16.3 - It starts at the New York Stadium.

The Intro

As a Rotherham fan I've seen the ups and downs of the club over the past decade. From nearly losing our existence to administration to going back into the Championship. My job in this save it to make sure we come the best club in Yorkshire, then England and then the World.

The Database

I understand with the amount of players I'm loading this could end bad for me. I've never gone above 135k players but I don't usually have this many leagues played. It might be slow but I want detail. I'll see how fast it runs before I think about streaming this on Twitch but it's something I've done before and hoping this player size doesn't kill it.



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Updates

I'll be getting this game started within the next hour and then over the next few days hopefully get the window done and then posting monthly updates. There's a chance the update won't be first posted until Sunday but I'm planning to go into the game in more detail then I have done before (E.G training) and finding very obscure players from around the world. I'll be posting videos on YouTube - mainly of goals but who doesn't love a cracker?

This is my first career thread and hopefully I'll be able to keep things interesting. Who knows, it could even interest you to try as Rotherham .

The Tactic

I've yet to make a successful 4 - 4 - 2 at a higher division on Football Manager 2016 and it's the way to get the best out of the Rotherham squad. I see playing Newell and Ward as WM on the left lets Mattock overlap where Buxton and Kelly will defend the space left by Burke and Ward. If it works, I'll be a happy man.

The Squad



The player at the bottom cut off is Southampton's Sam Gallagher and my third goalkeeper is Alex Cairns.

Transfers



I couldn't say no to selling Danny Ward at that price and Matt Derbyshire even if he was the hero scoring at Hillsborough today at 175k and getting his wage of the bill was also too good to turn down. Green wouldn't of gotten game time and Richardson was competing with four other players, one of them was Farrend Rawson who was sent back to Derby so I could use the loan spot for a position I needed it.

In

Felix Horn Myhre - one for the future and if I had an injury crisis could cover the CM/DM position.

Hassan Yebda - Experienced Algerian international. Free transfer able to cover for Smallwood at CM-D and if need be play the role of Frecklington. Only on 3.2k a week and accepted a years contract.

Greg Kiltie - seems to of been a player who has been around for a few years but he's only 18 and his contract was expiring in a few months, so I snapped him up and paid to purchase him straight away due to injury to Grant Ward.

Sam Gallagher - Young striker on loan from Southampton. Will fill the role of Poacher and Defensive Forward. I think being 6'4 will have perks.

Brice Jovial - Experienced French striker who's played in Ligue 1 with Dijon before. Still had pace and for a year he'll fit right in to the poacher slot. Not one I've ever heard of so I'm interested in what he'll bring.

Shaun McDonald - I needed another CM and found him transfer listed. For 325k he's shown that he's a solid midfielder so far and it's what I needed to add and we lack strength in the midfield, literally and in numbers.

Bogdan Lobont - Experienced Romanian international. Probably a common name for most. Cairns wasn't good enough for cover and I needed someone to push Camp so why not bring in the experience with that extra loan slot.

Marek Cech - Experienced Slovkian international, Will cover for Mattock and Belaid as Belaid will also be playing CB due to Broadfoots suspension.

The Story So Far



Pre-Season

The first game was played using an old tactic from my Portsmouth save due to still thinking how I wanted to play my 4 - 4 - 2. Wasn't a bad result and we played okay considering we don't have the quality for the formation I was using. The rest used my 4 - 4 - 2 and with three wins and a draw at Celtic I was pretty damn pleased with what I was seeing. Clarke-Harris was a bright park and Jovial scoring a brace in his first match for us put him in the match day squad for MK dons. Both goals vs SV Stegersbach came from my right winger crossing the ball from deep and it going into the top corner , that was a lucky escape.

The Championship

Home - MK Dons - We dominated. Pre-season had carried on. 18 shots, 8 on target with 3 clear cut chances, 3 half chances and hitting the woodwork twice it could of been a bigger scoreline then the 3 - 0 it finished. We were best in every area and Jovial scoring in his league debut in the 25th minute everything was looking good. The start of the second half Kyle McFadzean was sent off on the 47th minute and after that it was a sea of red.

Away - Capital One Cup vs Port Vale - No matter what tactic I used we never got going. They were the better team but created few chances. It was a boring game and a disappointment to the 3,272 fans that had to watch it. Neither team doing anything worthwhile it took penalties to decide the game. Clarke-Harris missing out of the 10 penalties taking. Rotherham were out already. Wasn't happy with this.

Away - Nottingham Forest - Again we got no foot hold in the game and this wasn't even a glimpse of the Rotherham that had played so well vs MK Dons. 1 - 0 down thanks to Dexter Blackstock just before half time and were maybe still in this. Sadly, it wasn't to be as Tom Thorpe gave away a penalty and Blackstock put the game to bed. I think the ref needed glasses on this one though as everyone in the stadium could see there was no penalty and Jamie Ward had dived. Stephen Martin was fooled, the fool.

Home - Preston North End - We needed to get our heads up and played Football. We saw better football and more passion but went in behind to a Paul Huntington goal. The second half a couple of changes were made and we were playing better. Leon Best getting his first goal for the club equalised and that was that. A very even game that both sides deserved a point.

Away - Queens Park Rangers - I changed the striking partnership on this one. Jovial had gotten booked for diving vs PNE and I wasn't cool with that. Gallagher started uptop with Best and it seemed to be a partnership that worked. I couldn't understand why Frecklington was running and not playing the ball to Gallagher. He finally did, Gallagher first time to Best who took it and slotted it home. Clearly Frecks knows better than me! QPR came back and maybe should of snatched a point but they didn't create any good enough chances. A half chance near the end that Camp had to do well for but Q.P.R just weren't good enough for a team of that quality.

Home - Fulham - We started very well and were looking to get the first goal before a very bad pass to MacDonald attempting to get it to Frecklington gave Fulham the ball. They countered and Woodrow stuck it in, I couldn't believe my eyes! Moments later Fulham punted a ball over the top from the left and Woodrow stuck it in again! Luckily he was offside. Just before halftime we managed to pull the goal we deserved back. Kilitie crossed a ball in from the right for Gallagher to poke in. Half time it was 1 - 1. Best stubbed his toe early in the game and was non-existent so half time subs were Smallwood on for MacDonald and Jovial on for Best. Jovial was a handful with his pace and Fulham struggled. On the 59th minute Fulham center-back Fernando Amorebieta took down Jovial and a penalty was awarded. Ledesma stepped up and smashed it in the top right with power. After that they still couldn't cope with Jovial! Amorebieta pushed too far up fouled Jovial and got himself an early bath. Jovial hit the post himself followed by Sam Gallagher it could of been so comfortable. On the 90th minute Jovial got his deserved goal, a freekick hit over by Ledesma for him to pick up and put in. It should of finished 3 - 2. The last attack of the game Fulham managed a sweet through ball to McCormack to hit it wide. A very nice win for us just before the international break.

In game date of posting this is 29th of August. Unless an injury happens I can't see anyone moving in or out for the transfer window. The aim is to stay up using 4 - 4 - 2. Wish me luck!

September

Away - Charlton Athletic - A game of two different defences. They took their chances, we didn't. We went better when we went 2 - 0 down but nothing came from our chances. And of course Matt Derbyshire scored against his former club! Charlton were just better.

Away - Brighton and Hove Albion - A massive change in the lineup form the Charlton game, not one player who started there started against Brighton. Brighton went close early on from a hoof up after there corner was cleared and Dunks header was just over. We should of gone 1 - 0 up. Through ball from Gallagher to Best, Bests shot is saved 1 on 1 and Gallagher hits the rebound at the keeper. Again we missed a glorious chance, Burkes ball over from the right and Best hit the bar, 0 - 0 at half time. We're putting in a much better shift then we did against Charlton. Second half and 15 minutes gone, a nothing cross isn't cleared properly by Ledesma who has just come on and Knockaert but's the home side infront. Rotherham have been the better side but find themselves trailing. The last sub is made to try and change something and Burke is injured. Rotherham have got to carry this on with 10 men. The game fizzes out and Brighton win 1 - 0. Not happy considering our chances. Turns our Burke is injured for 3 months. We're slipping down the table.

Home - Cardiff City - A ball from deep nearly gets Cardiff an early ball. A punt from the wing somehow eludes Mattock and Lawrence is in, takes a good save from Camp. Just before half time Shinnie who comes back from injury puts in a cross and Jovial puts the home side in ahead. Maybe this 4 - 4 - 2 is a home only tactic. Rotherham go in at the half ahead. Second half has just been Cardiff playing hoof football and we're able to deal with it. Wood is captain for this game and showing why. As I typed that Grant Ward made a horrendous pass and Richard Wood was there to cover, not sure what Ward was even thinking. A second goal for Jovial. A counter attack down the left and Mattock crosses. Jovial hits it at the keeper first time but is able to follow it up. 2 - 0 to the Millers! Some very good football from the Millers and Newell smashes it from 20 yards... but only the bar! Unlucky Joe Newell. The last 10 minutes will be played without the best two players on the pitch. Wood and Shinnie have both put in a shift and both deserve Man of the Match. Jovial tries a 30 yarder but goes wide and the whistle has been blown! Millers take their first 3 points in 3 games. Jovial runs out Man of the Match and Rotherham go back up to 10th.

Away - Birmingham - This is the test for the 4 - 4 - 2 to see if it's a home tactic. Shinnie is ineligible due to being his parent club so Yedba will take his place where Kilite has taken Grant Wards who is placed on the bench. Nothing much happened until midway through the first half, a badly controlled ball by Jovial for some reason using his head set Birmingham up to counter. They scored... luckily they were offside! Just before the half Jovial had a good chance but Kuczczak was equal too it. 0 - 0 at the half and an even game. Midway into the second half and we're lacking chances, maybe the wide midfielder and supporting fullback doesn't give enough support. A ball down the right and a one two with Jovial and Kilite sets Jovial up, he must score! Nope, straight at the keeper. A minute later Birmingham are passing the ball about and Maghoma hits it from outside the box and into the bottom corner. Where was the defense!? Buxton has to do better there. Enough is enough, another chance for Jovial and he hits it wide! I can't believe what I'm seeing! Tactics changed to 4 - 5 - 1 and 3 subs made to see if we can get something out of this game. 75th minute and we's passing the ball better, ball goes into the box and lands to Kilitie, he passes it Clarke-Harris and it ends up back to Kilitie who somehow hits it at the keeper! 3 clear cut chances and no goals, this is getting embarrasing. The final whistle goes and we go home with no points, the lads are given the hairdryer treatment. We can't stay up when we miss chances like that.

Personnel Change



Some of the transfer budget was spent bringing in Derek as my assistant. Nick Eaden wasn't good enough and seemed a bit lost.

Alessio Frati and Grant Murray were also brought in for coaching as the back room staff was a bit too thin.



Joe was brought in to oversee scouting. Gee Evans is a poor rated scout so I needed someone who can take charge. Italian Gianluca Romano and English Steve Martin were both brought in to help.

October

Home - Burnley - Tactic has changed to the left midfielder to also play as a winger and both fullbacks are now on support, we need more chances. Jovial and Kilite both dropped and Broadfoot thankfully is back. Hopefully I can create a Broadfoot/Wood partnership as Collins and Thorpe are both out of form along with Smallwood. Rotherham were the better team in the first half. Half way through a nice ball to Best who he hit straight at the keeper but managed to follow up. Looking so much better with wingers and Broadfoot back. Another chance for Best and another hit at the keeper. An absolute fluke goal for Burnley before the half. Wood tackles Vokes who goes through so Broadfoot goes to clear, it bounches off Belaid and then Arfield knocks it in. Cannot believe what I just witnessed. Broadfoot comes off at half time for Halford, he's lacking match fitness and is on a yellow. Last two subs used with 30 minutes to go. Smallwood on for MacDonald and Jovial for Clarke-Harris. Jovial goes close due to a very bad header from Burnleys Tendayi Darikwa, good play from Rotherham. Huge mistake from Michael Keane lets Jovial in! Sadly he doesn't hit well enough and Heaton is able to save for a corner, will Rotherham end up regretting that? Halford goes close from the resulting corner but not close enough. A corner down the other end and Keane makes up for his mistake, he heads it in and Rotherham trail. Burnley take the 3 points home and it's deserved. More chances missed and more points dropped for Rotherham. More shots, 3 - 1 clear cut chances. We must do better.

Clarke-Harris followed up this game demanding a new contract. He won key headers yet finished on a 6.7. I think he's mental? I rejected and he's moaning to team mates. Not having that sort of attitude and he's dropped out of the match day squad.

Away - Brentford - Another way game and we'll stick with 4 - 4 - 2. Gallagher starts upfront with Jovial and I've felt a change of goalkeeper might freshen things up, camp isn't in great form. Brentford has the brighter start and a simple cross the right wasn't dealt with and Mario Djuricin ran and knocked it in. Apart from that the first half was a quiet one and the goal seperates the sides. Hairdryer treament is given at half time. We kicked off, the ball is played out to the right, Kilitie passes back to Yebda who attempts to pass back but passes it straight off the pitch... not what I want. Minutes later some lovely passing from Brentford and a second goal for Djuricin, 4 - 4 - 2 and away look like they don't go together like Max and Steele. 30 minutes left and we go 4 - 5 - 1 to see if we can get anything back. Clearly not as we do this and Judge hits in the freekick and Djuricin gets his hat-trick. We've not had one shot in the second half so far and there's only fifteen minutes left to go. We're struggling alot more playing 4 - 5 - 1 and Brentford could of had their 4th. We spent the game struggling to pass to each other without pressure, very poor from Rotherham and we drop down to 15th.#

Home - Reading - Frecklington is back from injury and goes straight into the starting eleven, will he be the key we've been missing? This being played on Tuesday alot of the team is changed to keep players fresh. Camp goes back in net. I'm staying with 4 - 4 - 2 but changing the shouts slightly. Two minutes in and Vydra runs through Belaid like he isn't there, knocks the ball to Cox and is well saved by Camp. 12 minutes and a long free kick by Norwood, Vydra beats Kelly in the air and it's 1 - 0 to the visitors. 30 minute mark, ball over from Ward should of been finished by Gallagher but it saved, the ball bounces to Best! And yes as norm he hits it straight at the keeper. Two clear chances missed in seconds. Just before half time there's some nice skill from Ledesma who's playing on the left for the injured Newell. He passes it down to Gallagher who takes it on and hits a nice cross to Best who hits it in the net this time. The teams go in even at the break. We have a corner just after the break which is cleared back to Kelly, he hits in it and it lands to Belaid, on the half volley and its saved, should that of been our second goal? With 30 minutes to go Best goes off for Jovial, hopefully his pace will unlock the defense. Shinnie comes on to hopefully play a key pass. A long ball over to Robson-Kanu who for some reason is unmarked in aces of space on the left, Kelly is inside covering for Halford who is very much out of position and Ward is too far up to contest. The ball bends and Camp makes a good save but the Rotherham defense don't clear. McClearly picks it up and Camp makes a good initial save but the rebound is put in and Rotherham are losing with two minutes to go. Less than a minute later a simple pass and a big mistake from Halford again lets Vydra in who smashes it in. Another player who's gotten a hat-trick vs Rotherham. Some changes need to be made.

Home - Sheffield Wednesday - They're second in the league and this is a game I do not want to lose. I have to maybe admit defeat to getting 4 - 4 -2 to work at this stage. We're on a losing streak and we're not getting enough balls in dangerous areas, even when we are the amount of chances we've missed. I'm going to go with a 4 - 5 - 1 with an AMC for my home games and 4 - 5 - 1 with a DM for my away as relegation is not in my plans. A stupid ball lets Hooper in only 2 minutes into the game and he misses, not the best start for Rotherham. Another close call as the ball is punted back into the box after the corner and Hunt hits the side netting. Come on boys, where's your passion? Minutes after a simple ball played through and Alex Lopez misses. Rotherham don't look like they're turned up! A ball up from from Shinnie is headed back to the keeper by Lees but he heads it all wrong, Jovial picks it up and places it. 1 - 0 to the home side, undeserved but no complaints. Rotherham are looking much betetr after the goal and a very good passing move makes it 2 - 0! Jovial holds the ball up and back heels it through two players for the on running Shinnie who slots it home! A fine goal. A bit of pressure from Sheff Weds the last minute before half time but Rotherhams defense are equal to it and Rotherham go in 2 ahead at the break. Smallwood comes off as I'd like to finish this game with 11 men on the pitch. Just after the break Mattock looks like he clears the ball off the line from a Sheff Weds corner, Rotherham break up the other end and Kilite volleys got a great Westwood save. The last 15 minutes I'm going to the 4 - 5 -1 DM and putting Yedba on for Frecks who's played very well. We've missed him. That ends the game! Rotherham win 2 - 0 against rivals Sheffield Wednesday. Jovial picking up MoM as he was outstanding. Will this be the start of something?

Derby - Away - Starting with 4 - 5 - 1 DM as we're away. We could get something here Derby aren't much ahead of us in the league sitting in 12th. 8 minutes in and some nice passing from Rotherham puts Jovial in and he scores! I'm was waiting for offside flag and turns out he's on! I'll take that! 24th minute and Martin is in! He skips past Broadfoot and shoots from a tight angle, his shot ends up at the corner flag! I'll take more of those. 33rd minute and Ince misheads the ball and ends up making an attack out of it, a few passes later and the ball ends up with Ince in the box, he unleashes and hits the post! No Ince, I said more to the corner flag! Half times hits and Rotherham are leading. Mattock comes on for Broadfoot and Belaid goes into CB as I'm a bit scared of Broadfoots yellow card with Martin running at him. 50th minute and Derby score. They clear from a corner and it's going down the byline but Buxton makes no attempt at getting it. It's picked up by Ince who crosses to an unmarked Johnson who smashes it in from outside the box. There's nothinng Camp can do. Thorpe comes on for Wood and I've got to a 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2 as I have seem to have alot of injured wide players. Can we win this game like this? The midfielders pull Derbys defense apart and Ledesma puts a nice ball through to Jovial. 1 and 1 and straight at the keeper. Minutes after another nice ball but this time to Best who misses a glorious chance. We're knocking on the door! A Rotherham corner and it's cleared again this time it's picked up by Jovial who plays it to Ledesma who squares it to Best who slots it in. 2 - 1 to Rotherham with 8 minutes to go! Best does well and holds the ball up, a couple of nice passes and Shinnie has the ball, he for some reason attempts to run at Derby who nick the ball and counter. A ball over and for some reason Weimann is offside and the final whistle goes. 2 wins on the trot for the Millers!

Clarke-Harris still hasn't seen the squad since his request

November



Away - Middlesborough - Starting with 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2 and some fresh legs as it's another Tuesday night game. Thorpe is getting given a chance to impress. Even game until the 25th minute, Kelly tries a very strange over the top ball which Boro counter with and Gaston hits it in. Half time hits with Boro in the lead. Even game but we've lacked chances. Hairdryer treatment given at half time but may need to widen the game. A bad pass from MacDonald given Boro a counter and they hit the side netting. 30 minutes to go see's us play 4 - 5 - 1 DM and Thorpe going off as he's had a bad game, Kilitie is on to play on the right with Best going off. Frecklington is also brought on to hopefully put in some better balls. Was it a good decision leaving two fullbacks on with yellow cards? We'll see. The width worked! Kelly and Kilitie causing trouble down the right and a cross opened up from Kelly into the path of Jovial. 1 - 1 and Game on with 15 minutes to go! 80th minute and Downing goes down! Kelly made a silly challenge but isn't booked. Two Rotherham defenders were round Downing and he went down. Didn't even need to put a foot in. Rhodes blasted the penalty home and Boro have the lead again. A minute left go and Rotherham have a corner! It's put in by Ledesma and Belaid is the player who gets to it! He doesn't connect with it properly and the ball is more cleared then attacked. Boro pick the ball up and pass with ease and the whistle goes. Boro win but Rotherham gave it a good shot, I can't fault that. Infact Boro only had two shots on target and scored with both of those.

Home - Ipswich Town - We started on top and on the 20th minute Kilitie was on the middle of the pitch picking up the ball, it was like he was confused that he was in the middle and had no idea what to do. He was tackled but luckily Frecklington was there to corner who set off a nice move and Newell was the player to get the ball in the box but the angle was too tight and the resulting shot was saved by Bialowski. A nice move was created by Kilities freekick and a nice ball into Shinnie in the box but unlike last time that happened he somehow fired wide. Just before the break Ipswich had a chance, a ball into the box and Jason Cummings shot was saved but there was McGoldrick to fire home. Only two minutes later we replied. Jovial held the ball up and played it to the overlapping Belaid who crossed to the back post where Kilitie was to score his first Rotherham goal. The half-time whistle hits and it'a all square. Smallwood had to be replaced just after half time for too many fouls, always prefer 11 on the pitch. 25 minutes to go Gallagher came on for Jovial and Yedba for Shinnie which put Frecklington in the AMC spot. Yedba gave away a silly freekick which hit the wall but Cummings picked the ball up and drilled it, luckily it hit the post and Belaid cleared with only minutes to spare. Full time whistle and it ends 1 - 1. Even game.

Away - Leeds - A match against former manager Steve Evans is not a game I want to lose. They're also actually rock bottom of the league. Yedba starts over Smallwood and Best starts as the lone striker instead of Jovial. 17th minute Corner came in and Cooper last his marker and slotted it in. Leeds winning /angry. We're not in this at all and an attacking 4 - 4 - 2 is my idea here. We're really poor. Another 25 minutes goes and still nothing. 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2 is my only option. This a complete shambles. Shout with aggressive - demand more comes out. Kelly is lucky to stay on the pitch with a two footed lunge and Leeds go close from a corner. Still no Rotherham attack. Overload and push up is my only option. Our first noticeable attack and Best hits the ball wide. Leeds win 1 - 0. Easily the worst game we've played since I've been manager.

Home - Bristol City We've dropped to 17th and 5 points from the drop. This is a game we need to be winning as they're below us. Injuries and tired players only allow me to play 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2. Clarke-Harris will be given his first start since he acted like a child. Jovial is back in the starting 11, it was probably a mistake to drop him. My thought was that Best would have more presence against Leeds' poor defensive record. We had more possession first half but nothing happened for either team. Neither registered a shot on target. Another one where we kick off, pass to the wing, they pass back and we pass it off, strange one. 30 minutes left and we've managed one shot and they still haven't. A draw isn't good enough though so a tactic change is needed. 4 - 5 - 1 AMC with all 3 subs made. Straight away we went close from a corner but the rebound was blocked and they managed to clear. We cleared off the line! Newell running with the ball far too long gets tackled and they counter, a ball from the right wing drops in and Camp manages to stop the shot with Belaid clearing off the lane, close call. Their first shot was a clear cut chance. Last ten minutes I've told the lads go pump that ball up and go route one, we have to go for broke now. Some fancy footwork down the left with Newell, Mattock and MacDonald and the cross goes in and Jovial is fouled when he had a very good chance of hitting it in. Not even a card for the offending Bristol City player but a penalty it is. Ledesma steps up and... scores! Powered home and 1 - 0 to the Millers! Not for long though as a silly pass from Yedba gave Bristol a counter attack. I've no idea what he's tried there. A silly chip or something even though Ledesma was heavily marked. Not good enough. An even game and Yedba will be losing his place for it.

December

Home - Wolverhampton Wanderers - We started off well, kept possession and had a few attempts. 30th minute mark we countered from there corner. Jovial up to Newell on the left who ran up and crossed to Jovial. He went close but close isn't a goal. Demanded more at half time and most players reacted well. Second half started with a barrage of Wolves corners after they crossed in and it eluded everyone but was cleared out. This resulted in the end a cross where Woods missed his header and Siguroarson headed in. More corners and Batth made it 2 - 0 to Wolves. We're still in the locker room. 3 subs and a tatical change saw us wake up but no proper chances until the 75th minute. Gallagher was unlucky and hit the bar. More corners and crosses for Wolves and Le Fondre made it 3 - 0. How we crumbled in the second half. Full time whistle goes. Very angry team-talk from me.

Away - Blackburn Rovers - We go into this 5 games without a win. 4 - 5 - 1 DM is the tactic we'll be using but I have the players on the bench for 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2. Ward starts in midfield as he's returned from injury. Half time went and nothing really happened. Blackburn perhaps the better side but nothing to note. Encouraged the team and see what it brings. Straight away we take the ball up, Jovial hits it out to the ring and it eludes Buxton go to out for a throw in. We really like doing that. Corner comes in, Evans heads, Camp saves but Kilgallon hits it in. 1 - 0 Blackburn and we're being battered now. Tactical change needed. Well I'm not sure what just happened. Camp hits it out to the wing yet I have no wingers on the pitch giving Blackburn possession, they knock it down and make it 2 - 0. Is that a bug? I don't get why he'd do that. Broadfoot is more interesting in trying to flag offside then track Tony Watt he moves in and placs it. 3 - 0 Blackburn. Massive changes coming to the side for the Huddersfield game. Camp has to make a brilliant save to stop it being 4. I think my CBs have lost their heads. Not one shot on target. 1 point above the relegation zone.

Away - Huddersfield Town - Huddersfield are 3rd and next game is against leaders Hull. Any points here would be a bonus. We need points here to avoid going into the drop. Fifteen minutes in and we've picked up three yellow cards. Huddersfield are attacking us but we're dealing well. We're just unable to counter. Huws smashed in a 30 yard freekick which Camp saves but somehow saves so it goes up and out to Scannell who taps in, 1 - 0 down. Just before half time and a couple of slick passes lets Newell in, we're all even again! Half time hits. I encourage the players and make no subs though some players could be playing better. 30 minutes to go and with 5 yellow cards in the team the underperformers are taken off. Thorpe still hasn't played well in one game and Kilitie is struggling and sicne he just picked up a yellow Ledesma replaces. Clarke-Harris comes on for Jovial. Nothing much happens in the second half so a point picked up is a quality point. I think I'm looking at a fine though since we somehow picked up seven yellow cards! Huddersfield picked up four. 2 points above the drop now!

Home - Hull City - Gallagher gets the start as the lone striker. Jovial is out of form and I don't think Best is the best choice here. Yedba comes in for Frecklington as he very much needs a rest before the run of games Bolton, Fulham and Preston we should be taking 6 points atleast from. 18th minute error by Kilitie lets Hull counter and a great double save keeps it 0 - 0. 23 minutes though Robertson hits a ball in the box and Hernandez jumps highest to put Hull infront. 34 minutes corner comes on and we're letting them pass the ball into the box where Odubajo makes it two, Shinnie had to do better. Half time and I've had to be aggressive, this won't do. Some subs had to be made as a couple of players are players so poor. 58th minute and we should of had one back. Ball comes in and Newell is free at the back post, he hits the bar and doesn't follow the ball up and Hull clear. Gallagher goes close but McGregor is equal. He then makes way for Jovial. We're on top for now, alot better in the second half. Embarrasing header back to Belaid goes unpunished as Diomande misses the target, should of been 3. Halford who has been moved to rightback makes a great tackle on Robertson and sets up a counter, Jovial runs down the right and plays it through to Kilitie and it's 2 - 1. Game on! Rotherham are still having the possession they're just not making it count. A tight affair ends and Rotherham end up losing 2 - 1 to top of the league Hull. We should of done better.

Home - Bolton - No ifs or buts, this is a must win game. Halford starts at RB since he impressed vs Hull. Shinnie is dropped for Ledesma. Burke is back from 3 months of injury and is on the bench. Well he was, he's now out for 9 - 10 months with his cruciates. He'll need replacing in a week when the window opens, atleast I can send him back. Annoying start, we can't make well of the possession and we've gited Bolton a couple of chances. Mattock went to his a cross, bounced off a bolton player directly to Clough who skillfully took it past Wood but Camp saved. Another chance Camp saved and Halford blocked the follow up. Bolton are being the better side. Camp is keeping us in this. We're watching them pass the ball, Moxey crosses in and Wellington Silva scores. No idea what we're doing here. To come from the Hull game to this is awful. They've had 15 shots, 9 on target, 3 CCCs. We've had 1 shot, off target. Just after half time they have another CCC, awful defending from Wood. We're just watching them. That was worse then the Leeeds game, we were so bad. Almost makes me want to resign but I know we can stay up. We're not in the drop down to GD. So many teams around us.

Away - Fulham - 19th vs 20th. Will this lift be to 18th? That's how close it is down the bottom. 20 seconds in it took us to hit the bar. Kilitie passed to the overlapping Kelly and Best hit the bar, close but no cigar. Well, this goal is so weird. A back kick out from Camp goes to Fulhams rightback, he absolutely thumps it to his goalkeeper who makes a shambles of it and lets Best run in and shoot, 1 - 0 to the Millers! Good work from Fulham puts Woodrow in who centers to McCormack where camp saves, should of done better. This time they do better, a ball over frees Demebele in and it's 1 - 1. Dembele is the man again, Woodrow slides in to shoot and Camp saves but here's there to put it in. Fulham lead. Should of been 3 but Kelly clears off the line, they have a barrage of corners and we can't deal with them. This time it is 3, a simple ball over and Demebele nods home. This is looking dull. Clarke-Harris is brought on to make it a 4 - 4 - 2 but I think the game is over. Fulham win. We need this transfer window, fast.

The table as of January 1st

January

Away - Preston North End - vs bottom of the table, this is a must win. Going in with a flat basic 4 - 5 - 1 with Best starting as the lone striker. Nothing happens in the first half, perhaps both sides are bit shakey. I decide this is where Del Boy must come in and he who dares. I switch to a 4 - 4- 2. We kick off and attack quickly, Mattocks ball is just too long for Best. Preston go down the other end and hit the bar. 65th minute and a huge mistake from Huntington let's in Clarke-Harris who powers wide, how did he manage to miss that?! A few minutes later Kilite has the ball down the right and crosses in to Jovial who smashes at the keeper, another change goes begging. It's Rotherham doing all the pressing. A PNE corner comes to nothing but they're able to keep the ball, some nice passing lets in Tiendali and it's a good save from Camp. I go into attacking mode and a corner isn't dealt with by PNE. Ward knocks it back to Kiltie who centers for Clarke-Harris who smashes home. 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 90th minute! The whsitle goes and a massive 3 points to the Millers!

FA Cup 3rd Round - Away - Bristol City - New signing Franck Moussa goes in on the left and new loan singing Siaka Tiene goes in at LB. Not looking to do much here apart from get some players match fitness. 16th minute and a croiss from Golbourne, it evades Tiene at the back post and Fana knocks it in. 1 - 0 to the home side. 21st mintue and some fancy footwork let's Kodija and it's a good save from Camp. We're struggling to play this new addition of 4 - 5 - 1. 35th minute, Tiene throws the ball in to Moussa and a penalty is given! I can't actually tell you why so I'd say it wasn't a pen. Shinnie steps up and... scores! 1 - 1. Clarke-Harris comes on for Gallagher and Grant Ward comes on for Greg Halford as we start the second half 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. A nice ball from Kelly goes over to MacDonald who turns and plays in Clarke-Harris! 1 on 1 cooly slots home but he's offside! Still anyones game. A nice ball to Kojida and he dribbles and smashes it, close. A lovely dribble from Moussa down the middle goes close! Another dribble from Moussa and he hits the post! A freekick to Rotherham and the ball is punted into the box with a half volley from Clarke-Harris and it takes a great save from O'Donnell in the Bristol City net, some good football from the Millers. A much better half performance from Rotherham and the whistle goes for a draw. A replay will be needed, not something I wanted.

Home - Brighton and Hove Albion - New loan signing Jed Wallace starts this game, with the record he had for me when I played as Portsmouth it was a must do deal. I go into this lining up 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. 1 minute in and good ball over the top from Mattock lets in Jovial, it takes a good save from Dibusz to stop the Millers from going infront. Rotherham go close from a corner and Brighton have to charge down Belaids volley to keep it from going in. Rotherham looking lively. Minutes late James Wilson picks a loose ball up from a corner and drills in from 20 yards, that is some goal. Belaid doesn't mark Hemed well enough and Kayals ball over is taking down and slotted in. 2 - 0 to the away team. The half time whistle goes and the only option is go to go 4 - 4 - 2. All 3 subs made and it's go for broke. Some nice slow passing from Rotherham and Jovial smashes in from outside the box, second very nice goal of the game. Game on! It's all Rotherham but we can't make the pressure count. Brighton counter and Jamie Murphy smashes the post, a let off there. A great ball from Newell plays in Wallace who centers for Best, but Gordon Greer blocks the shot or that should of been the equaliser. Smallwood closes down the ball who plays it to Best, Best knocks it to Newell who centers the ball, Jovial has the goal at his mercy but hits it at Dibusz, that should of been 2 - 2. Wallace and Dunk both go up to head the ball but they both miss and it lets in Jovial, he runs up and hits the post! This without a doubt should be a Millers victory yet we found ourselves behind! A ball up to Jovial on the right and he holds up and waits for a cross, he crosses to no one but Brightons defense make a hash of it and it lands to Best. Best doesn't react quick enough and the ball goes out for a throw. Some nice passing with 30 seconds to go and Jovial is played through, this must be the equaliser! No! He hits it wide! Rotherham fans must be shouting abuse! Full time and Brighton take home the victory and I cannot tell you how. The players get the hairdryer treatment.

Home - Queens Park Rangers The club below me, this is a must win game. Chuks Aneke has just been brought in on loan and will start. Gladwin isn't closed down though he has two Rotherham players on him, he crosses in and Polter beats Broadfoot in the air. 3 minutes in and it's 1 - 0 to QPR. A minute later and QPR are passing round us, a shot from outside the area is well saved by Camp. A Rotherham corner is cleared all the way back to Kelly, he pumps it up and it's flicked on by Broadfoot and headed home by Clarke-Harris. 1 - 1! QPR are making mistakes but we're just gifting the ball back. They go close just before half time and it's 1 - 1 at the break. A passioniate team talk seems to offend the players, odd. There's a lack of tracking back and Kelly has to try and mark two men, an overlap happens and Konchesky centers and Mackie heads home. 2 - 1 to QPR. QPR smash it from 30 yards and it takes a good save from Camp for it to not go 3 - 1, that was close. Rotherham stand and watch whilst QPR past the ball round. Polter takes it past Broadfoot and makes it 3 - 1. 20 minutes left I go from 4 - 4 - 2 to 4 - 5 - 1 and make all 3 subs. The game fizzles out and it's a victory for QPR. They overtake us and we go into the relegation zone.

FA Cup 3rd Round Replay - Home - Bristol City Match fitness again. I have no plans in the cup, especially with Cardiff 3 days after. A nice ball through to Fana and it should already be 1 - 0 to Bristol City on the 12th minute, good save from Camp. Some lovely passing from Rotherham and Kilitie has the ball on the right wing, centers it and Jovial knocks it into an open net. 1 - 0 to the Millers. A corner for Rotherhaqm gets played out and Buxton hits it back up, Collins flicks on but it got array but still ends up with Newell who unleashes a volley just before the break and Rotherham go in 2 - 0 up. Some rebounded balls and a couple of passes and somehow Bristol are in the Rotherham area and Camp has to make a quality save to deny Kodija. The whistle is blown and it's Rotherham who progress to set up a match vs Leeds United.

Away - Cardiff City Going into this 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 thinking the extra man in midfield will help us out. Some nice passes from a simple free kick see Kilitie set up MacDonald who scores his first Rotherham goal! Minutes later Broadfoot has the ball at our corner flag, passes it to Belaid who somehow doesn't pick the ball up properly at all. Macheda picks up and crosses for Saadi who equalises no problems. Not happy with that. Three Rotherham plays around Saadi in the box and somehow MacDonald fouls him and it's a penalty to Cardiff! Not even sure what for! Macheda steps up.... It's saved by Camp! It's 1 - 1 at the break. The second half is all Rotherham, Moussa is back from injury and brought on for Newell and Clarke-Harris for Jovial. 20 minutes to go and Halford is coming on for the booked Collins. Will there be another goal? There is and it's for Cardiff. Simple passes around a stationary Rotherham, a cross in and Saadi pretty much chests it in. It's time to attack. Macheda his the bar seconds before the final whistle but that's the game and it's 2 - 1 to Cardiff. We need to win to get out of the relegation zone now.

FA Cup 4th Round - Home - Leeds United Here for the ride but losing against Leeds isn't my cup of tea. Leeds pick up Camps goal kick and run at Rotherham, the ball is played through to Woods who squares Cook who smashes in. 26th minute see Leeds pump the ball into the box and Mattock foul Carayol. Penalty it is and Dallas sticks it away no problem. Rotherham can't seem to get a foot hold in this game and we need half time. As I typed that we pump the ball up and it lands to Wallace, he runs and smashes the bar, so close. Half time, 3 subs and attacking 4 - 4- 2. Some nice passing and Ward hits the ball into the box for Gallagher to poke in, 2 - 1! It's all Rotherham and a half volley from Moussa goes close. Leeds counter quickly from this and Wood holds the ball up, Belaid makes a stupid tackle and it's a second yellow. The rest of the match will be played with 10 men. It takes a top top save from Camp to keep out Mowatts freekick. A brilliant pass down the middle from Ward let's in Clarke-Harris, it's close! Despite 10 men Rotherham are still pushing for the equaliser. A bad kick out from Camp gives leeds posession and they're able to make the extra man count and it's 3 - 1. Camps kicking has been questionable recently. It's a deserved victory for Leeds.

End of transfer window

In:



Franck Moussa - Needed another player to play on the left and at AMC, for a free and 2.5k a week I can't complain.

Siaka Tiene - Needed LB cover with Cech and Wood(who isn't on the screenshot due to moving in Feb to America) as Belaid is being moved to the middle

Chunks Aneke - is a quality player I'm hoping will do the business that Shinnie isn't

Jed Wallace - Right winger, plain and simple. He's done a job for me before, can he re-create that magic.

Landry Bonnefoi - Goalkeeper to replace Lobont as he's injured for 10 months

Out:



Wood is also leaving for 100k.

February

Home - Charlton Atheltic - Going in attacking 4 - 4 - 2. This and Bolton are must win games if I want to stay up. I need to be the best side and playing football they can't cope with. Charlton are actually the side below me with Preston at the bottom. I want to beat Charlton more now since their manager thinks I should be sacked, he's doing worse than me! First six seconds and we somehow pass it off the pitch and 7 minutes in Frecks is injured, not good. Charlton hit the bar and are unable to follow up the rebound. Not sure what Buxton was doing. Frecks replacement Ward picks up an injurt but is able to stay on. A great ball from Poyet plays in Faubert who applies a very nice finish. This isn't what I expected from Rotherham. Very angry half time team talk and I hope we play better. The equaliser! Some fast passing and Kilitie has the ball out right, plays it in and Gallagher knocks it on. Game on! Tiene is struggling and it allows Charlton to cross the ball and hit the post. Come on Millers, wake up! I use the team talk passionate - push forward. We need a goal! We're on the counter and Tiene is on the left open, a ball through and cross over and Jovial heads it in! 2 - 1 to the Millers!!! Both teams are attacking but only seconds are left. The Millers take a vital win! We move out of the relegation zone and Q.P.R go back in!

Away - Bolton Wanderers - Going with the same 4 - 4 - 2 attacking. First minute goal! Jovial skins a couple of players and puts the ball across the box where Gallagher hits in from a tight angle. 1 - 0 to the Millers! Some quick passes and it's back to Buxton who crosses over to Newell waiting in the box who volleys it in on the 7th minute! 2 - 0 to the Millers! Attack, attack, attack! Camps kicking comes into question again from the free kick and we never win the ball back, Vela crosses in and Clough puts it in. 2 - 1 and game on. Wallace plays through to Jovial and Rob Holding makes a mess of cutting it out and actually helps Jovial, hit from just outside the box and it flys in, 3 - 1! Aneke plays a short pass from the freekick out to the left, Tiene plays it through to Newell, he crosses it in and Jovial finishes it. 4 - 1 to the Millers! Changes from both sides kills the tempo of the game and it fizzles out until the final whistle. A great victory for the Millers who take a big win home. This puts us 5 points above Q.P.R and now above Fulham. Only one point behind Bolton and Bristol City, two behind Leeds and three behind Reading. 16th is still possible.

Home - Birmingham City - They're doing very well this season and they're sat in 4th, this is going to be a hard game. Jovial picked up a knock and isn't available. Is Becchio back though? Not quite. We've been the better side but the 29th minute a ball over the top lets Donaldson in and it's the visitors who lead. Another hoof uptop evades Broadfoot and Donaldson makes it two. They're literally pumping the ball in the box to win. Second half the same 4 - 4 - 2 just push up and use offside trap. 30 minutes to go I switch to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1, maybe the extra midfielder will help. It didn't, some dilly-dally football and Donaldson hits it in from outside the box, you don't save those. Rotherhams midfield is playing well. It's been the defense who have let the team down. Belaid lets Donaldson run through and it could of been 4. Full time whistle goes and hairdryer treament is given. The teams around me didn't win thankfully.

Away - Burnley - Becchio starts with Jovial. Can he be the difference? 10 minutes in and Andre Gray gets played in, good save from camp! A good interception from Thorpe allows us to play some nice football, Kiltie crosses to Jovial and it's 1 - 0 seconds before the half time whistle! Just after the break Becchio knocks it out to Moussa who crosses first time, it hits the bar and Jovial is the first to it. 2 - 0 to Rotherham! Ward loses the ball outside the Burnley box and they counter, Camp makes a good save from Nsue but Gray is there to follow up. 2 - 1. Subs made, same tactic though. Somehow Burnley have scored! Keane plays it in and Gray overpowers Thorpe to put it in. It makes it 2 - 2. The full time whistle goes and it's a draw. It's still a good result.

Away - Reading - A few line up changes but Becchio and Jovial start uptop still. We start with some nice passin gbut the pass it just too far for Jovial. The throw in ends up with a goal from Tiene but Buxton is offside. A few minutes go and Ola John puts reading up, ball down the right and Vydra knocks it across. Thorpe is no way near John. It's a goal! 26nd minute and Kilite knocks it across, Becchio is the one to get on the end and it's even! It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham! Kilitie knocks it across and Moussa hits it. Bond saves but it's a mess in the box and Gunter claims the own goal. Rotherham lead at the break. Minutes after the break it's back to 2 - 2. A freekick is passed short to Ferdinand who passes to Vydra who passes it in the net, too easy. Subs are made but sticking with 4 - 4 - 2. Some good play from Reading lets Gunter in but Camp is equal. Reading go close again. Buxton hoofs it up instead of playing it to Aneke and Reading counter, good save from Camp stops John. The final whistle goes and it's a point we'll take.

Home - Brentford - Quite a few line up changes to keep players fresh. Brentford are pushing for the play offs but our form isn't too bad. A first minute goal to Brentford, a cross is cleared by Brentford knocks it back in and Akaki Gogia is there to knock it in, we should of played him offsie there. We go close on 8 minutes, Halford crosses in and Newell knocks it slightly wide. Another cross from the right and we hit the bar. 2 - 0 Brentford, Shenton passes through to the on running Gogia who plays it cooly past camp. We've perhaps been the better team but they've had the best chances. 3 - 0 Brentford. Goga passes through 3 players for Hofmann to put in, defense is AWOL. There's the difference. Gallagher plays in Jovial who's 1 and 1 and hits it straight at the keeper. 3 - 1, Newell floats in a freekick and Gallagher picks it up, hits at the keeper but manages to put in the rebound. Half time and it's 3 - 1. Collins and Jovial both coming off for Thorpe and Becchio. 4 - 1 to Brentford. Hoffman plays in Judge who smashes home. 5 - 1 to Brenford. Wallace heads a ball for no reason, he doesn't need to, he has time to bring it down, gives possession to Brentford who pass it to Judge who smashes home. Finished 5 - 1 to Brentford, I'm left to scold my team at the full time whistle.

March

Away - Sheffield Wednesday - Rivals and I do not want a repeat of the Brentford game. Tactic change to 4 - 5 - 1. Quiet first half with Sheff Weds going closest hitting the post from a cross, they'd of had to of done well to get it in. Just before the whistle Clarke-Harris is fouled about 30 yards out. From this we play it down the right and Buxton crosses in a ball, Moussa gets to it and heads it in, 1 - 0 to Rotherham at the break! 55th minute and Clarke-Harris goes down again from Josue who's already on a yellow, should he of seen red? Ref doesn't think so. A cross in from Sheff Weds and no one is near to challenge yet Tiene still heads it back in, Songou picks it up and passes to Hooper who scores. I'm bemused. Subs made and Becchio is brought on. 68th minute Rotherham swing in a corner and it's a pen! Pudli fouls the oncoming Newell. Aneke steps up and... slots it home! Wildsmith was close to getting it though. Nothing much happens for the rest of the second half and we take back to Rotherham 2 - 1 win over Sheff Weds. We're done the double over them this season!

Home - Middlesborough - Only a place ahead of Sheff Weds and Downing was the difference last time and he's injured. Could we get a result? 7th minute and Newell goes down injured, Moussa replaces. We're enjoying most of the possession and it pays off. Some quick passing with Kilite and Buxton makes space and Kilitie passes to Frecklington who's just inside the box who smashes it in the top corner. 19th minute and 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Clarke-Harris holds the ball up well after Kilite wins the midfield battle. He plays some nice passes with Moussa and Frecklington which let's him push up, a ball back to Clarke-Harris and he plays in Shinnie! Shinnie hits the post from a tight angle though the in game commentary can't believe he's missed it. Some nice passing between Moussa and Mattock down the left and Moussa cuts inside, no one closes him down though and he curls it in the top corner. 33 minutes gone and 2 - 0 to the Millers! It hits half time and we've been excellent! 60th minute and Belaid makes a good interception but can't control the ball, Kike Sola has the ball in the box and Camp saves. 69th minute and Sola beats Belaid in the air but has no support, Sola picks the ball up and runs down the right, still no support he tries a shot but it'd of had to be of been goal of the season to even get it on target. Rotherham still enjoying most of the ball but neither side is doing much with it, both teams trying hollywood balls. The final whistle goes and it's a home victory, 2 - 0 to the Millers and we move into 17th!

