit thread that often. Players should only be given 1-year contracts in the lowest levels. But what about staff? I've actually been handing them one-year contracts too.

**uncle ron** · 31-03-2011 21:03

Originally Posted by Pangaea

In what way?

Where do I start...

Implemented ground grading requirements
Added all cups
Added County FA Cups
Added real loan rules
Added transfer window restrictions
Realistic play-off scheduling and seeding
Rebuilt the FA Cup and FA Trophy to include all qualifying rounds....

**Pangaea** · 01-04-2011 00:08

That's a very nice list. Personally all cups would be a counter-point for me, but as you also have a no cups version that would be the one I'd use.

About ground grading, exactly what does this mean in game terms? Can you be denied promotion if the ground does not qualify for the above league for example?
I fondly remember this was in CM01/02 or some such version. But if I remember the brief reading of the rules correct clubs have a few years to upgrade their stadium if they get promoted.

I haven't even bought FM11 this time around so am sticking with 10. But I trust your great leagues will be back for FM12 too?

I've kinda lost hope SI will implement them

Which is somewhat understandable tbh, cause the difference between level 7 and 8 isn't much to talk about in the game. That's my experience anyway. Guess 1-20 simply isn't enough to properly separate so many levels. So I'd be very wary of using any setup with even more levels as the team that can win at level 11 can probably do pretty darn well on level 7 too.

**B.W.G** · 01-04-2011 00:22

For the ground grading,it's mainly to help club financially in the long term.You have an expansion each season so you won't end up with a tiny ground in the premiership like you do on other similar downloads.

I'm using his download and I won Evo-Stik first division north, the board decided to expand even though it put me in debt so I don't think you can be denied promotion in the game.

**Pangaea** · 01-04-2011 00:32

That's quite nice actually. How does ground expansion work in 11 btw?

I remember it was a big plague in 10 when the authorities denied you expansion. Which meant in my case that I had to keep using my newly built 9000-ish stadium for 20 years, many of these while winning the EPL for years on end. Rather unrealistic. But since you have to wait 20 years between stadiums, that's what I had to endure. In the end I couldn't be bothered (for various reasons). So if that problem is lessened with this file that is great. It's usually not a big issue in the beginning as the stadium is almost empty anyway, but once/if you start to move up it can really hold you back financially. Just checked my old pictures, and without player sales we were losing 50-60 million a year.

**B.W.G** · 01-04-2011 00:40

It basically works the same and the authorities are still a pain at times, especially with clubs with smaller grounds but this file seems to counteract those problems with seasonal expansion which will help with finances at a higher level.

**uncle ron** · 01-04-2011 11:47

Originally Posted by Pangaea

That's quite nice actually. How does ground expansion work in 11 btw?

I remember it was a big plague in 10 when the authorities denied you expansion. Which meant in my case that I had to keep using my newly built 9000-ish stadium for 20 years, many of these while winning the EPL for years on end. Rather unrealistic. But since you have to wait 20 years between stadiums, that's what I had to endure. In the end I couldn't be bothered (for various reasons). So if that problem is lessened with this file that is great. It's usually not a big issue in the beginning as the stadium is almost empty anyway, but once/if you start to move up it can really hold you back financially. Just checked my old pictures, and without player sales we were losing 50-60 million a year.

The ground grading has been implemented from the Regional First Divisions (Level 8) through to League Two (Level 4) so if your team gets to the Football League your capacity will be no less than 5000 including 1000 seats.

Also... your team is never denied promotion because of insufficient capacity to meet ground requirements in game. In the season following promotion your ground will get expanded, or if it can't be expanded then you'll get a new stadium.

**Pangaea** · 01-04-2011 14:12

Thanks. That's a great feature to implement in the file. Didn't know that was possible. Don't dare to think how many hours you must have put into that work by now

Fantastic effort!

SI should just use your work and then have level 7 and 8 in FM2012 tbh. And pay you

**Biscotti** · 01-04-2011 15:02

Originally Posted by Pangaea

Thanks. That's a great feature to implement in the file. Didn't know that was possible. Don't dare to think how many hours you must have put into that work by now

Fantastic effort!

SI should just use your work and then have level 7 and 8 in FM2012 tbh. And pay you

It's one thing to get someone to set up the leagues correctly, it's another altogether to employ enough scouts to ensure all the personnel and teams are 100% accurate at those levels...

Having said that, ron does a fantastic job

**Deisler26** · 01-04-2011 15:04

Originally Posted by crouchaldinho

An Arlesey boy then Deisler?