Home - Derby - The same 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 tactic with Moussa replacing the injured Newell and Aneke who's fit again to replace Shinnie. Clarke-Harris tries a 35 yarder and it just goes wide, so unlucky! He had no options to pass too. Half time hits and neither side have had a proper chance, both making too many mistakes. Buxton is struggling so Kelly comes on and Jovial who's back from injury takes Clarke-Harris' place. Only 5 minutes left Becchio comes on and we attack but it's too late and it finishes 0 - 0. Still a nice point against the team in 3rd. We drop to 18th but we're 9 points clear of the relegation zone now.

Away - Ipswich Town - 4 - 5 - 1 and Gallagher starts uptop. What a great decision. Camp starts with a goalkick and Gallagher heads down to Ward even though four, yes four! Ipswich Town players also go up in the air. Ward plays it to Wallace who centers to Aneke who chips a neat ball over to Moussa who hits it first time. 1 - 0 in the 3rd minute! 2 - 0! Another camp goal kick and it's Ward who goes up, he loses out but Smallwood mops the ball up and plays to Gallagher. He runs at the defense but is tackled, luckily the ball ends up at Wallace who runs down the right, plays back to Kelly who passes to Ward who unleashes in. Stuff dreams are made off and maybe a new contract for next season. 2 - 1, Corner comes in and it's hit out, Moussa gets skinned and Skuse passes to Maitland-Niles who drills it in from 30 yards, nothing we could of done to stop that. Top notch goal. 3 - 1! 33rd minute and we have a freekick on the right, Ward hits in the box and Aneke is at the back post to hit in, no defending near him. Minutes later and it's 4 - 1! Gallagher runs down the right and tries to cross the ball in but it's blocked, Wallace is there to collect the ball, passes to Ward and it's cleared to Thorpe. Thorpe plays it to Kelly, who plays to Ward who knocks it back through to Wallace who crosses in, Gallagher flicks it on for Moussa to knock it at the far post, this is a qualiy game! It was nearly 5! Some nice passing lets Gallagher in but Bialowski makes a brilliant save at his near post. 4 - 1 to Rotherham at the break! 58 minutes and it's 5! Gallagher is tackled but Smallwood picks the ball up, knocks the ball over the top to Wallace who crosses in for Gallagher who knocks it home! Ipswich change formation to defend in numbers, they're doing anything to survive. Just before the full time whistle and it's 5 - 2! Knudsens freekick is headed home by Cummings. A bit too late one would say. The full time whistle goes and it's a deserved victory for Rotherham. Moussa was only brought in for backup and he's been amazing! That puts up to to 17th, 12 points clear of Charlton who are 22nd.#

Contract Talks

Days after the Ipswich Towin win Rotherham United propose contract rewnwel talks with me, of course I accepted!



Just before the Leeds game I got my first manager of the month .



April



Home - Leeds United Going to keep with the 4 - 5 - 1 for this after it worked so well for the Ipswich Town game. No players changed. A minute in and Gallagher goes close, he wins the aerial battle and knocks it down to Kelly, Kelly knocks it over the top to Gallagher but he's closed to a tight angle and can't get a proper shot off. 1 - 0 Leeds, corner comes in and cleared to Carayol, he knocks it back to corner taker Mowatt who crosses in, it eludes everyone except Dallas who puts it in. 2 - 0 to Leeds, maybe I should of gone to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as it's worked at Home. Some nice play down the left and Dallas gets his second. It's 2 - 1 just before half time! Just nice passes and Mattock crosses form the left, Wallace is in the middle to head home. Go 4 - 4 - 2 at the break with Becchio and Jovial coming on for Gallagher and Aneke. Close! Just after the break and some nice passing from Rotherham, Jovial just inside the area drills it and it takes a good stop from Marco Silvestri. Just minutes after Dallas is played in again but Camp makes a great stop! Rotherham are on the counter and it's a nice one-two with Wallace and Jovial, Wallace crosses in but Becchio nods it wide. Last sub for Rotherham - Frecks is coming on for Moussa and Ward goes out left. Can he be the spark? Jovial misses a glorious chance! Some confusion in passes and Smallwood sets him free. 1 on 1 and he hits at the keeper! Jovial seems to be trying to hard now, Rotherham are able to counter and instead of crossing he tries to shoot from what I can only say is a stupid angle. Leeds go close, Mattock fails in closing down on Botaka and crosses to Doukara, Camp makes a good stop and smothers the ball. Leeds win 2 - 1. Jovial could of been the difference here. Clarke-Harris and Best could brought back in. The front two were woeful.

Away - Bristol City Starting with Clarke-Harris and 4 - 5 - 1. A few changes have had to be made being a Tuesday night game and we're against MK Dons on Saturday. Bristol City are the team who just took over us so a win would be handy! 8 mins in and Rotherham have a pen! Moussa crosses the ball in and Joe Bryan pushes over Wallace, like literally pushes him over. It's Clarke-Harris... he powers it in! 1 - 0! Bristol should of scored. Kodjia is somehow through 1 on 1 and puts it wide. I'm still waiting for the liner to flag him off, no way he was onside. Rotherham go in at the break 1 - 0 up. Aneke has to come on for an injured Wallace, Moussa on the right and Newell on the left. Some lovely football from Rotherham and should of resulted in a goal. Passing from the defense, through the midfield and to Clarke-Harris, Bristol City are far too pushed up. Aneke is the runner and he one twos with Clarke-Harris whos thunderous drive is too close to Fielding, he had the whole of the left side to aim for! Moussa head the ball off to waste time and the whistle goes. It's a victory to Rotherham! Back to 18th and 11 points clear of Preston who are now 22nd. Q.P.R and Charlton trail in 23rd and 24th.

Away - MK Dons Same formation, just a couple of player changes. 19th minute and it's 1 -0 to MK Dons. They just pass it about, hit it from the left and Emmanuel-Thomas beats both CBs in the air, bad play from Rotherham. Pentalty to MK Dons. 28th minute. Long ball over and Murphy takes it past Broadfoot all too easy who fouls in area. Forster-Caskey steps up and smashes it in the top corner, this is bad play from a side who are in form! Should of been 2 - 1, Kilite crosses from the right and Moussa runs in, he's on able to hit it at the keeper. Hairdryer treatment and attacking 4 - 4 - 2 coming up! 81st minute and Frecklingtons corner is flicked on by Aneke and Thorpe finishes, 2 - 1! OH what a header! Wards corner in on the 87th minute and Clarke-Harris from 10 yards powers a header in! Much better second half and the whistle goes for a draw.

Home - Nottingham Forest 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as we're at home and a couple of line up changes. 14th minute and it's 1 - 0 to the visitors. Some nice passing and Assombalonga plays in Oliveira who slots it away. Contender for goal of the season, Jamie Ward smashes from 20 yards out and bounces off the bar in, Forrest 2 - 0. Half time whistle blows and we need to go 4 - 4 - 2 to try and save this. 3 - 0 Forrest. Good save from Camp but it forces a corner. Corner comes in, Mancienne heads towards goal and Assombalonga smashes it in. 4 - 0, awful awful defending from Rotherham, they're awol. Cross comes in, evades two defenders and a striker and Ward knocks it in at the back post. It's a cross across the floor, Rotherham have to do better. Rotherham just arne't in this, there's some sloppy passing and some woeful defending. 5 - 0 as I typped the woeful defending, mistake from Kelly lets in Ward and it's 5 - 0. Full time whistle goes and I lose my rag. Clarke-Harris was so bad.

Away - Huddersfield 4 - 5 - 1 and 9 changes after that defeat. 3rd minute and a ball in sets up Wells, good save from Camp and Wells shoots the rebound wide. It's Rotherham who take the lead! Halford started at RB and its his cross from a Kiltie through ball that goes into the box, Moussa puts it in just seconds after Wells' chance. Nearly 2! Same sort of cross and Huddersfield have to throw players infront of Moussa. It's 1 - 1, Bunn hits the freekick in, Tiene misses it, Camps awol and Wells pretty much puts in an open net. A very bad throw in from Huddersfield gives Becchio the ball, he runs in the box and slots it home, 2 - 1! Kelly comes into the LB slot to take off Tiene who's having a shocker and Shinnie is knackered as he played the reserve match, Aneke comes on. Rotherham defending well letting Wells be offside. 2 - 2 good passing from Huddersfield and no one puts a real challenge in, Smith plays in Bunn and it's a goal. Kilite goes close, he takes the corner and it's cleared back to him, he cuts in and it's just wide. 3 - 2 to Huddersfield. Moussa runs with the ball instead of passing to open players, tries a bad through ball where Huddersfield counter, Matamour knocks it from the right wing and Wells knocks it in, game thinks Camp is having a shocker as he's sat on 5.9. Camp makes a great save! Kelly is struggling down the left and a cross goes in, Wells is 6 yards out by Camp saves! Another great save, a tackle goes in that somehow plays through Lolley and Camps equal. Seconds left and Moussa scores! Newell knocks the ball up and Moussa cuts in, dribbles between two and knocks it in, lovely goal and a big point! Full time! Dropped to 19th but we're staying up!

Away - Wolves - 4 - 5 - 1 and a couple of defensive changes. Wolves the better side but nothing to report and it's half time. Becchio comes off for Gallagher. Wolves should of scored, quick passing, ball from right and Le Fondre his the bar! There's the goal, a fast counter and a ball from the right sets up van La Parra at the back post. Wolves 1 - 0 up. Rotherham have struggled in this game, maybe I went with the wrong formation and needed two uptop at the half.

Home - Blackburn - 4 - 4 - 2 and Best and Jovial come back into the squad. 4 minutes in and it looks like Rotherham have taken the lead! Belaid is offside though. It's Blackburn who take the lead, Bennett skins Newell, plays it through to Jordi Gomez who slots it home. A quiet half really and the whistle goes. I switch to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as both strikers aren't playing well. The second half is made up of fouls and sloppy play, there's no chances and it's a Blackburn win.

May



Away - Hull City 4 - 5 - 1 against the league winners. I'd like to win and hit 50 points as we're on 48. Rotherham lead! Hulls formation makes them chase like a pack of dogs leaving alot of space, Kiltie crosses from the right and Aneke heads home. Nothing much happens and it's half time. Broadfoot comes on for Belaid due to being booked. Close! Corner comes in and not sure who but a Hull player latches on for a half valley, that's a good save from Camp. 1 - 1. Odubjao crosses in and Snodgrass gets ahead of Broadfoot to hit home. It's all over. 2 shots, 1 on target and we draw. We finish 21st in the league, 8 points ahead of 22nd.

End of season

The Sky Bet Championship table



Happy to stay up, some bad results and we need alot of personnel change.



Moussa has been great and I've already offered him a new contract for the next season, only for 3.2k a week aswell.



We need mostly a new squad. Faster defenders, solider midfielders and consistent strikers. Jovial went so cold even the fans are annoyed with him even though iirc he was our top scorer.

Season 2

We're struggling financially and I have a transfer budget of 0 and 26k per week over my week budget. Oh dear. Looks like we need to sell before we can bring in frees.

The idea here is to let the ageing players go, sell the players I can to make money and look for frees with ability, not too much wage and will sell for profit.

It took quite awhile to start anything. I had to wait until July until offers came in for Belaid and Smallwood. I offered Belaid out for 3mil, Livorno offered 1.5, I asked back for 2.8 and they accepted so I took a chunk of their hand off! Smallwood not so easy but 1.6mil for him since I can never find consistency will do me. Same with MacDonald, 500k and there are players for free that can play his in his positions.

So first the transfers

Transfers Out



I thought getting 400k for Joe Mattock was a steal. I've replaced with a 24 year old Italian in Paolo Frascatore and a young Danish left back in Kristian Pedersen who has room to improve.

Transfers in



Niolao Dumitru - 24 year old Italian striker signed on a free. For my level he looks great and I'm looking forward to him leading our line. I think he's better than any of the strikers from last season and I just need to get him settled. I've brought in a few Italians due to my scouting range(Only England and Italy currently). If it doesn't work out he has re-sale value but I'd rather he became a club hero!

Krystian Bielik - Young versatlie player on loan from Arsenal for no wage. Will be covering at CB and playing DM and CM.

Jesse Joronen - Could of been better backup goalkeepers but on 2.2k a week I snapped him for a year, has room to improve. Will he improve here?

Jim O'Brien - Scouted at the end of the first seaosn but had to wait to sign, was hoping for his wage to drop but he came in on 6.5k a week. He did well at Coventry last season and I'm hoping to keep the form going. He'll be played on the right but he's natural in the center. 6.5k maybe too much as he's my second highest payed player but will he prove his worth?

Romaine Sawyer - First choice for AMC slot and a quality free. 12 assists for Walsall last season and retraining to play in MC. Happy to have got in on 4k a week.

Tommmy Rowe - Can play in MacDonalds position and cover at LB, 4.5k a week seemed like a no brainer.

Tomislav Saric - Croatian MC who assisted 11 in 33 for Osjijek in the Crotian first league last season. He's a backup for Frecklington but doesn't look too shabby.

Lukas Stratil - A young Czech striker with some potential, has a year contract and it's make or break for him. He's 4th choice but he'll get game time.

Emmanuel Eboue - Experienced right back, Sunderland just snapped him up in real life, think he'll do the job.

Marcello Trotta - All of a sudden he was on the loan list, 10k p/m fee and only £600 per week wages, championship experience, seemed like a must.

Mason Holgate - Originally went in and they wanted money and 100% wage. Two days later no fee and 50% wage, backup CB and RB for a year, will get game time.

Raffaele Pucino - 25 year old Italian right back, was looking to buy him but fee and wage made no sense and loan was the best option. First choice.

Thiago Cionek - 75k for a solid CB from Palermo. Wasn't played at Palermo last season so no doubt itching to get back playing. He'll be 3rd choice.

John Egan - When I was struggling to find CBs he came out of knowhere. Brought in to play next to Thorpe and still has room to improve at the age of 23. Great signing.

Krisitian Pedersen - Young Danish LB who will be first choice. If it doesn't work out there will be resale vlue.

Paolo Frascatore - Another Italian who will be second choice at LB. Did well at Reggiana on loan last season and will be looking to carry that on.

The Squad



Looking really strong compared to what I had. Some wage and transfer fee is left over. Currently only interested in Scottish midfielder Stuart Bannigan and New Zeland center back Tommy Smith. Both contracts expired but either won't sign or want too much money. Maybe we'll get in January.

Staff

Managed to get most to sign an extenstion. Adrian Littlejohn our Under 18s Physio was stolen by Huddersfield but replaced by Andrew Arthurs for 1/3 of the wage and my assistant retired out of the blue. Was hard to find a replacement so for a season I have a "fill in".

Finances

Alot healthier then two months earlier. Alot of deadwood was released and player sales made.



Pre-Season

I didn't play any of these games, I just changed tactic to if we were home or away. I needed to spend time finding players, the first three games we were playing grey players .



Now onto Season 2!

The Championship

August



Home - Barnsley First game of the season with a Yorkshire rival and ex-player Greg Halford at CB, will he score? Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Oh what a chance! 6 minutes in and we've hit a ball over the top to counter, Dumirtu takes it on and hits the post! That should of been a goal. 13th minute and this time it's 1 - 0 to the home side! Some nice passing and waiting and Frecklington backheels it through to Saywers who slots home, very goos team goal! Ohhh what a goal! I was typing about not much else has happened and it's half time but Newell on the 44th minute crosses in, Dumitru collects, spins on the ball and with two defenders closes down smashes it fron the egde of the box into the top corner. It's half time and fully deserved 2 - 0! Oof it's the bar! 49th minute and Frecks takes a freekick short to Newell, Newell lays Frecks off and hits long shot hits the bar! Unlucky! 60th min and Frascatore comes on for Pedersen and Moussa comes on for Bielek and Newell slots in the middle. Close again, Frascatore lays off Frecks who attempts to curl one and Lewis makes a great save. It's 3! 77th minute, Moussa switches the ball to the right flank, O'Brien crosses in and Dumitru with a good finish. Full time whistle goes and we've been brilliant. What a start to the season. We're second in behind Wolves who beat Derby 5 - 2!

Capital One Cup 1st Round - Away - Burton Albion Hopefully I can progress past the first stage this season. 9 different players in the starting 11 from the Barnsley win. Going 4 - 3 - 3(been calling it 4 - 5 - 1 but it's more 4 - 3 - 3). 1 - 0 to Rotherham on the 17th minute! Corner comes in for Burton and Ward clears, they attack again and we're able to counter. Trotta holds the ball up, passes to Rowe who's able to set up Moussa, Moussa runs down the left and slots it across the box for Trotta to hit home. 2 - 0! 22nd minute, Rotherham passing about a ball hit over to Eboue on the right, he crosses to Trotta who hits it in for his second! Should of been 3! Trotta plays in Kilitie who hits over, not sure how. 50 minutes and Rowe pulls up, looks like a hamstring injury, that's not good. Saric comes on for his debut. Stratil comes on at the 75th minute for Kilitie, not his main position but some match fitness will do. 2 - 0 victory to the Millers! Much better than last year.

Rowe has only gashed his leg and will be out for 2 weeks, not bad at all then.

Away - Wigan Athetlic - Going 4 - 4 - 3 again. 1 - 0 Rotherham! 9th minute and Pucino throws in, it eludes Wigans defense and Dumitru is there to hit it, it's a very good save from Mannone but our leftback Pedersen is there to hit in the rebound! We're letting Wigan have possesion but they're not doing anything with and we're the one who's having the chances. It's half time! Some lovely one touch football from Rotherham, great passing and it's 2 - 0. Ward, O'Brien and Dumitru looking like Premiership players in this attack, O'Brien plays it across the goal mouth and Captain Frecks slots in at the back post. Lovely team goal. 70th minute and Egan comes on for Thrope to make his debut now he's back from injury! That's close! It was nearly 2 - 1, Wigan corner comes in, hit back out, crossed back in and they hit the bar and Egan clears. Full time whistle goes and Wigan went for it in the second half but didn't make enough chances. 2 - 0 to Rotherham!

Home - Brighton and Hove Albion 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Alot of squad changes as it's a Tuesday night game. Close! Saric plays in Moussa but Denes Dibusz is equal too it. Close from Moussa again, cuts inside and goes just over. Close from Moussa again and his best chance. Dumitru is tackled but not far enough as he still holds the ball, plays in Moussa who has the goal at his mercy but it's at the keeper, didn't need to hit it first time. Half time whistle goes, we've had most possession and I'd take a draw. Horn Myhre comes on for Bielik as he's carded. 1 - 0 Brighton, Sigporsson heads in Knockaerts corner on the 48th minute. The Wingers are struggling so I'm going to go 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2. Playing out of defense and exploiting the middle. It's 1 - 1 on the 64th minute! It's a bit messy but Myhre collects the ball after Moussa is tackled. Passes to Clarke-Harris who plays in Dumitru hits it at the keeper but enough power for it to still go in! 2 - 1 Brighton. Sigporrson hits it to the right flank, Rosenior crosses it back in and Sigporsson hits home. There's a reason my defense are on 5.9, 6.6, 6.4 and 6.5. That was really poor by the back four. Overload for the last 5 minutes. Final whistle goes and it's a Brighton victory. Moussa played in the AMC slot as Sawyers was on international duty and I have to say he could of won of this game, he finishes on 6.5 for a reason, he was poor. Hairdryer treament for the players.

Player in Arsenal are my parent club and a list of players I could loan for nothing came through. Maitland-Niles is a midfielder who can play RM, and accomplished at RW and AMC. He played brilliant at Ipswich Town last season and scored a wordly against me.

Player in The CM I was scouting I finally have. Bannigan signed for 5k P/W, 23 years old. Played really well at Patrick Thistle last season and hopefully can carry that on.

Player out Felix Horn Myhre has been scouted by West Ham and they offered a joke for him. I put one million upfront, one million over 12 months and 50% profit of next sale and they accepted. I'll take that, none of my staff think he can be better than Thorpe at DM, or Newell, Bannigan, O'Brien, Frecklington at MC, you get my jist! He might of qualified in the end as homegrown but I'll take the risk.

Away - Sunderland 4 - 3 - 3. 15th minute and what a double save! Khazri takes the ball down really well and puts it in the box. Giaccherini hits it and Camp saves, Borini follows up and saves again! It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! Some nice passing and Frecklington plays it through to O'Brien who slots home for his first Millers goal! It's half time and Bannigan comes on for the booked Bielik to make his debut and Frascatore for the booked Pedersen. What a save from Camp again! Fletcher gets played through and Camp gets down to deny! Another double save from Camp! Jones crosses and Fletcher volleys, Camp saves and Khazri doesn't have alot to aim for but it's still on target, Camp gets down to hold it. What a game Lee Camp is having! Full time whistle goes and it's an away victory for the Millers! Camp MoM, what a display!

Captial One Cup 2nd Round - Away - Blackburn Rovers - They were promoted last season so it's time to test the 4 - 4 - 3 against a Premiership outfit. 8 seconds in and John Egan has a gashed head, they're telling me to sub him but I'm telling him to get on with it. So close! 7th minute and Holgate crosses in, Saric volleys it and it's just over! 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Saric hits it out left to Pedersen, his cross is too far but Kilitie is on the other end and hits it back in, Moussa hits it back and debutant Maitland-Niles drilles it in! 1 - 1. Conways freekick is headed in by Duffy. Half time and it's 1 - 1. Egan comign off for Thorpe. Maybe his gashed head is causing him problems as he's a bit below par compared to the rest of the team. 30 mins left and Stratil comes on for Moussa to play IF from the left and Trotta to go upfront in place of Clarke-Harris. It's so close for Stratil! We counter and Kilitie leaves the ball for Trotta, Trotta plays a through ball to Kilitie who runs down, crosses and it's a good save to stop the young Czech from scoring. 2 - 1 to Blackburn! Nyamba crosses from deep and Watt nods in, perfect ball. Whistle goes and it's 2 - 1 to Blackburn. Can't fault the lads.

Home - Burnley 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 and we see Sawyers return from international duty. He'll start behind Dumitru. 1 to the Millers in the 2nd minute! Bielik has the ball in the center of the park, hits a quality ball over to Newell on the left who centers, the ball evades Dumitru who looks like he's fouled by Keane but Sawyers is there to tuck it away! Great spell of possession in this first half. The first half whistle goes. We've had one shot, they'd had two. Fluke goal for Burnley! 1 - 1. Gray squares it to Toral, he shoots and it bounces off Cinoek to go in. 2 - 1 Burnley. All to easy, they pass around the box and Gray has it just on the right inside the box, chips it over and Kightly hits it in. Cionek should of attempted that differently and Kightly would of been offside. Time to change tactic. Clarke-Harris and Trotta on for Dumitru and Sawyers with Holgate on for Cionek. It's 3 - 1 to Burnley. Before the subs and tactics change we attack them and our passing from O'Brien, Dumitru and Bielik is worse than school yard. Gifting the ball, tackling to win it back, gifting the ball. Bielik gifts it, they counter and it's Chuks Aneke who scores! 4 - 1. Camp manages to double save from a corner but no one gets in to clear it and Tarkowski puts the 3rd attempt in, this is awful defending from Rotherham. Full time whistle goes and it's full on hairdryer.

Player in A young Austrian goalkeeper I've been scouting has dropped his wage demands, he'll come in to challenge Camp and Joronen will go into the u21s. His name is Alexander Schlager.

Player in This is quality news. Holgate has just been injured for two months and Middlesborough went in for Smith at the same time as me so I offered a bit more than normal but....





Transfer Window Closed





Look at money spent and received .



(Not usual first team, just the selection I'll be using vs Bristol City, training Bannigan to play DM).

September

Just noticed when taking the screenshot, it's either we've scored or they've scored, what a weird month.



Away - Bristol City Going 4 - 3 - 3 but my winger is at the MR position not AMR. 17th minute and Rotherham go close! Ball drops down after a corner and it's passed round, Rowe lays off Bannigan and it's a great save from McGovern. 1 - 0 to Bristol City. Ball over the top, Fana crosses in and Kodija heads home. Sure I've wrote that one before. 2 - 0 Bristol City. Whittaker corsses and Reid hits home. Rotherham have been second best. Going attacking 4 - 4- 2 for the second half. Nothing really happened in the second half and it was a poor display from Rotherham. Frascatore played well when he came in since Pedersen struggled at LB but still, not good.

Home - Middlesborough 4 - 5 - 1 as norm for Home. Middlesborough are actually 20th so I'm hoping for a result here. SO close! 12th minute, O'Brien crosses from deep and it hits the post, it bounces down and Sawyers doesn't make strong enough contact and Martinez is able to pick up due to lack of pace. Close again, Sawyers plays in Clarke-Harris who has more of the goal to shoot at then he thinks and he hits too close to Martinez who still has to make a good save. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham on the 28th minute! Frecks and O'Brien passing down the right/middle, Frecks switches the ball to the left and Newell crosses in for Sawyers to run in and slot home! Nothing much else happens and it's half time. I have three yellow cards but I'm not going to make a sub yet. Will I regret it? Oh no way! 56th minute and it should of been two! Camps goal kick evades everyone but Sawyers runs on, 1 on 1 and you'd of bet him to score, he knocks it wide! Could of been two, 90th minute and ball played down the left, Trotta runs down but no one is in the box for him to cross too and Sawyers is down injured off the ball, he has to cut inside and shoots on his left foot which doesn't give a good enough angle, what would of happened if Sawyers was able to run? Full time whistle goes and it's a victory to Rotherham!

Away - Reading Back to 4 - 3 - 3 with the RW. Games are coming thick and fast and this is the 3rd in a week so having rotate alot. 1 - 0 Rotherham! 23rd minute and Frascatore wins the ball from Bergwijn, passes to Moussa who passes to Maitland-Niles, he knocks it out right to Pucino who skins Obita, crosses in, it evades everyone but Moussa ia at the back post to hit in! 2 - 0 Rotherham! Pucino throws in deep in the Reading half, throws back to Bannigan who passes to Maitland-Niles who sets up Pucino back out on the right, he crosses in and Bond makes an absolute gash of it that lets Dumitru hit in an open net! It's half time! Nearly 2 - 1, Gunter throws it to Hurtado deep in the Rotherham half who crosses to Fosu who doesn't have much to aim for and hits it at Camp. 70th minute and both wide players replaced to keep it fresh, Moussa had a knock but nothing serious. It's overhit by Reading and the ball goes out of play, the final whistle goes and it's a Rotherham win!

Home - Cardiff City 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Both Sawyers and Moussa are injured so Maitland-Niles plays in the AMC slot. Could of been 1 - 0 already. Cardiff attempt to close down Maitland-Niles which leaves space for Dumitru, Maitland-Niles playes the ball through and Dumitru is 1 on 1, good save from Marshall but probably should of scored. It is 1 - 0 but to Cardiff. Long throw comes in from Gunnarsson and Ward wins the header, the ball lands back to Gunnarson who hits it, not sure if it's ment to be a cross or a shot but Camp has to get down to save, it bounces infront of goal and Kenwyne Jones knocks fires it in. Should of been 1 - 1, Frecklington curls in the free kick and Dumitru is the one to get to it and somehow hits it to Marshall, is he a Cardiff fan? That was a shocking miss. 2 - 0, a bad pass from Maitland-Niles and Ward has to stretch so he "tackles the ball" which Cardiff counter and Jones gets his second. Half time whistle goes and I lose my rag witht he players. 30 mins left and Trotta and O'Brien come on, formation is working, the players are cocking it up. It's a penalty, free kick comes in and Le Fondre goes from from Bielek, was it a penalty? Le Fondre steps up and places it top right, Camp has no chance. We've had most chances, 61% possession, 3 CCCs and we've somehow lost 3 - 0, not happy with that. As the headline reads "Cardiff profit from wasteful Millers".

Home - West Brom Tuesday night game so more rotated players. Close! Woodrow gets in behind the defense and Camp gets down to kock it out for a corner. Woodrow scores this time, Egan doesn't put his foot in and he slots passed Camp. It's bad defending there. Good save from Foster, O'Brien knocks it over the top to set Trotta on his way, defenders manage to get back but he still able to get the shot off and Foster makes a good save. We're not going to win this tactic so 4 - 4 - 2 attack it is. Stratil is coming on! Nearly 2 - 0, they're able to get behind the defense but no get a shot off, play it back out and whip in a ball, there runner slides in but not alot of pace and it hits the post, Camp able to pick up without any problems. Trotta is injured so Frecks is coming on to play SS behind. Change to 4 - 2 - 3 - 1, only option I can see, 10 minutes left. Oh what is he doing! 92nd minute and we counter them, Newell should be through but runs offside, that's such bad play, he'd of been 1 on 1. Full time goes, we weren't good enough. 5 wins, 0 draws, 5 losses, 15 points and sat in 13th. It's a tight league currnetly.

October

What a month this turned out to be!



Away - Sheffield Wednesday Don't want to lose to a rival and Newell has been struggling and Moussa is injured. Ward can't play in the AML/AMR positions so Dumitru is going AML with Clarke-Harris upfront, 4 - 3 - 3. It's a goal! 3rd minute and Clarke-Harris nods in Pucinos cross! 1 - 1. Marco Matias tackles Dimitru in the Sheff Weds box, runs all the way down the right and crosses in where Forestieri slots it in. Questions will be asked how on earth he was able to run basically the length on the pitch. It's half time and maybe Sheff Weds have been bthe betetr side. Thorpe and Smith aren't doing great as a CB pairing. Egan comes on for Thorpe who's struggling. Sheff Weds go close, Camp makes a good save and Matias is there to hit the rebound but shoots far wide, proper spooned it. Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 and bringing Sawyers on now he's back from injury and Ward to replace Dumitru. Can we get the winning goal? Freekick at the end of the game and Frecks hits it back instead of going for it... no idea why.. I can't even.. what. It ends 1 - 1, not the best peformance. Need to get a CB partnership going.

[A]Away - MK Dons[/b] Tuesday night game so more rotation. Sawyers is away on international duty again . It's 1 - 0 to MK dons. Hit a ball over, alot of Millers in the box but Powell crosses and Revell heads home, not good play at all. Going 4 - 4 - 2 at the break. It's taken til the 84th minute it's 1 - 1! O'Brien runs down the right, corsses in and Stratil puts it in! In 13th and a win could put us in the play-offs, that's how tight it is!

Home - Bolton Wanderers We're at home but not the best home form and they're 22nd. Hoping to turn the form round. 1 minute in and we're 1 - 0 up. Maitland-Niles whos in the AMC slot due to international dutys/tiredness scores! Goes for a long shot and it's blocked but this sets him up and he smacks it in. Should of been 1 - 1. 36th minute and Bolton float in a freekick, Toffolo beats the offside trap, has the ball 1 on 1 and Camp just picks it up, it's like it gets stuck in feet. 2 - 0 and it's Maitland-Niles again! Cross from O'Brien he runs in and nods it in. Good movement. It's full time here and a Rotherham win. We move up to 10th!

Away - Millwall Alot of changes as it's a Tuesday night game. 15th minute and it's 1 - 0, I thought I was offside. Throw in comes in, Eboue passes to Ward who chips in first time and Moussa hits home, replay makes me still think he was offside. 2 - 0 on 16th minute, Millwalls passing of woeful, we get the ball passed to us, pass back up and Clarke-Harris sets up Kilitie who hits it in the bottom corner. 3 - 0. Some nice passing and then played out to the left, Pedersen hits it across goal and Kilitie gets his second. 3 - 1. Corner comes in and Ward misses the head, it bounces off a Rotherham player and O'Brien hits it before Ward, Ward did pretty awful then. Half time and we're 3 - 1 up, can't complain! Clarke-Harris has banged his head Trotta replaces. Nearly a hat-trick! Kilitie takes the freekick, over the wall, drops down and hits the post! It's full time and deserved win. Up to 7th.

Home - Birmingham City Could of been 1 - 0. Sawyers back in his AMC slot plays through to Trotta who should of probably scored. It's 1 - 0 and it's a freak goal. Pedersen crosses in and it hits off Grounds for an own goal! It's half time, it's been a flat game. Should of been 2 - 0? Cross from Pedersen and Trotta hits it, it's saved, could he of scored? It's 1 - 1, they attack us with pace, cross from the left and Maxi Lopez hits it in. Couple of subs to try and get a goal, same formation and Trotta off. 2 - 1! Newells curled free kick hit in my Dumitru! Great sub . 3 - 1! Newell chips a ball in and Dumitru heads it in, super sub! Deserved victory for Rotherham as the whistle blows. Hats off to Maitland-Niles who dropped to the DLP position and was quality. We're 5th and only 4 points off the top!

Home - Ipswich Town - Bielik comes in for Frecklington and Dumitru for Trotta and same 4 - 5 - 1. 1 - 0 to Rotherham on the 24th minute! Freekick, Newell passes to Kilite who plays through Dumitru who slots it home, cool. 33rd minute and it's 1 - 1. Smith plays an absolutely insert swear word awful ball. No idea he attempts that, anything. Clucas intercepts the ball and Jason Cummings scores. How a professional football ever attempts to pass like that I've no idea. I've subbed him at half time. 2 - 1 to the Millers on the 64th minute! Corner comes on and it's not cleared properly, Dumitru picks it up and squares to Sawyers who puts in the bottom corner. Not much else happens, the final whistle goes and Rotherham win 2 - 1! We're 4th!

This is how way Maitland-Niles has played!



November



Away - Brentford Not beaten Brentford yet and we're somehow favourites away so let's see if our form carries on! First minute and Brentford go close, ten minutes in and it's still Brenford and ends up in a goal, I'm playing some backup players and it's showing. Error from Bannigan though let's them in. 2 - 0 Brentford, Konstantin Kerschbaumer curls one in the top corner. Tactic needs changing now. We're not had one shot with 18 minutes to go, they've had 7. Going 4 - 5 - 1 my home tactic. Penalty to Brentford, Thiago Cionek takes down Hoffman in the box. This is woeful! Judge steps up and makes it 3. 3 subs, 4 - 4- 2 attacking, that's it. Atleast we've had some shots in the second half but we're so bad, what's happened. Should of been 3 - 1, some alright football and ball does to Stratil but straight at the goalkeeper. Full time whistle goes, hairdryer treatment!

Away - Nottingham Forest They're 23rd so I expect a swift response that awful Brentford game. For some reason every area seems to be playing well apart from my CBs. 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 2nd minute that's a reponse! Kilite plays in Clarke-Harris and he goes down in the box, nothing given and the ball rolls on, Newell is there to knock it in. Should of been 2! Quick passing and Pedersen plays the ball in, Clarke-Harris shoots with power and hits the bar from 8 yards out! Now it should of been 1 - 1! Maitland-Niles makes a rare mistake and allows Forest in, they hit the bar. Half time! 1 - 1. 66nd minute and they counter, Holgate has to cover two and isn't able too, calm blame him. Assombalonga slots in the bottom corner and I think Camp might be dissappointed that he didn't save it. 2 - 1! Trotta finishes a Pedersen cross. Full time whistle and an away win for us, happy. They looked better then a team sat in 22nd.

Home - Stoke City Stoke are 17th and we're 5th, can we get a result? Pucino is back from injury to play RB, that's a massive help. Maitland-Niles was injured before the game . 25 minutes in and I've had to replace both CMs for injuries. Half time and a quiet game. 80th minute and Stoke should be 1 - 0 up. Praet gets played in and Camp saves. I've had to make 3 subs for yellows/injuries, no tactic change etc so I'll take a draw. It's a draw I get.

New signing Young ex-PSG midfielder to play in U21 squad/send on loan, can he become good? We'll see. Christoper Nkunku.

Away - Fulham Bit of a joke goal for Fulham, cross comes in and Thorpe backheel clears into the air, Atsili heads it in over Camp, what was that... Should of been 2, cross comes in, they head against bar and Camp saves the rebound. Should of been 1 - 1! Some good player and cross in leaves O'Brien only needing to hit on target and he hits wide! Half time. Aggressive - Show me something else in the second half. 2 - 0, Demebele hits in Johns cross on the volley. Tactic change and 3 subs. Read card! Tim Ream already booked takes down Kilitie and it's an early bath. Tell the lads to go for it, even with 10 men we were poor. Fulham win.

December



Home - Leeds United I've not beaten Leeds yet so hoping this can be, a few injuries to some better players so I've decided to shake the selection up a bit, 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 since I'm at home. 1 - 0 to the Millers! Some nice passing, Saywers to Dumitru, holds it up passes through to defenders to the on running Sawyers who slots cooly home. Half time and we've been the better side, just need to do more with the possession. 2 - 0 on the 55th minute! Cook fouls and Sawyers takes a quick freekick and passes to O'Brien, he runs down and crosses in to Dumitru! 3 - 0! Dumitru slots home a Newell cross on the 75th minute, seems it took a slight deflection. 3 - 1 on the 86th minute, not good enough. We let Leeds pass it about and Sloths first choice in the box is a good one that opens up enough space for him to slot home. It's only a consolation though and Rotherham win 3 - 1, cracking result.

Away - Derby County Since I've had some bad away results recently I'm going to stay with the 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Sawyers on int duty, Moussa injured soo Dumitru plays AMC with Clarke-Harris infront. 5th minute and it's 1 - 0! Newell hits a ball over the top and Derby make a hash of it, Albentosa tries to diving header back to the keeper, misses the ball and Clarke-Harris runs in to put away! Nearly 2. We counter and Dumitru hits a ball over to Newell, he passes back inside and a through ball to Dumitru who puts just side, unlucky. Half time and the Millers lead. Should of been 2 again. Shackell makes a hash of it and Clarke-Harris tackles, he's 1 on 1 but hits at the keeper. 2 - 0! Some good passes and subsitute Saric plays through Dumitru who cooly slots in the bottom corner, 57th minute. Our defense have been really good today, Egan and Thorpe playing well together. 2 - 1 on the 90th minute but is it too late? Cross comes in, evades everyone. Russell is on the other flank, passes to Johnson who crosses in for Weimann who nods home. Is he onside? It's a close call. O'Brien takes the freekick and Carson saves no problems and the full time whistle goes, 2 - 1 away Victory with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1, happy with that!

Away - Wolverhampton Wanderers There best player is actually Danny Ward who I sold them, he's been great for them, worth 5mil and scored 10 in 17 this season, he's injured for this one though. 1 - 0 to Wolves with his Wards replacement Mason hitting it in. Henry tries to cross, it's blocked by Frascatore, drops to Iorfa wo crosses in and Mason hits it in. Could of been 1 - 1, lovely passing round by Rotherham, Grant Ward gets it in the box but hits first time instead of controlling it and it's straight at Ikeme. Half time. Maitland-Niles back from injury comes on for Clarke-Harris to slot in the AMC spot. Nearly 2 - 0. After the break Wolves attack and it's a good save from Camp to deny. Tactic change to 4 - 3 - 3 and subs to try and get something out of this. 1 - ! Straril the sub scores. Moussa plays in the on running Ward who's tackled, the ball lands to Stratil who hits hard and low and Ikeme can only palm into his own net. We played better going 4 - 4 - 3 and a draw was probably deserved. Draw moves us out of the play-off places into 7th.

Injuries Both playing for match fitness in an under 21s game. Striker Lukas Stratil broke his leg and is out for 6-7 months and midfielder Tomislav Saric broke his foot and is out for 4-5months. Maitland-Niles has a twisted Ankle and out for 4-5 weeks.

Away - Barnsley They're rock bottom, 9 points from 23 games. Saywers is back and goes into his AMC slot. He's scored 5 in 8, imagine if he hadn't been jetsetting. 20 seconds and it should of been 1 - 0 to the Millers. Lovely passing play sets Dumitru in the box who fires hard and low but not accurate enough and Lewis makes a great save. It's 1 - 0 to Barsnley. Corner in, flicked on by Winnal and Mawson hits it in. To say we've had most possession we've not done alot with, tactic change to 4 - 3 - 3. Should of been 2, they counter and Camp has to make a quality save. Going 4 - 4 - 2 attacking, they're bottom on the league! What a save! Bannigan makes a terrible pass and Barnsley counter, Camp makes a great save from 10 yards to deny Williams. 2 - 0. Watkins slots home Whites cross on 62nd minute, we've been so poor today. 3 - 0. Pedersen is totally out of position and lets Williamns run in and collect slow home, terrible defending from the LB who hasn't been in the first team lately. 3 - 1! Clarke-Harris crosses in, Barnsley heads out and O'Brien smashes in a worldy volley, that has to be goal of the month. Barnsley deserve the victory, they were much better. 26 shots, we had 6.

[video=youtube;5c0X1EHeUWI]

The goal, and it wasn't even in the top three for the month!

Away - Brighton and Hove Albion Another away game, going to 4 - 3 - 3 and a few changes. 11th minute and 1 - 0 Brighton. Not sure what happens, Bielik heads the ball down to Sawyers and not sure wether it bounces funny or gets stuck in his feet but Brighton win the ball from him, pass around, Baldock passes to Crofts who plays Baldock through who has no problem putting it past Camp. Should of been 2, we gifted them the ball and Camp gets down to to his near post so save, shocking passing from Rotherham. 24th minute and it's 1 - 1! Moussas corner is headed by Bielik, it hits the bar and bounces down and it's Sawyers that gets to it first and puts it straight into the net. 2 - 1 to the Millers on the 40th minute. Rosenior throws the ball in to Dunk but O'Brien is waiting, steals the ball and hits into an open net. Half time and Thorpe comes on to replace Egan, he's booked and not playing very well. Second half both teams attacking and defending well but it's the 73rd minute and it's 3 - 1 to the Millers! O'Brien hits it with the outside of his boot and smashes it in, a very good goal.

January

Home - Wigan Athletic Only two days after the Brighton game so 10 players have to be changed. What a miss! 2nd minute in and Newells freekick sets up Rowe and he hits wide! Great save from Mannone, we attacked well and some great play between Newell and Clarke-Harris sets up Clarke-Harris and Mannone has to make a quality stop, I think that should of easily been a goal though. Now Wigan should of been ahead. Newell fouls and they take a frekick, we don't clear very well and Frazier Campbell is played in, somehow he scuffs is completley wide, awful shot. No wonder they're 22nd if there striker shoots like that! Another miss for Clarke-Harris! He somehow gets a great ball in and just smashes it wide. Not as bad as Campbells still. Half time and we should of had 3. Now the post! We counter-attack great after Holgate breaks play down and a Newell squares the ball to Ward who crosses in for him, he hits the post! Could Bannigan reacted faster and of gotten to the rebound before Morgan did? We're dominating them and somehow we haven't put it away! 56th minute and it's 1 - 0 to the Millers! Good passing play and Kilite has the ball on the right, he crosses in, it evades Wigan defenders and Clarke-Harris slots in at the back post. 2 - 0 to the Millers on the 75th minute! Some nice passing and Clarke-Harris plays in Newell who slots home, they've played wlel together in the ST/AMC slots. Should of been 2 - 1, a rare Wigan attack and we stop the first wave, the second wave though plays Max Power through 1 on 1 and Camp saves easily, how he missed again. 2 - 0 to the Millers. 67% possession, 4 CCCs and hitting the woodwork once. Not bad for a second side.

FA Cup 3rd Round - Away - Stoke City They're 17th in the Championship. They have alot of injuries(James Wilson, Tomer Hemed, Bojan, Grazinao Pelle just to name their strikers). I reckon we can progress. 4 - 3 - 3 and staring Alexander Schlager in goal. We go close in the 4th minute, Kilities cross is hit at the back post by Moussa and it's the post. Post again! Frascatores cross is headed by Kilitie onto the post! Close for Stoke, Imbula tries to post home Forshaws freekick and Frasctore clears off the line. Half time, scrappy and tight game. It's 1 - 0 to Stoke, Walters heads home Praets cross, Schlager was in no mans land. Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 to try and get back into this, we're just lacking the cutting edge. 89th minute equaliser for the Millers! Some good passing and we wait for the perfect opening, Sawyers plays through Clarke-Harris who smashes low and hard to beat Butland. Full time and it's a replay.

New signing With Stratil injured for the rest of the season I brought in another striker on a free, his named is Rondon, his goalscoring history for his previous club is quite good. 12 in 16 first season and 22 in 30 second. Might send Trotta back, we'll see.

Home - Sunderland Alot of possession and not alot to show for it. We go close on the 37th minute as Cattermole clears of the line and finally make the break through on the 38th when O'Brien taps home from Frecklingtons freekick. Half time. Dumitru should of made it 2 on the 50th minute, Sawyers plays a ball through and he hits at the keeper. 60th minute Rondon comes on to make his debut. We're pushing for a second goal but can't seem to get it, Sawyers goes close from O'Briens cross and can't hit in the rebound either. They should of equalised on the 90th minute! Borini hits a long ball to Bacuna and he fires wide. Full time whistle goes and it's a deserved home victory to Rotherham. Wow, just checked the table and we're second!

FA Cup 3rd Round Replay - Home - Stoke City Ohhhh what a finish on the 9th minute by Clarke-Harris! Ward plays a through ball and he lobs Butland from outside the box. 2 - 0 to the Millers! O'Brien crosses the freekick on and Egan hits in at the back post. Half time and all been easy so far for the Millers. It's absoutely lashing it down in the second half, could this effect the play? Should of been 3, Ward plays in O'Brien who dribbles and smashes it at Butland when all he needed to do was place it. This time it is 3. O'Brien holds the ball and plays it to Ward, he plays through Clarke-Harris who smashes in his second. A deserved victory for Rotherham, Ward and Clarke-Harris were superb.