I was a couple of miles down the road. Used to do the long walk back from Arlesey train station to Henlow village after getting the train back from a night out in London.

Henlow Village too actually

**uncle ron** · 01-04-2011 17:03

2011/2012 - August / Sept & October - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

A more condensed update of the first 3 months of 2011/2012 in Ryman Division One South.

Big mistake in pre-season. Don't release your assistant manager, physio and scout thinking you'll sign a better one in no time...

4-5 months on, at the end of October I've still not got a scout, so after finally signing a new assistant in late August I'm having to rely on his (crap) reports and suggestions only.

Wages is the issue, I can only offer £30 per week, yet no-one will take less than £50 per week.

We started well in this strong division and progressed in the cups, then I started to dick about with formations to accommodate a new central midfielder who is more suited to playing behind the forward(s)...so we started losing, lost 3 games on the trot including exiting the FA Cup at Quorn.

On finally reverting back to my relatively successful modified 4-4-2 we hammer Maldon & Tiptree 4-1 (see M&T goal below!), however a few days later we crash out of the FA Trophy at Garforth.

What about Moxam? I can hear you say...

He started the season on fire with 10 in 12 apps, including scoring 4 goals against Eastbourne Town in a league record 6-0 win. Then he didn't score in 4 and got injured so he should be back in November.

Goal of the month:

Just had to share my defence and keeper making a right mess of clearing the ball, leaving the M&T forward with an open goal to aim at

**AK22** · 01-04-2011 17:19

Scouts are overrated anyway!

**uncle ron** · 01-04-2011 17:33

Originally Posted by AK22

Scouts are overrated anyway!

Overrated yes, yet essential to how I try to play the game...

So frustrated with this issue, looks like I'm not going to be able to sign a scout until I'm promoted

**AK22** · 01-04-2011 20:58

I rely heavily on my scouts too. 100% of the players I buy/sign have been scouted and recommended by the scouts.

Even though the majority of their reports are garbage, it's still better than nothing! I'm not sure how I'd cope in your situation, you have my sympathy

**uncle ron** · 02-04-2011 09:35

Originally Posted by AK22

I rely heavily on my scouts too. 100% of the players I buy/sign have been scouted and recommended by the scouts.

Even though the majority of their reports are garbage, it's still better than nothing! I'm not sure how I'd cope in your situation, you have my sympathy

At least ass man or coaches can now scout players so that's helped signing new players.

Still no luck with any job centre interest for a scout another month on...

**Pangaea** · 02-04-2011 12:21

That's one thing that annoys me with job centre applications and various recommendations. Why are these way out of budget? I've had players recommended who would cost me 20-50K and demand 300-400 a week. The transfer is simply impossible, and they'd take half the wage budget.

They do pick some fine ones too though.

**uncle ron** · 02-04-2011 12:50

Originally Posted by Pangaea

That's one thing that annoys me with job centre applications and various recommendations. Why are these way out of budget? I've had players recommended who would cost me 20-50K and demand 300-400 a week. The transfer is simply impossible, and they'd take half the wage budget.

They do pick some fine ones too though.

Yea true, the suggestions rarely take into account your financial situation.

**uncle ron** · 02-04-2011 12:56

2011/2012 - November - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

November was the busiest month of the season so far with 9 games, meaning little or no rest for the squad and plenty of rotation.

The more settled formation worked well, as sandwiched between the 2 defeats at the start and end of the month, we performed really well and entertained with plenty of goals.

We're moving in the right direction in the league and closing on leaders Chatham.

The win against Arlesey in the Beds Challenge Cup was excellent, 2 nil down at half time, we managed 4 goals in 20 minutes to win 4-2 and set up a quarter final with rivals Biggleswade United!

Goal of the month:

Midfielder Sutherland, the guy who I was messing about with the tactics previously to better accommodate, shows his quality with his first goal for the club,

**Pangaea** · 02-04-2011 19:02

Very nice progress there and a fine-fine goal

**uncle ron** · 02-04-2011 19:41

2011/2012 - December - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

The month that I've been waiting for...

5 wins from 5 in the league, including a 3-1 win over previous table toppers Chatham so we've moved top of the league! Nuff said!

End of the month sees a potential board takeover by Dagenham based businessman Barry Hearn

I checked Leyton Orient and Barry's left in October 2011 so it must be him!

I like snooker and darts so we've a lot in common, so hopefully if he takes over the club he'll keep me on.

Talks between Hearn and current chairman Will Shaw have 'not gone well', but hopefully it can be resurrected as you never know....I might get some extra wages money for a scout.