Transfer out I've cancelled Trottas loan, he's now the 4th striker and unless we have an injury crises he isn't needed.

Home - Bristol City Alot of changes made as we're playing 3 days after the FA cup game. Should be 1 - 0 up on the 20th minute. Newell cuts in and only hits at the keeper, Dumitru doesn't do much with the rebound either. 24th minute and it's a good save from Camp to deny Lafferty. It's half time and Camps kept us in this. We're at home and I'm going to have to go 4 - 3 - 3, we need the extra man in midfield. From all the great saves it's 1 - 0 to Bristol City, Boouazza crosses in and it rebounds of Garita in. Attacking 4 - 4 - 2, we can't get a foothold and we're at home. It's 1 - 1, 87th minute! Eboue takes a long throw, Bielik heads forward and Dumitru is free to head into alot of space in the net. I'm sure Dumitru is offside. Full time whistle and we weren't good enough.

FA Cup 4th Round - Away - Bristol City Have to do alot better against them then we did in the league game. Maitland-Niles plays his first game since he was injured. It's the bar on the 9th minute! We counter and Moussa heads Pucinos cross but only onto the bar, so close. Wait.. it's a goal? 10th minute and O'Brien crosses and Moussa heads it, the keeper saves it but it's over the line. It goes down as an own goal. 2 - 0! Clarke-Harris hits home Pucinos cross. 3 - 0! Bad throw in and Clarke-Harris steals the ball, squares to Moussa who slots home. Half time and been a brilliant half. Not alot happens in the second half but we don't need it too, full time goes and it's 3 - 0 to the Millers. Great result.

February



Away - Burnley We're 4th with 50 points, they're first with 55 points. We need to win to try and catch them up. Leeds are 2nd with 51 but have a played a game more. Keeping the same side that played so well vs Bristol City. Lovely ball in from Pucino let's O'Brien in and he goes close, game says a CCC but it wasn't. We go close again and maybe Moussas was, but his 1 on 1 is too powerful and Heaton saves, needed accuracy. Oh it's 1 - 0 to Burnely. Gray heads home Gebre Selassies cross. 1 - 1! Bielik puts in Moussas curling freekick, a very nice ball from Moussa. Half time and it's been an even game. 3 subs made on the 60th minute. Pedersen and Smith struggling at the back and Maitland-Niles is struggling in the center, he's not fit enough yet. Close for Burnley. Boyd playes in Vokes and Camp saves, should of been a goal. Clarke-Harris has a stubbed toe but no one to come on for him so he's staying on the pitch. He nearly scores, he hits Moussas cross and it's a brilliant save from Heaton. It ends 1 - 1 which is a fair result for both sides, Clarke-Harris finishes on a 6.3, I didn't think he played that bad? Turns out we had 4 CCCs but I'm not sure they all were tbh.

Away - Middlesbrough It's been a quiet first half and it's half time. Both had shots but no real chances. Middlesbrough should of in the 67th minute. Stuani plays the ball done well and Camp makes a great save, it's a tight angle for De Pena to hit the rebound but he hits the post and it should of been a goal. Middlesbrough are easily the better team in the second half. Can they do anything with their dominance? An awful pass by Egan sets up a Boro counter attack and Camp has to make a good stop to keep it goalless. Going to a 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 to try get something. Camp makes another great save in the 91th minute. Stuani outpowers Frascatore and makes a powerful shot. It's full time and 0 - 0, we were lucky. Of course Lee Camp gets Man of the Match.

Home - Reading We're 3rd with 52 points, Leeds are 2nd with 52 points, Reading are 4th with 52 points. We need to win to try and steal 2nd. Burnley are first with 56 points and still have a game in hand. Camp makes a great save from Nugent. He hits a nice shot from Norwoods corner. Should of been 1 - 0. Sawyers hits ball over the top and Rondon is 1 on 1 with Bond and Rondon hits it straight at the keeper! It's half time and I've made 3 subs to try and get a goal. Newell and Dumitru both on in the attacking sense. 1 - 0 to the Millers! Dumitru hits it, it's saved, Newell follows up and Bond saves but 3rd attempt Newell hits it past Bond. Camp makes a great stop from Fosu to make it 1 - 1. Another good stop from Camp to deny Fosu, the ball drops back off Pucino and it's nearly an own goal but it hits the post and Camp collects. 2 - 0! Just what we needed, Sawyers at the back post hits in Wards cross. Game on! A good team goal by Reading and Fosu hits in Nsues pass across the box in at the back post. It's been a close game! It's full time and we win 2 - 1! Could of been a different result on a different day.

We've had an error! For some reason some of my matches aren't saved in the notepad so I can watch through. Note the highlights but it won't of been the same. It's happened with four matches, very weird.

Home - Leicester City They're struggling in the Prem. Kante and Schmeichel are injured and Vardy is suspensed. Can we get a result? There's a barrage of corners and Leicester take the lead, Gino Peruzzi heads home Mahrezs corner in the 2nd minute. A reply though! 8th minute and Johnson Clarke-Harris smashed in Sawyers' cross, what a hit that one is. Just minutes later and there's been another goal... for the Millers! Newell crosses into the box and Sawyers hits it first time, lovely strike... wait. Another goal? Yes, it's a 3rd to the Millers in the 20th minute! Sawyers plays through Clarke-Harris who smashes low. After that the game goes quiet, for half time and then the second half is very quiet, but that's something we won't mind as we beat a premiership team and go we face West Ham in the 6th round.

Away - West Bromwich Albion Just says after the Leciester game so alot of changes, it was a scrappy game and a formation change got us the win when the ball dropped to Tommy Smith from Frecklingtons freekick, he hits the first it, it rebounds and he puts the rebound in the 86th minute for a Rotherham win.

Home - MK Dons We needed to win this and as they're not too far behind us and alot of teams on the same points. Play off hero Alex Revell leads the MK Dons line. It's a goal to the MK Dons in the 19th minute. Reeves curls in a nice shot from just inside the area. There's a reply from Rotherham and Clarke-Harris hits in Sawyers through ball, I say hit he absolutely smashes it. It's half time and 1 - 1. MK Dons go ahead with Daryl Horgan hitting in Daniel Powells cross. We can't get the goal even though we're the better side and MK Dons win 2 - 1. Awful result for us.

Home - Sheffield Wednesday They were 18th, we were 4th iirc. Didn't want to lose to rivals and we need the points to keep 2nd an option. We had more chances but they were in at the break when Lawless hit home Sergiu Bus' through ball in the 44th. It's half time. Second half I made three subs at one to try get something and we did, Nicolao Dumitru took the ball, waited, took on his man and smashed it in. The game ended 1 - 1. Not good enough from the Millers.

Now the error should be over Typed up what I could for those four games and now we should be able to resume normal business.

March



Away - Bolton Wanderers They're 22nd and we're 5th so we need to get back to winning but these seems to be the type of games I lose. Maybe not. 2nd minute and we play some quick countering football and Pucino crosses in for Ward to hit home, nice team goal. Penalty! And it's to Rotherham! Pucino crosses in for Moussa but Rob Holding handles the ball. Dumitru steps up and.. smashes it in the roof of the net. Some lovely football from Rotherham, some nice passing then sees the ball on the right, a cross into Dumitru in the front of the net, Bolton defend well so he can't shoot, he lays Moussa off who hits the post. Same again, lovely football, a ball to the right and a cross Pucino but this time Moussa hits the bar with a header. Nearly 2 - 1 just before the break, Hall plays it square from the right side of the box into the center, White turns and hits it and it hits the post. Thorpe clears and the whistle goes. It's a quiet second half until the 84th minute where Wassis cross is headed by Alex Samizadeah straight onto the bar. We counter from this, Frascatore has the ball down the left and he centers it, it evades the Bolton defenders but somehow it evades Rondon at the back post! Commentary says Amos got a touch on it, is that why? Full time whistle goes and it's a Rotherham win, of course Raffaele Pucino is MoM, our most threatening player at RB ^_^. We go into 3rd, a point behind Brentford who have played an extra game on us.

Home - Millway They're 23rd so we should be getting another win. I've had to drop Pucino for Eboue due to Pucino needing a rest for this one. It's 1 - 0 to Millwall, Stoain runs down the right, crosses in, O'Brien picks up and hits in. Should of been 2 - 0. They counter from our corner, Lee Grgeory gets played through and smashes the bar. It is 2 - 0, Gregory hits in a cross from Cummings on the right. We're at home and being battered! It goes quiet and hits half time. The comment read "Rotherham are unfortunate to in behind". They've had 3 CCCs, we've had 0. We might of had 71% possession but means nothing when not creating chances. 30 mins left and going 4 - 4 - 2, what other option do I have? 3 - 0. Millwall corner, Fergusoin hits it in, Nelson flicks it on for Onyedinma to head home. Stats show we've been doing alright, but doesn't matter if we have more shots if those shots aren't on target or good chances. Penalty! Rotherham lifeline perhaps? Stoian fouls Dumitru in the box. He's going to take himself, he steps up and... Archer gets a hand to it but still goes in, lucky. Full time whistle goes and somehow Millwall have won this, all about taking chances, or making them in this instance. We're 4th and it looks like it'll be a playoff battle if this continues.

FA Cup 6th Round - Home - West Ham United Bilic is getting mouthy in the press about how it'll be easy and we're a small team. Time to show him different then. At home using 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 think it should boost our chances. West Ham go close, Schlupp cuts inside from the right, takes two Rotherham players on but only has a small angle to shoot at and Camp saves and we clear up the loose ball. West Ham go close again, they take a corner and we clear, Antonio hits it back in and it lands to Cresswell to shoot, game thinks it was a clear chance, asking alot for a left back to get that in. Should of been 1 - 0 to the Millers! Some lovely passing and Maitland-Niles sees the run of Ward from the left cutting in, great ball but Ward only manages to hit the post! It's getting a harder game due to the wet weather and the half time whistle goes. 15 minutes left and subs to be made, I don't want a replay. Full time whistle goes and we've cancelled each other out and it'll be a replay at the Olympic Stadium.

Away - Birmingham City Let's not have a game such as the Millwall game, we need to win this as we play Brentford next. Birmingham go close in the 5th minute. Not sure if it's a cross or a shot by Cotteril but it smashes the crossbar. Penalty for Rotherham! Didn't see it happen but Kilities taken the corner and Maikel Kieftenbeld pushed Dumitru. He's taking the penalty and... cooly slotted him. Winning this would put us up to 4th a point behind 3rd and 2nd with a game in hand, looking good so far. It's half time! What a save from Camp! 52nd minute Grounds plays in a ball which leaves Donaldsons just yards infront of the goal and Camp gets down to deny, I thought he was offside and Camp keeps us in the lead! Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Sawyers, Moussa and Ward coming on. Not enough happening from our wingers. There's been some sloppy play from both sides in the second half and the full time whistle goes, the penalty decides it and it's 1 - 0 Rotherham victory.

Home - Brentford Need to win this for 2nd place! 12 minutes in and Ainsley Maitland-Niles is injured, a big loss. 17th minute and Frecklington hits a freekick at goal, Button saves and Frascatore follows up, just wide. Not sure how the game thinks he's going to score that from angle but it seems it's a bad miss! What a save from Button! O'Brien steals possession, runs down the right and crosses in and Button is equal to Dumitrus shot. What a save from Camp this time! Brentford swing the corner in and Dean heads it at goal, Camp saves, saves the follow up and either saves the third attempt or it's blocked and we clear our lines. That would of had some hearts beating by both fans! Both teams are countering each other, it's a good match to watch. It's a goal though 30 seconds before the half! O'Brien crosses in from the right and Dumitru knocks it in! 1 - 0 to the Millers and it's half time. Entertaining first half. Second half not even as close as the first, not had any good chances as I type this the clock still goes down and it's full time. Rotherham take a massive win on the road to promotion. We're now 3rd with Fulham 1 point ahead but we have a game in hand.

Away - Cardiff City Going to stay with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with this, they're 14th and I'd like to see how this copes with teams lower down the league. Should of been 1 - 0 40 seconds into the game. Some nice build up play from Rotherham and Newells ball into the box is hit by onrunning Sawyers and Marshall saves. That was too good a chance to miss. Again a miss from the Millers. Sawyers plays in Dumitru who hits at Marshall and we get a corner. Cardiff go close in the 22nd minute. Ralls smashes one from 30 yards and it bounces back off the bar into Camps hands. It's half time and I don't get how weren't not in front. Telling the players I'm not happy with them. 3 subs made in the 60th minute to try change something. Clarke-Harris hopefully can smash one in. Ohh what a goal and it is Clarke-Harris! The subs make the goal, Ward hits a ball through to Clarke-Harris who hits a very nice ball just inside the area in the net, wasn't expecting that one to fly in. Nearly a 2nd, Moussa picks up the ball runs and shoots but Marshall saves. 2 - 0! Moussa the other sub of the three runs down the left, looks like he's overun it but the ball is perfect to Clarke-Harris and from 6 yards out puts it in. Should of been 2 - 1 in the 88th minute! Saadi is played through and Camp makes a great stop but he should of scored. Rotherham clear winners here thanks to the subs! 7 games left and we're in second. 4 points from the top.

April



Away - Ipswich Town They're 18th and staying with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. 16th minute and it's a great double save from Camp. Clucas crosses from the left and Murphy gets onto it, he saves his shot and McGoldrick hits the rebound and Camp saves that too! He then picks the ball up, he's been a hero lately, ratings aren't good enough for him. 1 - 0 to the Millers in the 18th minute! Moussa plays through Clarke-Harris who smashes it past Bialkowski. It's half time at Portman Road. It's been a very quiet second half when it comes to chances and I have nothing to report. It's full time and 1 - 0 to the Millers. Burnley have lost and we're only 1 point from the top spot, 5 points clear of 3rd, this has changed!

FA Cup 6th Round Replay - Away - West Ham United Sticking with the same formation, we might just have some tired legs. I wish I didn't sign just agree to sign him in the summer. West Ham go 1 - 0 up in the 42nd minute. There's nothing to this. They clear from a corner and for 30 yards Pucino has no one there, he's clear, he has time, he can pass back to Camp. He picks the ball up, waits... waits... Carroll finally gets there and he smashes it at Carrolls legs who then takes the loose ball and smashes it past Camp. Absolutely woeful from one of my better players. It's half time, that was the only thing to happen in the half. Should of been 2 - 0 and that's why they're a league above, they counter with alot of pace and a ball through to Byram sees him 1 on 1 with Camp but he smashes against the post. It's 2 - 0 now though. Carroll heads the corner home, somehow it goes past Camp. No idea why we're playing like this so 4 - 4 - 2 attacking is my only hope. No doubt I'll lose 4/5 - 0 now now though. A corner straight from the training ground as it's played back to Jony who smashes one from 30 yards, Camp fumbles and Antonio hits it in, he's offside though. 90th minute and should of been 3, Camp leaves enough room to dive and save Antonios shot, good save! It's full time and we were really poor today, we gited West Ham their goals. It's been a good FA cup run though and it's now try and win the Championship!

Home - Nottingham Forest Some tired players so I'm going to give Rondon a starting chance even though he's been extremly poor so far. They're 21st so I should be able to keep the momentum going. It's Forest who go head in the 39th minute. Assombalonga plays in Fryatt who finishes in the bottom corner. Half time and I have a right go at the lads. Should of been 2. Oliver Burke absolutely owns Fracatore, runs down the right and crosses in but Assambalonga can only find the bar. Subs and tactic change being made. We're at home and we've not had a shot on target. Rondon was the worst choice. That just sums our day up, Frascatore takes a throw in and he doesn't go near one of our players. And it's 2 - 0. Burke corsses in and Assombalonga finishes. Attacking 4 - 4 - 2, we've been so bad. I'd like to fine every player on the pitch. Forest have made us look like a league 2 side we finish the game with 0 shots on target from 6 shots, they have 10 shots on target from 17 shots, we were the home side. Burnley lost again so we're still in contention.

Away - Stoke City Alot of tired players so some players are playing out of position and we're back to 4 - 3 - 3 away. Frascatore needing a rest, Pedersen injured it means Tommy Rowe starts at LB! They're 16th but have some amazing players, we'll see how it goes. After this we play Fulham on the Saturday and Derby on the Monday, this may cost us the title. Wait.. yes it's a goal to the Millers! Maitland-Niles' corner comes in, Shawcross' weak headed only finds Bannigan, he heads, it takes a defelection and goes in. Butland shows his class, O'Brien puts a ball in, Sawyers cuts in from the left and hits it but Butland is equal. It's 1 - 1. Some good passing from Stoke and Forshaw hits it to the back post where Walters taps in, he is onside. It's half time and we gotta make some subs, Rowe/Sawyers need to come off. They're out of position and struggling. Stoke go close! Headers in the box from a corner and Walters comes off the bar. Final whistle goes and it's 1 - 1. Probably a deserved result for both sides. 3 points behind Burnley and 4 points ahead of Brentford. I need to win my last four games. Problem is three of the four teams are teams fighting for play off places.

Home - Fulham 6th minute and Newells cross finds Dumitru but takes too long to get his shot off and it's blocked. Could of probably done better. Fulham should of scored, somehow we're a bit like headless chickens at the back and it leaves Akpom 1 on 1 with Camp who pulls off a great save. Thorpe and Smith really isn't a good parternship. Should of been a goal to Rotherham, patient build up and Dumitru plays through Sawyers who smashes directly at Stekelenburg, if he placed it in any corner he'd of scored. Half time and subbing both Dumitru and Sawyers, they're havin' a bad game. Can Clarke-Harris power one in? Penalty! Can have no excuses there. Rotherham counter from a corner and Clarke-Harris holds the ball up well, dribbles slowly goes out to the right and O'Brien cuts in, Clarke-Harris slides the ball through to O'Brien who tries to get the ball to Bannigan but Cairney cuts out, O'Brien goes for the loose ball but Amorebieta takes him down. It's O'Brien to take.. cooly slotted down the middle. 1 - 0 to the team in red. Red Card! Moussa has the ball in the middle and Tom Cairney goes in two footed, that is a bad tackle. We're pushing for another it's just lacking the quality in the final third. As I typed that Moussa hits the post, we're just needing that luck. It's injury time can Fulham steal a point? They look far too deep. Oh and it's 2 - 0 now. 90th minute Clarke-Harris plays a one two with Moussa and then smashes it in. Full time whistle goes and it's 3 points we really need. Now to try and get the two points only two days later. Warnock has openly criticised the penalty and we're having a media spat .

Home - Derby County Alot of changes made, hopefully we can rally together. Camp saves the day, Russell plays in Martin who's 1 on 1 and Camp saves. It's 0 - 0 at the break. We're in control, having the shots we're just lacking the cutting edge. Sawyers and Dumitru come on for Moussa and Clarke-Harris. We've had the possession, the shots but we're not making good enough chances and we've been punished. Hughes plays in Martin and he puts past Camp in the 87th minute. Burnley win so it's going to be their title. We're only two points ahead of Leeds and we play them next, we have to win to get the automatic promotion spot.

Away - Leeds United Biggest game of the season. It's automatic vs playoff position. First ten minutes has been very scrappy and some bad passing from both sides. No way.. 14th minute and should of been 1 - 0 up, Dumitru plays in O'Brien who hits it straight at the keeper. This is why Marco Silverstri currently has the most clean sheets, Cooper heads the ball but no power at all, Dumitru plays it to Newell, 1 on 1 and... straight at the keeper. I could swear right now. It's half time and I have no idea how we're not ahead. Only way I know how to be with these lot is aggressive so that's what I am. And Leeds score.. Wood plays in Mavrias, he's tackled and the ball lands perfectly to Sloth who hits it in, nothing Camp could of done. It's 1 - 1 pretty much straight away. O'Briens corner doesn't amount to much, but it's headed back to him and his cross is headed in by Dumitru. How!? It should of another goal to Rotherham! We counter so well and Bannigan finds Dumitru in so much space but he shoots first time straight at Silvestri! Going to try Dumitru as the IF on the left so Clarke-Harris replaces Newell and goes uptop. And it's worked.. in getting Leeds a player sent off. Ball down to Dumitru on the left and he's fouled by Gaetano Berardi who's already been booked. Can we make this count? It's a penalty.. to the Millers! We've had alot of those lately. Corner comes in and it's cleared. Pucino hits it back in and I think it's handball by Mowatt. Can't see why else it's been given. Dumitru steps up and... it's JUST in, that was too close for comfort, straight down the middle but enough power that Silvestri didn't hold it. Final whistle goes and we're in the Premiership next season!

We've been promoted

Home - Wolverhamptons Wanderers Last game of the season with no pressure. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 and usual team go out though. Very boring first half and nothing happens, at all. 7 shots 2 on target, Wolves 1 shot 0 on target. Some subs at the 60th min to get some energy into the team and maybe a goal but I think it'll be a bore draw. Oh it isn't and subs work in the 81st minute, Maitland-Niles plays in Clarke-Harris who smashes home. No keeper would of saved that for the sheer power. Pedersen goes very close just before the full time whistle when played through, asking alot for a left back. Clarke-Harris hits the post and full time goes. Wolves didn't turn up. We finish second by a point!





Dumitru:







It's going to be a challenge to build a squad capable of surviving. We'll see how it goes.

Season 3

We've been given a nice budget and some players going out will let us have some more wage/transfer to play with. This could be a season we can stay up with some of the players I've been able to aquire and the money will rewad us if we stay up or don't.

Transfers Out



Romaine Sawyers - might of been a bad move but he wasn't retraining well enough at CM and he was away, alot.

Rondon - Waste of space, glad I got 500k for him. Was so poor when I played him even though I was really happy when I signed him.

Tommy Rowe - Done well for 350k considering he well, never really played.

Paolo Frascatore - Didn't assist once and didn't feel could cut it in the Prem.

Tom Thorpe - Average, too average for me.

Tiago Cionek - Another bad signing, I terminated his contract.

Greg Kilitie - Wasn't going to cut it in Prem, made a profit and I have a sell on fee for him.

Kristian Pedersen - Wasn't going to get rid but I replaced him with Garbutt instead, I felt I was Garbutt was the better player and home-grown.

Tommy Smith - They offered 4million and he's my 5th CB, I cannot say no.

Players In



Nick Powell - Replaced Sawyers, was cheaper and better player. Excited to see what he can do.

Louis Reed - What a steal, had a min.fee so I took it. Can be a brilliant player.

Grant Ward - Purchased him so no one could try and steal him on a free, 350k is a bargian for a player who can play ML/MR/MC.

Adam Smith - Needed a RB, he fits the bit. Was him or Solly and he has better physical stats.

Jack Colback - Will be the defensive midfielder, happy that I got him so easily.

Ryan Bennett - Wasn't going to sign until I saw teams go in for him and I know he's a good enough player. Probably my best CB.

Ben Mee - My LB and Captain.

Raffaele Pucino - My RB from last season on loan, will play second fiddle to Smith but he's a good player for cover.

Sam Johnstone - Young keeper coming in for the #1 spot. Camp will be breathing down his neck though.

Bjorn Inge Utvil - Young CB who I think can improve and be first team and if all else fails, I can sell for a profit.

Danny Wilson - Ex Liverpool CB, Vice Captain and will play as LCB.

Mikkel Duelund - Min. fee was 1.9mil, absolute steal. ML/AML/AMC. First team ML.

Marcus Rashford - Needed AMC/ST cover, was perfect.

Vittorio Parigini - Cover for ST/AML/AMR.

Fredrik Oldrup Jensen - Cover for Colback

Luke Garbutt - Pushing Mees LB spot, good player.

Marc Wilson - Replaces Smith, versalite which I like.

Maxence Lagarde - My first regen - looks a good player and I think will turn out pretty damn good aswell.

The Squad



Not the deepest but I think enough cover for every position will be fine.

Staff

No changes and everyone seems happy enough so far.

Finances



We're good on money and they've given me more money from player sales aswell. Even if we go down we should be fine.

Pre-Season



We looked great against lower sides but we lacked against Spanish sides, looking to edit the Home and Away tactic so give us more chances against stronger teams.

Premier League

August



Away - West Ham United - 4 - 3 - 3 setup. Maybe a slightly different selection then I may of picked but we'll see how the pace works with Parigini on the right wing and Rashford uptop. 2nd minute of the game and it's all going wrong. We attack nicely but then Maitland-Niles makes an awful pass to Mee who recovers the ball. Mee makes an even worse pass to the marked Reed. West Ham counter, Colback makes a great tackle but the ball rolls to a West Ham player, Adam Smith tackles Payet and the ball rolls to another West Ham player. They get the ball in the box but it's a very tight angle and Johnstone is able to make a double save to stop it being from 1 - 0. Very unlucky on our part that somehow we gave them that attack. 30th minute and it's the bar! Maitland-Niles gets on the end of Deulunds corner and it smashes off the bar. Damn! 45th minute and it's 1 - 0 to West Ham. Diogo plays in Sakho who smashes it in from a tight angel. Was the keeping good enough? Second half I have to change tactic, we're not making enough chances. Ward comes on for Pairigini. I'm struggling to get enough with the 4 - 3 - 3, it showed in pre-season. 66th minute and Clarke-Harris comes on for Maitland-Niles. 91st minute and Rashford plays Clarke-Harris through and he goes close but that's the full time whistle. We weren't bad at all, we just needed to create more chances. Our wide players were a bit too quiet.

Home - Brentford If we want to stay up these are the sort of games we have to be winning. Typical 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 tactic with Rashford playing behind Clarke-Harris. We're giving Brentford attacks with some bad passing and they go close with a cross in from the right, supposedly Delort should of done better but not from that angle. 15th minute and Jota hits the bar from 20 yards out. Brentford are very pushed up using 4 - 2 - 3 - 1. 18th minute and it's 1 - 0 to the Millers! Smith passes to Reed just inside the box who shoots and the keeper fumbles it to set Rashford up and he hits in from 3 yards. 1 - 1. It's Brentfords best player last season causing it problems, their right back Maxime Colin. He runs down the right again and again, this time on the 35th minute he crosses in, not 100% what happens it might touch Delort or 'cus Delort misses it Bennet and Danny Wilson get confused but it means the ball rolls to the back post and Delort hits it in. Strange goal. I think the game has it down as a Rhys Bennet mistake. Half time and Powell comes on for Clarke-Harris and Rashford goes uptop. 30 minutes left and Pucino comes on for Garbutt so Adam Smith goes on the left and Duelund for Colback putting Ward on the right and Maitland-Niles in the middle. Can we get the winning goal? Brentford can. Freak goal. Colin is there again, Sawyers heads it, Bennett heads out, Woods heads in and it bounces off Delort into the bottom corner. Another match where we've had possession but have lacked chances. Brentford win 2 - 1, bad result for us. Dumitru needs to come back from injury.

Away - Southampton First minute and it's 1 - 0 to the Millers! Parigini crosses in and Duelund hits in at the back post. Nearly 1 - 1. Austin does Utvik but Johnstone makes a great save. Nothing much else happens it's half time. 70th minute and it's 1 - 1. Passing around and Bannigan makes a huge mistake, he somehow can't pass to a stud still Deulund, Southampton counter, Utvik tackles Rodriguez but lays the ball off to Ayew who smashes home. What a goal from Ayew. 73rd minute, Cedric throws to Ayew, who cuts in and smashes it, nothing the keeper could do. Full time and we're 18th.

Capital One Cup 2nd Round - Away - Shrewsbury Get some lads some match fitness and try and get an away tactic sorted. 50 seconds in and we hit the post after some good play! There it is, 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Maitland-Niles crosses in and Moussa hits in at the back post. 2 - 0, some nice attacking play and Garbutt crosses and Maitland-Niles puts it in. 3- 0! Garbutt crosses again and Maitland-Niles puts it away. Half time. Oh nice goal on the 85th minute. Moussa cuts in from the left to place in the bottom corner. We looked so much better here. Full time.

Home - Leciester City They're a struggling team and I need to capitalise on that. Vardys been scoring but they're in 13th. Going my home 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 but made some tweaks. It's been a very quiet first half, not alot of action, Leciester perhaps been the better side. Ohh nice goal! Reed hits the ball over to the on running Deulund who takes his man on and slots in the bottom corner. 53rd minute and 1 - 0 to the Millers! Should of been 1 - 1, Okazaki plays in Mahrez who knocks it wide, surely he was offside? We go close, it's a great ball from Rashford over to Maitland-Niles who crosses back in and Schemichel makes a good save. Leicteser are knocking on the door, it's been a very even game. It's the post! Throw in and Powell from a tight angle shoots, it hits of the post and into Schmeichels back but only for a corner. 2 - 0! Deulunds corner is headed home by Danny Wilson! 3 - 0! The two I was about to sub make the goal and score, a ball over from Powell to Rashford, he runs down and smashes in. Should of been 4! Maitland-Niles waits too long to square it, finally does but it's behind the two players in the better spots and Deulund hits it onto the post. Full time, what a much better game. Move into 15th!

December

Home - Manchester City I've taken a break from FM so need to get back into the swings of things! Home against Man City might not be the game for it though ^_^! 20 seconds and City go close! Some good passing, we sit off and Aguero hits it from 20 yards and hits the bar! That could of been a nice goal! City are playing in our half and we're struggling to go forward. It's 0 -0 at half time though so I'm not changing anything. Man City are playing some stupidly good one touch football! 66th minute and Nasri is played through but Johnstone is strong enough to the save! Wow! It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Some quick passing from a throw in and Dumitru hits in the top corner from a through ball from Rashford. 78th minute and we've had 5 shots, 4 on target, they've had 18 shots, 6 on target and hit the woodwork! Instant reply from City. De Brune with a deadly cross and Isco hits it in. Isco is actually offside when the ball is played! But it doesn't matter 2 - 1! Oh nice. Some good passing, Duelund has the ball, crosses in and Dumitru hits it! Hart left him a huge gap to aim for! They're blaming Toure for missing his interception but where's Hart for that one! 2 minutes of injury time to go and it's going to be a thunderous 2 minutes! How did he miss!? City hits the corner in and Grant Ward uses his pace to intercept the ball, City are all up and if he runs fast enough it's him vs Hart. He manages it, slows it down and hits it at Hart! So well played but such a poor shot. They really are attacking in numbers! They're trying to get it to De Bruyne down the right but Garbutt is keeping the long balls from reaching him. Garbutt makes a huge mistake, a really silly pass straight to City but Bennett is too strong for Berahino. Again Garbutt stops the ball to De Bruyne and full time goes! What a result. City weren't half as good when Aguero came off for Berahino and they subbed both CBs and put Toure there. Odd decision from Klopp!

Away - Burnley 4 - 3 - 3 and 42 seconds and it's the post! Colback hits a freekick up, Dumitru collects it at the back, good feet and shoots! It's the post and out and Heaton collects, unlucky! Cleared off the line! Burnley attack, we clear, repeat etc, we don't clear well, ball over to the left side of the box, they shoot and Johnstone saves, it hits the inside of the post and stays there! We clear! Burnley should of scored, a very poor goal kick from Johnstone lets Burnley attack a bit too easily. Old friend Aneke is the one in the box and he hits it wide. 36th minute and 1 - 0 Rotherham. Freekick into the box and Heaton saves from Bennetts effort, freekick taker Duelund has run into the box and finishes into an empty back of the net. Half time! What is he doing! Great football from Rotherham and a lovely ball from Maitland-Niles plays in Garbutt to hit across yet somehow runs the ball off the pitch. 58th minute and wow it should be 1 - 1. Gamboa hits in a curling cross and Aneke is onside and it's him vs Johnstone. He hits the bar and Johnstone collects before he can rebound, he's not having a good game is Aneke. Last 20 minutes were a couple of half chances from both teams but none good enough. Last attack of the game is a freekick for Burnley but Keanes header is what I can only describe as terrible so we take the 3 points! Not the best game ever but a win is a win! We're 10th after 16 games with 22 points, nice. That's currently 9 points clear of Crystal Palace in 18th.

Away - Liverpool See how we cope, we've got some form and we're 4 - 3 - 3 to their 4 - 2 - 3 - 1. What is he doing? Liverpool have had little chances and Garbutt makes a silly unneeded challenge to get his second yellow in the 41st minute. We're playing 60 with 10 men. I'd of taken a draw before the game, I'll defo take one now! Colback is at LB but might change it to get rid of the wingers. Brilliant save from Johnstone to deny Coutinho and yeah, I'm changing it. 50th minute and the middle pressure works! It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Sakho plays a stupid ball back to Mignolet where Dumitru is and he does very well to put it in the net. Pretty poor keeping really. Should of been 1 - 1! A nice ball through to Sturridge, he's not infront of goal but he's an England international and he somehow hits it straight and wide. I'd of been annoyed by any of my players missing that. It's the post! Some wide play where we have the lack of players, Clyne hits a very good ball across where Coutinho is at the back post and he hits the post! What save, pressure from Liverpool and Strurridge plays in Coutinho, Johnstone rushes out and makes himself big. 30 minutes to go and our only shot on target is our goal! Johnstone/Smith playing great. Shocking miss! Johnstone makes a silly kick up feel giving Liverpool possession, longball to the left and a pass to Countinho, he had to bury it and he hits it very very wide. Another chance! Lallana hits a cracking ball from deep and Coutinho is there, he volleys it straight at Johnstone! 20 minutes to go. Another great save to stop Firimno. 10 minutes to go. No! It's 1 - 1. Corner from Coutinho and Firminio isn't marked a hits powerful header. No!!! 92nd minute! 2 - 1 the last kick of the game, Marc Wilson is beaten by Clyne who runs down, crosses, Johnstone "saves it" and it falls to Origi at the back post. They deserve there win but disappointing to lost so late in the game.

Home - ArsenalHopefully we can bounce back from the Liverpool game, morale is still good, we're 10th, why not? 20th minute and 1 - 0 Arsenal, Ramsey plays Walcott down the right, he crosses across goal to Sanchez who beats Smith to the ball. 26th minute and Walcott hits a cross in to Alexis for his second. Oh dear this could be bad. Alexis should of had his hat-trick. We cannot cope with Walcotts pace. Double save from Cech! Rashford shoots from outside the box, he saves but it rolls free, Duelund follows up from a very tight angle and Cech saves. Half time and Arsenal in control. Going 4 - 3 - 3 to try get something in this quiet second half. Oh what a goal! That was lovely! Rashford is played down the right, runs down, runs down, edge of the area he smashes it in the top corner, lovely! Close from Arsenal, lovely one touch football and they flick the ball through but angle it too tight! Oh what a miss. Clarke-Harris is 1 on 1 from a Arsenal mistake and just powers it over, that could of been 2 - 2.

Home - Crystal Palace They've just hired Andre Villas-Boas, let's see how it does for them as they're in 18th. They set up 4 - 2 - 3 - 1 with DMs, I think I can exploit that. 1 - 0 to the Millers! It's a counter, Pucino tackles Bolasie and it's Maitland-Niles with the ball, he passes to Powell who makes an amazing pass across the pitch to Duelund, Deulund first time hits a lovely ball up to Rashford who from a tight angle hits it in, that's a very nice goal indeed. Johnstone!!!! The ball rolls kindly to Cabaye, he hits it across the box to Bolasie who's free of everybody but Johnstone makes the save! Oh he's in some form man! 2 - 0! Alot of balls being hit back and forth after Marc Wilsons freekick was cleared, the ball ends up with CB Danny Wilson who hits it up and it ends up at Rashfords feet and he hits it home, this guy is brilliant. Need to make a bid for him in the summer. Half time! Subbing both CMs as they're on yellows. Oh my. I wish I could of just captured my reaction. Newell hits a ball up to Rashford, who controls it, cuts inside and smashes it in the top corner, that was even better than against Arsenal. That one is getting uploaded. Penalty to Rotherham! It's Newell to take and he hits it home! 4 - 0! Using DMs means they're going so deep to get the ball out and there strikers aren't free as my CBs don't need to try and close the ball down, it's such a poor tactic. I wouldn't mind but if they're using two DMs I'm suprised how they're not coping at all with my front two in Powell and Rashford. McAthur is basically a 3rd CB. Double save from Johnstone cleans it 4 - 0 but it was his mistake that even gave them a chance. Onur Kivrak at the other end makes a brilliant save to stop Newell. We could be 6/7 up here. Full time, we were brilliant.

Here's the goal!

[video=youtube;bDQVq3dDbfY]

Infact here's his Arsenal strike and you can decide which is better.

[video=youtube;aQ52oYu6Nww]

Home - West Ham United No reason to change the lineup but I'm swapping out Utvik(CB who played CM-D for that match) for Oldrup Jensen. 29th minute and could we be on 1 - 0? Maitland-Niles finds himself at the back post able to shoot but Paul Lopez makes a good double save since Maitland-Niles shoots them start at him. Were on top just need the ball in the net and which may now be helped as Mark Noble has just been sent off for a two footed tackle on Rashford. Oh it's 1 - 0! Duelund gets tackled by the box and the ball rolls nicely to Marc Wilson, he crosses in and Rashford with a volley hits the post and in. It's half time! 1 - 1! Bit flukey I'd say. Corner and it's cleared. It's hit back in and Antonio shoots, a slight deflection makes it hard for Johnstone and he manages to stop it going in but can't hold it, Andy Carroll is there before Bennett and he hits it from 2 yards out. Now that's a mistake. 2 - 1 to 10 men West Ham! Byram is played through and hits it straight at the keeper and it somehow then goes off him into the bottom corner. 2 goals in 2 mins. Full time, we couldn't bring it back at all. Better team overall but they scored the goals.

End of the month awards - Duelund picks up Danish U21 Talent and Young Player of the Year. Rashford claims December Young Player of the Month and praises Rotherham . Rashford also got goal of the month for his goal vs Crystal Palace, his Arsenal one didn't make top three!

January

Away - Capital One Cup Semi Final 1st Leg - Tottenham Hotspur A couple of changes to keep some players fresh and Camp goes in net. See how this goes, playing 4 - 3 - 3 but I feel Dumitru might be isolated. Barbosa goes close a minute in but Camp makes a good save. Oh it's 1 - 0! 3 minis in and Smith knocks the ball down to Parigini(the man who seems to shine at AMR) he runs up, tries to shoot but it deflects perfectly to Dumitru who slots in the corner nicely. Could of been 2! Smith runs down the right, crosses in and about 6 yards out is an onrunning Duelund but he hits it too near the keeper who makes a strong save. Half time and been pretty happy with our display so far. It's 1 - 1 and that's lovely football. Chadli chips it to Barbosa who chips it to Bernardo who its it in, that's class football. Camp can't do much about that. Couple of subs needed. What on earth, I type that, put Reed on and he scores! Garbutt freekick, Reed heads in, 2 - 1! Full time and we take home the advantage!

Home - FA Cup 3rd Round - West Ham United Going to keep it 4 - 3 -3 for this and Camp in goal again. So close! Not sure which West Ham CB it was but they missed a header with no one challenging them, it landed to Dumitru but he hit the post! Now for West Ham, Carroll is played in but he hits wide. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Ward plays the ball to Parigini, he runs down and crosses in where Dumitru volleys in. West Ham go close but I think Carrolls pass was too heavy for Jotas run. Half time! Second half is a bad one. Parigini has picked up knock which sucks but honestly nothing has really happened and 30 seconds to go and it's just a kick about. Full time.

Home - Southampton[b/] Back to the league! 4 - 4 - 1 - 1! Rashford trying to get another goal of the month, dribbles forward and smashes it but just over. 1 - 0 Rotherham! Rashford hits it out to the left and Deulund smashes it in from a tight angle, good hit. That wasn't very nice. Ball comes over, Austin has to beat Bennett who intercepts but he goes down injured, he doesn't care and shoots anyway, Johnstone saves and saves the follow up from Castillejo. It's 1 - 1. Ibe plays it to Austin who hits it between two defenders where it hits the post and bounces in. Should of been 2 - 1! Rashford get ahead of the defense but his half volley is straight at Cilliessen and it's half time. Another injury, this time to Maitland-Niles. Can ward come on and change the game? 2 - 1 to Rotherham! I thought it was an OG but Rashford claims it. Duelund passes a freekick to Reed who plays it through to Rashford who to me is offside. Virgil slides in and looks like to me its him who hits it but Rashford is taking it. Colback smashes one over and it's full time! Southamtpon were 14th so that's a good win for us as we're back up to 10th.

Injury! Bennett is out for 3 months, that's a big blow. Utvik and M. Wilson will compete for his starting spot.

Player in Jesse Lingard becomes a Miller for the fee of 1.8mil.

Player out Frank Moussa has signed for Los Angeles for 200k and will be arriving on the 21st of Feb.

Away - Brentford They're 17th so we should hopefully get a result especially as Maxime Colin is out for this one. 30 mins in and Brentford are in full control, Johnstones had to make some good saves. See how this rides until half time. Button makes a great save to deny Smith! It's 1 - 0 to the Millers! It's that AMR man Parigini crosses in across the 6 yard box and Rashford pokes it home. Half time and we were the better team for the last 15 minutes. Colback is off! Again he makes a stupid challenge when he's already booked. 10 men for 30 minutes and it's central play we'll have to try. Lingard makes his debut coming on for Duelund in the AMC spot. We have alot of yellows so more chances. We're going to get fined iirc. We're making this hard for ourselves with some bad passing and bad ball control. Full time goes though and with 10 men we win!

Away - Leicester City They're 19th and in shocking form in the league, haven't won in a month and a half but they did beat Chelsea. We have to get points here. So close! Mahrez does cracking down the right pulls in hits it but it's the post and out. It's 1 - 0 Leicester. Vardy scores as Amartey plays him through. We looked a bit out of sorts at the moment. Close again! This time for Rotherham as Duelund lets one fly and it's the post. We're either tired, lazy or believing some sort of hype as we're second to so many balls, half time and I'm going to have a right go. Stats show we're the better team, best chances but we're behind and like I said, we need to chase down that ball. Seems to have worked! Rashford scores from Lingards through ball. 1 - 1! It's 2 - 1! Lingard scores! Some nice passing and Parigini centers to Duelund, he shoots but Schmeichel saves. Lingard is there to hit in the rebound. Need to make a sub, tried Louis Reed at DM, it's not his spot. Should of been 3. I've put Rashford on the right and Dumitru uptop. Rashfords pace is no match for the defence and he plays it in the middle but Dumitru hits it at the on rushing Schmeichel. I think he had more to aim for personally. Danny Wilson just made a brilliant tackle to deny Leicester, Smiths cross was poor and they countered, I'd say he was the only reason they didn't score. Full time whistle goes and it's a Rotherham win! Duelund first time at CM gets MotM. I didn't think him and Lingard would work in the same team but that shows me. We're up to 7th! Duelund is out for 5 weeks though .

Home - Capital One Cup Semi Final 2nd Leg - Tottenham Hotspur Going to keep it 4 - 3 - 3 for this. Tottenham should of scored, a nice ball into the box and its in the feet of Eriksen, he shoots and Johnstone makes a good save. Eriksen hits the post! Kane is tackled and the ball falls perfectly to Eriksen, he should of buried it. Half time. Johnstone makes a great save to deny Gabriel in the 76th minute but apart from that it's been a very quiet half. Defense and goalkeeper have been very solid. Ohhh 87th minute and it's 1 - 0 to the Millers! Rashford plays a ball to Reed who dribbles past Dembele and smashes it in, nice! Full time goes and we're in the final!

Away - FA Cup 4th Round - Wolverhamton Wanderers Aaron Mooy finally gets to play in a Millers shirt since he picked up an injury before he arrived and has been missing for 4 weeks. Let's see what he can do as the AP-S in a 4 - 3 - 3! Half time after an even half, only one clear chance and that was from Wolves with some cracking play I have to admit. 30 mins left and going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 to try and get something and not force a replay. 1 - 0 Wolves, Dicko plays a lovely ball through to Price who drills it in the bottom corner. Full time, we were pretty poor. Wolves progress.

Home - Blackburn Rovers They're 20th, we're at home and going 4 - 4 - 1 -1. This should be a Rotherham win! It's half time and a quiet first half. My CB Utvik is trying to play Hollywood balls and it's annoying to watch. His instructions are to play less risky passes but need to add short after those attempts. Second half underway. Blackburn are the better team really and I need a tactic change. 20 minutes to go as 4 - 3 - 3. Oh that was dirty, Kristoffer Ajer has been sent off for a reckless two footed lunge on Grant Ward. It's full time though and 0 - 0. Most of our players seem to play well enough we just couldn't break them down.

Couple of updates:

Rashford wins January Player of the Month and fully deserved. He praised Rotherham for helping him achieve this.

Players In:

Aaron Mooy - Cost me a million and natural in CM/AMC. Looks a good passer with good technique. Welshace iirc posted about him and I want to give him a try, he's Austrialian but homegrown at Bolton.

Jesse Lingard - Cost £1.8mil. Needed someone to give Duelund competition and he can play AMC also. Should be a good player.

Players Out:

John Egan - Not needed and was out on loan at Notts Forrest, they bought him for 750k which I was happy with.

Stuart Bannigan - He's a good enough player but I just had better than him and was able to let go, never trained well to fit the DM role and he's not as good as Reed, Powell etc in the CM role.

Frank Moussa - Not cut for this level, holding him in high regards as he helped me survive in the first season but contract ran out at end of season and cashed in when I could.