Goal of the month:

Goal of out nowhere from DL Brackstone against Chatham. Was it a cross or did he mean to shoot? I'll never know...

**Pangaea** · 02-04-2011 20:01

Great month there. I'm sure it was a missed cross :P Some of the things I've seen....

This video upload feature is one of the great things about FM11 actually. Wish it was on 10. Some goals and events I'd love to upload. More events than goals really.

I have a question to you 11ers. Are captaincy and vice captaincy still recorded under club landmarks? Annoys me that so-called landmarks are filled with that junk.

**Luton Town** · 02-04-2011 20:15

Good luck with the takeover he might provide a bit of money

**uncle ron** · 03-04-2011 09:16

Originally Posted by Pangaea

I have a question to you 11ers. Are captaincy and vice captaincy still recorded under club landmarks? Annoys me that so-called landmarks are filled with that junk.

Yea they are still recorded, it would be good to filter them out. Just have to change your captains less often

**uncle ron** · 03-04-2011 09:17

Originally Posted by Luton Town

Good luck with the takeover he might provide a bit of money

Unfortunately it has gone a bit quiet since the end of December. Was really looking forward to a 'big name' businessman potentially becoming chairman of this little club.

**433tom** · 03-04-2011 16:32

Most impressive 1st half of the season. Is Moxam back and tearing it up? Any other key players?

**Nobby_McDonald** · 03-04-2011 23:28

Blatantly a cross!

**Luton Town** · 03-04-2011 23:35

Originally Posted by Nobby_McDonald

Blatantly a cross!

Definitely

**uncle ron** · 04-04-2011 20:32

2011/2012 - January - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

The run continued for another game then 3 defeats in a row.

I can handle losing to Faversham and Eastbourne Town, but to go out to rivals Biggleswade United in the Quarter Final of the Beds Challenge Cup AET is unacceptable...I nearly resigned in protest...but instead fined a few players for their display.

Still...2 wins at the end of the month took us back to the summit, onwards and upwards?

Also still no news on the takeover despite chairman status 'willing to listen to offers'.

Some key players:

Aran Moxam - Still a good prospect. Moxam has recovered from injury and back in the team.
Craig Read - Loan signing from Bishop's Stortford returned after 15 game loan last season. Rock at the back and certainly someone I may put on offer in for in the summer.
Frankie Sutherland - Young AMC signed in the summer after being released from QPR. Good stats for an 18yo but has found it hard to settle into the team. Needs more experience.

Goal of the month:

Moxam justifies his poacher target man (run onto ball) perfectly with this effort against Ashford.

**uncle ron** · 04-04-2011 21:48

2011/2012 - February - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

I'm trying not to get carried away...

4 more wins, 15 goals and only 2 in at the back, despite having our first choice keeper out injured for the month and a 19yo between the posts.

Manager of the Month award for my troubles, or lack of them....

Goal of the month:

Freshwater strikes from long range, hits the cross bar, only to them rebound off the keeper into the net

**Pangaea** · 04-04-2011 22:37

Great defending. Good goal though.

It was to the January one.

**433tom** · 05-04-2011 03:32

I like Sutherland. Good techique and first touch. Best combination of technical attributes that provide a solid base for development of a young miefielder..... at least IRL... Hopefully the same in FM 2011.

**uncle ron** · 05-04-2011 11:22

Originally Posted by 433tom

I like Sutherland. Good techique and first touch. Best combination of technical attributes that provide a solid base for development of a young miefielder..... at least IRL... Hopefully the same in FM 2011.

Sutherland does have the basis to be a good player, I'm surprised he wasn't snapped up by a higher level team.

My problem this season has been how to accommodate him in the team.

My tactical tweaking early this season to play him in his preferred AMC role either behind 1 or 2 upfront failed with poor results, so for now he's going to have to get better as a MC.

Alternatively I might retrain him as a forward to play him in a supporting role for the attacking poacher.

**uncle ron** · 06-04-2011 19:37

2011/2012 - March - Biggleswade Town - Ryman League Division One South

Another month unbeaten, however a nervy month with 4 draws and a single win. For some reason we can't score more than a goal per game...

Moxam missed the middle 3 matches this month, he scored a goal in both of the other two. He's becoming a bit indispensable.

We're still top of the league and secured a play-off spot, so five games left to go including games against fellow top five Leatherhead and Fleet..this is going to go down to the wire.

Goal of the month:

Moxam scores a great header against Croydon

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