February



Away - Manchester United Rashford is ineglible, Duelund and Maitland-Niles injured. I'm not holding out for alot here. Can Lingard perhaps haunt his former club? Maybe even Powell? We'll see. It's 1 - 0 to Manchester United. They play some good football after Reeds bad pass and they get behind the lines due to some poor defending where Higuian is tackled but Carrasco is waiting to hit in. It's half time. 47th minute and Johnstone makes a great save to deny Higuian. He goes close again after another Reed mistake but Johnstone saves again. Going 4 - 4 - 1- 1 to try get a goal back. Oh great save by De Gea! Some block shots but Lingard hits one on the half volley from about 10 yards out and De Gea is like a cat to get over to deny it. I don't think many other keepers on the game would of reacted like that. 2 - 0 Manchester United. Same sort of goal where Higuian is tackled, it lands to Carrasco and he blasts it in. Marc Wilson has just for no reason hit a long ball straight to United defenders, no way near any Rotherham player and he was under zero pressure. It's like the RCB spot is haunted. They should of scored from the counter but Januzaj hits wide. Some of our passing has been woeful. Dumitru should of scored, Garbutt was tackled and it rolled straight to him but blasts it at De Gea. I can't help but think we have some nervous players. Full time goes, we tried but some shocking passing.

Away - Tottenham Hotspurt We can beat them, we proved it in cup wins and I've told Lingard I expect some better passes so let's try get a win! We're currently in 11th with 25 played, 35 points and 14 points above the drop. Infact we've draw one and lost two so Tottenham were our last win. 13th minute and it's 1 - 0 Rotherham! Reed plays the ball out to Pucino who plays a through ball to Parigini who slots it in, I was expecting the offside flag but the movement was greatly timed. What a save! Alli passes to Dier on the right who takes on Mee and centers it. It's Kane who's there first who smashes it from 6 yards out but Johnstone saves! Oldrup clears the ball before Kane can have a second attempt. Goal! Goal! Goal! Rashford is smart enough to pass the ball to Mooy instead of trying to get the ball to Lingard himself. Mooys pass is perfect and Lingard smashes it in from just outside the box. 30th minute and 2 - 0 to Rotherham! 37th minute and 2 - 1! Diers cross deflects of Mooy perfectly to Pritchard at the back post who puts it in no problems and gets his first Tottenham goal. Last attack before half time sees Barbosa get a ball to him on the right hand side inside of the box, he hits it wide where you'd of expected him to of hit it atleast on target. Half time in an even game! 50th minute and it's 2 - 2. We defend well but Oldrups pass out was woeful and lets Tottenham attack again, Rose gets in behind and scores the equaliser. It's 3 - 2 to Rotherham! Mooys corner is flicked in at the near post by Danny Wilson! It's 3 - 3. Kanes ball beats 4 defenders especially Mee at LB where Pritchard hits in his second of the game. Dumitru and Colback come on, can we win this? If Barbosa didn't go for the shot and squared it Pritchard may of been there for his hat trick but we won't know. 5 mins to go and Powell comes on for Reed. Maybe Garbutt should of come on for Mee. Johnstone makes a brilliant save to deny Barboba after skinned Mee. Oh what a goal, hats off. 89th minute and Tottenham take the lead. Dembele dummies it an smashes it in the bottom corner, that is a very nice hit. Full time and Tottenham win. Mee and Utvik were poor.

Home - Everton They're 8th and we're 11th. Can we beat them and break our hoodoo? Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Rashford uptop and Powell behind as Dumitru is very much lacking goals. Everton should be 1 - 0 up, great ball to Pratto who is free but his shot is weak and Johnstone gets down to save. It is 1 - 0 now. Omeruo heads in Baines' corner. What on earth? To clear the ball Ward chips it into his own area! And he doesn't do it with any accuracy, it lands directly to Mancuello who should of scored. That was a great save but shocking from Grant Ward. Ward misses a glorious chance, Rashford is tackled and Ward is first to the ball and his shot is tame. Ward is coming off and we're going 4 - 3 - 3. Went attacking, brought Dumitru is and it's 1 - 1! Colback plays a ball through, he's onside and he slots it in. 2 - 1!!! To the Millers! Reed pings a ball over to Garbutt who crosses first time and Rashford is at the back post to hit in. Nice! No! It's 2 - 2 and that was shocking from Johnstone! Ball over to Lennon who cuts inside, Smith doesn't defend well but the shot is at Johnstone and he dives to knock it in his own net? I don't understand that one. Full time whistle goes. We did well to draw.

Neutral - Capital One Cup Final - Norwich City We have Deulund back, Maitland-Niles on the bench and they're 7th in the Championship. I'd love to win this. Lingard is dropped completley, didn't help get us here and he's out of form. They still have some good players, especially Nathan Redmond. 4th minute and it's 1 - 0 to Norwich, a corner is hit out to Redmond who passes in and we block to deny Mousanda, we don't tackle him and he centers to Klose who scores from close range. 5th minute and it's 1 - 1! Colback hits a corner and it's headed out, Deulund picks the ball up, passes to Garbutt who passes to Reed who smashes in the bottom right corner, nice hit. We go close! Parigini volleys Deulunds freekick but is saved at the near post. Other end they go close! Not sure who crossed in but Redmond is there and hits the post. This is a quality cup final. Half time! What a save! A bad pass out lets Norwich to make a better pass in and Johnstone denys them 1 on 1. 30 minutes to go and Powell on for Mooy. It's 2 - 1! Seems like a good idea, Powell passes to Rashford who plays in Pairgini who slots it in the left corner. Joe Newell comes on for Deulund and he isn't match fit. Final whistle goes and we've won the Capital One Cup! Norwich had the best chances but we had twice as many and 60% possession. They look like a good counter team and I think we could see them back in the Prem next year. Anyway it's time to enjoy our success! Turns out Johnstone played 80 minutes of that game with a sprained wrist.

Away - Chelsea Johnstone and Garbutt both out for a week, if I don't lose I'll be happy. Well, lose by many, this is going to be a hard game. What a save! The ball rolls peferctly to Hazard and he has alot of space to aim for but Camp gets down to deny! 1 - 0 Chelsea. Danny Wilson heads it into the path of Ayoze so he's 1 on 1 with Camp and he slots it in. Poor by Danny Wilson, poor. 30 mins left, Lingard and Dumitru on and go attack, try and get a draw. Full time goes. We weren't bad, they won from our mistake and we couldn't exploit the wings. Felt like Semedo had Duelund in his pocket.

Not been the best month but we won the Capital One Cup which is a big plus.

March

Away - Hull City Can we get out of this run with a win? They're 17th and we're 12th. Well it's 1 - 0 to Hull. Abel hits it out to Barragan on the right who crosses in back to Abel who hits first time in. We're the better side we need to make better chances. Danny Wilson just set up Jese but luckily Camp saves! A bad header again! It's 1 - 1! Danny Wilsons head is used to score this time! His first attempt at an attack from a freekick, first two who's taken down but taken way too many chances. It's half time and 1 - 1. Dumitru has picke dup a knock so I'm bringing on Jim O'Brien! Remember him? He's been out for most of the season but he's back so let's test him out! Pucino tries to take him man on instead of passing to the open O'Brien. Hull couner and Camp manages to deny Abel at the near post. We're currently second to alot of balls which means we're not creating any attacks. I type this and Hull score. Barragan hits a cross in and Jese is the one there. Garbutt being injured and two very out of form CBs isn't helping. Jese makes it 3, ball through and from Cook and he blasts past Camp. Full time and I'm not sure where the next win is coming from.

Home - Swansea City 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Lingard behind Rashford. Smith is filling in at LB with Pucino at RB. Danny Wilson dropped to bench as he needs a rest. 17th minute and Camp makes a good save at the near post to keep it 0 - 0. Another save from Camp from a Swansea longshot! It's 1 -0 Rotherham. Some nice quick passing allows Duelund to get behind where he centers it to Rashford who has no problem putting it in from 6 yards. Half time. 1 - 1. Remy plays in Rossiter who puts past Camp. Somehow Camp will be dissappointed but what's he supposed to do there? 2 - 1 Swansea. Deulund doesn't put enough effort in on the left and Garry Rodrigues takes it past him, he swings the ball in and Camp saves Borinis first effort but he has no problem hitting in the second. 3 - 1. Mee heads clear only to be picked up by Siggy who smashes from the edge of the area. 3 - 2. Williams scores an own goal from Smiths cross, think he was trying to get infront of Lingard but a deflection made it hit Williams instead. Going 4 - 3 - 3 for the last 25 minutes with 3 subs. Final whistle goes and the clear chances were the difference in an even game. Swansea take the points back to Wales.

Home - Bournemouth They're 7th in some good form, let's try and break it! Sticking with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Powell going AMC, Duelund MC and Lingard ML. Johnstone is back in between the sticks aswell . 7th minute 1 - 0 Rotherham! Passing around the box and no one is trying to shoot! Reed does, hits a Bournemouth player and the goalkeepers already dived so he had a free net to hit it in! 10th minute 2 - 0! Danny Wilson heads in Garbutts corner. Nice parry! Assombalonga burns it into the right side of the box and crosses it to Araujo, Johnstone is there to "parry" it. He punches it well out of the box. Half time and it's Rotherham who are winning. Ward could of done better. Rashford knocks it up to Powell who controls, it's hit out to Ward who bursts in and hits it closer to the corner flag then anything, not a good shot. Good save! Johnstone denys Ritchie and luckily the follow up hits the post. Close again! Afobe cuts in nicely but smashes it against the post! Bournemouth are going for it and this is very edgy! What a save!!! A cross is hit into Assombalonga who rifles one and somehow Johnstone dives and saves it. What a comeback display. It's 3 - 0 though! Parigini came on upfront for Rashford and places in Powells throughball. It's full time and we're got out first league win since the 20th of January, this match took place on the 12th of March!

Away - Newcastle United 16th minute and it's 1 -0 to Newcastle. Reed jumps over the tackle but loses the ball, looks like he jumps so he doesn't get his legs taken off. They counter from this and Anthony Modeste scores a nice solo effort after he picks up the long ball. Johnstone does brilliant to deny Modeste his second. Brilliant again minutes later to deny Cabelle making it 2. Half time and we've been poor. Some tactical change to try something. It's Krul thing time making the good save to deny Rashford. Much better in second half we just need that goal. 3 subs made with 20 minutes to go. Rashford should of scored! Kruls goalkick is intercepted by Smith who punts it to Rashford, he shoots but hits it at a rooted Krul. Either side and it's a goal. Utvik has come on, made a bad pass which thanks to Johnstone didn't give Vazquez a goal. 10 minutes left and Lingard hits it out to Smith, I think he made the wrong call and Parigini was the better option. Smiths cross is straight to Krul. 84th minute equaliser! Utvik hits a good pass to Parigini who sprints down the right, crosses it where Rashford hits it post and in. 85th minute goal.. to Rotherham! Powell punts it to Rashford who takes it down, runs down the right and crosses across goal where Lingard hits it in! Directing passing and attacking football has made us so much better in the second half. Full time and two wins in a row! Of course Johnstone is MotM.

Home - Watford Going to stay 4 - 3 -3 but bring on the players that changed the game. It's 10th vs 9th. What a weird goal. 23rd minute, Garbutt crosses in, the ball goes into the center and I think it bouces? 3 defenders and Rashford who's closest stare at it, Lingard tackles the ball and luckily Parigini runs in and manages to get it past Ochoa. 25th minute and a lovely goal from Rashford, Powell passes to him, Rashford takes it past two and smashes it in. Should of been a third, nice ball over to Lingard who centers to Rashford and he hits at the keeper. Watford go close and smash the bar! What a goal! Rashford again! Sprints from the half way line and Watford can't get near him and he smacks it in, lovely. 3 -0 at half time! Attacking Direct is working again! Parigini has picked up a knock . This is suprising, Utviks having a good game! 67th minute and Rashford hattrick! Powell curls in a cross and Rashford gets his head onto it! 4 - 1! They counter well and Veretour centers to Pendaranda and he scores his first Watford goal. 4 - 2! I jinxed Utvik, he watched Ighalo go past him and he hits it in the bottom corner. Last kick of the game and Rashford nearly gets his 4th but knocks it wide. Full time after that scare it's 4 - 2! We go 9th but Watford have a game in hand.

End of month award: Rashford wins Young Player scoring 5 in 5 but his goal only came in third.

April



Away - Manchester City They're top of the league. Aguero is the leagues top scorer and he's currently worth 58million! That's more than my whole squad combined! . I think anyway. Garbutt misses an interception, City cross in and Aguero hits the post. That shows how quick they turn nothing into something. Damn, we were holding on but a ball over to Aguero from Zabaleta, he runs down and hits it in. Not as good as the commentary were trying to make out. A good save from Johnstone denys Aguero his second. We've not had a shot yet, City have been really good so a few tweaks but I can't lose the DM. WHAT! Lingard just missed a howler. Rashford stole it froma City throw in, waited, crossed it and its so open for Lingard and he scoops it at Hart. Hart makes a good save to deny Rashford! This is better. That sums up some of our player today though, Reed chips the ball over Pucinos head and off the pitch when he could of passed it across the ground. A good save from Johnstone denys Aguero from Pucinos error. It's all City again so I'm going all out. Last kick of the ball Augero makes it 2 - 0 from a long ball from Otamendi, great play for him to hold his run and then no one could of caught him. Not a bad result. 2 - 0 when I went attacking and they're the best team in the league, this is our first season. Aguero was quality.

Home - Burnley Rashford is injured for two weeks, boo! 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Dumitru and Maitland-Niles playing! 2nd minute and Arnautovic goes close! He takes on his man and Johnstone saves for a corner. 25th minute Burnley just hit the crossbar from a corner! They're threatning from corners, that's for sure. Half time and it's 0 - 0. Going 4 - 3 -3 attacking. We're at home and tactic isn't working. Another set piece and Burnley should of scored from the freekick! Going 4 - 3 - 3 with no striker. Full time, we were defensivly solid. Attackingly poor. At home and we had two shots, one on target. Tweaking couldn't change it.

Away - Arsenal With Duelund playing a CM position I've won two in two, so that's where he's going for this one. 2nd minute Parigini puts in a great dipping ball to Lingard who volleys but Cech makes a great save! It's 1 - 0 Arseonal. Rafael crosses in and Reine-Adelaide is the one who gets to the ball and heads it in the net. Half time! I thought it was 1 - 1 but the liner flags and Lingard was offside. It's 2 - 0 instead. Bacca heads in Gnarbys header. Subs and attacking for 25 minutes. Oh damn it's 3 - 0. Welbeck passes out to Rafael who crosses perfectly in for the onrunning Welbeck who hits in. It's full time. Arsenal were just a class above us. Duelund has a two week injury .

New Contract



Of course I'm signing .

Home - Liverpool Ryan Bennett is back . Rashford is back and starting upfront with Powell behind. We're tackling Liverpool but they keep seeming to claim the ball back. A cross from Clyne to Cavani and it's a good save from Johnstone as Cavani is about 6 yards out. A bit of luck but a header down from Firmino to Coutinho but Johnstone denys Coutinhos effort. 24th minute and It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! A ball over frm Lingard, Rashford is first to ir, dribbles and places it to the top corner from just outside the box, lovely goal. We back off from Cavani and it takes a greta save from Johnstone to deny the equaliser. Another great save to deny Markovic. Cavani hits the bar from Clynes cross. We'll take it to half time but 4 - 3 - 3 is needed here! The last kick behind the break and it's 1 - 1! Clynes cross is hit in by Cavani. Half time and 4 - 3 - 3. A bit of luck for the ball to end up to Cavani and he should of scored but he hits it wide. He hits the bar again from a freekick just outside the box! Oh what a fluke! Wilson doesn't quite get his head on Markovis head back in, it drops to Cavani who shoots and it deflects of a sliding in Bennett to make it an O.G and 2 - 1 to Liverpool on the 81st minute! Attacking football it is! Johnstone does great again to deny Markovic, he has to be MotM. Full time and Liverpoold deserve their win. They have the quality we currently lack.

May



Away - Crystal Palace Last game of the season and as we didn't win in April I'd like to end it on a high since we can potentially finish 9th but if we lose we could end up 12th. Crystal Palace score. 22nd minute, Puncheon passes to Zaha who knocks it on to Beauvue who slots it in. Attacking second half! 90th minute Dumitru plays through Parigini and somehow he hits it wide! That should of been the equaliser! Full time. Should of finished 1 - 1 in what was an even game. We finish 11th, same position we started the day. Just been given 18million for it which will help the club alot.

End of Season







We've had a quality season and we can build on that. We have some problems at the back we need to sort but overall I've really happy. I'm hoping to do the transfer window by the end of the week so it should be interesting so I'm able to bring to Rotherham. I'll also be going back to the software I was using due to this one having very wonky formatting .

Before I've even sold anyone, I get this!



This should be interesting .

Transers

Out



Players like Jesse Lingard, Nick Powell etc I couldn't turn down the offers I recieved. Ben Mee and Utvik didn't perform well enough for me last season and I thought it was time to move on. Ward, Pucino, Mooy would of been nothing more then backup so it was time to cash in. Clarke-Harris, Camp, Newell and O'Briens time were up. Weren't needed and it was best to let go.

In



Marcus Rashford - He's a Miller! Easily the best player of last season, I haggled with Manchester United a bit, somehow they dropped it down to 15million which I accepted straight away. We'll be a key man this season without a doubt.

Marc Albrighton - Natural on both sides, looked quality in pre-season. Will be the starting MR/AMR and excited to see what he can bring.

James Wilson - Not reached his potential yet but I'm hoping I can play him and get him there, good poacher.

Jack Butland - What is there to say? Will be my #1 for years, didn't cost alot and really happy with the purchase.

Andre Ayew - Normally I stay away from African players due to ACON but for that price and the goals he's scored against me on Football Manager 2016 and that's natural on both wings, I couldn't resist.

Ryan Betrand - Starting LB, good price, good pre-season.

Serge Gnarby - Versatile, free, training at MR to be backup to Albrighton and still has room to improve.

Sime Vrsaljko - Personally think he's one of the best right backs in the game and in this Rotherham save I won't lose him to min.free. 3million was a total steal and he'll be a key player this season.

Adrien Rabiot - He's always played well for me and he's already showing why I've signed him. Will be my starting CM-D.

Milos Veljkovic - Starting RCB, homegrown, quite happy with this one. I've not bought him before as I've always missed out so this will be a different CB to norm.

Vlad Chiriches - He'll be my third CB, didn't cost alot and no doubt will be perform better than Utvik.

Jack Wilshere - I had too, if I keep him fit he'll be such a good pairing next to Rabiot. He's been really good in pre-season. The only doubt if his fitness.

Cauley Woodrow - I missed out on Vardy(picture below will show why) and I've seen Woodrow score 20+ a season before, for that price I had to bring him to Rotherham.

Thorgan Hazard - Backup, versatile, cheap.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles - Loaned in for another year, versatile, played well for me so far. I'd like to get him in permantley when Arsenal will let him go.

The player we missed out on



No way I could get him, he joined Watford on 115k a week. I couldn't afford that .

Pre-Season



We played well for the most part. Kuban we were 4 - 1 up and conceded 3, how not to defend. Alfreton we had a silly amount of shots, CCCs, woodwork and only just managed to fluke a goal. Overall, no defeats is a good thing.

August

Europa League Third Round Qualifiaction - Away - Randers FC

Pre-match - Alot of new players but I believe I have a stronger squad, easily. We'll see how it goes. Pre-season has gone well, we're just going to be missing Rashford and Albrighton which they're big losses but we have cover!

First half - 2nd minute and Randers hit the post. Cross comes in and a volley smashes the woodwork! 10 minutes in and we're struggling. Maybe just a slow start. 17th minute and a ball is played through to James Wilson, he hits it straight at the keeper. We did get better, they didn't have a shot after the first ten and we just need to get the chance.

Second half - Same formation and we'll see how it goes. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! 50th minute and Wilshere plays in James Wilson who slots it in the corner. 20 minutes left and and a couple of changes, freshen it up and for the players not playing that well. Rabiot is playing as good as I'd hoped, he's bossing the midfield. It's a red card! 84th minute and Randers center back Jeppe Tverskov is sent off for a second yellow! He fouled James Wilson who could of been through. It's full time!

Post-match - Really happy with that display. Fullbacks Vrsaljko and Bertrand were quality, Rabiot and Wilshere also. Strong performance and a good goal. We go back home with an away goal . 9 debutants .

Europa League Third Round Qualification - Home - Randers FC

Pre-match - Why change it? We'll stay 4 - 3 - 3. We played well in the away fixture.

First half - 10th minute and Wilson scores! Rabiot hits a ball over the top, Wilson controls nicely and slots bottom corner. It's 2 - 0! Deulund picks up the ball from Fischers defensive error, he cuts in and hits in the near post, keeper should of done better but we'll take a goal. Go close again and we're playing some nice football. Ayew is looking like he hates playing on the right where he excels on the left. James Wilson goes close and it's half time!

Second half - Maitland-Niles comes on for Ayew. Butland has to make a great save to deny Randers a goal. Full time and Rabiot is Man of the Match!

Post Match - Not much to say, nice win, everyone played well enough. We're through to the next round.

August

(Psst, look at how many clean sheets! Hard to say that last season!)

Europa League Third Round Qualifiaction - Away - Randers FC

Pre-match - Alot of new players but I believe I have a stronger squad, easily. We'll see how it goes. Pre-season has gone well, we're just going to be missing Rashford and Albrighton which they're big losses but we have cover!

First half - 2nd minute and Randers hit the post. Cross comes in and a volley smashes the woodwork! 10 minutes in and we're struggling. Maybe just a slow start. 17th minute and a ball is played through to James Wilson, he hits it straight at the keeper. We did get better, they didn't have a shot after the first ten and we just need to get the chance.

Second half - Same formation and we'll see how it goes. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! 50th minute and Wilshere plays in James Wilson who slots it in the corner. 20 minutes left and and a couple of changes, freshen it up and for the players not playing that well. Rabiot is playing as good as I'd hoped, he's bossing the midfield. It's a red card! 84th minute and Randers center back Jeppe Tverskov is sent off for a second yellow! He fouled James Wilson who could of been through. It's full time!

Post-match - Really happy with that display. Fullbacks Vrsaljko and Bertrand were quality, Rabiot and Wilshere also. Strong performance and a good goal. We go back home with an away goal . 9 debutants .

Europa League Third Round Qualification - Home - Randers FC

Pre-match - Why change it? We'll stay 4 - 3 - 3. We played well in the away fixture.

First half - 10th minute and Wilson scores! Rabiot hits a ball over the top, Wilson controls nicely and slots bottom corner. It's 2 - 0! Deulund picks up the ball from Fischers defensive error, he cuts in and hits in the near post, keeper should of done better but we'll take a goal. Go close again and we're playing some nice football. Ayew is looking like he hates playing on the right where he excels on the left. James Wilson goes close and it's half time!

Second half - Maitland-Niles comes on for Ayew. Butland has to make a great save to deny Randers a goal. Full time and Rabiot is Man of the Match!

Post Match - Not much to say, nice win, everyone played well enough. We're through to the next round.

Just been announced we'll play Slovakian side Trencin in the Europa League Playoff.

Away - Brentford

Pre-match First game of the season, going in with some form and really looking forward to the season. See if we can finish in the top half. Away 4 - 4 - 3 it is! Just found out Southgate is now Brentford manager so that's more friendly then Dean Smith who is now at Southampton.

First half 19th minute and so close! Betrands cross is met by James Wilson but his attempt his the post and bounces out and Brentford clear. 30 minutes and Rabiot is controlling the game but seems that we need improvement for a goal. Oh it seems I was wrong. 41st minute and Ayew who I started as a last mintue decision due to Albrighton lacking match fitness after injury, he hits in Duelunds low cross. Should of been 2 aswell! Same again with the Betrand cross, Wilsons headed effort hits the same post and Ayew is there but doesn't seem to hit it. It is two now! 45+1 Colin makes a huge mistake with a long throw, Ayew steals the ball from O'Connell and smashes it past Button. Half time!

Second half Smith comes on for Vrsaljko just because of his yellow card. 60th minute and I'm using the other two subs. Reed on for Wilshere and Cauley Woodrow on for Wilson to make his Rotherham debut. 70th minute and it's Ayew scoring his hat-trick! Brentford have been poor defending and not under alot of pressure they boot the ball out straight to Reed, he plays it out to Smith who doesn't cross but waits, he passes to Ayew who cuts in and smashes in for his third. What a brilliant league debut he is having.

Post-match What a performance! We were the best team from start to finish, Ayew and Rabiot being the key players. We finish the day in second with Villa first due to name as they beat Swansea 3 - 0 on their first match returning to the Premier League. It's also a massive plus since we ended the season with some poor results.

Away - Europa League Play Off - AS Trencin

Pre-match 4 - 3 -3 but alot of changes to keep players fresh. Woodrow starts upfront and Albright on the right to get some fitness back, Ayew isn't dropped he's put on the left.

First half "Off to a flyer". Rotherham 1 - 0 up at the 1:32 mark. Corner comes in from Albrighton but it's a bit long. Bennett heads it back in and it's just not dealt with by anyone. Bit of a mess and Bennett manages to poke the the ball in. A goal is a goal! 7th minute and it's a penalty to Rotherham! Haraslin barges over Woodrow, no arguments and Ayew slots it in. AS Trecin go very close around the 20 minute mark though! Butland makes a save at his near post that the game things should of been an easy enough goal. Half time and we're comfortable.

Second half We've gone out with me saying nothing at half time, what would be the need? It's 3 - 0, lovely goal and Albrighton scores on his debut. 55th minute and Maitland-Niles plays the ball out to the right, Vrsaljko heads it on for Albrighton who takes it past the keeper and slots it in, very nice. 70th minute and take off two booked players and Wilson on for Woodrow. We're actually only had 4 shots so to score 3 goals is nice, they've had 3 shots and 1 CCC, the Butland save. Full time whistle goes.

Post-match Very happy with that, we played quite well which is nice to see as the team are still getting to know each other. Some wonky passes at the end but I can ignore that as we played well for 85 minutes!

Home - Aston Villa

Pre-match I want to try 4 - 4 - 1- 1 but 4 - 3 - 3 has been going too well. I'd also like to hammer Villa as a "welcome to reality".

First half 5 minutes in and Ospina makes a brilliant save to deny Jamew Wilson. Rotherhams corner is flicked on by Danny Wilson and cleared off the line! 19th minute and it's 1 - 0 Villa. Ball over the top and Danny Wilson clears, it's straight to Green on the left wing who cuts in, passes through two defenders where Ngoy is to hit past Butland. We're the better team so far, our finishing is letting us down. It's 1 1 in the 31st minute! Betrand passes across the floor to Deulund who spins and smashes it in the bottom right corner, lovely shot. 43rd minute and Butland makes a great save to deny Villa the lead again. We tackle twice but they get the ball back, Sergio Alvarez plays through Ngoy but Butland denys. Half time.

Second half Told the players I'm not happy with them and I hope to see an improvement. Wilshere is coming off for Poyet. 30 minutes left and Albrighton goes on the right, Woodrow uptop, Ayew on the left and Duelund to CM, trying to get the win. 5 minutes left and all out attack, this has been a poor second half. Full time.

Post-match Not happy with that one, I suppose a draw was a fair result but we lacked that extra magic.

Home - Europa League Play Off - AS Trencin

Pre-match I'm going to try 4 - 4 - 1 - 1, see how it goes. Rashford needs match fitness and will stat as the SS behind Wilson as Woodrow is now injured for 4 weeks.

First half 15th minute and it should be 1 - 0. Maitland-Niles plays a lovely ball to Albrighton is ahead of his marker, only to hit a tame shot at the keeper. 28th minute and it's 1 - 0 now. Wilson plays a through ball to Rashford who slots it home. Half time and we're been the better side without a doubt.

Second half Not alot to say with 30 minutes to go. When I type that we score, 63rd minute. Albrighton crosses in and James Wilson is on the end to hit it past the 'keeper. Wilshere comes on for Rashford so I can use Rashford against Tottenham. He scores aswell. 81st minute! Garbutt hits a ball up, James Wilson flicks on and Wilshere is first to it where he hits it first time in the bottom corner. Wasn't expecting that. Full time and we're through.

Post-match Very happy how we played. That's 6 - 0 over both legs with two different tactics and Wilson was great today. One goal and two assists.

Deadline Day!

We're not selling or buying anyone but some of my targets are on the move! Winger Song Heung-Min joins Arsenal for 8.5million from Hoffenheim. Striker Harold Preciao joins Manchester United for 15.5mil. Stiker Andres Renteria joins Benfica for 8mil. Other players include Marcelo Brozovic to Manchester United for 15mil, Kyle Walker-Peters to Aston Villa for 5mil. Jonny to Arsenal for 25mil. Calum Chambers to Southampton for 12mil. Some good players with big money moves!

Europa League Group



Personally think we can top that group, if not then atleast come second to PSV.

End of month award



Always a nice start . His goal vs Villa came in at 3rd.

Oh and before I forget, the squad!

September



Away - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 and going to play Ayew on the left wing and Gnarby on the right with Rashford uptop. At the least they're will be speed.

First half Tottenham 1 - 0 up on the 6th minute. Pass to Kane, he spins around Chiriches and smashes it from outside the box. Wouldn't suprise me if that strike won goal of the month. 2 - 0 Tottenham. Nope, this one will take it instead. Wilshere fouls and gives a freekick from about 20 yards, Eriksen takes and smashes it top corner. Or, that one might. 22nd minute it's 3 - 0. Bernardo smashes a ball over and Mahrez hits it first time and it whistles in. Both of my ex-Tottenahm defenders are playing horrendous. And it's 4. Wilshere loses possession, my CBs do nothing about it and a ball through to Bernardo Silva that gets placed in. Half time and I'm going to go mental.

Second half 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Wilson uptop and Rashford behind. Can we get some goals back? Not like that, Rashford plays tbe ball out to Gnarby and he shoots instead of crossing. Oh mistake and we get 1 back!!! 75th minute and Chiriches tackles Kane and smashes the ball up. There's an error from the Tottenham 'keeper and CB and no one gathers the ball. Lloris finally comes to get it but it's too late and Wilson smashes it from outside the box past him into an open net. Full time.

Post-match Awful, awful, awful, awful. That first half performance has to be the worst in the FM save. The second we didn't concede and we scored so I'll take that. Must needed performance against Arsenal.

Home - Arsenal

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with a few changes. Wilson uptop with Rashford behind. Bennett and Chirices are the CBs with Smith and Garbutt playing RB and LB. Arsenal are first with three wins though . Wilshere being dropped the media are having a stink over it. Felt Reed deserved it though.

First half Wow! 3 minutes in and it's Rotherham 1 - 0! Rashford plays Albrighton in who crosses across goal, Petr Cech dives for it, misses and leaves the net open for Duelund to attempt, if he missed from that angle I could understand but he burys it! 7th minute and Arsenal go close from a corner, falls to Sanchez at the back post but his shot is charged down. 13th minute they go close again but Butland denys Bacca. It's 1 - 1, bad play from Rotherham. We're attacking Arsenal and Reed takes too long and plays a bad ball out to the left. Duelund has to chase it down rather than Garbutt collect. Duelunds cross is awful and Arsenal counter, Bacca takes it in our area and puts it past Butland on the half hour mark. 32nd minute and Butland denys Sanchez after he cuts in. It's 2 - 1 Arsenal and massive question mark with our defending. Chiriches goes to close down Bacca and fails, Bacca hits a ball forward to Ozil who takes it on and Bennett can't get near. Butland saves Ozils effort but Bacca hits it into the open net. Chiriches has looked awful in a Rotherham shirt so far. We run up from the kick off and Wilsons effort goes close. It's 2 - 1 at half time.

Second half I'm just going to attack, let's try score more. It's 2 - 2! Good passing from Rotherham, Wilson plays in Duelund who centers and Albrighton puts it past Cech. It's 3 - 2 and Bacca gets his hat-trick. We're able to cope with Arsenals attack and it's literally a good tackle that sets Bacca up. Unlucky. Ayew, Hazard and Poyet come on to try and change the game. Arsenal hit a ball up and Garbutts headed clearence lets Arsenal attack us, Duelund is free in the middle and he could of head the ball to him no problems but instead Arsenal make it 4 when Chamberlain sets up Bacca.

Post-match Shocking defending. Chiriches improved where as Bennett didn't. Cut out the silly mistakes and we'll win games again. We've conceded 8 in 2 and that's just terrible. Quicker Danny Wilson is back the better.

Home - PSV

Pre-match Going to start the game 4 - 3 - 3. Rashford, Albrighton and Duelund all go to the bench to be rested for the Southampton game. Johnstone starts in goal.

First half 30 minutes in and it's all Rotherham. We just haven't had a a shot on target. Just before the break PSV hit the post and Johnstone manages to knock it out for a corner. We're the better side but not good enough chances.

Second half Trying something slighty different I'm hoping will give us the attacking edge. Saying that just after the half Johnstone makes a great save to deny Guarados volley. Tactics edited again and 3 subs made. Can Rashford get us the goal? Couldn't cancel in time! Maitland-Niles scores on the 62nd minute but all the changes are being made. Penalty! Rabiot is fouled whilst jumping at the edge of the box. Ayew is taking it and.... blasted it the top corner. 2 - 0! Rashford goes for a solo effort and does everything right apart from getting his shot on goal. Full time!

Post-match That's better football! I actually went attacking - retain possession.

Away - Southampton

Pre-match Rabiot and Wilson going to be rested. Rashford starts with Hazard on the bench and Maitland-Niles goes into CM with Wilshere and Poyet behind them. Decided to play Ayew at RW, not that Albrighton is playing bad. I just have this feeling to play him against his old club.

First half 6th minute and it's 1 - 0! Garbutts corner comes in, Poyet heads it and Stendera clears off the line but it bounces back off Chiriches and into the net! It's 2 - 0! Chiriches plays a good pass that lets Garbutt attack the left, he crosses in and yes it's Ayew who hits it in! Half time and a nice lead!

Second half Not alot has happened and 20 minutes left Gnarby comes on for Duelund and Reed comes on for Maitland-Niles. It's 2 - 1 on the 73rd minute! Olivers corner comes in and Ajer wins the header, Elvedi wins the next head and attacks at goal, Vrsaljko blocks on the line but it bounces off Veljkovic and in! He's not had the best game so Bennett comes in for the final 15 since I don't think that'll help his confidence. It's 3 - 1 in the 79th minute! Gnarby does great down the right taking two on and surging down. He centers for Rashford who is clever and doesn't shoot, waits and lays off Ayew who hits in his second.

Post-match Really happy with that result. Puts our GD back to 0. Gnarby looked good when coming on and Chiriches had his best match in an Rotherham shirt easily. Ayew did exactly what I felt he would .

Away - Capital One Cup 3rd Round - Norwich City

Pre-match They're in the Championship so I'm taking it lighter. Johnstone in net. Marc Wilson at LB as Garbutt needs a rest as he's been playing every game due to the injured Bertrand. Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as it suits the players better.

First half 23rd minute and it should be 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Hazard plays a lovely ball through to Gnarby who has all the time in the world but hits it straight at Kalinic in the Norwich net. 44th minute and it is 1 - 0. Was about to type a quiet half but Gnarbys cross is met by Woodrow and he knocks it in the Norwich net. Surely the second half can only get better?

Second half 54th minute and Norwich counter from a Rotherham freekick. We clear there first attempt but Brady hits the ball back in and it's met by Spalvis whos headed efffort hits the bar! Hazard has picked up an injury so for the last 10 minutes I'm playing 4 - 4 - 2. 82nd minute and Norwich go close. We clear the initial corner but they attack fast and Jarvis finds himself on the right but his shot is easy for Johnstone and he should of done better. Minutes later Johnstone makes a good save 1 on 1 with Quique. 4 - 4 - 2 is not my tactic . A barrage of Norwich crosses but the defense handle them all and the full time whistle goes.

Post-match That was hard game and I have to give credit to my back 4 especially Chiriches! Happy Woodrow got his first goal but that could of been a different result on another day!

Capital One Cup Draw Fourth Round is made and it's Rotherham at home to Fulham.

Well this gave me a chuckle! . Remember when I said Tottenham goals being goals of the month?

End of the month award



Yes . James Wilson finished above the ones against me. That'll do me. Duelund wins 2nd place in Young Player of the Month award.

October



Home - Burnley

Pre-match Going to try 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with a much higher tempo, counter and more direct passing. We have the flair players so we'll see. Rashford plays behind Wilson with Duelund and Ayew on the wings.

First half 33 seconds and it's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! We're passing well, trying to get balls into Deulund but we're unable. We pass back to Rabiot, he passes through to Ayew who crosses in and Rashford is the one to meet it and put it in, what a start! 2 minutes in and should of been 2 - 0! Quality fast football, Rashford plays Wilson through whos powerful effort smashes the post! This time it's 2 - 0 6 minutes in! We counter Burnleys freekick and it's 3 Rotherham players vs 1 Burnley but James Wilson makes a hash of it and gets tackled. Adam Smith is there and plays the ball up to Ayew who crosses low and Rashford hammers it in for his second! 13th minute and Burnley go close. Howson whips in a freekick and it's Arnautovic who is first to the ball, he goes forward but doing this gives him less of the net to shoot at. He shoots, Butland saves down to the bottom post and Smith clears. 3 - 0 33rd minute! Burnley take a short goalkick and Keane hoofs it out. Ayew jumps and cuts the ball out, heading to Rabiot. Rabiot passes to Wilshere who chips the ball over to James Wilson, Wilson takes one touch and its it in the Burnley net. Should of been 4! Lovely passing and Rashford plays in Wilson, he hits it but it's the post again! 40th minute and it is 4, we play with pace down the left, Deulund gets the ball down, crosses low and Wilson hits it in for his second. He could of had 4 in this first half! Half time and Burnley are getting rekt.

Second half Rabiot comes off and he's on a yellow and Reed comes on. It's been a quiet second half and Rashford in the 82nd minute burns up the pitch and tries to chip McCarthy who manages to catch on the line, that'd of been a great goal. Full time!

Post-match Well that tactic worked, we were brilliant. The two wide men and the two front men were simply amazing.

Europa League - Away - Dnipro

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 and going to give Ayew and Duelund 45 minutes each so they're fit for the Manchester United game. Woodrow, Bennett, Wilson and Betrand all start. All but Bennett lack fitness after injury.

First half 3 minutes in and a ball comes into the Rotherham box, I think there is a bit of confusion but Butland saves and it's cleared. 24th minute and Seleznyov is played through and should score but it's high and wide. 28th minute and Dnipro hit the bar from Bezus' freekick just outside the area. We're struggling with this formation. Half time and a bollocking.

Second half Nothing much has happened and with 25 minutes left a couple of subs and attacking. Betrand is coming off and he's very lucky not to of been sent off for two yellows. So close for Rotherham! Woodrows cross comes over and Adam Smith whos come on as left back cuts in and hits the post and it bounces off the inside but just outwards and Dnipro manage to clear before Duelund can follow up! 15 mins left. The throw in we won from that tackle gets us a goal! Smith throws to Rabiot who passes back, Smith crosses and RB Sime Vrsaljko knocks it in for his first Rotherham goal in the 76th minute! It's 1 - 1! I should of gone back to counter, Bezus knocks out to the wing where Fedetskyi is running, he crosses in and Zozulya smashes in, nothing Butland could of done. 10 minutes left! It's full time!

Post-match At the end of the game I think a draw is a fair result. Neither team played too badly.

Away - Manchester United

Pre-match I'm going for the attacking 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. I can't see me getting anything with 4 - 3 - 3. Changed my mind and Albrighton is on the bench with Ayew and Duelund on the wings. United haven't lost yet but they've conceded goals. If we can stop Higuain, we win.

First half Wilshere is trying to find Wilson but Benatia is having no problems cutting out the passes. One one of these United counter, Carrasco runs down the left cuts in and Butland makes a good save to deny. Schniederlin gets a yellow card for a bad tackle but by the reaction the ref bottled it and should of seen red. 34th minute and Carrasco cuts inside again and goes close, he's looking lively. Wilson at the other end is drawing alot of fouls and we could see a Manchester United sent off at this rate. Both CMs are on yellow cards. Last time I played United and this happened the ref bottled it though. It's 1 - 0 Manchester United. Butland passes to Chiriches, he passes to Duelund, Duelund tries to dribble and gets tackled easy. United counter and Schnedierlin hits a ball over to Carrasco, Butland saves but Higuian pokes it in. Veljkovic is somehow taking the blame for that though I can't help feel it was Duelunds fault. 2 - 0 minutes later. Cross comes in and Carrasco volleys onto the bar, rebound falls straight to him and put into the back of th net. Defense are struggling.

Second half Albrighton, Smith and Danny Wilson come on. James Wilson breaks through after a Wilshere pass but hits it straight at De Gea, that should of been a goal and a shout at getting a draw. Full time whistle goes.

Post-match Wide players were poor so we didn't create really any chances apart from Wilsons. Not happy with the performance so I told them straight. Rashford was the only shining light.

Home - Chelsea

Pre-match Sticking with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Rashford uptop with Wilshere behind. Albrighton starts on the right. Maitland-Niles and Reed start at CM. Bertrand, Wilson, Chiriches and Smith start at the back.

First half 15th minute and Wilshere plays a lovely ball forward to Albrighton, he crosses in and Rashford volleys but Courtois makes an absolute peach of a save! It's 1 -0 Chelsea. 38th minute and Cuadrados cornr is headed in by Christensen. 1 - 1! Minutes later Wilshere hits in Albrightons cross. Half time in an even game!

Second half Rabiot on for Reed and Ayew on for Duelund, they're both knackered. Last 15 minutes Wilson comes on for Rashford who's had a quiet game. Full time!

Post-match Considering the bookies had Chelsea as clear favourites I'm happy with the draw, some positives for sure. Chelseas only shot on target was the headed goal.

Europa League - Home - Atromitos

Pre-match Some tired players so going 4 - 4 - 2 with Wilson and Woodrow. Johnstone starts in goal.

First half Been a quiet first half until the first goal.. for Rotherham! Albrighton tackles and plays the ball down the right to Woodrow, he crosses in and it's a brilliant save from Kapino to deny Wilson. Ayew is there to follow up and put in the net whilst the keeper is still on the floor. 2 - 0 Rotherham just before the break! Albrightons cross is met by Wilson and put in pasy Kapino. Really nice team goal. Half time!

Second half Very quiet second half. Woodrow hit the post on the 85th minute but he has nothing to really aim for. We're playing well and we're not letting them get shots off, they've had 5, 1 on target, 2 odd. We've had 19, 8 on targer, 7 off, hit the woodwork twice as I type this. Woodrow should of scored. Full time!

Post-match Consiering we played 4 - 4 - 2 I'm quite happy how we played. Positives for sure.

Away - Everton

Pre-match Just a point behind us but they've lost 4 out of 8. Infact they've lost 4 in a row so can we're playing them when morale is down, could be a good time! I have a strange feeling to play Gnarby at AMR.

First half We counter from Evertons corner and it's 3 on 1 in favour of Rotherham. Gnarby goes for the shot himself instead of centering and Joel saves. Not happy with that. Everton go close from a corner in the 36th minute but Butland saves and it's cleared off the line! Everton are claiming it went over but it doesn't look like they have a case and we clear. It's 1 - 0 Everton, they're just hoofing balls to each other but Mancuello crosses in and a regen named Ebner heads it in the back of the net.

Second half Going to keep it the same, for now. Everton go close! They hit the bar of from a corner and it's cleared off the line! 30 mins left I'm going attacking 4 - 4 - 2. 5 mines left and switching to the 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 hoping Everton can come at us instead. He should of scored with the last kick! Albrighton cross is met by Wilson but its straight into the hands of Joel! We could of had a point there! Full time.

Post-match Not happy with the result. We were generally better but we didn't create good enough chances.

Capital One Cup 4th Round - Home - Fulham

Pre-match Going to start with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Hazard playing behind Woodrow. Will change to 4 - 4 - 2 if need be.

First half Duelund picks up a knock after 10 minutes, not good. Albrighton goes on the left and Gnarby on the right. We're had all the posssesion but not made enough chances, says we're had a clear one but I can't even think of what that was. Half time!

Second half Keeping things the same. 15 minutes left I'm going to attack them. Hopefully we can get through tired legs instead of extra time.

Extra time first half Fulham go 1 - 0 up. Dembele hits over to McCormack and he centers for Ings who hits in. Smith missed the ball and it cost us. No reason to not attack now. There's a red card! Cairney fouls Hazard to pick up his second yellow. From this Maitland-Niles drills one from 20 yards and goes very close! We have 20 minutes to get a goal back.

Extra time second half It's all Rotherham and it takes until the last kick of the game but it's 1 - 1! Marc Wilson head down to Albrighton, he kicks it up to Hazard who crosses in and Woodrow who smashes in. It's going to pens.

Penalty Shootout

[Rotherham] - First kick for Rotherham going second is Marc Wilson. Scores. Second kick is Woodrow. Scores. Third kick is Hazard. Scores. Fourth kick to win Garbutt - Scores!

[Fulham] - First kick is Fulhams, Demebele takes. Scores. Second kick is McCormack. Saved. Third kick is Christensen. Saved. Fourth kick is Ings. Scores.

Post match We made that hard work, lacking chances again but we prevailed in the end thanks to Johnstone and his penalty saving. 21 shots and 3 on target? Need to look at those tactics. I did tweak them for this game.

End of month award

Now he's back and playing, of course he's got it



Marcus Rashford wins Young Player of the Month.

And I just got this, not like I've not spent enough



Finances are still really good though.

November



Oh dear.



Arsenal are the most inform team winning all 9 games in the league, I can't see us beating them. I can't see many teams beating them.

Home - Watford

Pre-match Going to stick with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half We're playing well within the first 25 we just need to make the chance. 10 minutes later we go close, Wilshere takes two on but Ochoa gets down to save his shot. We go close, Wilshere freekick is headed on by Danny Wilson but Deeney blocks Chiriches effort on the line. Butland has to make a wonderful save to deny Watford. Freekick comes in and it lands to Nyom, he controls and shoots and Butland has to have the reflexces of a cat to get it. Watford go 1 - 0 up before the break. Nyoms cross is his in by Ighalo. Albrighton has to be blamed for losing the ball so weakly on the right flank though. He could of passed but dwelled and lost it. Half time and we shouldn't be behind, giving them a bollocking.

Second half Keeping it the same for the moment. 30 minutes left and we can't get that chance, going attacking 4 - 4 - 2. Watford go close as Ighalo rises and hits the bar! It's 1 - 1! Wilson crosses in and Albrighton smashes it in! I accidently subbed Poyet who I brought on for Reed aswell, oops! Reed was supposed to come on for Wilshere.

Europa League - Away - Atromtios

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 for away. Using Ayew as an AML IF instead of winger for this one.

First half Should have scored. Wilson plays in Ayew, 1 on 1 and it's straight at Kapino he only has to stick an arm out. Good save I guess but he should of finished it. We've been the better side but it's half time.

Second half Albrighton hits the woodwork when Smith passes through. The woodwork was the only thing he could of hit and maybe Smith should of pulled the trigger. Woodrow on for Albrighton and Rabiot for Reed. Neither are playing that well. Wilson goes very close when he takes on his man but Kapino gets down to deny. 25 minutes to go, can we get a goal? 15 mins left and attacking 4 - 4 - 2! A goal would keep momentum, a draw would equal us points with Dnipro. Kapino makes a good save to deny Wilson in the 86th minute. Maybe Woodrow could of burst a gut to give Wilson an option. It's 0 - 0.

Post-match We had all the chances and we could of done with winning that. Kapino the Atrmotios goalkeeper claims MotM.

Away - Derby

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Going to use the AML as winger attack, AMR as winger support and change the AP-S into AP-A and see if we can get that goal.

First half Derby have done nothing all half but the last kick they score. Wiemann hits in Christies cross. We're had all the possession and bugger all chances.

Second half Rashford smashes one from 20 yards and it just hits the post, that was so close. Rashford should of scored minutes later, Carson makes a good save but Betrands cross let Rashford free and should of buried it. It's all Rotherham at the moment. Ayew, Rabiot and Albrighton coming off as they're all underperforming. Rashford misses again! Gnarbys cross is perfect but his tame shot it parried out by Carson. Going 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2, maybe the extra man uptop will get us the draw atleast. Full time.

Post-match Swearing is the only way to describe how I feel after that. We have all the best chances and the only chance Derby have wins them the game. Wilshere needs to come back as Reed is not playing well. Only 4 points above the drop and it's all really close a the moment.

Home - Swansea

Pre-match Hazard and Woodrow start up top in a 4 - 4 - 2. Due to international duty and tired players, Lagarde my regen plays in CM next to Rabiot.

First half 7th minute and 1 - 0 to Swansea. We're clealing balls but we're just giving it back to them, it's awful to watch. Borini gets played through and sticks it in no problem. 1 - 1!! Garbutt plays a quick freekick and Woodrow is played through by Rabiot and smashes it in. Half time!

Second half Albrighton is injured so Duelund comes on and Ayew goes on the right. Rashford will come on for Hazard and Smith for Vrsaljko. We should of threatended down the right but Smith leaves it for Ayew which was the wrong decision and we don't create anything from it. Pump the ball up for the last 5, see if we can steal this. "Swansea are having to withstand heavy pressure". Full time.

Post-match Not happy with that. We should of won and yet again our passing is wonkly. Albrighton and Ayew both injured. Albrighton for 3 months .

Europa League - Away - PSV

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Reed has to play DM due to unregistered players, suspensions and injuries. Same with Rashford playing AMR.

First half Quiet first half and it's already half time.

Second half PSV go close as they hit the post in the 54th minute! I'm going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 to try get a late goal. Woodrow comes on for Wilson and Rashford plays behind. It's over, bore draw.

Post-match Still top and a draw away at PSV, I'm actually happy about.

It's been a very bad month, hopefully we can turn it round in December.

December



Home - West Ham United

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Wilshere back in the side, Rashford behind Wilson. Gnarby at RM and Duelund at LM. Can we see a goal!?

First half Boring first half, perhaps had the better chances but nothing clear cut. Not changing anything yet though.

Second half It's 1 - 0! Rashford ends his goal drought! Gnarby plays it through, Rashford shoots and Pau Lopez in the West Ham net makes a mash of it and it goes in. A goal is a goal! Should be 2! Good football and Rashford plays in Wilson who somehow hits wide. Makes it two minutes later! We have possession in the West Ham box after Rashford heads it down to Duelund, he gets tackled but it's not clean. Rashford centers to Wilson who hits home in the 65th minute. Red card! I had a feeling he would. Aurier has been sent off in the 70th minute for a second yellow. Subs to bring on fresh for tired plays and watch the game out. Full time!

Post-match All I did was changed from fluid to flexible and we looked so much better. Iirc that's what it was originally on, some good football and Rashford picks up MotM.

Capital One Cup Quarter Final - Home - Arsenal

Pre-match Going 4 - 3 - 3 to try and not get hammered. They're 11 - 2 - 0 in the league. Suprisingly they've drawn to both Palace and Villia 2 - 2 who are below me in the table! They're playing the first team aswell .

First half We should of gone 1 - 0 up in the 4th minute. Ball played up to Wilson and he hits it wide, could of even taken another touch. We go close again in the 14th minute but Cech denys Duelund from close range! We're playing quite well. Son Heung-Min goes close but it's only the side netting. Lovely Arsenal move in the 33rd minute but Son can only hit the bar. 37th minute and Walcott puts Arsenal 1 - 0 up slotting it past Johnstone at the near post. Half time and we're playing well!

Second half Going to bring on Woodrow for Wilson and see how it goes! Walcott makes it 2 - 0 when Alexis plays the ball through. He should be miles offside but Bennett is in an awful spot. Might aswell attack the last 30 minutes! Gnarby makes a great block to deny Arsenal a 3rd. Full time!

Post-match We actually played really well considering, they just got the goals, can't take that way from the lads.

Away - Newcastle United

Pre-match They're 20th. This is where I need points! Ayew at RW and Duelund at LW, can we see this work as well as it did early in the season?

First half Nothing happened. Fans have payed to see.. nowt .

Second half Start the same but no doubt I'll need to change tactic. Yep, 30 minutes to go attacking 4 - 4 - 2 with Woodrow on for Poyet to play uptop with Rashford. Johnstone makes a good save to keep the scores level. Tim Krul makes an even better minutes later to deny Ayew. This is a better game. It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! We counter from there corner, Ayew hits it a cross to the other flank and I'm thinking... why? Garbutt crosses in where a brilliant tackle by Pezzella denys Woodrow but Duelund follows up and slots in an open net. Newcastle should of scored! Cross in and Falque hits it but it's straight at Johnstone. Woodrow hits the post! We counter, they counter, we counter. Maitland-Niles playes the ball through to Woodrow who shoots but it's the post! Full time!

Post-match Glad we got the win as it probably should of been a draw. Then again if both strikers finished the chances we'd of been 2 - 1 up.

English FA Cup Draw Third Round. Rotherham vs West Brom(now in the championship) at home.

Europa League - Home - Dnipro

Pre-match Butland is in net like he's supposed to be . Forgot to change after the Arsenal game but Johnstone did really well vs Newcastle. Alot of suspesions for this one but we line up a good 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 19th minute! Garbutt does great down the left, crosses in and Rashford volleys it in the back of the net! Should of been 2 in the 25th minute. Duelund passes across to Wilson who spins and shoots, takes a bit too long and fair enough defenders round his shot it straight at the keeper. Half time!

Second half Both CMs coming off due to yellows. 2 - 0! Woodrow who has come on for Wilson plays the ball out to Duelund, Duelund runs up the left and crosses back to Woodrow who volleys it in the net in the 63rd minute. 2 - 1 and Dnipro back in with a shout! Gueye heads in Mateos corner in the 82nd minute! They don't have another chance afterwards and it's full time!

Post-match Good win, happy with the result and the way we played. We qualify and we should qualify as group winners!

One thing I haven't done yet is upgrade facilities, so I asked and they accepted. Always a nice step forward.





New signing

Recommended to me by a scout, never heard of him but he looks pretty damn nice for what I need.





Player out

Marc Wilson will be joining Leiciester City for 300k, won't be needed here.

Home - AFC Bournemouth

Pre-match They're 17th, lost alot of games but have had alot of injuries. Ward-Prowse will still be missing and I have a secret weapon. It's called Bjorn Inge Utvik and it plays for Bournemouth. He's been awful for them this season, I sold him to them and he's still being played. No doubt Powell and Utvik will both score to haunt me. Callum Wilson is the leagues third top scorer currently. It's there defense which is suffering.

First half Both teams going for it and both had half chances but no one has made that quality ball to put their team ahead.

Second half Keeping the same since "stats wise" we're ontop. 48th minue and Woodrow plays Ayew through and he hits straight at the keeper, should of been 1 - 0. Going to change it a little. Wilshere behind Wilson. Duelund out on left and Rabiot as the DLP-Support. Wilshere weirdly plays alright as my SS. Full time.

Post-match Not happy, we were better side, we had the chances, poor finishing cost us.

Europa League First Knockout Round Draw



They're second in the Crotian First League. Looking at their side I think we can beat them.

Europa League Second Knockout Round Draw



Yeah... that's horrible. Shaktar "maybe". Juventus, no .

Away - Man City

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 with Duelund and Ayew as wide players and Rashford uptop.

First half 5 minutes in and Aguero scores. We're defending well but we tackle and he hits in a loose ball. Should be 2 - 0. De Bruyne is open, gets played through but hits the post? 4 - 3 - 3 is not working and we need to change at half time.

Second half Woodrow on for Poyet and Gnarby on for Ayew. Let's try get a foot hold. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Should of scored! We clear and hoof it up, not sure who but a city defender misses it! It lets Woodrow free but he doesn't have pace to burn, he's still free, passes the defender who gets back and somehow shoots closer to the corner flag then the goal! We go close! Corner comes in and it's a great save by Hart and they manage to black Vrsaljkos effort for a corner or it'd of been 1 - 1! 25 minutes left and Wilshere is going SS, Reed as DLP-Support and Rabiot as CM-Defend. Can Reed make the key? He comes on for Rashford. Last 5 minutes we go attacking. Full time.

Post-match Can't fault them, we played well enough. Another day we would of won that. Second half we were alot better then the first and City didn't look anything special. They just have Aguero.

Home - Fulham

Pre-match They're 20th. I'm going straight up 4 - 4 - 2 attacking. Hazard and Woodrow start up top. I'll bring Rashford off the bench. A couple of our players need to be rested for the Liverpool game.

First half Fulham take the lead in bizzare fashion. Ayew goes to clear the ball and it bounces back off Pritchard straight into the path of Dembele and he slots in. No luck at the moment . Half time and that has been Fulhams only shot. We're easily the better team, I have no idea how we're losing.

Second half Keeping it the same, for now. 30 mins left and Rashford comes on for Woodrow and Duelund for Hazard. Ayew and Duelund on the wings. Gnarby now playing behind Rashford but we're still attacking. Yes it's 1 - 1 on the 70th minute! Some lovely football and Duelund plays through Rashford who hits the post. I was like, really? No luck! Then somehow Gnarby beats Alvaro for the rebound and he pokes it in the open net. Can we get a second? 20 minutes left! It's all Rotherham and it's all in Fulhams half. It's 2 - 1! Rashford is the man of the moment! Maitland-Niles passes to Gnarby who first touch puts a ball through to Rashford. He controls it with his head, takes another touch and slots it in. Come on you Millers! It's 3 - 1! Rashford flying kicks in Duelunds cross in the 83rd minute. Full time.

Post-match Gnarby was brilliant when he went AMC and Rashford and Duelund had such an impact as subs. That was such a better second half, brilliant . Fulhams only shot on target out of 3 attempts was there flukey goal. No wonder they're 20th.

Away - Liverpool

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attacking. Same formation I used the last 30 minutes of the Fulham game. See how we react.

First half Well, Liverpool have a good squad including Odegaard and Cavani. Nearly! 27th minute Rashford curls one from 25 yards and it's just at the bottom of the bar and bounces in Mignolets hands. Quiet half though and half time!

Second half Ayew comes on for Maitland-Niles. I'd happily take a draw at Anfield. Briliant save from Mignolet to keep the scores level. Lovely play from Wilshere, Gnarby and Ayew. Ayew crosses in and Duelund smashes it but Mignolet gets down to deny. Watching it again that is a top top save. Mignolet makes another good save to deny Rashford. Dammit! It's 1 - 0 to Liverpool and they're really overselling the goal.. Lazaar crosses in Coutinho half volleys it but somehow it's a brilliant goal, good, yes. Brilliant, no. Wilson on for Rashford, he's had a bad game. Gnarby scores but he's offside, he could of waited. I cannot believe we've lost this.

Post-match Easily the better side yet come away with 0 points. I can't help but be annoyed.

End of year awards

Danish awards:









League table going into January:

January

Home - Crystal Palace

Pre-match 18th and at home, I'd expect a win. Dendoncker is making his debut in the CM-D position.

First half Hazard is playing at RM and he takes the freekick, swings it in and Betrand is the man to get to it and scores! 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 24th minute. Should of been 2 and it is. Ayew gets played through by Rashford but keeper saves, rebound is a mess and Woodrow hits it in. Ayew has lost his shooting boots, that's for sure. Palace go close, Zaha heads the freekick, it beats the keeper but hits the post. Rashford should of scored just before the break but the keeper somehow saves, bad shot from Rashford. Good half from us! Half time.

Second half Potential goal of the month? Ayew plays up to Rashford and outside the box he unleashes a hammer of a shot that flys in. 3 - 0 in the 48th minute! 55th minute 4 - 0! Lovely passing from Rotherham and Reed plays in Woodrow who hits in his second of the game. 4 - 1. Smith misses his tackle, Ravel is played in who hits it across the box to Clough who slots home no problem 30 minutes to go! 3 subs made, 2 yellows and Rashford, he needs resting. Gnarby nearly made it 5 but the Palace keeper saves and we win a corner. Now it is 5 in the 76th minute! We keep attacking and Hazards cross deflects of a Palace defender into the path of Woodrow and he slots into a big open gap. Full time.

Post-match We were brilliant! Sat 8th but Derby have a game in hand, we'd still be 9th if they get a point, happy with that!

Well that's different, found Januzaj transfer listed for 4.6mil, I had to bid for him.



He's most likely going to join a Championship team. Most likely Leciester, especially since they signed Salvio who is out for the season. I even reloaded it twice to try different options but nope, he ain't coming.

FA Cup 3rd Round - Home - West Bromwich Albion

Pre-match Give people a run out really, not much to say.

First half It's 1 - 0 to WBA! Ball over the top Benalouane runs down and easily beats Johnstone in the 13th minute. Woodrow scores! 33rd minute. Cross in and he heads it, saves, tackles the keeper, Barbir clears off the line, 3rd attempt in the bottom corner . Freak goal and Woodrows second in the 40th minute. Hazard crosses, Barbir heads but bounces back off Varelas face into the path of Woodrow and he hits in . I must be missing something for Hazard to be on 6.4 rating, I don't think he's playing bad, especially since he's on the left. Half time!

Second half Maitland-Niles comes on for Rabiot as he's booked. Wilson hits the bar but it's only from a cross. 2 - 2! Varela scores from Morrisons corner in the 82nd minute! I better make subs quicktime! Ayew and Rashford come on to try get that goal. IT WORKS. Hahaha yes! Woodrow scores for his hat-trick. Ayew tackles, wins the ball, passes up to Rashford who slides in for Woodrow and he gets his hat-trick. Isn't that two games in a row thinking about it? .

Post-match Happy enough! We're through and Woodrow is showing he should be #1 striker.

I like the sound of this!



FA Cup 4th Round Draw - Rotherham vs Southampton at Home.

Player out



For that money, I couldn't say no .

Januzaj didn't go to the Championship, he signed for Everton.

Home - Brentford

Pre-match They're 19th. We gotta win this! Supposedly dropping Wilson has caused a stir, Woodrow has 6 in 2 ffs .

First half And it's not 7 in 3 so far. Ball over to Duelund, he passes to Woodrow who smashes in, 23rd minute. 1 - 1. We clear a few times but they manage to get a ball back in from a first time volley and Jony is at the back post to volley the volley in the 36th minute! Half time.

Second half Problem so far is some of our passing has been too easy for Brentford to cut out. Kace makes a last ditch tackle to deny Rashford and it's clean and good. 30 minutes to go, Hazard on for Rashford, Reed on for Wilshere and Rabiot on for Dendoncker. Can we get the next goal? Telling the lads for the last 10 minutes to get the ball up as quick as we can. Full time.

Post-match They scored from there only chance and we the commentary says, we should of won that game.

Player in



Experienced goalkeeper, played in the Prem, England cap, willing to come as backup and cost me 150k . Feels like I made easy money from Johnstone. The club are ecstatic over his sale wondering how on earth we got so much for him .

Away - Aston Villa

Pre-match They're 15th and we need all the points we can get. I'd like to push for Europa but I think it's out of my reach. 10 points off so far.

First half We're putting alot of pressure on and 17th minute it's a goal.. but an own goal! Betrand crosses in and hits off Okores off his foot. 1 - 1. 27th minute Ngoy(that pain in the arse) crosses in and Mousset gets to the ball to hit in. Half time. We gotta pick it up in the second half.

Second half Chiriches and Veljkovic don't play well together, it's strange. 30 minutes left going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attacking. Rashford, Wilson and Hazard come on, can they make the difference? Penalty! "high foot" was the reason and it's to Aston Villa! Supposedly Veljkovics foot is too high to Mousset. Even the commentary is saying it's harsh! Sinclair steps up and... Butland saves! Full time.

Post-match We should be really happy it's saying, we played better on the night but it's a rep thing. No idea why we should be happy drawing to a team below us. But I'll say I'm happy, no point wrecking morale.

New record .



We're only in January, showing why I signed him .

Away - Arsenal

Pre-match Gulp. Atleast they've lost some now . Going 4 - 3 - 3 with Rashford AMR and Wilson upfront. Infact Arsenal are second on GD! Tottenham are first and I play them next .

First half It's 1 - 0.. to Rotherham! 6th minute! Reed plays a ball over to Duelund who centers it for Wilson who slots past Cech! 1 - 1 14th minute. Ozil plays a long ball over to Alexis who volleys in. Butland could of been positioned alot better to of not been beat at his near post. 2 - 1 Arsenal 21st minute. Ozil swings in a corner and Meterscaker nods it towards goal, it bounces off Koscielny and in. 3 - 1. We had our there first cross, Coquelin hits it back in to Alexis who unleashes a shot that goes flying in. Half time and giving them a bollocking.

Second half Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attack, why not? Gnarby on for Poyet and Chiriches on for Veljkovic. Oh 4 - 1 and it's a freak goal. Cross from Gabirel and Danny Wilson heads out, it hits off Duelunds arse into Walcotts feet and he hits it in. Where's the luck? Duelund should of scored and Gnarby hits the rebound straight into the post. Duelund should of scored again from Gnarbys through ball. 4 - 2 but it's too late. Gnarby cuts inside and lobs one over Cech. Full time.

Post-match We played so much better when we changed tactic and honestly 4 - 3 - 3 seems to struggle at the moment. Our defense were poor and that includes Butland.

Home - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match Going to play 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attack, why the heck not? Woodrow starts uptop with Rashford behind.

First half Gnarby tries a nothing cross and Tottenham counter, it's a cracking save from Butland to deny Eriksen and we clear for a corner. Butland makes a great save to deny Eriksen again after Vrsaljko passed straight to Tottenham! Gnarbys in alot of the action but he's not having a good game. Butland keeps it level again by saving Kanes powerful effort. Half time and we're doing okay.

Second half Butland makes a brillant save to deny I think Vidal? Great tackle caused the ball to roll to Vidal and Butland got down to deny. Rashford goes so close but Lloris saves! Both my strikers get put on there arses twice afterwards but no penalty. 20 minutes left Hazard, Maitland-Niles and James Wilson come on. Can we get the winning goal? Only feel like there's going to be one in this game. Butland makes a good save and we clear for another corner. Worst bit is I'm making it sound like we're being battered but thats not the case. Full time.

Post-match Happy with a draw, both teams defensively strong, no wonder Tottenham are second when they defend so well. Stefen de Vrij got MotM, their attacking players, no one got above 6.9.

End of the month awards

He does it again .

February



FA Cup 4th Round - Home - Southampton

Pre-match Match fitness, Ruddy makes debut. Keep first team players fresh for the league game vs Southampton.

First half 30 seconds and Ante Coric put Southampton infront. Good passing and Oliver lays him off and he hits it in, nothing Ruddy could do. It took time to settle in but it's all Rotherha, we just can't make that chance. Half time.

Second half Woodrow should of scored, Gnarby plays a great ball forward to him but Cillessen gets down to deny. 68th minute goal and it's 1 - 1! Corner comes in, Woodrow heads it down, Smith passes to Dendoncker who hits it in! This could be anyones game. Gnarby goes close but hit it too early. Making 3 subs to try get a goal. Duelund on the left, Reed in the middle and Wilson uptop so Hazard is behind Wilson and Gnarby on the right. No! Southampon score. Freekick comes in from Oliver, Austins header deflects and Coric hits in for his second. We counter! But Cillisen saves Wilsons effort. Full time.

Post-match I've no idea how we lost that and you can tell by the body language after. Ruddy has a poor rating but nothing he could of done. We needed to finish the amount of chances we had over Southampton but we didn't and they go into the next round.

Home - Southampton

Pre-match Same tactic with different players, more first team, key players. Let's finish those chances this time.

First half Some good passing football from Rotherham and Cilliessen has to get down to deny Wilson and keep it level. 1 - 0 Rotherham 26th minute! Gnarby does well down the right and passes to the oncoming Reed, he takes it and centers it across goal for Wilson to hit in. It's 2 - 0 43rd minute! Gnarbys cross is flicked on by Wilson and Duelund hits it in the smallest of gaps but manages to get it in the corner. Half time.

Second half Rashford has picked up a knock so Hazard comes on. I was about to type 2 - 1 but we managed to block it on the line twice and clear! Southampton hit the bar in the 76th minute but we clear. Any threats they have given us are from corners. Oh damn it's 2 - 1. Chambers' shot is blocked and the ball rolls to Oliver, he passes to Rodriguez who turns Wilson and hits it past Butland. 12 minutes left to hold on! 3 - ! Wilson scores his second. Duelund puts a corner in and it drops in the box, Vrsaljko shoots but it's blocked, Wilson hits the rebound and it whistles in. 6 minutes to go! Full time.

Post-match That was much better then the FA Cup game, such a shame none of my subs seem to play well when they came on. I only took the other plays off to give them rest.

Away - Burnley

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 2. They're only 4 points behind us but they concede goals.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham after 20 minutes. Duelunds corner is cleared straight to Wilson, he passes back to Duelund who crosses back into the box. Rabiot shoots, it hits Keane, Woodrow unleashes a shot and it whistles in. Penalty, was it harsh? Wilson is running the ball out by Wes Morgan makes a strong challenge and Wilson goes down. Garbutt steps up and it's... in! Top corner. 2 - 0 after 32 minutes. Wilson goes really close after a nice counter and it's half time!

Second half Andre Ayew is back fron ACoN, been awhile! He's coming on the carded Duelund. McCarthy makes a great double save to deny Wilson after Rotherham pretty much headed the ball up the pitch, I think it took three different headers? . Dendoncker comes on for Reed and Hazard for Wilson with 20 minutes to go! It's 2 - 1! 78th minute. Mehmet freekick floats in and Gray heads it in, Chiriches don't run with him and he's free. It's level! 92nd minute! Danny Wilson doesn't track Gray and he hits in Taylors cross. Full time.

Post match Lack of concentration cost us that! We were the better team by far imo and we let it slip.

So I got a job offer..



Staying with Rotherham .

Home - Manchestered United

Pre-match They're 3rd but still going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Rashford behind Woodrow.

First half Rabiot scores in the 15th minute! Wilsheres freekick is flicked on by Veljkovic and hit in at the back post by Rabiot in the 15th minute! Oh that makes the game less interesting. Juan Mata has gone off in the 17th minute with an injury. Uniteds new purchase Siggy comes on. Half time and a deserved lead!

Second half Keeping it the same at the moment but my forwards seem like they're struggling. Wow that was close! United corner comes in, Brozovic heads it, Butland saves upwards it drops down and he heads straight over. It's 2 - 0 ! Lovely passing from Rotherham and the ball goes down the right, Vrsaljko puts through Gnarby who takes it on, puts it in the 6 yard box and Woodrow smashes in! 20 minutes left and Dendoncker comes on for Rabiot and Reed for Rashford, Wilshere moves into the SS role. United play some great football and get 1 back. Smalling even takes his man on in the play! It's Sigurosson that puts it in and 10 minutes left! It's not enough and t's full time!

Post-match We were the better team which was great to see, cracking 3 points we needed after the Burnley slip up.

Europa League 1st Knockround Round 1st Leg - Away - GNK Dinamo

Pre-match I don't know much about them but I'm still going to play 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. I'm rotating some players. Such as Smith in at RB, Maitland-Niles at RM, Reed and Dondoncker at CM. Wilson will start uptop.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 33rd minute! Starts at the back when Smith makes an interception, passes to Wilson who passes to Dendocker, he passes to Ayew. Ayew runs up, passes to Wilson. Wilson runs and crosses it where Rashford hits it in. Nice team goal. They've had most posssesion but we've had all the shots. Half time!

Second half Bringing on Poyet and Veljkovic for the two yellow carders Chiriches and Dendoncker. It's 2 - 0! 47th minute. Betrand whips in a freekick and Rashford half volleys it in! 3 - 0 in the 52nd minute! Rashford takes the corner, Dinamo head it out but it's straight to Poyet, he lays it off first time to Wilson who shoots, keeper goes down to save it but De Preville gets in the way to block the shot leaving a massive gap for Ayew to hit it in! Mon these away goals. 4 - 0! 67th minute! We're countering each other and Wilson plays a through ball to Rashford who is tackled and I was thinking penalty? Wilson runs in and smashes the ball into the net before a Dinamo defender can clear. 5 - 0! Oof. 85th minute and Maitland-Niles swings in the corner, they try to head out but Rashford heads Dinamos effort down and Ayew smashes a half volley into the top corner. 6 - 0 89h minute! Some nice passing and Ayew curls a cross in where Maitland-Niles is at the back post to slot home! What a game! Full time!

Post-match We were absolutely brilliant! Maitland-Niles showing why I shouldn't forget about him. Same with Poyet when he came on, he was winning the ball everytime possible. Ayew, Rashford and Wilson were superb. This was the difference. Home team, 1 shot, 1 on target. Away team, 21 shots, 13 on target. Lovely .

Europa League 1st Knockround Round 2nd Leg

Pre-match Pretty much same team except Poyet goes into the CM-D slot for Dendoncker and Dendoncker goes into the RCB slot, not seem him in that position yet and no better game then this. Actually going to rest Danny Wilson and play Chiriches there. Smith has been injured after I wrote this so Vrsaljko goes into the right back slot.

First half Rashford tackles the dwelling Schildenfeld but he's only able to hit the post, good play none the less. Good move from Dinamo but Butland is equal to the shot. Half time.

Second half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Maitland-Niles with a wonderful pass to Rashford, he takes one touch and slots it in the corner in the 50th minute! Livcakovic in the Dinamo met makes a great save to deny Ayew after lovely play from Rashford. 20 minutes left, Rabiot and Woodrow come on for Poyet and Wilson. Damn it's 1 - 1. Very nice Dinamo move and Rodri plays in Casap who slots past Butland. Rabiot goes close and his shot is palmed onto the crossbar! Rashford goes very close, maybe should of scored! It's full time.

Post-match Would of liked to of seen a win and we were easily the better team but Dinamo had fight in them and I can't take that away from them. 7 - 1 over 2 legs is an amazing feat of us and for that I'm extremley chuffed.

So who do we play...?



We can try our best, that's all I can say. They're currently 2nd in Serie A, 7 points behind Napoli.

End of month awards

Wasn't expecting this but he's always solid. Duelund in 3rd!



And for the third time this season .



Reed comes in 3rd!

Close!



Happy with coming runner up really

March

Home - Everton

Pre-match Ayew on the right, Deulund on the left, Rashford behind Woodrow, Maitland-Niles and Rabiot in the center in a 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half Oof, Ayew nice. 1 - 0 to Rotherham 3 minutes in. Maitland-Niles plays up to Ayew on the right flank, he cuts inside and smashes low into the bottom corner. 2 - 0 in the 17th minute! Garbutts freekick comes in, Woodrow hits the post but follows up to net. Half time and we're looking good!

Second half Ayew is injured in the 63rd minute, hope it isn't bad. Wilshere comes on and Maitland-Niles goes onto the right. Should of been 3, everything was right apart from Rashford hits it with too much power. Nearly 3 again. We're playing some lovely football! Surely he has to go! Caio is only given a yellow, I thought he was last man! He is! How isn't he off. Is it because Veltman was catching? Not sure but to me Everton should be down to 10 men. Bringing Wilson on for Rashford. Ederson makes a great save to deny Wilson. Should of been 2 - 1, Wilshere went for a bit of a stupid pass. It's 3 - 0 though in the 87th minute! Guessing the only reason Garbutt is there is due to us having a corner about 20 seconds prior but Wilshere plays it through and Garbutt is the man to slot past his former club! Butland makes a good diving save to catch an Everton headed attempt from a corner, he kicks out and the whistle goes!

Post-match Really good display, really happy. I hope Ayew isn't badly injured though. 6 weeks, that isn't too bad.

Away - Watford

Pre-match Staying with pretty much the same team but except I have a returning player.. Albrighton will play on the right! It's been about 3 months!

First half Woodrow hits the post! Albrighton passes forward, we counter and Woodrow does so much, the fact he gets in a position to hit the post is nice play. Albrighton sets up Rashford but he hits at the keeper! Ighalo gets played through but Butland saves! This is a fiery game so far. Albrighton being the star of my team so far. Half time!

Second half Dendoncker on for Rabiot and we go again. Damn, we counter, Duelund hits over to Albrighton whos shot is weak, he should of taken another touch. We're had the possession, shots, chances but I feel we're going to lose this 1 - 0. I type that and Vardy scores, I've no idea how to even win this one. We're doing everything right! Wilshere for Rashford and Wilson for Woodrow is my only option. 25 minutes to go. Freak goal to Watford! Cross comes in, and Vardy claims it but it's like ping-pong, I can't even tell you what happens. James Wilson scores but he's offside. Full time.

Post-match Not happy, we can't go away, play well but not get the chances in. They have no real chance and win 2 - 0. Really unacceptable performance. As the headline says "Watford profit from wastetful Millers".

Europa League 2nd Knockout Round Leg 2 - Home - Juventus

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Wilson uptop and Reed coming in the middle. Wilshere will stay on bench and Maitland-Niles moves to the bench purely down to he needs a rest. Chiriches starts ahead of Veljkvocic. They have Dybala and Morata .

First half OH WOW IT HAPPENED. 4th minute Rotherham go 1 - 0 up! ALbrightons cross is Volleyed in by James Wilson! Goalllll!!!! Nearly 2! Duelund volleys a corner and Ryan makes a great save. It is 2!!! Wilson crosses in and Albrighton volleys his in! 8th minute! Dybala should of scored, the ball to him was crisp. Half time and we're doing goooood.

Second half Oof Dybala shoots from a tight angle and it goes close. Wait, 3 - 0!?!?! Albrightons freekick is hit in by Betrand! 68th minute! Last 15 minutes Dendoncker comes on for Rabiot. Full time!

Post-match Wow, what a game. We were so good. Albrighton you beaut!!!

Home - Derby

Pre-match Have to rotate. Woodrow with Gnarby behind. Hazard, Dendoncker, Wilshere and Maitland-Niles. Garbutt, Veljkovic, Bennet and Smith. Still a nice team .

First half Woodrow should of scored, played in by Hazard and about 10 yards out he blasts it over. Only thing that's happened in the first half and it's half time. Poyet comes on for Wilshere.

Second half Woodrow smashes the post from a nice ball from Gnarby. Should of had 2. Duelund comes on and Gnarby goes to the right, Maitland-Niles to the middle and Hazard behind Wilson who comes on for Woodrow. 15 minutes left. Can we get a winner? Gnarby goes close but would of been hard to score from that angle. I was questioning Smiths decision making again but Smith crosses in and Duelund hits in the bottom corner, we did it! 85th minute 1 - 0! Full time.

Post-match Deserved win, it just took a bit too long to get the goal. Derby didn't have a shot on target .

Europa League 2nd Knockout Round Leg 2 - Away - Juventus

Pre-match Going to play the same team that played in the first leg, same formation.

First half No! Juventus go 1 - 0 up in the 1st minute. Dybala heading in Hakan Calhanoglus freekick! Hakan Calhanoglu should of scored and it's ALL Juventus. Try and ride this out and 4 - 3 - 3 at half time for sure. Guedes hits the bar after a nice pass by Hakan Calhanoglu. Ahhh! This is horrible . Dybala makes it 2 after a ball from Pogba. 4 - 3 - 3, now. We need an away goal if we can. We got 1! Rashford scores his 50th Rotherham goal! Alex Sandro messes up and heads the ball backwards, Rashford picks up and beats Ryan who could of done better himself. Half time!

Second half So it's 4 - 2 in reality, Smith coming on for Bertrand, he's booked and struggling. 3 - 1! Juventus counter in numbers and Pogba takes it on and slots it in, that's why he's top scorer of Serie A! Veljkovic comes on for Chiriches. Oh god, it's 4 - 1! Hakan Calhanoglu scores, Bonucci beats Albrighton, passes to Vela and he lays Hakan Calhanoglu off and it's away goal keeping us in this. Nope. It's 5. Vela heads in a cross and gulp time. It's a goal to Rotherham! I've gone get that ball up! Duelunds freekick is headed in by Veljkovic! 10 minutes left. I have to admit I didn't check my 4 - 3 - 3 tactic and it was wrong, so wrong. Butland makes a great save to deny an absolute brilliant strike from Pogba. 2 minutes left. Butland picks up a through ball and pumps it to the Juventus end to waste time. Butland makes two more great saves, this is so edgy!!! Duelunds cross is too close to Ryan or we could of maybe had a 3rd. Great tackle from Veljkovic to deny Dyabala and full time whistle goes. That was hard, Juventus were brilliant.

Post match My fault, I went tactically stupid. But to beat Juventus on away goals will do, I expected to get hammmered over two legs.

Europa League Quarter Final Draw.



Europa League Semi Final Draw.



Not the best or worst draw. I think I can beat Olympique de Marseille. I think I can beat Manchester United. I don't think I can beat Paris Saint-Germain.

Away - Swansea City

Pre-match Rotation again. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Woodrow with Gnarby behind. Hazard, Dendoncker, Wilshere, Maitland-Niles. Garbutt, Veljkovic, Bennett, Smith. Still not exactly a bad team to go out.

First half Gnarby just ran the length of the pitch, did everything so right and messed up his finish! . Swansea should of scored, Teodorcykz has the ball flicked on in his path and he volleys it well wide. It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! Lovely team goal. Passing around, Dendoncker passes to Hazard who gives it to Garbutt on the left, he crosses in and Maitland-Niles finished no problem in the 22nd minute. 2 - 0! Good passing again and Wilshere to Maitland-Niles to Gnarby, takes on his man and hits in after 42 minutes! Half time.

Second half We're all playing really well, Dendoncker is going to CB and Poyet on for Bennett. Swansea go close but Carroll blazes his shot over from a nice cross. Swansea score! Carroll hits the bar from a corner and Teodorczyk is first too it and pokes it over the line in the 47th minute. We're doing terriblke so far in the second half. We're gifting them the ball. Gnarby should of had his second by now though. Albrighton comes on for Maitland-Niles who's picked up a knock and Wilson on for the quiet Woodrow. 30 minutes to go. Can we keep the lead? Swansea score, they take a quick freekick no one is ready for and Livermore is stud in the box on his own and heads in. 23 minutes to go! Wilshere should of made it 3 - 2! How did he miss that! Telling them to get that ball forward! Full time.

Post-match Such a bad decision to bring on Poyet, only way to describe him was awful and my decision cost us two points. We were the better team, more chances etc but we messed it up for sure.

End of month award

It's a different player this time.. one I hope I can sign at the end of the season!

April

Away - West Ham United

Pre-match They're 14th, first team out that aren't knackaered from international duty and I'm hoping for a win.

First half Wilsons picked up a knock but I have 3 CBs on the bench . Butland makes an amazing save! Cross comes in for West Ham and Mandzukic is there to hit it from about 6 yards. Butland somehow gets down to deny! First half and only chance was the West Ham one.

Second half Butland makes a great save to deny Payet. Think I need 4 - 3 - 3 to try get the goal so it's 4 - 3- 3 for last 20. Full time.

Post-match Just a very quiet match really. Both teams defense played well. I'm happy with a point being away. I'm in 9th with 44 points, 1 above Southampton who have played an extra game .

Away - Chelsea

Pre-match Going same 4 - 4 - 1 -1 but Hazard on the left and Maitland-Niles on the right. Rashford uptop with Gnarby behind.

First half Good player by Chelsea and Butland makes a great save at his near post to deny Hazard. Brilliant just made another amazing save, that was... top class . Rashford goes close but both keepers playing well. Chelsea go 1 - 0 up in the 35rd minute. Hazards corner comes in and Ayoze flicks the ball on as Wilshere can't reach, Laports hammers in low. Courtois now makes a worldy to deny Gnarby pushing his close powerful effort onto the post ! 1 - 1, nice football. Smith throws in, Rabiot chips to T. Hazard who heads it down and Rashford finishes in the 40th minute! It's half time!

Second half Ayoze Perez goes for a solo effort and Butland denys him! Think I need a couple of changes, especially in the middle. Butland makes another great save after a volley from a freekick. Albrighton on for Wilshere, Maitland-Niles going into the middle. Woodrow on for Gnarby, Rashford going in behind. 30 minutes left. 2 - 1 and it's Lapotre again! Hazards corner is headed down by Willian and smashes in by Laporte in the 65th minute. It's 3 - 1. Really good football by Willian. It started when Maintland-Niles lost the ball outside the Chelsea penalty box. When defending, he headed the ball straight to Chelsea. He's getting subbed. Dendocker comes on and Rabiot goes into the CM-S role. 4 - 1 another corner goal! Hazard swings in, Willian flicks on, Ayzore hits the post but Willian hits in the rebound. Veljkovic hits the bar when he should of got that in without any problems. It's 4 - 2. Woodrow plays a sweet ball down to Rashford who takes it on and slots home but that's in the 88th minute, too late surely. Full time.

Post-match We didn't even play bad but it just shows Veljkovic and Chiriches do not play well together, it's really strange. Smith is struggling but he's my only RB option due to injuries. But it was about taking chances and Chelseas quality set-pieces.

Home - Newcastle

Pre-match Dendocker goes to CB, Hazard was really good so he's staying at LM, Duelund is going CM to try and change it, Ayew is back and at RM. Woodrow uptop with Rashford behind. Newcastle are at the bottom with 19 points from 32 games, I hope to win this to try get 9th position back that Burnley took when I lost to Chelsea. They're playing very compact, can I exploit this?

First half Butland makes a great diving save to deny Balotelli. May need to put a DM in here. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham though by Ayew . Just back from injury, we attack well and the ball is with Woodrow inside the box, he hits it across and Ayew hits in, Krul nearly got a hand to it. It's 2 - 0. Lovely team goal and Hazard plays in Woodrow who smashes in. 27th minutes gone. Tackle is missed but Butland denys Sissoko. I think Butland wants to signing of the season award. 3 - 0. Fast counter, ball over to Rashford he crosses and Woodrow hits in after 34 minutes. Been brilliant so far, half time.

Second half Penalty! Janmaat fouls Hazard in the box. Woodrow steps up and seals his hat-trick after 60 minutes, 4 - 0! Butland makes another great save, jeez this lad is good. Oh it's 4 - 1. Wjnaldums ball is perfect and Balotelli smashes it in the back of the net in the 81st minute. Going to go 4 - 3 - 3 and see the game out. Full time.

Post-match Everyone played well, without the DM they were always going to get shots off, Butland was just too good for them. Woodrow was brilliant and Hazard on the left again, he's doing so well there. I was thinking about selling in the summer but at this rate he's being retrained ML and he'll be such a good backup with ST/AMC/ML. Suprised Newcastle are 20th with lack of goals though. They've lost 22 out of 33, damn.

Europa League Quarter Final Leg 1 - Away - Olympique de Marseille

Pre-match Wilson is back, Duelund out on the left due to Hazard not being registered. Reed back in CM, Wilshere to the bench. Pretty much first team here and I want to win. Ocampos is there only threat really. Remember my youth player Felix Horn Myhre? He's on loan there from West Ham United and he isn't Europa League quality. Watch that come back to bite my backside.

First half 1 - 0 Rotherham . Lovely passing, lovely play. Woodrow slots it in for the onrunning Reed who hits it in the bottom corner just before the half.

Second half OM should of scored but somehow they hit a really nice buildup.. wide. Mandanda just made a good double save. Smith plays in Ayew, he shoots, Mandanda gets down. From the other side Woodrow shoots, he gets down to deny that one aswell! Butland makes a great save to deny Amrabat which is a good thing 'cus Butland booted the ball straight to them! Oof, Duelund spins and his shot hits the post. 3 subs being made for the last 15 to get some tired players rested. Even Chiriches is going RB as Smith needs a rest. Mandanda makes a good 1 on 1 save to deny Rashford! 90th minute and it's 1 - 1! Alario hits a long ball over to Ambrabat and he half volleys in. Full time!

Post-match Very happy taking the away goal, even game. We may of had more chances but yeah, that was an even game .

This is going to to be a blow. My only fit RB and probably by best flair winger.



Away - Bournemouth

Pre-match I have so many tired players. Best way to play this is 4 - 3 - 3. Bennett and Dendocker at CBs. Poyet, Wilshere and Maitland-Niles in the middle. Hazard and Gnarby on the wings, Wilson upfront. Not awful but we'll see how it goes. I'll take a point.

First half Yep. Butland catches the ball well to deny Bournemouth. 1 - 0 Bournemouth. Matt Phillips swings in a cross and Bakkali volleys in. Let's scrap this. I need a new 4 - 3 - 3 in the post season.

Second half I didn't realise I had the perfect players to play 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 either, oops. Let's attack for the next 45! 30 minutes to go, Albrighton and Reed come on. Bakkali hits the post! We manage to clear. It's 1 - 1! I was screaming SHOOT, we were passing rouna and round but Maitland-Niles lays off Gnarby and he drills lows and in the net after 66 minutes. Wilson is injured.. I'll go Woodrow over Rashford. We make some defensive errors and Butland makes a great double save to deny Afobe! Guy is unreal in the sticks. Full time.

Post-match Happy with a draw, first half tactics were wrong. 20 minutes of the second half I was accidently playing my 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter not attack so yeah, we scored when I changed . Happy with a draw anyway . 4 points above Southampton so 10th looks like our finish. Europa League is the important cup now.

Europa League Quarter Final Leg 1 - Home - Olympique de Marseille

Pre-match Chiriches has to start at RB. Duelund - Rabiot - Reed - Albrighton is the midfield. Rashford behind Woodrow. This is going to be the hardest game I've had this season. I can only pick 6 subs due to Unr - Sus - Inj .

First half 1 - 0 to the Millers! Garbutts cross hit in by Woodrow after 11 minutes! We countered great, Duelund wins the ball, passes to Woodrow, he plays it up to Rashford, Rashford centers and Albrighton volleys at the keeper! Should of been 2. Rashford just scored a beauty. Woodrow switches flank to Albrighton, he passes and outside the box Rashford curls it top corner. That sort of goals we saw last season . OM goe close, corner comes in and they head against the bar but we clear and it's half time!

Second half 30 minutes left, Wilshere comes on for Reed. Ref bottled it! Appiah is on a yellow card, he takes down Woodrow as we counter and only gives him a warning. Full time and we're through ./

Post-match Great team display but Rashford was brilliant. Even the text read "What a fine display, what a player" .

Found it, never seen this before!



And who do we get?



That should be interesting, last time we played I won.

Manchester City

Pre-match I can only ask the players to give what they've got. No doubt they're going to be knackered.

First half We're 1 - 0 up! We counter, Rashford runs his legs off, amazing ball over and Woodrow heads it in. Rashford is becoming his former self, brilliant. Should of been 2 but Hart makes a brilliant save! Gnarby drills it from 30 yards and Hart has to get to it or it's flying in. Wilshere does brilliantly and puts over a lovely ball but Ayew hits it all wrong. Butland makes a great save to deny Aguero, that was a pathetic shot . Half time and we look brilliant! This is my first game against them when it isn't Klopp, it's Ancelotti in charge and he's playing 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 2. I wouldn't mind but Sterling is being played as a striker next to Aguero? That's a bit lightweight to me though it has pace to burn.

Second half Should of been 2 - 0 again but Gnarby hits the side netting. WHAT A GOAL. 2 - 0 Rotherham!!! Lovely passing and Woodrow backheeds it in the path of Wilshere who makes it 2 in the 50th minute. Woodrow!!!! 3 - 0! Wilshere chips it in and Woodrow volleys it in the back of the net! Ayew hits the post after some good football. Duelund comes on for Gnarby for the last 15 minutes and Ayew goes onto the right. Full time.

Post-match Wonderful. Brilliant. Class. Wilshere and Woodrow were absolutely fantastic. What a win. Woodrow has 13 in 22!

End of month awards

Deserved, he's been class.



He may of come 2nd in one but he won the other .

May

Away - Fulham

Pre-match Manchester United on Thursday, Liverpool on Saturday. I still need to keep points to finish 10th so I'm not changing too much. Ayew on the right, Duelund on the left are really the only changes to the City game.

First half 52 seconds and Rotherham are 1 - 0 up. We counter and Woodrow and Rashford are passing to each other and Woodrow slides in Rashford and he hits it in, they're creating a great partnership. Oof, Woodrow tried a 25 yarder and Moreira in the Fulham sticks only just got to it. Woodrow plays a ball to Duelund and he goes on a solo run, just can't beat the keeper. Half time!

Second half 2 - 0 56 seconds into the 2nd half. Great counter, lovely passing with Wilshere and Rashford and Wilshere centers it for Woodrow to poke into a huge gap. 3 - 0 71st minute, Woodrow plays in Rashford who slots in the corner. Everyone did everything right in the build up including Rashford but he's 1 on 1 for his hat-trick and hits the post . 4 - 0! Dendoncker heads in Wilsheres corner in the 86th minute.

Post-match We were brilliant. That simple. We go back into 9th on GD (We're on +18, Burnley +1). We could even finish 8th.

Europa League Semi Final Leg 1 - Home - Manchester United

Pre-match We're in form, why change the line up at all?

First half Rashford goes a screamer and goes close but it's a tight first half. Half time!

Second half Midfield aren't playing great but not making subs. Butland makes a good save to deny Higuian after Merten takes two players on and crosses. 30 minutes and need subs. Rabiot, Reed and Albrighton coming on. Full time!

Post match Even match, I'll take a draw. Means so much if I get an away goal or 2.

Home - Liverpool

Pre-match Full on rotation here! Vrsjalko is back. It's honestly 10 different outplayers and Hazard is starting uptop as Wilson is injured.

First half Liverpool go 1 - 0 in the 10th minute. Sturridge centers the ball through 3 of my players and Countiho hits it in. No idea how no one intercepted. 1 - 1 in the 16th! Maitland-Niles centers. Albrighton hits it, Mignolet saves and Albrighton pokes the rebound in. Garbutt has picked up a knock so Betrand comes on. Sturridge should of scored but Butland saves, it's straight at him. Should of been 2 - 1 to Rotherham this time, Hazard plays in Gnarby who somehit hits the post. Half time!

Second half Going to keep it til about the 70th minute and bring Rashford on. Maitland-Niles goes close! Veljkovic comes on(but next to Chiriches) and Rashford for Hazard. 10 minutes left, can anyone get a winner? Betrand tries a stupid shot instead of crossing and it's full time.

Post-match Second team really, happy with a draw for sure!

Europa League Semi Final Leg 2 - Away - Manchester United

Pre-match Same team/formation as first leg. Wish me luck.

First half Penalty to United. Smith pushed Siggy, not needed and Higuian scores no problem. 1 - 0 in the 14th minute. 17th minute and it's 2 - 0. Good pasing and Douglas Costa plays in Higuian who slots in. We've crumbled after that penalty. Chriches coming on for Smith, he's picked up a yellow, not trusting him. Half time and a bollocking.

Second half 30 minutes left, telling them to get the ball up fast! Rabiot on for Wilshere, can he unlock the defense? WTF? Ball comes on, and Betrand lays off Higuian for his has-trick, that was so bad. Why did he even attempt to pass? Just kick it out. Pushing more players up, 20 minutes to go and thanks to Betrand I think I'm out. Full time.

Post-match We gave them there goals, fuming with my team. Smith has comfirmed his exit at the end of the season.

Away - Crystal Palace

Pre-match Last game of the season, we can finish 10th or 9th. I'd like to finish 9th for sure. Palace are in 18th and already relegated.

First half It's Palace who are 1 - 0 up. Great counter and Clough floats it over for Bolasie to volley in the net. Took them 9 minutes. Nothing else has happened, so I'm going to give them a right good bollocking. Half time.

Second half 2 - 0 Palace. van de Beek isn't marked and the corner comes in and he heads home, just too high for Butland. 3 subs and telling them to get the ball up. Freak goal to get me a goal back. Rashford to Gnarby, he gets tackled and it somehow eludes Dann and Ayew gets ahead of Ward, that was awful . Full time.

Post-match We had double there shots, good chances but bad defending. Bertrand is another one that I might sell. Garbutt just always does better. Burnley lose so we finish 9th .

Finishing 9th means a nice £22.31m in the bank .

End of Season:





Oh the league btw:

.

Tottenham smashed it. Kane finishing 2nd to Vardy on goals. Vardy, Kane, Higuian all scored 21.

My review:

Personally, I'm very happy with how we've played, creating an attack tactic which lets us defend well but express the attacking ability in the team. We have a few players to replace but I'd like to keep the core. Problem is alot are wanted by big clubs. There's atleast three that are wanted by Barcelona and I can't refuse if they offer enough money, why? 'Cus who wouldn't want to play for a club that finished like this:

.

Woodrow, Rashford, Vrsjalko and Butland were my favourite players. Butland was our David De Gea at times and I'm happy we can build on that. I'm going to look for a new RB, try and bring in Maitland-Niles on a permanent transfer. Poyet will be leaving aslong with Smith and potentially Albrighton. Aston Villa are making alot of noise and it's whether they offer enough money. Only if they offer enough money really.

With a bit more luck and if I can make a decent enough away tactic we can push for atleast Europa.



By the way we scored/conceded maybe 9th wasn't good enough but that just gives us a platform to build on and that Woodrow needs to start at CF.

Now for the transfer window!

I won't be spending all of this I wouldn't think but I would like to bring in Redmond



Edit!

End of the month award

He's at it again

2019/2020

This should be them all unless I get another silly bid .

Transfers:

Out:



Poyet: Wasn't needed, happy with the money.

Bennett: The same.

Smith: The same.

Hazard: I have zero plans to sell, but then they bid 11million for him and he was worth about 5 max. I had to accept.

Chiriches: I disliked he could not play with Veljkovic who is the better of two imo. One had to go.

Duelund: He was moaning, I offered him out and Aletico bit 35mil! He wasn't worth half that so I accepted before they could think.

Garbutt: I didn't want to well but the second Chelsea showed interest he started acting like a child so I sold him for more then he's worth and replaced for half his fee.

Wilshere: I had no plans to sell but Everton came in with the bid and I accepted, you can't blame me.

Maitland-Niles(Loan) - Wanted to buy, they want too much money. Loan they wanted 450k p/m which is . I'll keep my eye on him but I've bought others in now.

Recieved £94.75m

In:



Fosu-Mensah: CB and MC-D. Homegrown, no brainer. Looking forward to what he can bring.

Sheyi Ojo: Replacement for Duelund, got for 9mil which I thought was a good price. Young, homegrown and this is how he currently looks.



Georginio Wjnaldum: Another replacement for Duelund that can also play down the middle, half of his market value due to Newcastle being relegated. Really happy with that one.

Reece Burke: Wanted an English CB and it was between Burke and Caulker. I decided to try Burke.

Sam Byram: Replaces Smith, an upgrade.

Rauk Oprut: Costing me no wage, backup and looks alright to me!



Qazim Seferi: I wanted a fourth striker since my Hazard/Duelund replacements none of them can play there. He's not costing alot and he came happy as backup. Getting a striker that looks like he can improve alot of his favourite list wouldn't be a bad thing.



Kim Jin-Su: Premier league experience, bringing me money in from shirt sales and replacement for Garbutt. Really good price imo.

Youri Tielemans: A steal, I've had him on my shortlist since I got to the prem, someone bid for him so I hijacked. Another reason Wilshere was free to leave.

Spent £54.47m

Missed targets

Brendan Galloway: He decided to go to Chelsea to play rotation. They only finished two places above me, have no continental competition and went for less wage and lower squad status!

Daryl Janmaat: Tried to get another steal from Newcastle but he chose less wage and lower squad role at Manchester United.

Money left to spend:



Will update this if anyone changes between now and the end of August! .

Pre-Season went well, all wins apart from a huge mess at Montreal where we had 26 shots, 9 on target, 4 CCC. They had 3 shots, 2 on target, 1 CCC and we drew 2 - 2! Happy though that we've had no losses this season. I haven't posted a pic of pre-season so here's the first month and pre-season together.

August

Home - Everton

Pre-match Good pre-season and confident going into this game. I reckon Wilshere may score against me but I think we'll score more then them ^_^. I even had a hard time picking my team but I went on pre-season form and a Belgian center midfield.

First half Ebner takes on Veljkovic and smashes it against the bar. Everton should of scored. Some of our passing is shocking. Danny Wilson makes a HUGE mistake, jumping and missing the ball letting in Rolan who centers for Ebner. It's 1 - 0 Everton after 10 minutes. Ayew hits the post and Everton just manage to clear! It's 1 - 1 after 36 minutes. Tielemans passes to Ojo who plays in Wilson who slots home. 2 - 1 to Rotherham in the 41st mintue. Everton are making mistakes like us. Tielemans to Rashford who plays a nice but to Wilson who hits in no problems. Half time and we deserverly go in. Burke coming on for Danny Wilson who's been poor.

Second half Penalty! Ayew crosses and Deulofeu handballs! Ayew takes and it's.... in, just! Keeper got a hand to it but it goes into the corner after 47 minutes! It's 4 - 1! Fluke goal in the 51st minute, good play down the right Vrsajlko crosses and there's confusion, the cross is on target and rolls in. Butland makes a good save to deny Everton, we set them up ffs . Fosu-Mensah coming on for Dendoncker. Januzaj goes close after Betrand misses the ball. Some our of passing is shocking, that's the only plays Everton are getting when we pass to them! It's 5 - 1. Rashfords corner is headed in by Vrsaljko in the 85th minute! It's 6 - 1 in the 89th minute. Wilson slots in Ayews cross for his hat-trick! Wilson goes close and it's full time!

Post-match We played great, great result but we played awful at the same time! Attacking most the time great but some of our passing was shocking. We made some defensive mistakes but nothing like Everton. I want to point something out aswell. Remember a player who just never did well for me? Bjorn Inge Utvik, he was bought for £10.25mil and has a market value of £17.25 now. No wonder we scored 6 with him playing . He finished on 6.5. Everton fullbacks Coleman and Willems were really poor and Januzaj has the lowest rating of them all.

Capital One Cup 2nd round draw and we're against Peterborough United at London Road.

Away - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match My bogey team but going same as I did vs Everton but with Fosu-Mensah on for Dendoncker, Kim Jin-Su for Ryan Betrand and Burke on for Danny Wilson.

First half Tottenham go 1 - 0 up in the 5th minute. Eriksen plays a ball over to Dier, he crosses in and Boufal hits it in at the back post. It's 1 - 1 in the 17th minute. We counter, a ball over to Rashford, he crosses and Tielemans slides in to put it in the back of the net. Alli goes close, training ground corner and they swing it out to him, he hits one but Butland saves. Fullbacks are strugggling, may need to go 4 - 3 - 3. Tottenham go close twice before the half, it his the bar and it's half time! 4 - 3 - 3 it is. I'll take a draw. Dendoncker comes on for Wilson, Rashford is uptop.

Second half Byram coming on for Vrsjalko with 30 mins left, he's struggling. We should of had a brilliant counter attack but we can't even pass to each other where Tottenham can and Butland makes a great close save to keep the scores level. It's 2 - 1! Ojo scores on in the 71st minute after Kim-Jin Su plays him in! Oprut comes on for Rashford and drops back into a SS position. Really is heavy midfield but that's cool! That was scary! Velkjovic went to clear but it bounced back but Butland gathered. Full time and we've beaten Tottenham!!!

Post-match We actually beat Tottenham! Wooooo!

Home - Blackburn Rovers

Pre-match Same lineup as Tottenham! Let's go!

First half Rajkovic keeps the scores level. Ojo wins the ball back, Ayew plays in Rashford and Rajkovic makes a great save. It's something out of nothing and 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 35th minute! Vrsaljko with a cross from deep, James Wilson gets up and nods it in. It's 2 - 0 in the 40th minute. Ojo crosses, Wilson hits, it's saved, Ayew hits, it's saved, Rashford blasts it in though. Ayew getting an assist to boost his rating but he's not had the best game, it's half time.

Second half 30 minutes left, Wijnaldum comes on for Ayew and Reed for Tielemans. Butlands made a couple of good saves but the game says 3 CCCs for Blackburn, I wouldn't say any of them were. Expecting too much to score from the angles they had to shoot from. 3 - 0. Wijnaldums cross is collected, controlled and hit between two defenders past Rajkovic, nice! Rhodes goes close after we through the ball straight to Blackburn '-.-. Full time!

Post-match Routine win, mostly good play, bad play at times. More goals to the GD.

Capital One Cup 2nd Round - Away - Peterborough United

Pre-match Rotation, match fitness, rest players, play loan players. Get people a game.

First half Should be 1 - 0 up. Oprut plays in Gnarby but his hits straight at the 'keeper who palms over. Bit quiet and it's half time.

Second half Some lovely passing and it ends up our on loan striker Seferi 1 on 1 with Gerken and he hits it at him, Peterbourugh lucky there. Gerkan makes a brilliant save to deny Oprut 30 seconds after. Oprut plays in Seferi who smashes it straight at the keeper. Wow, and Peterborogu get one chance and score. Murphy plays in Hooper who hits it in. Subs, NOW. Tielmans on for Oprut, Woodrow who is back from injury on for Seferi and Ayew on for Gnarby! Lovely goal for Rotherham minutes after tthe subs, Tielemans plays a lovely ball, Woodrow takes down, steps and places nicely in the corner in the 70th minute. 20 to go, who will win!? It's 2 - 1 Rotherham 78th minute. Wjnaldums corner is headed in by Dendoncker. It's 3 - 1. Wjnaldum does brilliantly down the left, taking two on, crossing in and Ayew hits it in. Full time.

Post-match The loan players weren't great, Oprut made to look worse due to Seferis poor finishing. Wjnaldum was quality.

Capital One Cup 3rd Round. I'm away at Emirates Stadium. Arsenal vs Rotherham!

Away - Leicester City

Pre-match Newly promoted, not a bad side. Deeney, Vazquez and Clough upfront. A few injuries in midfield but Drinkwater, a hardworking Czech mifielder named Vladimir Darida in the middle. Diouf on the wing due to injury. Should be an interesting in game.

First half Some good passing and movement from Rotherham sets up Wilson and his shot smashes the post and out. 30 minute mark and Wilsons chance is the only one of the game so far. It's 1 - 0 Rotherham. Rashford is tackled, Ojo collects the ball and plays it to Wilson. Wilson hits a sweet strike which curls into the bottom corner in the 43rd minute. Half time!

Second half Some lovely passing and movement from Rotherham and Rashford plays it to Wilson but his shot is tame and hit at Schmeichel. 25 minutes to go! Reed comes on for Fosu-Mensah, Wijnadlum for Rashford and Woodrow for Wilson. Wijnaldum is injured a minute later! Not sure how good or bad it is. 20 minutes with 10 men. Cross comes in and Butland gets down to deny, I can't tell if it deflected off a Rotherham player or it was hit by a Leciester player! Corner comes to nothing and Butland picks it out the air easy. Full time whistle goes.

Post-match Another day and we'd of won that 3 - 0. Happy with the display. Win and a clean sheet is nothing to frown about! Wijnaldum suffered concussion and will only be missing for a week or so. Ojo has been a revelation so far.

End of month awards

He did it again .



And this one is a rare one .



No more ins/out for us. Window is shut and hoping to have a good season.

Hearthstone expansion, Overwatch beta and the release of Final Fantasy IX will make this a very slow season though .

First cap for one of the players I'm trying to make an England international!



Fully deserved! Came on as a sub in the 2 - 1 European Championship Qualification victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina in the 56th minute .

September



Home - Derby County

Pre-match They're doing well. In 5th with only one loss in 4 games. Could be interesting!

First half Brilliant from Butland! He tries to set up Ojo but Derby intercept, counter. Redmond should really score but Butland denys, bounces straight to Ince, he's got some space, power, precision will get it in. Butland denys! Derby looking really good in the first 15 minutes, countering with pace. Half time. We've had seven shots and Derby have had none after the first 15 minutes, can we get the goal?

Second half Alot of action but nothing clear cut. 25 minutes to go and Wijnaldum comes on for Ayew and Woodrow for Wilson. Still anyones games! Full time.

Post-match Perhaps the better team, everyone seemed to play well and I think a fair result. We drop to 2nd.

Away - AFC Bournemouth

Pre-match Right.. Wilson has been scoring goals. He has 5 in 5 but Woodrow is fit. He finished last season in such form, I want to see him try and get back to that. I want to start Wijnaldum but Ojo is doing too well on the left. Fosu-Mensah will take Burkes CB spot, Jin-Su at LB, Rabiot and Reed at CM.

First half Down to 10. Veljkovic is sent off for last man back, bad challenge when he has two players coming in to cover. Ayew comes off for Burke and we'll play 4 - 2 - 2(wingers) - 1. Ohh what a goal! 10 men Rotherham go 1 - up last kick of the first half. Woodrow plays a lovely ball through to Rashford, his pace is too much for Bournemouth and he slots past the right side of the keeper!

Second half 2 - 0! Woodrow plays a lovely ball to Rashford, same style as the first in the 55th minute! Butland with a great kick lets Ojo free down the left, Sportiello makes a good save to deny! Lagarde comes on for the last 15 minutes in place of Rabiot who's done well on his return. Full time!

Post-match With 10 men playing and scoring like that? I'm really chuffed with the lads. That was great. Derby and Manchester United draw and we go back to the top!

Away - Capital One Cup 3rd Round - Arsenal

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 and a second team. Danny Wilson and Dendoncker at CB, Lagarde at DM. Wijnaldum in the middle. Gnarby and Oprut on the wings and Seferi uptop. Some players need games! Ruddy is even in net.

First half Oh 12 minutes and it's 1 - 0! Wijnaldums pass to Vrsaljko is sheer quality, but so is Vrsjaljkos cross to Seferi who smashes it in the roof of the net. It's 1 - 1! Reine-Adelaide hoofs it up to Mane who takes it pass Dendoncker and slots it in, very nice by Mane. That was only 2 mintues after our goal! This is a really good game so far! Both temas going for it, Vrsjalko is causing Arsenal problems down the right. Mane goes afor a long shot and it only just hits the top of the bar! Close! It's 2 - 1 Arsenal. Reine-Adelaide scores after a nice cross from Lazini. Dendoncker not looking great at CB. It's half time!

Second half Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as Gnarby is injured. Ayew is his replacement. 3 - 1 Arsenal, tactic change looks a bad idea and i'm reverting. Bellerin slots it past Ruddy after Mane plays him in. Nearly 3 - 2! Seferi is in, tight angle, shoots, Cech saves but it bounces off an Arsenal players backside but Cech just gathers! It is 3 - 2! Oprut passes to Seferi who spins and smashes it past Cech! It's 3 - 3! Hitting the ball in and out on Arsenals right side of the area. Betrand hits it back in and Seferi gets up and heads in for his hat-trick!!! 30 mins to go, anyones game! Bellerin went really close and probably should of scored with 5 minutes left! It's extra time though!

Extra time: first half Will this go to penaltys? 30 minutes to see! Nothing really happens apart from Bellerin gets booked.

Extra time: second half I still have two subs left but no idea who to bring on! 3 - 4!!! Seferi again! Lovely from Vrsjalko and Oprut and Oprut centers and Seferi hits it in, what a game he's having!!! Dendoncker has played so much better after the second half and an absolutely quality curling deep cross from Reine-Adelaide finds Jordon Ibe but Dendoncker plays, he had to make it or it'd of been 4 - 4. Corner comes in for Arsenal, it hits an Arsenal player(not sure who) and it nearly slowly bounces it but Ruddy catches on the line! Full time, what a game!

Post-match This isn't even my first team but they've shown me they should be! Arsenal put out a very good side, including Alexis Sanchez! Lagarade being put in the deep end at DM and Seferi/Oprut uptop who were both superb. What a game!

Capital One Cup 4th Round will be played away at Bramall Lane. Championship side Sheffield United vs Rotherham United.

Home - Chelsea

Pre-match Not beat Chelsea in 4 games it's telling me. We're on form, we can do it! I'd be happy with a draw. Seferi makes the bench after that display but it's Woodrow with Rashford behind to start.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 11st minute. We literally pass from the back all the way up, Ayew plays it to Ojo who puts it past Courtois who prior to kick off "on a lengthy run without conceding". 11 minutes to ruin it! Half time.

Second half Seferi on for Woodrow and Burke on for Rabiot with Fosu-Mensah going in midfield. Oh it's 1 - 1 50th minute. Corner comes in, Zouma heads, it's going wide but Alcacer is their and heads it in at an awkward angle! Last 20 minutes switching to 4 - 3 - 3 like vs Arsenal. Rotherham corner swings in, it's cleared, goes back in and it ping pongs, Courtois makes a brilliant save to stop it and it's hoofed out. Full time.

Post-match I'm happy with the draw. We're 3rd on GD, Manchester United 13 GD, Arsenal 12 GD, Rotherham 12 GD.

Boo! Rashford came 2nd in the Young Player of the Month award! Rashford 3 apps, average 8.22, 2 goals. Melegonis 2 apps, 2 goals, average of 7.70. I called rigged!

October



Away - Southampton

Pre-match Wilson back uptop, Dendoncker for Rabiot. Still cannot find a play for Wijnaldum due to wingers doing so damn well! No reason to drop Tielemans in the CM-S slot either. Southampton have a very strong squad with three very good AMCs playing behind Jay Rodriguez.

First half 15 minutes in and it just looks like it's a matter of time before Rotherham score. Some last ditch defending has stopped us scoring twice. Some lovely football and Ayew hits the bar, that would of been a great team goal. It's half time though!

Second half Damn Ayew should of scored. Cillessen makes an easy enough save though. 3 subs being made for last 20 minutes. Literally making subs and I've gone down to 10 men. Ayews pass is shocking, Dendoncker tries to recieve and gets up getting fouling ending up with a second yellow. 3 subs being made. Same tactic as I used vs Bournemouth. Reed on for Wilson, Veljkovic off and Woodrow on. Ayew off and Burke on. 15 minutes left, will either team score? Ivan hits the post for Southampton! Full time.

Post-match Not happy with the result. Another draw. 2nd, 2 points behind Arsenal.

Home - Manchester City

Pre-match Rabiot in for the suspended Dendoncker, Woodrow uptop. Danny Wilson starting at LCB. Need a win to keep momentum uptop, everyone else won but it's going to be hard. City have a quality team! Could be best in league.

First half Should be 1 - 0. Rashford gets played in and unlike him he just hits it wide. No conviction. 22nd minute and he makes it 1 - 0! Lovely passing and Rashford plays a 1 - 2 with Ayew and slots it past Hart. Ojo makes a great save but Montoya gets the ball, crosses to KdB who hits it but Butland saves and smothers the rebound. The shot was never really threatning but been Citys best attempt so far. 15 minutes in the first half to go. Rashford chips a lovely ball over to Ayew who smacks the post. He couldn't of scored from that angle but the game thinks he should of! Half time.

Second half Two yellows but they're staying on, we're playing well and I don't want to disturb it. Reece Burke comes on for Danny Wilson and James Wilson comes on for Woodrow. 30 minutes to go! Lovely counter by Rotherham, Betrands throw in is poor, City counter. Veljkovic makes a great tackle, we counter and Hart has to get down to deny Wilson. Betrand floats in the freekick, Wilson picks it up, shoots but Hart saves! He should of scored. Will that cost us? It won't! Lovely bit by Wilson past Hart puts is 2 - 0 up! Nice pass by the magic man which is Ojo.

Post-match What a win! Ojo and Ayew brilliant yet again. Rashford had a very good game. They all did. We're back into 2nd, 2 points behind Arsenal, same points as Chelsea, 1 point above Manchester United.

Away - Liverpool

Pre-match Very strong attacking side we're never beat. Can we break the hoodoo?

First half Kim-Jin Su and Ojo doing really well down the left. Liverpool having to defend well. Rashford causing problems and he's gone close twice. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Throw in to Rabiot in the middle who has been Vrsajlkos target most throws, he passes to Ojo who plays it through to Woodrow who smashes in after 20 minutes! Nothing else happened after that! Quiet. Half time and Ayew is coming off for Wijnaldum.

Second half 13 seconds into the second half and Mignolet denys Wijnaldum! He probably should of scored, good passing and a good ball from Rashford to set up the play. We need the next goal for safety. Oh come on.. it's 1 - 1 that was awful. Countinho hits it from well in his own half, Cavani runs up and hits in. Defenders asleep. 30 minutes to go. We need to put these CCCs away. We score straight away! Wijnaldums ball over is his by a powerful head by Woodrow in the 58th minute, Liverpools goal in the 57th. Tielemans has picked up a knock so Reed comes on. 30 mins left! Liverpool attacking in numbers! That's a wonderful hit. It's 2 - 2. Markovic smashes it top corner from outside the area, Butland cannot save that. 13 minutes left! Oprut on for Rashford. And we've got a red card. Vrsaljko is asleep, throw it goes over his head and he fouls the Liverpool attacker, deserved second yellow. 10 minutes with 10 men, sounds normal vs Liverpool. So does this bit. It's 3 - 2 Liverpool. Reed clears is straight to Henderson, they attack fast and Firmino plays in Cavani who isn't covered. 5 minutes left. 4 - 2. Opruts pass is woeful, he tries to pass to someone marked when he has space to go into. Liverpool counter and Cavani hits in Markovics cross. Full time.

Post-match 50 minutes should of seen us 3 - 0 us. We crumbled and maybe dropping Betrand was a mistake but the sending off cost us big time. 5 points behind Arsenal who we play next. We're 3rd.

Away - Sheffied United

Pre-match We need to win this. Bounce back. Second string on so to speak. Still a good team. Seferi is injured . Wilson uptop with Oprut behind.

First half Reed plays in Gnarbu but it's a good tackle. Oprut picks up and passes to Wijanldum, Wijnaldum centers for Oprut and he puts in after 14 minutes, 1 - 0. 2 - 0, Wijanldum assist again. Knocks it up for Wilson who takes it and hits in after 27 minutes. It's 2 - 1! Byram makes a huge mistake holding the ball, robbed by Hall who centers for O'Brien who's free and knocks it past Ruddy after 34 minutes. Half time! Fosu-Mensah on for Danny Wilson.

Second half Quiet second half. Burke comes on for Lagarde and Jin-Su for Betrand with 20 minutes left. Sheffield United go close! Ball over the top and Dendoncker misses it, O'Brien is in and Ruddy makes a good save! That could of been 2 - 2. Dendoncker misses another interception and Sheffield United go close. The parry from Ruddy is then hit and smashes off the post! Fosu-Mensah and Dendoncker are switching roles. Full time.

Post-match Happy with the result. Just a couple of defensive lapes that didn't cost us thankfully.

November



Home - Arsenal

Pre-match Was going to use the same tactic that beat them in the cup but we're at home so I'm going to start with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. City, Liverpool and then Arsenal isn't the nicest league run . I'd love to win this though. It'd put me in the title race. A loss and I think it'd be already over and a Champions League race at best. If I lose I'd be 8 points behind Arsenal. Wijandlum actually starts, he's in the CM-S slot.

First half 13th minute and it's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! We pass forward quickly, Ayew plays in Rashford who slots in the bottom corner. It's 2! Veljkovic heads in Rashfors corner in the 19th minute! What a a goal! Rashford smashes it from 20 yards, post and in! 28th minute and 3 - 0 up! Cech has to make a brilliant save to deny Rashford his hat-trick after a poor Arsenal clearance. Half time, what a match!

Second half Butland makes a good double save to deny Arsenal. The second shot was asking alot to slot in but the game thinks Ox should of done better. Quick passing after a corner and Alexis hits the post! 20 minutes left, taking all yellow cards off. Ffs lol:. Kim Jin-Su came on as a sub and he's got two yellows! 5 minutes with 10 men! Full time!

Post-match What a game, what a win! Hoping Rashfords goal wins goal of the month! 2 points behind Arsenal but Chelsea still need to play! We've been fined for too many yellows aswell ^_^.

Away - Burnley

Pre-match Going to play 4 - 3 - 3. Think we'll need the DM here as they play a narrow diamond. Rashford starts as the striker.

First half Ayew has picked up a knock after 25 minutes and Albrighton comes on to replace, he's back! It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham after 33 minutes. Passing around alot and I'm like, someone shoots! A chipped ball comes back over and Betrand heads it down, Ojo takes and slots in the corner. "Won't see a better goal then that" and "put one over his former club" are said after the goal . Half time!

Second half 50th minute and it's 1 - 1! Quick counter from Burnley, Chalobah hits a long ball to Valencia who crosses in for Jordan Ayew who slots in no problem. 30 minutes left, Reed on for Dendoncker and Woodrow on for Rashford. Let's try get a win! Burnley go close, corner comes in, it's clear and a ball played to Tozer who's onside but he puts it wide. Burnley go close again but Butland denys. We're struggling. Last 5 minutes I'm going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 to try get the goal we need. They make a huge mistake and we do exactly the same and it's over! Oh that's not good.

Post-match Not good enough. We're in 2nd but Chelsea and Liverpool can go above us. 4 points behind Arsenal now.

Another England debut!



He's been amazing for Rotherham so it isn't a surprise.

Home - West Ham United

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Fosu-Mensah repalces Burke. Reed and Tielemans in the middle. After the international duty both Vrjsalko and Veljkovic need resting so sent them on holiday for a week and Byram and Danny Wilson come in.

First half Should of been 1 - 0. Lovely passing, Rashford plays it to Woodrow who blasts it straight at the keeper. Had the whole of the net to aim for. It's all Rotherham but it's 0 - 0 at half time.

Second half 30 minutes to go. Seferi on for Roodrow. Dendoncker for Reed and Wijnaldum on for Tielemans. We should be winning this! We finally score! Freekick, they clear to Fosu-Mensah, he passes to Byram who crosses in and Ojo hits in at the back post. 1 - 0 with 20 minutes to go. Full time.

Post-match We played well, we just needed to get a couple more goals. We have the best GD in the league but Arsenal still have a game to play. West Ham had 0 shots on target and pretty much every shot was a hopeful one from outside the area. We're in 3rd but as I said, Arsenal have a game to play and are top. Chelsea 1 point above us.

Away - Aston Villa

Pre-match Same tactic. Rabiot back in for Reed. Wijnaldum in for Tielemans. Albrighton in for Ayew. Vrsjalko to the bench as Byram played very well. Jin-Su starts at LB. Oprut starts at AMC with Rashford uptop.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham. Lovely passing and play, Rashford plays it through to Oprut who slots in his first Rotherham goal! Awful from Villa for Oprut to even be on side. Ohhh what a goal. Rashford makes it 2 - 0 in the 26th minute. He takes on two players and slots it in the corner. Rashford and Oprut are running Villa riot. Half time!

Second half It's 2 - 1! Quick passing and a ball over to Bidwell who crosses in sees Mousset hit in the cross. 1 minute after the break, game on! 30 minutes to go, Veljkovic on for Fosu-Mensah and Dendoncker on for Rabiot. Traore downs down in the box! 90th minute!!! But wait.. it's not a penalty, it's a yellow card for diving! Full time whistle goes.

Post-match I actually put the wrong tactic on. I put the counter/winger varation on, not attacking/WP version . Still a win, even game to be fair. They were alot better in the second half compared to the first. 3 points and Oprut gets MotM! I'd of given it Rashford but hey ho . Oh we're in 2nd! Arsenal lost! Chelsea 32, Rotherham 31, Liverpool 29, Arsenal 29!

End of month awards



.

I came 2nd in the manager of the motnh award. Tottenham scored 13 goals in 4 games!

December



Capital One Cup Quarter Final - Home - Manchester United

Pre-match They're not doing the best. 6th with a good team! Martial, Higuian, Luan, Mata, Douglas Costa, Denis Suarez, Gylfi Sigurosson all apart of the attacking two! Still going to play a strong team. Regen Lagarde on the bench. Oprut and Seferi upfront. Reed and Dendoncker in midfield etc. Oh and Gnarby?! He starts on the right!

First half Seferi should of scored, lovely ball by Oprut and Seferi is 1 on 1 but De Gea saves. It is 1 - 0 now! Oprut takes the freekick, chips into the path of Ojo who hits low passed De Gea. Close! Dendoncker hits one from outside the area, it hits the bar! It drops down, not sure who gets a touch on it but De Gea gathers. Half time! Lagarde comes on for Veljkovic and Dendoncker goes into the DCL spot. Milos picked up a knock.

Second half Close! Betrand crosses in and hits the inside of the post and out! De Dea does very well to deny Safari twice. Nearly 1 - 1! Betrand throws it in to Lagarde, no reason to at all. Schneiderlin intercepts, plays in Martial who takes past Burke and hits the post! We clear. Woodrow on for Seferi and Wijnaldum on for Gnarby. 10 minutes to go! A ball is crossed in to the back post but Ojo is down and can't hit it! Manchester United counter and Butland makes an amazing save to deny Siggy! Ojo has picked up a knock and Manchester United all of a sudden are knocking at the door. 5 minutes left. What a hit, 1 - 1. Woodrows heavy touch gives United the ball back, cross in and Martial half volleys it in. Extra time needed. I'd of rather of had a reply.

Extra time first half De Gea makes a great save to deny Wijnaldum who does well down the right! De Gea has kept Manchester United in this. I say that and Butland makes a great save down to deny Martial. Bad defending from us.

Extra time second half Burke fouls and picks up a yellow, 5 minutes left. Woodrow isn't having a good game and Martial scores. Woodrow lost the ball again. Janmaat hits a long ball, Cavalerio heads it to the path of Martial who slots low in. Woodrow has been really poor sadly. Full time.

Post-match Could of won that, strikers were very poor. Wijnaldum should of scored really though. I want atleast one cup this season!

New Recruits! Re-hired Paul Warne as Under 18s Manager and Lee Frecklington comes in as Under 18s Assistant! Revell on short list for Under 21 Manager when he retires at the end of the season.

Home - Brentford

Pre-match No Ojo, that's gutting. Ayew on the left and Albrighton on the right. Going to play Woodrow uptop as James Wilson is injured and I like Rashford as the SS, can he redeem himself?

First half Rashford should of scored, Brentford are really deep. I mean we cleared their corner and they passed back to their cbs. Rashford played in and he basically chips into Johnstones hands! It's 1 - 0 to Brentford! Woods plays in Di Santo who's onside and he hits in. Half time. Raging!

Second half 1 - 1 2 minutes into the second half. Albrighton passes to Kim Jin-Su who crosses in and Rashford hits home. Better! 30 minutes to go. Seferi on for Woodrow and Tielemans comes off and Wijnaldum takes his place. 5 minutes left, I've gone ALL out attack, everything. We should be winning this! It's over, come on Rotherham!

Post-match Drew at home to 18th! Not happy. We had double of everything(well, not possession) but yeah... not happy.

FA Cup 3rd Round draws up as home vs Aston Villa who we've never lost against!

Away - Cardiff City

Pre-match Rashford uptop, Oprut behind. Ojo back on the left. Vrsjalko at RB and Burke takes Fosu-Mensahs spot. We're now joint 2nd with Arsenal and 3 points behind Chelsea, need to get this back!

First half Oprut tries to play in Ayew, Meling intercepts but makes a mistake, Ayew steals, cuts in but Marshall saves. We counter and make it 1 - 0! Oprut is running riot in Rashfords normal position. Rashford plays it to Oprut who plays a sweet ball to Ayew who smashes in the corner in the 38th minute! Rashford goes close, we win a corner and keep threatening but it's half time!

Second half Second half hasn't been a good one for us, Rashford isn't doing well as the uptop man but I've kept him on incase. He created a chance for himself but his effort was just wide and now he's injured, damn! 10 minutes left, Seferi, Reed and Dendocker come on for Rashford, Tielemans and Wilson. It's a penalty! Ayew is also sent off for a second yellow! Didn't look like he fouled him really but Pritchard went down and the pen is given. Ji Dong-Won makes it 1 - 1. Another draw, perhaps a loss? We need points! It's a draw. Damn!

Post-match Soppy second half cost us vs 20th. Last two games have been awful really. Chelsea draw so only 3 points behind but Arsenal overtake us and Liverpool may if they win by 2 or more goals. The amount of chances, shots etc we had over Cardiff aswell, gah!

Away - Manchester United

Pre-match James Wilson is back, starts uptop. Tielemans and Ayew are suspended and replaced by Wijnaldum and Albrighton. Betrand starts at LB. Fosu-Mensah and Burke start at CB.

First half 2 minutes in and it's 1 - 0 Manchester United. Ball comes in, Martial misheads but sets up Douglas Costa with it. Bad defending. 2 - 0 4 minutes in. Easy attack for United, we give them the ball, quick passes, Costa crosses across goal for Martial to tap in. Half time, we've been absolutely bloody awful. Big changes needed. Not had a shot!

Second half So, Gnarby goes AMR for Albrighton, Dendocker does DM and Oprut comes off. Reed comes on for Wijnaldum. Moved into a 4 - 3 - 3. Nothing really happens in the second half. Full time.

Post-match We were absolutely bloody awful. We need better depth for sure, maybe the wrong tactic aswell. Got 2 more matches in December, we need to play better.

Away - Swansea City

Pre-match Going 4 - 3 - 3 since I'm away with Woodrow uptop.

First half Boring. Wingers aren't in it and only thing to note was Borini scoring clear offside.

Second half Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with Oprut coming on for Veljkovic(just come back from injury) and Dendoncker going CB next to Wilson. Small switch with 25 mins left using my 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter, not attacking. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Alot of passing around the box, if we lose the ball, we win it back. Reed passes to Oprut who plays through to Reed, chip over to Ayew whos volley is saved by Szczesny but he follows up to make 1 - 0 in the 69th minute. Ojo is knackered and not in this game, lad probably needs a reset. Wijnaldum comes on for the last 15 minutes on the left. Last 10 minutes Seferi comes on for Woodrow as he keeps losing the ball, yet again. So close! Garry Rodrigues lays off Borini outside the area who smashes it, Butland denys but left back Erik Durm is there to hit it in, so much space but he hits it against the post and Byram clears! Swansea go close, a ball over the top and Sergio Leon is 1 on 1 but Butland saves. Suprised he was onside. Full time!

Post-match Happy we won. We're 5th now. Tottenham go above us on GD. Arsenal beat Bournemouth 5 - 0. Manchester United beat Watford 4 - 0 who we play next. So alot of + goals for teams around me. Only 3 points off the top aswell!

Home - Watford

Pre-match Attacking 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Let's get goals! I'm actually starting with Seferi uptop with Oprut behind. Wilson/Woodrow aren't impressing me at all. Alot of midfield changes due to two days after Swansea.

First half Boring first half, not many chances. Watford didn't have a shot.

Second half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Oprut half volleys in Albrightons chip freekick in the 57th minute. 2 - 0 66th minute. Lovely passing and a quick first time chip from Albrighton sets up Seferi to nod in, very nice from Albrighton indeed. We counter, 2 on 1, Watford manage to get back but Albrighton should of scored his own. Oh it's 2 - 1! Lifeline for Watford! Saponaras corner is headed in by Muniesa as he outdoes Burke in the 78th minute. 10 minutes to go, will we win!? Ochoa has to make a brilliant save to deny Albrighton! Full time, deserved victory.

Post-match Would of liked to of kept a clean sheet but we played well especially with a center midfield made up of 19 year old regen Lagarde and Fosu-Mensah. We're in 3rd. 3 points behind Arsenal, 1 point behind Liverpool. Tottenham still need to play.

Half way table:



End of month award:



Thinking about selling Gnarby and looking to bring this lad in permanently. Window is open, will we see business? If Sime Vrsaljko gets his way, he'll be moving to Italy!

The board asked me if I wanted a new contract . I accepted and just waiting for it to come through.

January

Away - Everton

Pre-match Try and keep my form going. Will it be too much? So many games in such little time. Oprut and Rashford out. Seferi uptop with Gnarby behind. Woodrow and Wilson both on bench.

First half It's a pen! 15th mintue, some good passing and Albrighton crosses in, Seferi misses it and I'm like, what? Kenneth Omeruo is pulling him back, that's why! It's Dendoncker who takes and.. it's saved! Both teams have had a couple of chances but nothing clear cut. I type that and Gnarby probably should of scored from Seferis through ball. Playing well together imo. Seferi goes close again and forces a corner which comes to nothing. That was a clear chance aswell so he ends the half with a 6.0 rating. Keeping him on for the second half though!

Second half 30 minutes to go and Wilson on for Seferi and Ayew on for Albrighton. I think we should be winning this. Danny Wilson may need to come on for Dendoncker at some point as he'd booked. Oh come on! It's 1 - 0 Everon. Ball up, Welbeck crosses and three players round his Ebner gets in between and volleys in! 10 minutes left, overload! Perhaps that's goal of the season and it's 1 - 1. That one is one I need to upload. Reed hits it from 35 yards in the top corner, lovely. 8 minutes to go, can we win!? Dendoncker makes a mistake and Ebner hits the bar! Utvik makes a huge mistake but Gnarbys pass to Wilson is poor. He's made some poor passes in a game he's played quite well. Full time!

Post-match 4 clear chances, 11 shots on target. Confused how we lost this but also buzzing Reed got us atleast a point. Rashford is missed but I don't think my "second strikers" good enough. I'm not sure. Another CB is needed I'm thinking. Fosu-Mensah and Dendoncker are midfielders.

New signing: 17 year old Danish DM/MC Thomas Christensen. Has some potential, can we unlock it? To be good as say Rabiot imo. Yes, he's a regen .

FA Cup 3rd Round - Home - Aston Villa

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 2. Wilson and Woodrow uptop. Fosu-Mensah and Lagarde in midfield. Christensen goes to the bench.

First half Villa go close from a corner! Not sure who gets his head to it but Butland just manages to save! Other end Bertrand crosses and Albrighton his the post with his headed effort! How did that go in? 1 - 0 to Villa. Ferri long shots, Butland fumbles. Oh wow, replay! Zekhnini shoots, it hits off the post into Butland and bounces in! Half time and we're unlucky to go in behind.

Second half We counter, Fosu-Mensah up to Wilson, crosses for Albrighton just outside the area. He shoots and it's saved. I feel he could of done better. 3 subs, Dendoncker on for Lagarde. Wijnaldum off, Ayew on. Oprut on for Woodrow. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Can we force a replay atleast? 30 minutes to go! Before the changes go through, Butland makes a great save to keep it at 1. Penalty! To Rotherham! Albrighton swings the corner in and Puscas goes in with a high foot challenge. Ayew steps up and... scores! 73rd minute equaliser! It's full time and it's going to a replay!

Post-match I'll take the replay. We were slightly better with the home advantage but both teams had chances to win it so to get a second shot feels good.

I'm back from a small break, been playing Diablo and Hearthstone! Overwatch is out soon aswell, woot!

If we win vs Aston Villa. We'll be away at Brighton and Hove Albion in the 4th round of the FA cup.

Home - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match First game back and against the team that usually beat me. Let's do the double over them! Usual team starts but Tielemans still carrying a knock. Wilson uptop with Rashford behind. I'm actually going to start Byram at RB, Vrsaljko wants to move to Roma or Napoli, he's really complaining but their bids are beyond a joke.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! We swing in a corner, it's cleared out to Ayew, he plays it to Rashford the corner take who's cut slightly inside, he passes back to Ayew who attempts to center. De Vrij knocks it away from Ojo but it's to James Wilson who slots low and passed Lloris who may of done better, 17th minute that was! Nothing else has happened and it's half time!

Second half It's 2 - 0 in the 58th minute! Reed passes to Rashford who plays a one two with Wilson and Rashford knocks it past Lloris. 20 minutes to go, Albrighton and Fosu-Mensah on for Reed and Ayew. Close! Quick counter and Ojo centers to Rashford who smashes it from outside the area but Lloris gets down to knock it out for a corner. Full time! Buzzing!

Post-match Easily the best team. James Wilsons return to the starting lineup proved the right decision. Happy! We're 3rd now but 5 points behind Arsenal.

FA Cup 3rd Round Replay - Away - Aston Villa

Pre-match Going to play 4 - 3 - 3 and backup players. Let's see what happens. Even 19 year old Lagarde starts at DM.

First half 40th minute and we see the first action! Gnarby crosses in, Betrand takes it down and smashes it, hits the post and goes in! 1 - 0 Rotherham. Half time!

Second half Nearly 1 - 1 in the 48th minute. Very nice run from Mousset but his shot hits the outside of the post and bounches out. Could of been 2 this time in the 56th minute. Woodrow plays in Gnarby, he's 1 on 1 but it's saved. It's 1 - 1 though! 60th minute, Moi Gomez chips a ball over to Zekhnini who slots low past Butland who will be dissappointed to be beaten like that. 25 minutes left. Ayew on for Wijnaldum and Seferi on for Woodrow, can they make the difference? It's 2 - 1 to Aston Villa! Zekhinis second goal. Corner cleared out back to Paal, he passes to Lallana who sets up Zekhini. 3 minutes ledt, all out attack! It's full time though!

Post-match Can't believe we've lost that. Poor defending from us as they didn't have any clear chances and score two!

Away - Blackburn Rovers

Pre-match Let's bounce back with a win! Attacking 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Quick attacking, Wilson plays in Albrighton who gets tackled but it lays off James Wilson who slots home in the 11th minute. Should of been 2 - 0. Reed was 1 on 1 and hits it straight at the goalkeeper. It went quiet after and it's half time. Ayew is coming on for Albrighton.

Second half 56th minute 2 - 0! Ojo plays a ball over the top, Wilson picks it up and centers for Rashford to nod in! Danny Wilson comes on for Burke due to a booking. 20 minutes to go! There's a red card! Yassin Ayoub is sent off for Blackburn rovers. Game on!? It's 2 - 1! Fortounis swings in the corner and Moreno pokes it in! 88th minute though, is it too late? Full time!

Post-match Subs didn't play very well, happy overall but would of been better to keep a clean sheet.

He's staying! Sime Vrsaljko is now happy to stay which is music too my ears.

New Player!

I have smashed my record purchase but he looks great, can become better and cost me 17.5mil.



Home - Leicester City

Pre-match Same lineup pretty much expect Ayew starts at RM again and Magrini starts, Burke goes to the bench.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Veljkovic heads in Rashfords corner in the 23rd minute! 32nd minunute Jin-Su is coming off before he's sent off! And the same minute James Wilson smashes it in from just inside the box to make it 2 - 0! Half time and we're playing well.

Second half 3 - 0 52nd minute. Wilson knocks it in after Tielemans is tackled by Obita but ball rolls nicely to Wilson, that seems to be happening alot. Clough goes very close for Leciester! But it's 4 - 0! Betrand to Vrsjalko who nods on to Ayew who hits it from close range hits off the post and in. 20 minutes to go, can we keep a clean sheet!? I'd love to know who's going to me MotM! It's Wilson! Full time!

Post-match Clean sheet, 4 goals. Brilliant. We're joint first, Arsenal have +1 G/D on us. What a league comeback!

End of month awards

We got 3! Player, goal and manager!







The goal!

[video=youtube;ZndGKqjxIeU]

February

Home - AFC Bournemouth

Pre-match Ayew out, Albrighton not performing so Gnarby is going RM, rest stays the same.

First half 23 minutes and it's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Attacking and Bournemouth keeps clearling. Lovely ball to Gnarby lets him cross to the back post where Ojo knocks it in. 2 - 0 31st minute! Counter attack from Bournemouth freekick. Up to Rashford who runs up and hits a lovely ball for Ojo to half volley into the back of the net. Close! Tielemans hits a long free kick and James Wilson gets ahead of everyone, he half volleys it from a tight angle but it's too tight and Sportiello saves. Close again! Gnarby steals the ball but his cross is too long for Wilson, Wilson collects and centers for Ojo but Sportiello saves. Half time! Magrini is booked so Burke is going to replace. Tielemans has a knock so Wijnaldum is replacing.

Second half So close! 40 seconds into the first half Wijnaldum wins a freekick in a good position. He takes this himself and Sportiello has to get down into the corner to stop it being 3! Close in the 87th minute! We're just attacking over and over. Rashford is played in but doesn't have alot to aim for, Sportiello saves, Rashford shoots again and Sportiello saves that aswell! He's been quality, could of been 5 without him. Close at the other end! Quick counter and Afobe hits the post! Full time!

Post-match 2 - 0, easily the best side and a clean sheet. Really happy. With 5 CCCs and 1 more goal though we'd of been top of the league!

Oh no! Ojo is unhappy at the club.. but all he wants is a new contract! Coming straight up Sir! He's been star of the season for me. Only going from 30k to 65k for a key player aswell .

Away - Chelsea

Pre-match Reed comes in for Tielemans, Byram for the suspended Vrsaljko and the rest stays the same.

First half I was thinking maybe this is the wrong tactic. Byram takes a throw in, Gnarby crosses and for some reason Kim Jin-Su is in a quality position, no one can get near him and he puts us 1 - 0 up! Nodding the ball in after 18th minute! Half time. Magrini comes off for Burke again.

Second half Close for Chelsea! A cross comes in and Veljkovic slides to hit it. It's going out but Butland goes down to stop it but fumbles it, Benzema hits it but Burke is in the way. From the corner Hazard floats it in, Benzema heads it but it's easy for Butland. It's 1 - 1. Benzema scores in the 60th minute. Quick attack and it's Semedo on the right, crosses in and Benzema heads it in. It's 2 - 1 to Chelsea and we're just standing off! They're running at us and we're looking at the ball, Hazard through to Benzema who hammers it in. Going 4 - 3 - 3 and subs being made. 25 minutes left. Wijnaldum replaces James Wilson. Nearly 3! Hazards corner is headed by Zouma but it hits the bar! Tactic change, counter 4 - 4- 2 for the last 5 minutes. Full time!

Post-match That was a close game. Rashford and Wilson were never in it sadly. We drop down to 4th but we have a game in hand. If we win that we go top! Anyone from 1st to 5th could win the league, it's so open.

Away - Derby County

Pre-match Massive switch around for this game, alot of tired players and 3rd game in a week.

First half It's hammering it down and Derby go 1 - 0 up in 5 minutes. Cordoba hits in Christies cross. Freak goal and it's 1 - 1 in the 6th minute! Albrighton crosses and it they clear only to Wijnaldum, he crosses Conte volleys clear, hits his own player in the head and it bounces to Oprut to his in! 7th minute it's 2 - 1 to Derby! Ince hits in a cross and Redmond hits past Butland! It's half time.

Second half Staying with 4 - 4 - 2 for the moment. It may change soon. Yeah 10 minutes it and it's being changed. 4 - 3 - 3. Seferi comes on for Woodrow, Albrighton goes off, Lagarde comes on. Dendoncker goes off and Reed comes on. Can we win this!? What a joke from Rotherham, awful defending. Ince hits in an easy cross, two defenders making Cordoba and he still gets up to head it in. 3 - 1 73rd minute. Wow again, defendings what are you doing? Betrand is just looking at Redmond. FOUR players around Cordoba as he volleys the cross in to make it 4. I could end up regretting this! Should of been 4 - 2 but Opruts volley is saved. Full time.

Post-match We're in 4th now. That was shocking. Pure shocking. Alot of changes coming this summer so we have better depth.

Home - Southampton

Pre-match Two losses on the trot, let's sort it out lads! Derby were in 15th, these are in 16th. Not to be taken lightly.

First half 15 seconds it took for Southampton to score. Babacar hits it o the wing, Yunus Malli hits it in and both CBS are so deep no one watching Babacar he just volleys it in! It's 1 - 1. Rashford hits in Vjraljkos cross. Should of been 2 - 1 to Rotherham. Nice ball to Gnarby and his shot his the bar. It's 2 - 1 now! Corner gets cleared all the way back to my last player Vrsaljko. He hoofs it back up, Targett misses the header and Gnarby collects, he centers it to Tielemans who slots in. Butland makes a great save to keep the score 2 - 1! This is end to end stuff. Oof, that was close. Nice ball through to Jesus Corona but Butland saves! They're making us push deep and that's not good! Should of been 3! Lovely play around the box waiting the opening, Wilson lays off Rashford but he somehow hits it to the keeper! Half time.

Second half Cillessen makes a good save to deny Gnarby after he's played through. 30 minutes to go and this could be anyones game! 20 minutes to go, Oprut comes on for Wilson, Rashford goes uptop and Albrighton on for Gnarby. Full time whistle goes!

Post-match Happy with the win, especially with how quick they scored. We're in 3rd. Liverpool 57, Manchester United 55, Rotherham 55. We play Liverpool next.

March



Home - Liverpool

Pre-match It's Liverpool then Arsenal. This is season defining. They beat us 4 - 2 when they were at home, can we get revenge?[/b]

First half So close! Good attacking football from Rotherham. Ojo plays through Jin-Su who crosses in and Wilsons headed effort hits the bar. It's 1 - 0 ! We counter Liverpools counter! Ball up to Wilson and he runs and runs, pulls it back to Rashford who hits a brilliant ball to Gnarby who half volleys it in, last attack before half time and that it is!

Second half Good move from Rotherham and it's Tielemans who's on the spear head of the attack but his shot is tame and into Mignolets hands. Close, very close! Clyne crosses in and Markovic heads the ball! I think Vrsaljkos follow up hits our own post but Butland gathers! They were both within the first two minutes of the first half, could be a lively one! 20 minutes to go, Reed on for Rabiot and Oprut on for Wilson, Rashford goes upfront. Clyne goes for a screamer but it's too far out and Butland catches. It's full time!!!

Post-match Buzzing! We played very well. Even game for sure! Glad I kept Gnarby on as Ayew was back.

Away - Arsenal

Pre-match The team to beat, can we do it? Same 11 start. But like last time vs Arsenal it's counter 4 - 4 - 1 - 1!

First half What a save! Ojo steals the ball from Alexis. Rashford and Gnarby passing with each other. Gnarby gets played through but Cech makes an amazing save to deny! It's 1 - 0 Rotherham which I can only persume is a bug or really bad Arsenal play? Not sure. Anyway, Gnarby hits in a freekick and Veljkovic is free, no one is in that area of the box to defend against him. He heads it, hits the post and goes in. Infact, I'd of probably had three players get that ball before an Arsenal player, odd. Oh well, 17th minute and 1 - 0 up! It's 1 - 1 in the 41st minute. An absolutely amazing ball swings round to Chamberlain from Walcott and he places it in. Half time and it's an even game.

Second half Goal! Ball gets played up and Rashford collects, passes to Wilson and goes ahead. Wislon takes and passes to Gnarby, he takes a player on and slots low, nice from Gnarby in the 49th minute. Walcott goes very close! Solo effort and his shot just goes wide of the post. Bit of luck but it's 2 - 2! Bellerin crosses but it's block, bounces straight to Ozil who hits it first time to Walcott who hits it first time in! 20 minutes to go! It's 3 - 2 to Arsenal. Bellerin crosses and Walcott gets up to head. Subs and tactic change now. How does Walcott beat Magrini(regen from earlier post) in the air? Getting that ball up, a draw will do. Oh come on Rotherham.. it's 4 - 2. Veljkovic clears, Ozil collects, passes to Chamberlain who hits in. Defense have been poor in this second half. Full time.

Post-match Not happy. We're in 5th. Liverpool won 6 - 2 and sit in first. We're 3 points behind but Liverpool have played a game on us. Manchester United same points but better GD and same game. Arsenal 1 point ahead. It's very tight.

Home - Burnley

Pre-match We gotta win this. Same 11 but attacking. This is a team we draw with alot, we gotta change that one here.

First half Close, Gnarby wins the ball back plays it to Vrsaljko who lays off Tielemans who hits just over. We're battering Burnley, they've not had a shot but we go in even. I actually give them the hair-dryer at the half, we need more chances.

Second half Reyes fouls Rashford! He's already been booked.. in the 48th minute it's 10 men Burnley! We finally get the goal! It's 1 - 0 in the 65th minute. We counter, Vrsjalko runs down and crosses where Ojo volleys in. 20 minutes left, Burke and Seferi for Magrini and Wilson. Kim Jin-Su thinks we should of had a penalty but it's waved away. It's full time!

Post-match Maybe we'll of been happier if we scored more but we've won, clean sheet. Manchester United +31, Liverpool +29, Rotherham +23 all played 30, all on 61. Arsenal played 29 and on 59.

Away - West Ham United

Pre-match Staying exactly the same.

First half What a joke! Amiri hits a ball up, Kim Jin-Su makes a huge mistake, he heads it straight to Mandzukic who slots it past Butland in the 3rd minute. What a bloody mistake. Tielemans is injured now. This is a bad game so far. Half time.

Second half Get that ball forward mode. Counter, Gnarby runs and crosses and Ojo hits the post! What a strike! It's 1 - 1. We're putting balls in, they're defending well. Gnarby decides not to center this and smashes it, flys in the corner. Penalty to Rotherham! It's James Wilson to take... it's in! 2 - 1, two goals in the space of 5 minutes! 20 minutes to go! Full time!

Post-match Such a better second half. Had a right go at them and told them to get the ball down the flanks and into the box.

New records!





Away - Mancehester City

Pre-match Attack, attack, attack attack attack!

First half De Bruyne does really well to carry the ball on past Magrini, he shoots and somehow it goes off Butland in. 18th minute 1 - 0 to Manchester City. Huge mistake makes it 1 - 1 in the 28th minute. Ojo tries to hit the ball to Gnarby, Rodriguez tries to head back but Wilson is there and knocks it past Hart. It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham. Gnarbys cross is headed in by James Wilson in the 41st minute. Half time. We've had 14 shots, 6 on target. Manchester City have had 2, 1 on target. They're at home.

Second half I expect a City respone here, they were terrible in the first half, defense was shocking. Aguero goes close, gets himself in a good position but shot is from outside the box and wide. Full time.

Post-match City were better in the second half but we were the better team overall easily. Ancelotti has to go if that's how City play. We move into first, Arsenal need to play yet though. Manchester United have a game in hand but they're in 5th with 61 where we have 67.

Massive blow



We've lost our best player for the rest of the season. Can I move Gnarby into the AMC spot and he step up?

End of month awards

April

Honestly. We should win every game apart from maybe the last vs Manchester United. We have Aston Villa, Brentford, Cardiff City, Wartord and Swansea City prior. Max points could happen. We probably have the best run.

Home - Aston Villa

Pre-match Alot of draws, 2 wins and 1 loss vs Villa since I started this. The draw/loss in the cup this season and then a win on the league, let's do the double over. Same 11 expect Ayew comes in for Rashford, Ayew goes to RM, Gnarby to AMC.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham 2 minutes in. Gnarby plays it through to Ayew who slots low! Great save! Zekhini plays in Mousset but Butland denys! Good save by Ospina. Wilson plays it back to Gnarby who knocks it through to Ayew who hits first time and Ospina gets down to catch. It's 2 - 0! Kim Jin-Su throws in to Wilson who lays off Vrsaljko at the edge of the box who lets it fly, smackes the bar and in, 29th minute! 2 - 1 in the 36th minute! Mousset feeds Ferri and it's low past Butland. Half time! Burke coming on for Veljkovic.

Second half It's 3 - 1! Ayew floats a lovely ball over abd Ojo volleys in. 58th minute. Freekick comes in for Villa, it's cleared but hit back in, Paal is there to hit it but Butland saves at his near post. 20 minutes left and Fosu-Mensah on for Rabiot. Full time!

Post-match A good win and out of Arsenals range of getting top spot. 4 points clear of Liverpool aswell.

Away - Brentford

Pre-match 10 stay the same but Byram comes in at RB and Vrsaljko is on holiday, he really needed a rest.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Brentford! Smith passes to Tierney who crosses and Di Santo gets to it first and volleys in. Should be 1 - 1. Byram crosses in but Ojo hits it to the keeper when he had so much space to hit into. Half time, hairdryer and tactic change.

Second half It's 2 - 0. Smith crosses inbetween two defenders Di Santo hits in, looks slightly offside. 2 - 1! Byram to Reed, plays to Ojo who lays off Gnarby first time who hits in! 30 minutes left, can we win!? Woodrow on for Wilson, Gnarby goes to RM and Ayew comes off for Wijnaldum. Ojo strikes one and it hits the bar! 12 minutes left! It's full time.

Post-match Not happy with that. Top of the league by 1 point. We won't win this on G/D. Brentford were bottom of the table.

Home - Cardiff City

Pre-match Some changes at the back, Vrsaljko comes back in. Jin-Su is suspended so Betrand comes in. Burke and Magrini start at CB. Updated: Butland is injured and Ruddy starts.

First half Good chance, we counter, Gnarby runs up and plays it to Ayew but shot is tame. Tielemans is back but has another knock. He's coming off for Reed and it's half time. We've had all the possession and they've had zero shots but it's 0 - 0.

Second half Changing formation to get the ball up now, we need a goal! 15 minutes left, Overload, pump it in the box and get Woodrow on and uptop. It's worked! 86th minute and it's 1 - 0! Vrsjalko crosses in and Woodrow is on the end to knock it in! Full time.

Post-match Suprised Brentford are below Cardiff. They barely got out their own half. 3 shots, 0 on target. Easy for Ruddy.

Away - Watford

Pre-match Gnarby is injured for this one and so is Wijnaldum so Oprut goes into the AMC spot.

First half 1st minute Watford go up. Christies corner is headed in by an unmarked Dembele. That should of been 1 - 1! Ball dorps lovely for Oprut but it's saved. Again! Ojo crosses low and Wilson should of finished it. Close again! We're only 7 minutes in but Oprut hits the post! Cross comes in for Watford, not sure who is on the end but it's very well saved by Butland! Oh come on Rotherham it's 2 - 0. Hoban smacks a ball up, Vardy flicks it on and Bonazzolli jumps up to nod in. It's 2 - 1! Good move and lovely finish by Ayew in the 29th minute. Half time, subs and changes incoming. Ojo goes SS behind Woodrow who comes on for Wilson. Ayew goes ML and Albrighton comes on for Oprut and goes MR, get the balls up mode!

Second half Watford his the bar! Corner in, flicked on and Dembele hits the bar! Goal! Ojo runs from his own half all the way down, stops and makes a lovely chip to Albrighton who volleys it in! It's all equal in the 49th minute! 15 minutes left and pump ball into the box active as Woodrows on. It's a red card.. Woodrow! Goes into a tackle two footed, doesn't even foul the player but he's sent off and we're down to 10 for 13 minutes! Overload though, we need a goal! Full time.

Post-match Damn, this may cost us the title. We're now 2nd. We need Chelsea to beat Liverpool for us to have a chance, even a draw would do it.

May



Home - Swansea City

Pre-match So many injuries, it's costing us. Tielemans, Wijnaldum, Wilson and Rashford all out injured. Oprut and Seferi are the front two. Chelsea won 1 - 0. Aslong as we win our last two games, it's our title.

First half It's 1 - 0! Ojo passes to Seferi shoots from a tight angle and it goes in after 9 minutes! It's half time and Rabiot has to come off, Fosu-Mensah replaces. Another injury .

Second half Seferi is played through and somehow doesn't score, you'd of put money on it! It's 2 - 0! Ayew cuts inside and smashes it past Szczesny in the 52nd minute! 3 - 0! Maybe offside but Seferi plays through Oprut who slots low in the 54th minute. Yeah I think that was offside. Oh there's a red card! I missed it, David Lopez is already booked and says something to the officials about the goal which earns him an early bath! 3 - 1! Iuri Medeiros hits in a frekick from the edge of the box in the 70th minute, good hit. Full time!

Post-match Good win! It's us vs Manchester United to win it unless Liverpool don't win vs Southampton.

The next match isn't for 15 days... We'll take the rest, injurys etc

The Big Game

Home - Manchester United

Pre-match Nervous? Well, if we win then we win the Premiership. Faster then I've ever done it with Rotherham. If we draw, Liverpool take it on goal difference. Last three games vs United? We've lost them all.

First half Martial goes for a long effort but Butland dives and saves. It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham!!! Ojo makes a bad pass but that somehow sets him up! He runs on and puts it low past De Gea in the 9th minute! It's 2 - 0!!! James Wilson volleys in Ayews cross in the 23rd minute! Penalty... to Rotherham! Gnarby passes through to Ayew and Luke Shaw takes him down in the area! Ayew steps up and... 3 - 0 in the 37th minute!!! Half time, brilliant! Burke is replacing Veljkovic due to being booked.

Second half It's 4! Ayew hits long, Rojo collects, Gnarby tackles and sets up Wilson who runs down and slots in the opposite corner, lovely in the 71st! Nearly 5! Gnarby tries a cheeky volley but De Gea catches. This is amazing. FULL TIME.

Post-Match] WE'RE CHAMPIONS!!!!!!!!! WOOT!!!! NEVER EXPECTED A 4 - 0 HAMMERING OF MANCHESTER UNITED TO WIN IT!!!! CHAMPIONS!!! UP THE MILLERS!!!!











Will they win any awards in the coming weeks?



The Awards!





Close for Reed! Goal is above.







End of Season





There will be changes. Rotation players that don't make many games, players who don't fit in etc will be leaving. I'd love Oprut and Seferi to stay but no doubt the parent clubs will want them back. Seferi won't be forgotten with those 4 goals vs Arsenal. I'll go more into detail in my transfer post when done.

The tactic

End of month awards

I forgot about this! For May!







Gonna attempt some transfer window whilst Extreme Rules is on .

Job Offer

Would never want to work for Manchester City and I still have a job here, declined straight away!

New England Star!

Another cap for one of my players! .



August

Turns out I've somehow not saved the last 40 minutes before loading to get my Portsmouth away tactic losing the game vs Manchester United, training, transfers etc. That's annoying.

Charity Shield - Neutral - Manchester United

Pre-match So our season starts here! It's going to be a different one. Alot more games then usual, will the squad cope? We have strength, we just need to stay injury free.

First half So close! Cross comes in, bounces down and Denis Suarez hits it! Bounces hits the underside of the bar and bounces out! Higuian goals for a scorcher and Butland has to get down and make a great save! It's half time and this is a much better Manchester United side then I faced at the end of the season. Gnarby has a knock and is being replaced by Ayew.

Second half United score! 89th minute Suarez plays through Carrasco and he slots past Butland.

Post-match Man Utd won the game originally before I somehow messed up the save so I was always going to reload for them to win it anyway.

With Overwatch being released and having strange working this week might be awhile before another update

August

I let my assistant take friendly matches



Away - Norwich City

Pre-match I don't have a cemented away tactic so I've brought in an old Portsmouth 4 - 3 - 3 to test. It worked well then and I have the players now for it. If it doesn't work I can always switch to my 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Gah for some reason this match didn't save my typing so I can only type the goals!

First half Andre Ayew scores in the 21st minute. Tielemans plays him through, he puts it on his left foor and finishes nicely. Only goal in the half.

Second half We play well with the 4 - 3 - 3 but we switch to the 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as I wanted more goals. James Wilson scores, 68 minutes. Ball played through and it looks like a Norwich defender gets a touch on it to go in but Wilson takes the goal. Alex Munoz O.G, 73rd minute. Rashford corner comes in and cleared, James Wilson hits it back in, Ojo shoots and it bounces off Alex Munoz and goes in! Rotherham win 3 - 0.

Post-match Happy with how we played with both tactics. Clean sheet and 3 goals to start the season. We're top for the moment but teams still have to play.

Home - Leicester City

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as we're at home. Derby are top, they beat Fulham 4 - 0.

First half So close! 15 seconds in Tielemans drives forward and lets one drive and it smashes the bar! That'd of been so good. It's 1 - 0 to Leicester in the 1st minute though! Clough crosses in and Andre Silva hits it in. Should of been 1 - 1. Ayews cross was hit by Wilson but Schmeichel saves. It's 1 - 1 now though! Grujic goes for the piledriver, Schmeichel saves but doesn't catch and Wilson knocks it in. So close! Grujic smashes one from the edge of the area and hits the bar! Again the bar! Ojo heads Rashfords cross but it's a goal in the 26th! It's the bar and in! 2 - 1 to Rotherham! Close! Wilson goes to tee up Rashford but it's blocked and Ojo runs in to hit it, Schmeichel saves! JUST wide from the corner! Veljkovics header just goes wide, just! It's half time and we're hammered them!

Second half It's 3 - 1 in the 48th minute. Ayew heads in Kim Jin-Sus cross. 30 minutes left and doing a CB shuffle. Chambers and Burke come on for Magrini and Veljkovic. Nearly 3 - 2! Andre Silva hits the ball after a cross but Butland somehow saves. Last 15 minutes Woodrow is coming on for Wilson. What a volley! It's 4 - 1 to Rotherham. Ayew picks up Rashfords long pass, crosses in and Woodrow smashes it in with a volley in the 75th minute! Full time.

Post-match What a brilliant game for us. Slip up in the first minute but we ignored it and were amazing. Really like the look of Tielemans and Grujic in midfield. Derby lose and we take top spot on G/D.

Champions League Group:



Thoughts? It'll be a hard one. Atletico and Sporting are both good teams though Sporting did sell some good players. I'd like to get 6 points from Young Boys though.

Away - Hull City

Pre-match Away 4 - 3 - 3! Rashford starts uptop for this one. Veljkovic is moaning to join Southampton "for wages" though they're in no european competitions and wouldn't accept higher wages here so he has no room in the squad. Burke starts, Shawcross on the bench. Turns out Sime Vrsaljko is doing the same to join PSG, they've bid 31mil so I've accepted. I think he's brilliant but no point having a player moaning every transfer window, Chambers replaces him at RB.

First half 1 - 0 in the 31st minute to Rotherham! Ayew crosses in low and Rashford hits it in. Half time and we're looking good.

Second half Penalty! Demarai Gray goes down.. but does he dive!? It's given and Kim Jin-Su is booked. Assaombalonga steps up and... slots in the corner, it's 1 - 1 in the 54th and I'm switching to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Wilson and Vrsaljko come on for Tielemans and Chambers. It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham. The subs have impact. Vrsaljko crosses in and Wilson gets on the end of it. Nearly 2 - 2! Cross comes in and Aarons hits it but Butland saves! 10 minutes left and Shawcross comes on for Burke. It's full time!

Post-match Happy we won, still not sure if that was a penalty. Didn't consider dive until the commentary was like "Was that a dive"?!

End of transfer window

So where do I start?

Sadly Vrsjaljko was making too much noise so I sold him for 31.5mil to Paris Saint-Germain. His replacement was Davide Calabria from Manchester City. He looks alright and has alot of fitness/pace. He just needs to be played!

I have another player that has left from making noise, he may of become happy again but no doubt he'd of moaned in January so I've let him go. Milos Veljkovic leaves for Chelsea but we've got for part exchange. I get Brendan Galloway AND Lewis Cook in return, I'm happy at that one!

Final In/Out:



The squad for 2020/2021



I like the look of it. I have a central midfield that could be that for the next 8 or so years. The CBs are good enough and good enough backup across the defense. Origi and Wilson upfront with Rashford and Gnarby behind should be a good force. We'll see how far we can go in the Champions League!

September

Home - Derby County

Pre-match We have Atletico in 3 days so I'm in two minds who to start. Think I'll go with the usual lot since they whooped us last time and change it after the Atletico game.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 12th minute! We counter, Ojo runs down, passes to Ayew who plays through Rashford and slots in! Close! Wilson cuts inside, dribbles and smashes it, it's just wide. It's half time! Not alot of chances. Origi and Cook coming on for Wilson and Tielemans to make their debuts.

Second half Close! Ojo does fantastic down the left, takes to on and crosses. Cross is intercepted but not very well and a follow up hits the post, think it was Origi. Close again and then should of been a goal! Corner being passes around by Origi and Rashford. Rashford hits it and it's a good save, tight angle but Origi hits the follow up and it's too close to the keeper and we win another corner. Derby have had 1 shot, 0 on target with 25 minutes to go but I have a bad feeling about this game being sat 1 - 0 up. Rabiot is struggling and has picked up a yellow so putting Chambers in the CM-D spot for 20 minutes. It's a goal! It's a debut goal! Origi scores! Ojo tries a through ball but it's cleared by Christie. The ball doesn't even drop, Burke volleys it from the half way line, it goes all the way over to an onside Origi who jumps in freely and nods it past Andre Moreira in the 89th minute. Full time.

Post-match Really good display, happy with that. Derby didn't even have a shot on target!

Champions League Group Stage - Away - Atletico Madrid

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3 with Rashford uptop, has to be. Gnarby starts at AMR, Ayew at AML. Rabiot, Tielemans and Grujic in midfield. Kim Jin-Su, Burke, Magrini and Calabria in defense. Butland in net.

First half 20 minutes in and we lose Tielemans to injury, Cook takes his place. Atletico score! But like I thought, it's offside. He should be on there, bad run from Diego Costa. It's ping pong! Aubameyang does really well, cuts inside, shoots but it deflects, it's hit, deflects and Butland parrys, hit again and it's off the post! We manage to clear the ball. It's half time and I'm going to keep it like this for the moment.

Second half 20 minutes to go and going to change to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Ojo replaces Ayew and Wilson replaces Rabiot. 5 minutes left and we're going to pump the ball in the box. Full time.

Post-match 0 - 0 at the Vicente Calderón? I'll take that! Was hoping for a draw/counter to win. I don't think we could of gone there to attack, they have alot of pace. We've lost Tielemans for 7 weeks though .

Away - West Ham United

Pre-match I'm going to go 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 for this. Change it up a little. Roberts start at RM. Origi uptop. Betrand at LB, Galloway at DLC and Chambers at RB. Brant and Lagarde on the bench.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! Good team goal ends up Roberts crossing and Rashford nodding it in the 6th minute. 8th minute it's 2 - 0! Rashford with the corner, it's flicked on by Rabiot and Magrini heads in! First goal for the club! Should be 2 - 1! Mandzukic is played in and Butland saves, shot too close to the keeper. It's 2 - 1, 27th minute! West Ham counter, ball up to Mandzukic who takes on his man, crosses into the box and Bolanos is at the back post to hit it in. It's now 3 - 1! Rashfords corner floats in and Magrini is the one who gets his head onto it and it's in the back of the net in the 39th minute. Half time!

Second half 57th minute and it's 4 - 1! Think a bit of luck was in this. Roberts places in Origi and he slots in, Oxford should of intercepted that ball through! 20 minutes left, Brandt comes on for Ojo and Lagarde on for Rabiot. It's an own goal! 4 - 2 in the 80th minute! Mandzukic played in and shoots first time. Butland saves but it bounces off Magrini and into the net! It's 4 - 3!!! 85th minute! Oxford curls one in from the edge of the box! Yes, Reece Oxford! Whistle blows for full time! What a game!

Post-match Nervy last 20 minutes for sure but we managed to pull through! Oxfords goal is a nice one!

Capital One Cup - Away - Q.P.R

Pre-match Going to stay with 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 as they're a Championship team. Brandt, Gnarby, Kober, Woodrow and Pickford start. I have youth players mostly on the bench aswell.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Q.P.R. They attack really well and we don't get a foot in. Braithwaite is played through and slots past Pickford in the 12th minute. Lewis Baker crosses the ball and it nearly goes in! Pings off the bar. We should of just had a penalty, Ravel fouls Roberts off the ball but Martin Atkinson waves to play on. I have zero idea how we've behind at half time. Button is keeping them in it.

Second half 30 minutes left. Bringing on 3 youngester. Lagarde, Gnarby and Woodrow off. Christensen, Stamatovic and Kolehmainen on. Get the ball up. We just aren't making the chances. It's full time and we've lost!

Post-match David Button MotM, denied a clear penalty. Not happy at all.

Home - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match Bounce back with a win. They're a good team Tottenham, will be a hard game.

First half Ayew injured in the 14th minute, Gnarby replaces. It's 1 - 0 in the 29th minute! Gnarby places a ball through and somehow Rashford turns and no Tottenham defender gets in the way and he slots it past Lloris! It's 2 - 0 in the 33rd minute! Gnarby switches the ball to Rashford, he centers for Wilson who slots in. It's 2 - 1 in the 34th! Fluke goal. Rabiot intercepts and it bounces, Boufal slides and it sets up Kane! He smashes it in low. Should of been 3! Ojo plays in Rashford but Lloris saves. Should of been 2 - 2 this time! Ball goes past Calabria and Kane is in, he shoots wide though! What a save from Butland! Ball comes back in, Alli flicks on and Kane shoots from 6 yards and Butland gets down to deny! Half time. Chambers coming on for booked Calabria.

Second half Good save from Lloris! Corner comes in, it's headed and somehow he gets over to save it! 30 minutes left and Cook comes on for Grujic. Goal!!!!! What a goal. Corner comes in, it's cleared. Gnarby takes one touch and smashes it, post and in! 3 - 1 60th minute. That one should get uploaded! 4 - 1 in the 80th minute! Wilson plays in Ojo on the left who smashes it in! I thought Ojo was offside but replays show he's on! 4 - 2! Wouldn't be a Rotherham vs Tottenham without Eriksen scoring a freekick in the 84th minute, good hit. Full time!

Post-match Quality! Beating Tottenham is always a good thing. They sold Barbosa for 51mil! May be costing them but they have time yet.

Champions League Group Stage - Home - Sporting CP

Pre-match This is where I need a win, Gnarby replaces Ayew but same lineup. Sporting has a good lineup. Jese(Real Madrid) Carlos(Zenit) and Hirving Lozano make their front 3.

First half Ojo hits the post! We keep putting balls in and around the box, they clear back to us, we get it on the left to Ojo but it's the post and out! Half time and we're the better team. Should only be a matter of time before we score.

Second half Offside! Rabiot smashes one from 30 yards. It's saved and Grujic hits in the rebound but he's offside. 30 minutes left, Origi on for Wilson. 20 minutes left and "pump ball into box mode". We need to make that one good chance. A controlled attack isn't doing it. Cook and Galloway replace Grujic and Magrini. What a save! Ball played down lovely to Cook who shoots but somehow Rui Patricio saves it! As the commentary puts it "Saved in style". It's full time!

Post-match Too many long shots from us. Not a good start with two draws. We were easily the better team aswell. We may regret this result.

End of the month awards

We got two!





Won all 3 games but came 3rd in the manager award.

West Ham got every goal of the month! Oxford vs Rotherham came 3rd!



October



Away - Everton

Pre-match Going 4 - 3 - 3 as I'm away. Everton play with two deep midfielders so I can't see 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 working to begin with.

First half We've been winning the midfield battle but neither side has made any chances and it goes in half time 0 - 0.

Second half Good chance goes wide! Ojo heads the ball down to Rashford in the 76th minute but he shoots wide. We could regret that. Freak goal! 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 77th minute! Ojo crosses in, Kober smashes the ball and it hits the post. It lands to Utviks feet who goes to clear it but smashes against Kober and goes in the bottom corner! Galloway, Grujic and Origi on. Rashford, Cook and Burke off. 10 minutes to go. It's a goal! 2 - 0 in the 90th minute! Caio clears the ball away from the Everton box, Galloway half volleys it back up and Origi half volleys it in! In the 60th minute I changed the roles of my wingers and fullback and it looks like it's worked a treat, full time!

Post-match We were so much better after I changed the tactic slightly. Good win.

Home - Fulham

Pre-match Some tired players from int. duty. Bit of a change around but Rashford and Origi start uptop in a 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 23rd minute! Chambers throws the ball to Ojo but Origi comes a bit deeper to flick the ball on to Ojo. He passes it back to Chambers in a good position, crosses it back in to the on running Ojo who knocks it in from close range. It's half time and we're looking good.

Second half It's 1 - 1 in the 46th minute. Good movement and passing from Fulham and cross comes in and Borini is at the back post clear and knocks it. I'm sure he's offside but he isn't and it's 1 - 1! It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham in the 62nd. Throw in again, to Lagarde who passes to Ojo. He plays a ball out to Betrand who crosses in for Patrick Roberts to knock in and get his first Rotherham goal. Nearly 2 - 2! Ball over the top and Galloway doesn't cover it. Borini cuts in but Shawcross is there. He shotos and Butland makes a bit of a hash of it. Butland thankfully saves the follow up. 5 minutes left. Reed on for Lagarde, Wilson on for Origi and Burke on for Shawcross. Full time!

Post-match Happy with a win but clean sheet vs 20th would of been a bit nicer!

Champions League Group Stage - Away - BSC Young Boys

Pre-match Staying 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 for this. Think attacking them will be better then sitting back. Rashford and Wilson uptop. 7 minutes and it's 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Great team goal and a lovely one two from Ojo and Rashford lets Ojo smash it in the net. What a save! Jin-Su crosses in, Young Boys don't intercept the cross, Gnarby hits it on the volley but goalkeeper Gudino dives and gets a hand to it, that was top quality 'keeping. Nearly! Buenida is played through but Butland denies! We've left Young Boys attack for the last two minutes and they nearly scored 'cus of it! Should of been 2 this time! Grujic plays a ball up top Wilson but somehow he hits over. Again should of been 2. Good move, Grujic plays in Rashford who somehow spoons it wide. Close! Gnarby played in but it's a tight angle and Gudino saves. Half time. Quality game so far.

Second half 2 - 0 in the 68th minute! Rashford is fouled and from that freekick he curls it into the box and Gnarby free from his marker hits it in! 20 minutes left and Origi, Lagarde and Cook for Wilson, Grujic and Rabiot. It's 3 - 0 and Origi scores a late long ball again? It's weird! Rashford goes great, runs up and hits in a cross from about 35 - 40 yards out. Origi gets up and heads it in, 77th minute. Should of been 3 - 1! Bunedia plays a ball through to Sukacev and he's 1 on 1 but Butland saves! Full time!

Post-match What a game. 30 shots, 15 on target. 7 CCCs, 4 HCs. Can't take away Young Boys effort. 7 shots, 4 on target but 2 of those were CCCs. Really good match.

Away - Burnley

Pre-match Massive swtich around due to players needing a rest. Pretty much a 2nd team and playing 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Neither Ojo or Rashford play or make the bench.

First half The ball is played to Enner Valencia and the bounce favours him. He's able to push through but Butland saves his shot. Good passing and Origi plays in Brandt on the left but it's a bad angle and McCarthy denies. It's half time and honestly, we're struggling.

Second half 30 minutes left and tactic and player change. Brandt and Roberts come off and Woodrow and Kober come on. Origi goes to the AML position. It's a penalty to Burnley! As Lagarde turns Medeiros goes down, it's a bloody blatant dive. Not happy with that at all! Jordan Ayew steps up and it's 1 - 0 Burnley. What a joke. Going 4 - 4 - 2 pump it up mode now. Lagarde off, Wilson on. It's 1 - 1! Origi scores! Good attacking move, Woodrow plays it back to Gnarby who crosses and Origi is on the end of it! Ayew runs at the Rotherham defense and we stay off. Shawcross doesn't put a foot in and Ayew goes past but blazes over. Full time.

Post-match Not happy with that, awful penalty decision. Atleast we got a goal back! Not even an option in the press to complain about it!

Home - Manchester United

Pre-match First team back on, let us get back to our winning ways!

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 3rd minute! Throw in to Rabiot, passes to Ojo, he dribbles down the left but his first cross is blocked. He's able to pick the ball up, cross it in and Rashford unmarked volleys in it, lovely start. Birthday goal aswell! Good save by De Gea! We win the ball on the right, play it back to Gnarby who crosses. Wilson half volleys it but De Gea denies! Half time and we're looking good!

Second half 30 minutes left and it's double sub. Origi on for Wilson and Roberts on for Rashford as he's picked up an injury ! Gnarby goes AMC and Roberts goes MR. Cook on for Grujic for the last 10 minutes. He's tiring and has been booked. It's a red card! Jonny fouls Origi after Ojo plays a ball over the top and is sent off for his second yellow in the 85th minute! Another red card! Musa takes it past Reece Burke and he lunges in with two feet! That's a bad challenge and it's 10 v 10! Full time!

Post-match We whooped United. They had 1 shot on target! Impressive

End of the month awards

We didn't win any. I came 3rd in the manager, Ojo came second in the player and Kober came second and Magrini came third in the young player!

November



Champions League Group Stage - Home - BSC Young Boys

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. We need the 3 points! We have some tired players so there's a few "back ups" playing since we played Manchester United three days prior.

First half Ojo plays through Wilson but Gudino makes a brilliant save! From the awarding corner we've won a penalty! As the corner comes in, their defender Melvin de Vries fouls Galloway. Seems like a harsh call. Captain Andre Ayew is back, he steps up.. but it's straight at Gudino! It's saved! Another great save by Gudino. Wilson is played down the left and fires a good shot from a tight angle that Gudino has to deny. 33rd minute and it's 1 - 0 to Young Boys! Buenida plays a very nice ball through to Walian. Galloway gets on the wrong side of Walian and leaves a huge gap, he takes the ball and slots it in the corner past Butland. It's half time and Young Boys goalkeeper Gudino is playing the game of his life.

Second half 10 minutes in the second half and we're easily the best side but we're lacking. Getting the ball into up into the box and Woodrow is coming on for Wilson. Close! Origi does all the hard work and spoons it wide! 15 minutes left! Full time.

Post-match Fuming, feels like Young Boys goalkeeper had invincible mode on. Gudino finished on a 9.2. We had 24 shots, only 8 on target. 3 CCCs, 1 woodwork and we've lost 1 - 0 to a a team who had 4 shots, 2 on target. We're 3rd in the group. We have to beat Sporting to have even a slight chance.

Home - Watford

Pre-match Let's get back to a win. At home, Gnarby starts at AMC as Rashford is still injured.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 12th minute! Good attacking move. Passing from Roberts, Gnarby, Ojo and Wilson. Wilson plays it through to Gnarby to finish off the attack where Gnarby slots in! Should of been 2! We counter and Ojo plays a quality ball to Roberts but he blasts at the keeper! Keeper fumbles onto the bar but only the bar and out! Wilson goes close! Takes on two players before firing low! Raya saves though. Another good save from Raya! Ojo slips it through to Wilson but Raya denies! It's half time and we've played very well!

Second half Very quiet compared to the first but we're ontop and Watford haven't had a shot on target. 20 minutes left and I'm making all three subs. Brandt on for Roberts, Origi on for Wilson and Cook on for Rabiot. Should of been 2, amazing ball from Gnarby up to Origi all he has to do is hit on target and he hits it wide! Full time!

Post-match Good display! More goals would of been nice vs 20th who have mad 2 points out of 11 games, losing 9!

Away - AFC Bournemouth

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Rabiot, Grujic and Cook in the midfield with Wilson uptop. Gnarby and Ojo on the wings. Gnarby is playing too well for Ayew to get in the side at the moment.

First half Goal! 11th minute! We counter, Wilson plays a nice ball through to Ojo. He runs on and slots it in with two defenders on his heels! It's 1 - 1 in the 14th minute! Was he offside? I think he was, slightly but it stands and Wilson equalises. Oh lovely goal, Gnarby turns his defender and confused the keeper givin' himself a huge gap to slot in. 23rd minute and it's 2 - 1 to Rotherham. Half time and we're looking good! Rabiots a bit tired so Kober replaces.

Second half 30 minutes left and Grujic is coming off for Lagarde. Need Grujic fully fit for the Atletico game. Great save from Butland keeps us in the lead! That was a close one. Full time whistle goes and it's a Rotherham win!

Post-match Happy with the win. We just had the edge in the game. Just.

Champions League Group Stage - Home - Atletico Madrid

Pre-match If we don't want Europa League then this is a must win game. Rashford is back for it. Wilson, Rashford uptop. Gnarby and Ojo on the wings. Grujic and Rabiot in the middle.

First half I have no idea what just happened. Madrid cross the ball in, it's going out but Betrand heads it back inwards for no reason. Madrid pick the ball up, cross it in and Aubameyang scores from a header in the 6th minute. That has to be a bug. Betrand has no one near him and he heads it to Madrid instead of getting a goalkick? Aubameyang is running us ragged when he has the ball, he takes both CBs on before hitting wide. Should of been 1 - 1! Wilson plays in Rabiot and he smashes it wide! It's the bar! Ball played to Gnarby and he unleashes but only the bar! Half time. Punished by a bug.

Second half Some good fortune puts Costa 1 on 1 with Butland but he manages to save! Costa now hits the bar! We need to buck up in this second half. It's 1 - 1! Grujic scores! Ojo plays him through, he hits it and I'm like no! But it hits the post and goes in! 61st minute! Betrand may of redeemed himself it's 2 - 1! Ball to him down the left, he runs down, crosses and Wilson volleys in. 2 - 1 in the 66th minute! Full time!

Post-match What a come back! That was insane! Made no subs because I didn't dare too ! So happy with that, PKM going to the bugs forum though!

Home - Aston Villa

Pre-match Massive rest for the players who played against Atletico as they have sporting after this game. Very much missing key players. Origi with Kober behind. Tielemans is back and goes in the middle with Cook. Ayew is back and on the left and Roberts on the right. Back four are Jin-Su, Galloway, Magrini, Chambers. Not a bad team though is it!

First half Switched Kober and Tielemans positions. 38th minute we hit the bar! Jin-Su hits the bar from a corner and Magrini can't get the ball in the back of the net, really close! Half time, bit of a pants first half.

Second half 30 minutes left. Woodrow comes on for Origi who's got a knock and Koller makes his debut replacing Tielemans. 20 minutes left, Brandt on for Roberts and pump ball in box mode. Red card! Magrini sent off for a professional foul in the 92nd. No complaints. Ayew lost the ball too easily and he took the foul. Full time.

Post-match Bore draw. 15 shot, 2 on target. We weren't very good.

December



Champions League Group Stage - Away - Sporting CP

Pre-match A must win game if we want to progress otherwise it's Europa. 4 - 3 - 3.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Sporting. Cedric runs downs the right and we don't close down. Lozano is at the back post to slot in in the 19th minute. It's half time and we've been so poor.

Second half Wilson on for Tielemans. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attacking. It's the post! Betrands freekick curls in and Ojo gets a head on it! It's the post! 20 minutes left and it's pump ball mode! Demanded more from them. We're losing simple balls. Ayew on for Gnarby for the last 10 minutes. Unless something changes it's Europa for us.

Post-match We lose. Europa for us. We were awful again.





Away - Southampton

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter.

First half Wilson played in, half chance and Cillessen makes a great save! It's 1 - 0 to Southampton in the 43rd minute. Ajer heads in Yunus Mallis corner.

Second half 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attack. Tielemans, Gnarby and Woodrow replace Wilson, Rashford and Rabiot. Looks like our first loss this season. 20 minutes to go and we're struggling to make a good chance. We score! Ayew plays the ball across and Ojo hits in! I was just fuming at Ojo for breaking up a counter of ours by spending too long stud with the ball. 5 minutes to go! Full time.

Post-match Good come back, even game really. Still top and by 4 points now!

Home - Arsenal

Pre-match I'll be happy with a draw here. Anything to keep Arsenal 4+ points behind us.

First half 55 seconds it's taken Arsenal to score. Walcott isn't closed down and Aboudbakar runs in to slot home. Defenders asleep. It's 1 - 1 in the 16th minute! Good passing and Ojo plays in Wilson who shoots and scores from a tight angle! Grujic comes on for Tieleans who has a knock. Nearly 2 - 1! Wilson plays the ball forward to Rashford but Casilla rushes out to smother! Yes! Calabria bursts forward and plays it to Ayew. Ayew crosses and Wilson nods in! 2 - 1 in the 35th minute! Half time!

Second half 3 - 1!!! 63rd minute! Ayew wins the freekick, chips the ball over and somehow everyone misses it. It just evades everyone. Magrini at the back post to hit in! Walcott goes close but Butland denies! Was a very tight angle. Close! Walcotts corner swings in, Chamberlain attempts to head at goal but it's more of a flick on. Rodrigo Ely is at the back post to hit it but Calabria charges down and blocks. 10 minutes left. Roberts and Gnarby replace Ayew and Rashford. Gnarby just ran down the right flank from his own half into the final third, crosses and Bellerin clears, crosses again, it's just above Wilson but Ojo is there to hit and somehow hits it to the 'keeper! Great from Gnarby. Full time!

Post-match 7 points clear! We were brilliant after we got that goal back!





Away - Liverpool

Pre-match Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. I feel 4 - 3 - 3 won't work here. Liverpool are a very good attacking side. Cavani, Clyne, Odegaard are all dangerous. I'd rather try and out attack them.

First half 1st minute and it's 1 - 0! We keep attacking, they clear, we attack. Ayew plays a great ball through to Rashford and he slots in! 2 - 0 13th minute! We keep attacking and a ball over to Ayew is intercepted by Lazaar but his ball down is stolen by Rashford and slotted in! Half time and we've been quality!

Second half Crossbar! Danger man Clyne puts a ball in after Odegaard plays a really good ball out wide. The cross is too close to the bar so Iheanacho header can only hit the bar and not go in! 2 - 1. Really good team goal by Liverpool and it's Clyne again. He's not closed down and his low cross is hit in by Henderson. 30 mintues left, Shawcross on for Burke and Cook on for Rabiot. It's 3 - 1! That's the goal we needed as Liverpool are much better in this half. Wilson crosses the ball even though he's got two Liverpool players closing him down and Ayew beats Lazaar to nod past Mignolet in the 64th minute. 20 minutes left, Chambers on for Jin-Su. Calabria goes LB. 4 - 1 73rd minute! Ayew crosses in but Odegaard heads out. I couldn't get why Ayew didn't leave it out for a corner but he crosses back in and Cook runs in and volleys it in! Brilliant save by Butland keeps Iheanacho low effort out! Full time!

Post-match What a game! We had the best chances considering it ended up being an even game in the second half!

Away - Blackburn Rovers

Pre-match Same tactic and Rabiot rested so Lagarde comes in, Shawcross in for Burke, Betrand on for Jin-Su. Rest stay the same.

First half It's the post! Calabria crosses and Rashford gets his head to it but it bounces back and cleared! Should of scord! Dunga makes a mistake and Wilson steals the ball. Takes it on but his shot is too tame and Rajkovic saves! It's half time. We're the better team but getting shots on target is the problem here.

Second half Grujic replaces Lagarde and Gnarby the injured Ayew. Lagarde is booked and I'd rather have 11 men incase an accident happens. Close again! Ojo wins the ball and plays it up to James Wilson. He takes it on and he should of scored but another tame shot that Rajkovic saves. Should of been 1 - 0 to Blackburn! Luis Alberto played in and he hits wide! Last sub, Origi comes on for James Wilson. 25 minutes to go. Oh! 1 - 0 Rotherham! Corner gets cleared out but Gnarby knocks it back to Rashford the corner taker, he crosses in and Origi hits it in! 69th minute! Penalty! 93rd minute Rashford is taken down in the box! Origi steps up and.. it's saved! Full time.

Post-match 6 clear cut chances! Glad we won but Wilson had a bad day at the office for sure!

Home - Chelsea

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 still. Same lineup apart from Tielemans and Rabiot back in the middle.

First half Should be 1 - 0! Betrand curls a freekick and Magrini runs onto it, hits it but it's straight at Courtois. He had alot to aim at aswell! Hazard goes close! He bursts through, pass two Rotherham players but it's the side netting! Again! Hazard is running the show! He owns Bertrand and smashes the post! Bertrand makes THE tackle to keep the scores level. If Hazard kept that ball he'd of slotted into a pretty much empty net. Close! Chelsea corner, it's headed down and Hughes hits it. Butland has to save as it no one is able to block. Half time in an even game!

Second half Roberts on for Rashford who has a knock. Origi on for Wilson. Roberts goes MR and Gnarby AMC. Gnarby goes for a piledriver but Courtois gets down to save and knock out for a corner! Should of been 1 - 0! We attack fast and Roberts played a brilliant swerve ball into the box. Origi runs on and his shot is really tame and Courtois easily saves. Full time.

Post-match We should of won that really but I'll take a draw. Courtois was MotM aswell. Still in my head I need a better striker.

FA Cup 3rd Round - Home - Bolton Wanderers

Pre-match I'm sure it's usually played in January and we'd have Manchester City first. This way round suits alot better. We can rest key players here.

First half Nearly a wonder goal! Ball gets pumped back into the box by Galloway, flicked on and Origi attempts the overhead kick but smashes the bar! It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 6th minute! Origi passes back to Jin-Su. He passes on to Brandt who crosses low across the box and Kober volleys in. Should of been 2! Kober gets played through by Origi but hits the post! It's 1 - 1 in the 21st minute! Good attacking goal by Bolton. They keep passing across and Davis plays in Choubani who smashes past Pickford. Should of been another Rotherham goal. Brandt spots space and plays a nice ball to Origi. He somehow spoons wide. Nearly 2 to Bolton! Kent curls a freekick into the box, Lagarde doesn't intercept and Choubani hits it. It smashes against the bar and we manage to clear! It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham in the 29th minute! Jin-Su throws it to Brandt who passes straight back, first time pass to Origi who lays off Cook who drives it low! Half time.

Second half Corner drops and Brandt hits it, Ruddy makes a great save. They counter but we manage to get back and cover. 15 minutes left and youngsters coming on. Kolehmainen, Koller and Stamatovic on. Origi, Roberts and Kober off. 3 - 1 in the 79th minute! Jin-Su whips in the corner, Galloway flicks on and Burke is at the back to nod in. It's full time!

Post-match Happy with the win. Bolton are 20th in the Championship and they played well imo!

End of the month award

Magrini wings young player! Comes second in player and I came second in manager!



Table so far:



Probably the best I've ever done at this point and my squad is already getting stronger. A new DM/CM is coming in and replacing Reed who is leaving for a silly fee, 19mil or so to Aston Villa! But will see all that in the January update when I get it done .

January



The first ins and outs.

In:



Purchased his £6.5mil buyout. Will play backup and I'm hoping can become very good. The next Rashford for Rotherham. Will allow him to leave on loan for for the rest of this season though.



Reed replacement. Wasn't playing to buy yet but other teams went in. Cost me 10.25mil and I think he's totally worth it. Wonderkid, 19 and got years ahead.

Out:



That value will drop. He just wasn't going to get in my midfield. £19.25mil seems a silly price to of recieved for him!

Home - Manchester City

Pre-match Dropped Rabiot to the bench. A bid for him came in, a joke value wise and he's moaning. Grujic and Tielemans isn't like it's a bad midfield at all!

First half There's been some chances, only little. It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! 21st minute. It's a good attacking move and Ojo back heels the ball to Wilson who hits a good shot that goes part Hart! Montoya hits a ball down to Aguero. Aguero runs down and hits wide. Good run! It's half time! Only one real chance and Wilson took it beautifully.

Second half Red card! 68th minute. Ayew is sent off for his second yellow in 5 minutes! Didn't need to make the tackle! 4 - 4 - 1 with Gnarby on for Rashford. Wilson is injured now with 10 minutes to go! Origi replaces. Sterling goes close! Runs down the flank and shoots and Butland makes a good save! Oof, Origi goes close this time. One-two with Gnarby, Origi then runs down and his shot is just over. Cross comes in and Rodriguez has to make a brilliant tackle to deny Gnarby! It's 1 - 1! So late! 90th minute. Mario plays a brilliant ball through and Asensio places it in! Full time.

Post-match Even game. With 10 men I'm happy to of come away with a draw. 5 draws this season only puts us 3 points ahead of Arsenal.

Another player out:



Fans feel I should of gotten more. I feel I got enough, not alot of interest, wanted out and I'd rather play Dobes. Origi, Rashford and Wilson all ahead of him so.

Home - Norwich City

Pre-match Some players rested, wanted some others to have game time. Origi uptop. Cook and Rabiot in the middle.

First half It's the post! Cook runs on the ball coming across but the post denies! Good team build up and Origi fires a low shot but Kalinic makes a great save. Penalty in the 21st minute! Corner comes in and Conor Coady pushes Magrini over in the box! Origi steps up and... scores! 1 - 0 Rotherham. It's the bar! Origi nods on Gnarbys across but only onto the crossbar! It's 2 - 0 in the 27th minute. Pass around after a corner is cleared and Rashford passes to Ojo who takes down the left inside the box, no one puts a foot in and he slots low and in. It's 2 - 1 in the 31st minute! Haidara crosses in and Bamford nods it, bar and in! Half time. 19 shots, 5 on target, 2 woodwork 1 clear cut chance and that's just in the first half! Then again Norwich 1 shot, 1 on target, 1 goal.

Second half 65th minute it's 3 - 1 to Rotherham! Ojo passes to Origi who slots through to Rashford who drills low and the keeper fumbles into his net. 20 minutes to go and 3 subs. Galloway on for Shawcross, Roberts on for Gnarby and Wanderson makes his debut, replacing Rabiot. Full time!

Post-match We played well against 20th this time so happy with that. Ojo/Rashford/Origi all played really well. Ojo picking up another MoM award!

Another player in:



Bought his release fee for £3.5mil. Hopin' he'll become the best striker Rotherham has ever seen! He has alot of potential, I just need to use it.

Away - Leciester City

Pre-match We're away so I'm going to play 4 - 3 - 3. Let Lagarde and Wanderson play in midfield with Tielemans. Ayew and Ojo on the wings. Rashford as the lone striker.

First half Oof, close! Lagarde hits it from just outside the area and it smashes the bar! Cabella turns Burke but Butland saves it! It's half time. We've easily been the better side but we're lacking good chances.

Second half 30 minutes left and going 4 - 4 - 2. We need the attacking prowess. Wilson on for Tielemans. 67th minute and 1 - 0 Rotherham! Betrand on the overlap, crosses in and Schmeichel goes to dive and catch it but Musa clears it. Only to Ojo on the edge of the 6 yard box who heads it in the open goal! 20 minutes left. Gnarby on for Ayew and Origi on for Rashford. Origi plays through Gnarby and Schmeichel makes a great save. Full time!

Post-match We played really well. Leicester had 8 shots, only 1 on target. Happy with the display, 61% possession.

Players go back:

Decided that I don't need Brandt and Kober. I have quality in midfield and Brandt isn't seeing any games. They're better off at other clubs with more playing time.

Player goes on loan:

Zdenek Dobes goes to Saint. Etienne as a key player. Hopefully first team football in Ligue 1 will do him well.

Home - Hull City

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Normal team really. Rabiot back in midfield with Grujic. Gnarby in for Ayew. Rashford and Wilson uptop. Very strange formation from Hull. 4 at the back. 2 DMs. 2 MCs. 2 Strikers.

First half 9th minute it's 1 - 0 to Rotherham. Gnarby plays an outstanding ball through to Wilson but he has has work to do. Dribbles past two defenders and smashes it low into the net. It's 2 - 0 in the 15th minute. What a lovely goal. Rashford takes the corner and swings it to just outside the box to Rabiot. He first time backheels to Wilson, he turn flicks it to Ojo who smashes it in. That is a special goal. They're blocking our shots but the ball gets to Gnarby and he smashes it.. but onto the bar! It's a penalty to Rotherham. Not sure what for. Betrand puts the ball into the box and it's just a penalty given. No one falls over or owt. Odd. Grujic takes it and... slots cooly in the corner. 3 - 0 in the 41st minute. Asenjo makes a brilliant stop to deny Wilson getting his second and it's half time. We've been brilliant!

Second half Another penalty! Ball comes in and Bruma concedes a second penalty! He's having a nightmare. Again I'm not sure what for. Grujic steps up and.. saved! It's straight down the middle. 30 minutes left and 3 subs. Ayew on for Ojo, Cook on for Grujic and Roberts on for Rashford, Gnarby goes AMC and Robert goes RM. It's full time.

Post-match We battered them. Suprised Hull are 14th. Their tactic is awful in my opion.

Away - Derby County

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Wanderson, Lagarde and Tielemans in the middle again. Wilson goes uptop with Ayew and Ojo on the flanks. Chambers and Jin-Su go into the fullback positions.

First half Shots coming at us from Derby! Corner comes in. They shoot Butland saves, they shoot, hit the post and they shoot again which Butland makes a great save! Butland makes another great save to deny Cordoba. Half time. We need to change tactic. Rashford on, Wanderson off. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 time.

Second half It's a penalty to Derby. Chambers fouls Cordoba and oh what. Gets a red card! Will this be the first loss of the season? Going 4 - 1 - 2 - 1 - 1. Lagarde in DM. Ojo and Gnarby on wings. Rashford at AMC and Wilson uptop. Calabria replaces Tielemans. It's 1 - 0 Derby. Toze places the penalty in the top corner in the 62nd minute. All out get the ball in the box mode! 15 minutes left. It's a goal!!! Not even sure how. Corner comes in, ball drops down and a Derby player tries to clear, it smashes off Ojo and goes in. Should of been 2 - 1 to Rotherham! Defensive mistake and Wilson steals the ball but touch is heavy and then shoots wide. Wow, nearly a worldy for Derby but the shot hits the bar! No! It's 2 - 1 to Derby in the 91st minute. Redmond gets past Jin-Su and Magrini misses the tackle. Butland saves his shot but Austin slots in the rebound. Wounded. Full time. First loss!

Post-match So much better in the second half. I have to say Chambers cost us this game. Fined him two weeks wages, he's accepted.

FA Cup 4th Round - Away - Chelsea

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter for this. I feel havin' Rashford at the AMC position will help for this. Pickford starts in goal and Galloway at CB to give Magrini a rest.

First half Perez goes on a great solo run but Pickford saves. It's 1 - 0! Ball bounces back from a tackle and James Wilson finishes low past Courtois in the 24th minute. Full time!

Second half It's 1 - 1 in the 50th minute. Good attack by Chelsea. Chilwell crosses in and Ziyech gets on the end to hit in. Going to attack for a bit. It's 2 - 1 to Chelsea. Galloway isn't having a good game. Chelsea get in the box and shoot. Pickford saves but Ziyech hits in the rebound. We attack well and Wilson goes close but Courtois makes a brilliant save. 20 minutes left and changing it. Ayew on for Rashford and swaps position with Gnarby. Magrini on for Galloway. Jin-Su on for Betrand. We can get a goal back, surely? 10 minutes left, pump ball in the box mode. Full time.

Post-match More shots, more possesion but they got the goals. I'd say the CBs were the difference in this.

All transfers done! I just rejected a £32million bid for Jack Butland! Only Leno could of replaced him and I'm happy with Butland. We don't need the money. When my regen Leszek Dec becomes good enough then maybe.

End of the month awards

We got one!



Current League Table:



Next update will be when I finish this season. Not sure when it'll be since I go away for a few days. Hopefully I can win the Europa League and the Premier League.

February

Home - West Ham United

Pre-match Ojo, Rashford and Wilson all go to the bench. They need resting for the Tottenham game. Ayew goes to the left. Roberts to to the right letting Gnarby go AMC and Origi uptop.

First half Amiri stops it being 1 - 0! Corner comes in, Shawcross flicks on, Magrini hits at the back post and Amiri blocks on the line. It's 1 - 0 to West Ham. Berahino puts a ball through to Amiri and he smashes it in, 45th minute! Half time!

Second half We're struggling. Hopefully we can come out better. It's 1 - 1! Ayew bals a ball low across the box and Patrick Roberts slots in the corner in the 58th minute! 25 minutes left. Rashford, Grujic and Wilson on for Gnarby, Tielemans and Origi. 5 minutes left and pump the ball in the box mode! Full time.

Post-match West Ham defended well. We couldn't get shots on target though we had 17! Only 2 on target. We're only a point ahead of Arsenal now, this won't do.

Away - Tottenham Hotspur

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Rashford uptop. Wilson is injured he picked up a knock at the end of the West Ham game. Ojo and Ayew on the wings. Tielemans, Rabiot and Grujic in midfield. First team. We need a win here. Origi just picked up an injury so Costa takes to the bench!

First half Kane gets played through but he smashes over, he should of scored. Close from Rashford! Ojo plays a brilliant ball to him and he shoots from just outside the box and it's just over. Half time.

Second half 30 minutes left and switching to 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Grujic makes way for Gnarby. Should of scored! Calabria does well to get a cross in and Ayew is infront of the goal unmarked when it comes to him but he hits it at the keeper! Costa replaces Rashford and Roberts replaces Ayew with 20 minutes to go. So close! Tielemans makes a 45 yard pass to Costa, he dribbles and hits the post! So nearly a debut goal. Our passing in the final third is letting us down. We're all over Tottenham but some our passing has been shocking. It's a red card. Through ball played and Jin-Su for some reason takes the foul even though he's booked. It wasn't needed at all. Gnarby drops back and Rabiot goes LB. with 10 minutes to go. Full time.

Post-match If Arsenal win, they go top. So annoyed at the team and Jin-Su. He feels his one week fine was unfair. I don't.

Arsenal won and we move to second.

Europa League - 1st Knockout Round - Away - Gaziantepspor

Pre-match I've never heard of them. I've never heard of a single player in their team. But they're Turkish League holders and they're top of the league as we go into this game so they're not to be underestimated. I'm going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 though.

First half It's 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 9th minute. Rabiot wins the ball back, knocks it up to Rashford who squares it to Ojo who crosses and Ayew knocks it in. They should of scored but their tame shot is saved by Butland. They don't look any better than Bolton. Our passing is gifting them. Oh what a goal! Ojo smashes it in from the edge of the area! 2 - 0 in the 37th minute. It's 3 - 0! Rashford swings in a corner, it bounces and Rabiot hits it but it bounces off Gaztanaga and goes in. Half time. We're absolutely hammering them. We've had 24 shots, 10 on target. They've had 2, 1 on target.

Second half 4 - 0. Good attacking move from Rotherham. Good passing and Ayew plays a ball through infront of goal where Rashford runs in and knocks past the keeper in the 58th minute. 25 minutes left might aswell rest players. Roberts on for Ojo with Ayew going LM. Galloway and Chambers on for Magrini and Calabria. It's 5 - 0. Ayew loses the ball but wins it back, plays through Betrand whos cross is saved but parried and he runs in and slots home the loose ball in the 68th minute. 6 - 0. Lovely passing from Rotherham and Cook plays a quality ball through that Rashford can hit first time past the keeper in the 84th minute. Full time.

Post-game These are the Turkish Champions!? They're a league one side at best! 41 shots, 15 on target, 6 - 0 AWAY. I mean. What . Really impressed by Cook.

Home - Everton

Pre-match Not changing the side. I can change that for the Europa home game. A must win for us. Can't see Arsenal losing against Hull. They didn't, they won 2 - 1 with Adoubakar scoring the winner in the 87th minute.

First half Should be 1 - 0 up in the 2nd minute! Cross comes in and Rashford volleys it but keeper saves but it lands to him and he hits the post! Willems clears! Penalty! McCarthy fouls Rashford in the box after Betrands freekick is swung in. Gnarby going off with a knock and Wilson comes on so Rashford drops back to his AMC role. Ayew is to take the penalty. He runs up and cooly slots in the corner. 1 - 0 in the 16th minute! Nearly 2! Cook crosses in back to Wilson who is free at the back post. He hits it and it's saved but his rebound should be goal bound but it's the post! 2 - 0! Ayew heads in Betrands cross in the 37th minute. 3 - 0 in the 40th minute. Own goal. Looks like Rabiots head is going in, Utvik volleys it, hits the bar and bounces all over, hits Pratto and goes in. Half time! Grujic replaces the booked Rabiot.

Second half 4 - 0 in the 53rd minute! Good Rotherham move. Cook to Wilson who plays through Rashford who slots in. 30 minutes left and Chambers on for Calabria who is booked. Butland makes a great save to keep his sheet currently clean! Full time!

Post-match We were brilliant. Just need some help now.

Europa League - 1st Knockout Round - Home - Gaziantepspor

Pre-match Alot rested. Pickford in net. Chambers, Burke, Galloway and Jin-Su at the back. Ayew, Roberts, Grujic and Lagarde in midfield. Wilson uptop with Tielemans behind.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Gaziantepspor. Ball comes over and Burke heads out. First time ball bame in and Gianetti is unmarked by Burke and slots home in the 5th minute. That was unexpected. 1 - 1 in the 21st. Roberts played through Tielemans and he slots down low. It's 2 - 1. Burke gets down by Giannetti as Ayaz puts the ball throguh and he smashes it, crossbar and in. Burke is showing why I'm thinking of selling him. Feels like he has to be carried and why I've dropped him in the first team for Shawcross. Sasal makes a brilliant save to deny Ayew. Now another to deny Tielemans. Half time. Shawcross on for Burke. No idea how we're behind either.

Second half It's 2 - 2. Galloway heads in Jin-Su's corner in the 57th minute! 30 minutes to go. Cook and Rashford on, Wilson and Grujic off. It's 3 - 2 to Gaziantepspor. Freekick comes in and Goulibaly heads in. Pickford makes a shambles of it and Arokoyo hits it into the open net. Full time.

Post-match Not sure how we lost. Resting players was needing though and we rekt on aggregate.



Away - Fulham

Pre-match Normal first team but Wanderson and Cook start in the middle. Going 4 - 4 - 1 - 1.

First half Taken awhile but it's 1 - 0 in the 38th minute. We're finding it hard to break the defense down but Rashford plays through Ayew and he slots hard and low past Logan. Half time.

Second half Close! Borini hits the bar. Ojo coming off as a pre-caution. Do not want him injured. Roberts replaces. Bathh goes close after a corner lands to his feet but Butland saves! Callum Paterson handles the ball after Rashfords corner and it's a penalty. Can we make it 2 -0? Ayew steps up and.. Logan gets down and saves! Butland keeps us in it! Ji Dong-Won is played through and probably should of scored! Wilson and Wanderson come off for Tielemans and Grujic and go to 4 - 3 - 3! 15 minutes left. 87th minute and it's 2 - 0! Roberts plays through Rashford and he slots low, Logan could do nothing about it. Full time!

Post-match We're top as Arsenal haven't played yet. Good win for us. Fulham made us work for it. Yes! Arsenal drew to the team that beat us, Derby.

End of the month awards

We didn't get any! Magrini came second in Young Player, that's it.

March



Europa League - 2nd Knockout Round - Away - Fenerbahce

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 with first team. They're at the same level as Gaziantepspor so why not try and hammer them aswell?

First half Wilson manages to find space between two defenders but Unnerstall makes a great save! It's 1 - 0 in the 35th minute to Rotherham! Rashford puts a ball in the box and Ba tries to clear it bounces off Wilson who's straight infront of Ba and Ojo pokes it in! Half time.

Second half 30 minutes left and Tielemans goes to AMC and Cook comes on for Rashford. 15 minutes left and Wilson has a knock so it's Roberts on playing 4 - 4 - 2(AMC). Bringing Lagarde on for Rabiot aswell. It's a penalty! Ball comes over and Jin-Su pushes Nani! 84th minute and it's 1 - 1, Haller hits the penalty well into the side of the net. Thought it was 2 - 1 but he's Ayew is offside! Should be 2 - 1 but Ojo hits the post! Full time!

Post-match We might of had 23 shots but only 4 on target where Fenerbahce had 3 shots, 3 on target. We struggled uptop. They were alot better then Gaziantepspor keeping my forwards quiet. Fenerbahce manager says it wasn't a penalty aswell! I've not commented.

Home - Burnley

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1! Some tired players here though. Gonna have to rotate. Having Galloway and Burke at CB isn't feeling good though. Arsenal won so I'm currently 2nd. I'd need a win to get back to 1st. Costa starts upfront.

First half Such a quiet first half but changed Costa's role and it's a goal! Betrand crosses in, Costa muscles with two defenders and the ball manages to drop to his right foot and he finishes low in the 44th minute! Half time.

Second half 69th minute. Costa picked up a small knock so Rashford and Costa come off and Kolehmainen and Koller come on. Wanderson comes on for Gnarby aswell. Cook goes to LM to play WP and Wanderson fills in Grujics role who takes over Cooks. 2 - 0! Good attacking move! Kolehmainen to Cook, he plays it over to Koller who slots in Roberts who slots in the bottom corner past McCarthy. We've picked up 6 yellow cards so far this game! It's 2 - 1! Good move by Burnley and Chalobah plays in Brekalo who slots past Butland. 7 minutes to go! Goal in the 93rd minute! 3 - 1 to Rotherham! Betrands corner swings in, Burke heads down to Koller who drills it into the net, nice hit! Full time.

Post match We were fined 25k but that's fine with me for a win with backups. Really happy with how 17 year old Koller played. Wasn't expecting him to play that well after replacing Rashford. Also how the CBs played considering how they have played together.

Europa League - 2nd Knockout Round - Home - Fenerbahce

Pre-match First team out, we can win this! 4 - 4 - 1 - 1! Origi is back from injury and is not at all match fit but he's my best option uptop.

First half Fenerbache score in the 4th minute! Sinan goes down the wing and crosses in, Haller volleys in. Bad defending. It's 1 - 1 in the 12th! Corner comes in, cleared out to Calabria. He looks like he's going to give it to Rashford to hit back in but does it himself. Cracking cross to Ojo who is free to nod in at the back. Close! Rashford hits a ball across and Origi hits at the back post but it's the side netting. Half time and we're easily the better side so I've given them a shouting at.

Second half 30 minutes left and 3 subs. Gnarby on for Origi, Cook on for Tielemans and Chambers on for Bertrand letting Calabria go on the left to play attacking wingback. WHAT!? Ayew has gone himself sent off! A ball comes over to him and there's a foul. He's pushed the Fenerbahce player and he's off, 10 men! Gnarby goes to RM and Rashford on his own. This isn't good. Extra time is needed.

Extra time: first half Encourage. I can't be horrible with 10 men. Thought Gnarby had done it but he was offside! Penalty! It's two defenders vs Rashford. He steals the ball plays it back and we run up with numbers. Ojo plays an absolutely amazing ball to Gnarby, who runs down in the box and before he can square to Rashford he's fouled. Well done to those 3 and Rabiot, something out of nothing. It's Calabria with the penalty and.. it's in! Sends the keeper the wrong way! Should of been 3! Gnarby is free and runs down the flank, crosses in for Rashford but it's a tame hit and keeper saves! Ba then makes a quality tackle to deny Ojo. Half time!

Extra time: second half It's 3 - 1 in the 120th minute. Ojo plays a brilliant ball over two players, Rashfords first touch allows him to hit it with his right and that he does into the corner of the net. Full time!

Post-match Wow, how we played with 10, all the subs played really well. Ayew will be getting a slap on the wrist for sure but so happy with that. At the end of the match we had 34 shots, 11 on target. They had 6, 4 on target. We had 3 CCCs, they had 1. We had 4 half chances, they had 0. We were just better. Ayew got two weeks fine, he was unhappy but I spoke with him and he accepted it. Now we have Manchester United with an absolutely knackered squad. Lovely.

Away - Manchester United

Pre-match 4 - 3 - 3. Burke and Galloway back in. Wanderson, Lagarde and Grujic in midfield. Gnarby and Ayew on the wings. Changed my mind and Origi goes upfront, Costa is on the bench. Ojo and Rashford will make the bench as they're too tired to start.

First half It's 1 - 0 to Manchester United. Wanderson makea a good tackle but somehow that sends Douglas Costa running down the wing and crossing in for Martial in the 32nd minute. Butland makes a brilliant save! Luan crosses for Douglas Costa and he hits it well but Butland gets to the other side of his net to palm out! Half time. This tactic isn't suiting. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 it is.

Second half So Ojo, Rashford and Costa on. Gnarby, Origi and Wanderson off. It's 2 - 0. Ball passed back to Butland his kick is awful, straight to Herrera who puts the ball through to Martial who has no problem smacking it in. It's 2 - 1! Some really good waiting, passing and moving and Betrand puts the ball into the 6 yard box where Ayew smashes in! 20 minutes left to go, can we equalise!? Pump ball in the box mode with 10 minutes left! Full time.

Post-match First half tactic did not work and Manchester United were the better team. Need a Tottenham favour on Weds to stay first here, even a draw would keep us first on GD.

Tottenham won 1 - 0! Dele Alli scoring in the 45th+1 minute! We sit first by 1 point and 3 goals.

Internatioal Call Up

For some reason my injured striker James Wilson has been called up. "May" be fit for the matches but in form Rashford hasn't. Wouldn't mind but Rashford has a better record then Wilson .

Europa Draw:





Saturday happened. Arsenal drew! They're 3rd. We're 2nd! Manchester United are 1st! We have a game in hand which we play tomorrow and they're +39, we're +36. Interesting.

Away - Watford

Pre-match They're 18th. I can't sit back. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Tielemans playing behind Rashford. Ayew, Ojo on the flanks and Rabiot and Cook in the middle.

First half Would of been a great goal! Calabria burts down and steals the ball, runs down half the pitch but knocks wide. Not real chance and it's half time! 4 - 3 - 3 might have to be an option? We have the players on now. Will try for 25 minutes or so.

Second half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham! Magrini nods in Ayews freekick in the 65th minute. 20 minutes to go. Origi, Wanderson and Grujic on. Cook and Rabiot who have both been booked come off and so does Rashford. Full time!

Post-match That was a hard game. They didn't have chances but defended well. We won, that's all that matters.

Origi injured on international duty and we've lost him for the rest of the season.

End of month awards

No winners. Costa came 3rd in the Young Player and I came 3rd in the Manager of the Month.

April



Home - AFC Bournemouth

Pre-match Same starting upline. Wilson is back and takes Origis spot on the bench. Grujic is out and Lagarde takes his. United win and take top on GD again.

First half 1 - 0 Rotherham in the 7th minute! Tielemans to Cook who plays it out to Betrand. He crosses in and Rashford smashes it in! Bournemouth defend well! Corner comes in and they block 4/5 of our shots! We're up but not playing that well really but still the better side.

Second half It's 2 - 0 in the 49th minute! Ojo plays it out to Betrand who crosses in for Rashford again and he hits in. Callum Wilson scores but as I thought he's well offside! 25 minutes left and Gnarby on for Tielemans and Wanderson on for Cook. It's 2 - 1! Bournemouth attack well and a slick ball through to Wilson he pokes it past Butland in the 76th minute! Lagarde on for Ayew and going 4 - 3 -3 for the last 15 minutes. Too close! They counter and somehow they outnumber us! Ball is squared but Lerma only hits the bar! Shawcross makes the interception so we don't concede when the ball drops down! Should of been 3 - 1! As we counter back, Gnarby does really well and he crosses for Ojo. Ojo heads it into the keepers hands though! Again! Gnarby gets it to Ojo who takes on his man but blasts it at the keeper! This has all happened in the last 2 minutes aswell! Full time!

Post-match Wow that was a hard fought game. Lagarde played well in those 15 minutes. Wanderson not so much when he came on. Still, we win it'll all add up! Betrand and Rashford being the dream team today.

Away - Aston Villa

Pre-match Going to stay 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 but with the Europa League being the next game it'll be "back ups" playing. Koller starts behind Costa. United have gone top again on GD!

First half Nothing has happened and it's half time. Perhaps the better side but no clear chances.

Second half It's 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 54th minute! We counter and Gnarby did brilliant. Runs down and puts the ball across the box where Patrick Roberts hits in! 20 minutes left and Wilson comes on for Costa to get some match fitness. Cook also comes on for Lagarde. 79th minute it's 1 - 1! Zekhnini beats Chambers to the ball, crosses and Moi Gomez who is totally free in the box hits in. Pump ball mode with Rashford on for Koller. 10 minutes to go. Full time.

Post-match We're first but that was a bit poor. Chambers cost us the game in the end Even Burke and Galloway played well.

Europa League Quarter Final First Leg - Home - Borussia Mönchengladbach

Pre-match Alot of suspensions so we have alot of defenders on the bench! A good first team though and Wilson starts utop with Rashford behind.

First half We go close! A freekick into the box and a cheeky one two lets Wilson free but Sommer makes a good save! Half time!

Second half It's 1 - 0 in the 58th minute! Gnarby puts in an absolute brilliant ball and Wilson half volleys it into the net! It's 2 - 0! Ojo puts in a quality ball to the back and Gnarby hits it in the 76th minute! 3 - 0!!! Rashford puts a ball across the box and Ojo hits in! 83rd minute. It's 3 - 1! Calleri puts the ball across and Youan hits in! 90th minute. Full time!

Post-match I'm fine with the away goal, that's a cracking win!

Home - Southampton

Pre-match Same lineup but Rabiot starts ahead of Lagarde and he goes to the bench.

First half Cillessen makes a brilliant save to deny Gnarby! That was a right good'un that. It's half time but we're been the better side and Cillessen has been superb.

Second half It's 1 - 0! Betrand puts in a brilliant bending ball and Rashford hits in. 48th minute! 50th minute and Cook and Ayew come on. Wilson and Tielemans go off. Gnarby goes AMC, Ayew RM and Rashford ST. Cillessen makes another great save and Rashford and Betrand one, two and Rashford smashes it. Gnarby picks up a knock. Costa replaces and Rashford goes back to SS. 91st minute should of been 1 - 1! Short corner, pass to lay off Oliver and he hits a shot and Butland saves. Should of been a shot that flew into the net. We'll take that for sure. My defense is playing well. We're catching them offside really well. Full time!

Post-match Back to the top, It's vs Manchester United now. Arsenal have messed it up. We're 8 points above them.

Europa League Quarter Final Second Leg - Away - Borussia Mönchengladbach

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1. Tielemans behind Rashford. Grujic, Rabiot in the middle. Ayew and Ojo on the wings. Gnarby and Wilson are injured again. Now Roberts is injured.

First half Ayew is played through but his shot is saved, should of probably been a goal. Shawcross blocks Kruses shot or it'd of been 1 - 0! It is 1 -0! Dos Santos curls in a freekick and Calabria loses Calleri. Calleri is first to it and smashes in. Will the away goal come to haunt us? Half time!

Second half Away goal for Rotherham! Grujic plays a lovely ball between the defense and Rashford who is onside slots in! Lagarde replaces Rabiot in the 60th minute. Chambers and Burke replace Calabria and Magrini with 20 minutes to go. It's 2 - 1 to Rotherham in the 91st minute! Betrand floats in a freekick and Rashford loses his marker, volleys it in! Hits the underside of the bar and in! Full time!

Post-match Quality. Winning both legs it a really great effort from the lads. Proud of them.

Here comes the crunch. In my last 5 games I have Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester City, Arsenal and Blackburn to play. This is going to be tough!

End of month awards

Just Wanderson who is second in the Young Player of the Month.

May



Home - Liverpool

Pre-match Same lineup and tactic. We can do this! Liverpool always seem to somehow beat us. Usually a red card!

First half Ayew and Rashford both injured within 20 minutes. Wow. That's harsh. Costa and Gnarby replace. Tielemans should of scored. Great ball to him and should of been 1 - 0. Firmino misses a quality chance aswell. Not as good as ours but still. Half time.

Second half Gnarby should of scored! Good save but that should of been the opening goal. It's a goal to Rotherham!!! Betrand pulls a ball in the box and Matip and Mignolet mess up! Gnarby hits it in the open net. So close! Shawcross hits the bar from Betrands corner. Phew! We made a bad pass but Heung-Min is offside when he recieves the ball over. Full time!

Post-match 3 points at this stage is huge. Ayew and Rashford out for 3 weeks. I've no idea who I can play upfront vs FC Schalke 04!

Prem update: United lost! Chelsea won 1 - 0 and we're 3 points ahead but they have +2 GD on us.

Europa League Semi Final - Away - First Leg - FC Schalke 04

Pre-match So many injuries. Tielemans will have to play upfront. A regen named Ronnie Bussey comes on the bench. I just have absolutely no registered players fit to play uptop!

First half 19 seconds it took for Schalke to score. Betrand absolutely messes up his clearence, he somehow heads the ball on. No idea why he's heading it. Donsah takes it, crosses, Eggestein nods in the cross. What a goal! That one needs uploading. It's 1 - 1 in the 7th minute! Ojo plays the ball back. 25 yards out Grujic smashes it and it flys in! Butland makes a great save to deny Eggestein a second. It's 2 - 1 now though. Ball comes back in, flick on and Goldaniga hits it. Butland makes a great save but Goretzka hits in the rebound in the 26th minute. Half time.

Second half 20 minutes left and going 4 - 4 - (2) going to give myself two SS's. Gnarby and Cook go AMC. Chambers, Jin-Su and Burke come on for Shawcorss, Tielemans and Betrand. Calabria goes to RM. Injuries have ruined me here. But if I keep it 2 - 1 I'll be happy as I should have Wilson for the home leg. Full time.

Post-game Happy with just a 2- 1 loss. I can win this at home. Should have Wilson back.

Away - Chelsea

Pre-match "Second side". Chambers, Burke, Galloway and Jin-Su at the back. Roberts, Gnarby, Wanderson and Lagarde in midfield. Costa uptop with Koller behind. Not a strong squad but it's the best I can field. Alot of tired players and I need them for the home match vs Schalke. United drew 0 - 0 with Blackburn! Some breathing space for sure. 2 points ahead with 2 games in hand! That has changed.

First half Nothing at all has happened in the first half. I have no problems with that! Chelsea have all the shots but nothing even remotely mentioning.

Second half Chelsea go close thanks to what I can only call as full on stupidity. So, we have a freekick. Burke takes it with Galloway and Lagarde stud next to each other just ahead. Burke goes to try and put a ball through to Roberts and smashes it straight into Galloway. They attack from this but Butland saves. What keeping!!! Burds the Chelsea left back crosses in. Willian hits it but Butland saves, it lands to Hazard who strikes it but Butland saves! 15 minutes left and changing it. 4 - 3 - 3. Cook, Kolehmainen and Ojo on. Gnarby, Koller and Costa off. Ojo on the left, Roberts on the right. Just want the draw. Butland makes an amazing save after Wanderson loses the ball when he pickes up a dead leg. Wanderson is playing awful in the DM spot and because of him losing the ball again Chelsea counter and score. 89th minute Hazard hits in Willians cross to make it 1 - 0. Full time.

Post-match We really needed a point. We defended well enough but we lost in the end. We spent too much time defending. I don't think 4 - 3 - 3 was the way to go. Oh, again it says it was Chambers that cost us. That'd be two games in a row he's played in? Checking stats and him and Jin-Su have given most goals away. Jin-Su has 4, Chambers 2. None of them are currently first team either.

Europa League Semi Final - Home - Second Leg - FC Schalke 04

Pre-match We have a striker! Rashford can play for 20 minutes at the end if really needed but Wilson starts!

First half 1 - 0 to Rotherham in the 5th minute! Grujic again! Ojo does well, goes down the left and crosses in. Diego Reyes heads out. Grujic runs in, takes the ball down and hits it in. Roberts on in the 15th minute. Tielemans is injured. No! Wilson plays it in for Roberts but he knocks well wide. Half time. Switching Roberts and Gnarbys positions.

Second half Penalty! Roberts takes down Eggestein the box. Butland saves Goretzkas penalty though!!! 15 minutes left so Rashford on for Gnarby. Shwcross makes a good block but it's a corner, thankfully comes to nothing. 5 minutes left. The whistle goes...

Post-match We played so well. Grujic the hero. He's played so well in these two legs. Valencia beat Tottenham!



Home - Blackburn Rovers

Pre-match Resting players again. We'll need the first team for the Arsenal and City games. Costa starts uptop with Koller behind. Rashford and Wilson are on the bench incase. It's United vs City first. We could win the league today. City won!!! Wow, 1 more win or 2 draws in 3 games gives us the title. I have to play with this second squad though.

First half Penalty! Galloway is taken down in the box. It's Costa who steps up.. that was nervy! Keeper went right way but it's low and we're 1 - 0 up! Dinga who is already booked fouls Costa off the ball and he's off! 30 minutes in and Blackburn down to 10! Roberts went to close with the freekick aswell! Gnarby goes close aswell now! This time though the ball back in from Roberts, Gnarby drills it past Rajkovic! Half time. Wanderson comes on for Lagarde. We're playing well!

Second half Oh that's a goal. Kevin Yamga picks up the long ball by Byram and smashes it from the edge of the box into the top corner. 2 - 1 in the 46th minute! So close! 30 yards Wanderson volleys it but Rajkovic gets down to save! Byram gets there before Roberts and clears! Was a scrappy half after with no real chances and it's full time which means.

CHAMPIONS!!!!

Away - Arsenal

Pre-match Keeping players fit for the Valencia game. First team plays now, second team vs Manchester City. Origi is back but lacks match fitness. Will bring him on as a sub probably. Not sure if he'll play another game this season. Could use him on the bench for the Valencia game though. We're playing 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter. Arsenal need to win for Champs League.

First half Arsenal should of scored! Shawcross missed the interception but Alexis hits wide! It's 1 - 0 Rotherham! Calabria passes back to Roberts instead of crossing, he cuts inside and fires in! 20th minute. Half time and we've been the better side!

Second half So close! 25 yard freekick and Rashford just hits the bar. Wow, that'd of been a great goal. Alexis goes close but Butland makes a brilliant save. It's 2 - 0! Good attacking move and Wilson threads throiugh Ojo who puts it cross the box and Roberts hits in for his 2nd! 15 minutes left. Origi, Gnarby and Wanderson on. Grujic, Rashford and Wilson off. Awful news. Ojo has picked up a knock. It's a facial injury so should be okay! Origi scores and it's 3 - 0 in the 90th minute! Gnarby plays him through and he slots low into the corner. Full time!

Post-match Never expected to win 3 - 0. I know this tactic can beat Arsenal but we were great. Ojo will be fine for the Valencia game, phew.

Away - Manchester City

Pre-match "Second squad" on. Roberts playing on the left as he won't start in the final. If Ayew is back he won't make the bench. Origi starts uptop with Tielemans behind. Cook, Wanderson in the middle. Jin-Su, Galloway, Burke and Chambers at the back. 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 counter.

First half 1 minute in and it's a penalty to City! Cook takes down Sterling and John Stones slots in to make it 1 - 0. Roberts now picks up a yellow 17 minutes in. Switching to attacking instead of counter. Just before the break Origi hits in Jin-Sus cross after a lovley ball from Roberts to make it 1 - 1 in the 42nd minute! Half time. We're second best.

Second half 20 minutes left! Rashford, Ayew and Grujic on. Gnarby, Tielemans and Cook off. Hart makes a good save to deny Roberts! Sterling makes it 2 - 1! A brilliant cross from Stones and Sterling jumps and heads in. 10 minutes to go! Full time.

Post-match We were 2nd best throughout. No complaints, had to rest players for the big game next!

Two years in a row for Ojo!

End of season awards



One for Rashford!



Butland came 2nd!



Manager of the year!



Team of the year!



Europa League Final - Neutral - Valencia

Pre-match 4 - 4 - 1 - 1 attacking. Butland, Calabria, Shawcross, Magrini, Betrand. Gnarby, Ojo, Grujic, Rabiot. Wilson and Rashford. Bench: Pickford, Chambers, Jin-Su, Tielemans, Cook, Origi and Ayew. Let's get down to business!

First half It's a fiesty first half with both teams getting involved. Wilson has had the best chance so far. We just need to make more of the possession spells we have. Gnarby goes close from the edge of the area but Trapp saves. Rashford should of scored. Wilson did brilliant and played him through but Trapp denies. Half time.

Second half It's a game of ping pong in the Valencia box but a block denies Rabiot and Trapp manages to smother it. Butland makes a good sabe to deny Birgahi as Valencia have gone more attacking. End of 90 minutes. Ojo has to come off as does Gnarby. Ayew to RM and Cook to WP, he did well when I had to play him there. Wilson is playing his heart out.

Stats before extra time:



Extra Time: First half Red card! Cook dribbles down the left and Mustafi fouls, picks up his second yellow! Can we make use of the extra man? Betrand crosses for Wilson but his shot is blocked!

Extra time: Second half 3 minutes left and Tielemans on for Rashford to take a penalty.

Pens it is.

Valencia go first. It's Valencia - Feghouli: Butland Saves! Rotheram - Ayew: Misses! Valencia - Andre Gomes: Scores. Rotherham - Grujic: Scores. Valencia - Perisic: Scores. Rotherham - Tielemans: Scores. Valencia - Soler: Scores. Rotherham - Wilson: Saved. Can Valencia Win? Valencia - Cancelo: Crossbar! Rotherham - Calabria: Scores. Valencia - Gaya: Scores. Rotherham - Magrini: Scores. Valencia - Mkhitaryan: Scores. Rotherham - Rabiot: Scores. Valencia - Abdennour: Scores. Rotherham - Betrand: Saved.



Post-match Easily the better side yet somehow we lost! Not happy with that! Trapp was brilliant in net.

End of Season Part 2









Good season really! Really happy to of won the Premier League again, Euro Cup I was glad to get to the final. We should of won but end of the day we didn't. I need to replace some of the ageing players and sell people who will make me a profit and replace with better. I'll try. I'm excited to see how this goes. Champions League need to be won though, not Europa!