Bagpuss Posted January 28, 2005 Author Share Posted January 28, 2005 Sir Alex Throws a Wobbler and Other Seedy Goings on Down at Old Trafford Authors Note This is running on 01/02 as per usual with the most up to date football gamer patch installed plus a few extra players I've added. This is going to be some what different to my normal style as I'm aiming to make this one more in depth than normal. I'm even going to avoid signing players too if I can help it as there is more than enough talent in the youth ranks to keep Man Utd going for quite some time plus as you will soon see money may be hard to get hold off. Disclaimer: Any real life people or circumstances cropping up are pure coincidence and the same goes for any vague movie plots that occur too, and the manager's name is kind of nicked from one of my favourite authors as I'm rubbish at inventing names. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 28, 2005 Share Posted January 28, 2005 Sir Alex Throws a Wobbler and Other Seedy Goings on Down at Old Trafford Authors Note This is running on 01/02 as per usual with the most up to date football gamer patch installed plus a few extra players I've added. This is going to be some what different to my normal style as I'm aiming to make this one more in depth than normal. I'm even going to avoid signing players too if I can help it as there is more than enough talent in the youth ranks to keep Man Utd going for quite some time plus as you will soon see money may be hard to get hold off. Disclaimer: Any real life people or circumstances cropping up are pure coincidence and the same goes for any vague movie plots that occur too, and the manager's name is kind of nicked from one of my favourite authors as I'm rubbish at inventing names. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 28, 2005 Author Share Posted January 28, 2005 Bearded Tw@t Attempts Takeover Daily Telegraph April 13th 2001 Today it was announced that Malcolm Glazer had gone hostile in his long term attempt at gaining control of Manchester United PLC. Initial attempts of 300p a share had been turned down so after a few months Malcolm Glazer has returned with a 350p per share offer valuing Manchester United PLC at £825 million. It is thought the deal involves selling off Old Trafford, renaming the stadium after a sponsor, raising ticket prices substantially and also using future income from merchandising and gate receipts too off set a large chunk of the funds via a loan note. The Stock Exchange Rules now state that assuming a majority of shareholders agree to the bid and no one else makes an offer in the next 60 days the club will become Glazer's. It is believed that the Irish duo Magnier and McManus are likely to accept the offer as it would mean a hefty profit for them on their 28% holding of £50 million. With his own holding Glazer would have just under 60% in favour of the takeover meaning he would be taking control unless another better offer was made. The Manchester United PLC Board were unavailable for comment. The share price closed up 9p at 289p a share, but is expected to jump up at tomorrow's start of trading. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Peacemaker7 Posted January 28, 2005 Share Posted January 28, 2005 Well its a Man Ure story, but well good luck anyway I guess Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 29, 2005 Author Share Posted January 29, 2005 Last Gasp Effort by Supporters Club to Save Man Utd From Yankee Hands Daily Telegraph June 11th Today it has emerged that the Manchester United Supporters Trust Shareholders United have entered into the bidding for Manchester United PLC. The Trust are understood to have the backing of the club as well as allegedly Magnier and McManus, who as of yet have not formerly declared if they were excepting the Glazer offer. The trust are desperately trying to stop Glazer getting his hands on the club and then pumping the club for profit into his pocket. The offer has few details made available yet but it pitched at 355p a share and has been discussed with all the remaining large shareholders other than Glazer. In fact it was announced that the trust have the backing of every single shareholder other than Glazer and Magnier/McManus. This means that a lot of money can be saved purchasing the club especially if McManus/Magnier agree to back the Trust too. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 29, 2005 Author Share Posted January 29, 2005 McManus and Magnier Complete a Deal With Shareholders United Saving Manchester United From Glazer Daily Telegraph June 13th Today it has been confirmed that Shareholders United the Supporters Trust for Manchester United Football Club has completed a deal to take over the football club. The terms of the deal chiefly involve the club being taken off of the stock market back into private hands. The funding is being paid by Royal Bank of Scotland with the new owners of the club Shareholders United owing them the money. McManus and Magnier have agreed to swap their shares in the club for a 40% stake of the new private company. This means that Shareholders United had to find just the funds to pay for Glazer's 29.9% Stake. The details of this mean that Glazer will have to be paid £250 million by the end of the week otherwise the deal defaults and Glazer's offer will automatically win due to Glazer invoking Stock Market rules after declaring he had the funds in place to go ahead immediately. The Trust are now negotiating with Royal Bank of Scotland on the exact terms of the loan for the funds to buy off Glazer. The share price closed at 339p before being suspended pending bid outcomes. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
OMDave Posted January 30, 2005 Share Posted January 30, 2005 Stock exchange drama Good luck, however little you're going to need it Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 30, 2005 Author Share Posted January 30, 2005 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><font size="-1">quote:</font><HR>Originally posted by OMDave: Stock exchange drama Good luck, however little you're going to need it <HR></BLOCKQUOTE> you aint see the rest of it yet espcially the new mangers rules on getting another game Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 30, 2005 Author Share Posted January 30, 2005 Shareholders United and Bank Agree Loan Details Manchester Evening News June 18th Today the Royal Bank of Scotland and Shareholders United agreed the details of the £250 million loan to pay off Glazer. It was also announced that the new private company that will own Manchester United will be called Newton Heath Holdings after the original name the club was formed under back in 1878. The loan details are very basic in that for the next 10-15 years the club will have to pay £2 million pounds a month back to the bank after they were loaned £200 million at a rate of 5% interest per year. This deal means that after all the funds have been repaid the club will be entirely owned by Newton Heath Holdings. The club can also pay additional payments off of the loan if there is a surplus of funds at the end of each season. To fund the extra £50 million the club were forced to use all of the cash reserves and still went into a debt of £10 million as well as acceding to a few additional clauses set by the Bank. The club have said that there will be an announcement regarding boardroom structure and there details on July 15th at a press conference where all questions will be answered. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 30, 2005 Author Share Posted January 30, 2005 Manchester United Press Conference July 15th The Centenary Suite Old Trafford Its a packed room full of supporters, executives and morons erm sorry members of the press. On the stage is a stand with dozens of microphones from media broadcasters from all over the world. From the side several people appear and make their way up on to the stage, the people are David Gill , Chief Executive, Sir Roland Smith , Former PLC Chairman and now Newton Heath Holdings Chairman, Maurice Wilkins , Club Secretary and Solicitor as well as Board member and Shareholders United representative, J P McManus and his side kick John Magnier , and Sir Fred Goodwin Chief Executive of Royal Bank of Scotland. David Gill “Welcome to this press conference ladies and gentleman and members of the press. Today I have a few announcements to make some of which are unexpected and to be honest shocking even for me to say to you despite having had a few weeks to get used to them. First of due to way the Royal Bank of Scotland has funded us at a very low rate of interest as well as lending us the money on an unsecured basis we have had to agree to a few important terms relating to them. This means if we fail to pay them back they can not take any part of the club in lieu of the loan repayments but we do have a few different potential liabilities instead. These liabilities are chiefly that if we default on the loan although they won't own anything they can sell off the Royal Bank of Scotland will own 25% of the holding company. This stake will decrease as the loan is paid off dropping to 10% when it is fully paid off.†There are several murmurs of disapproval at this announcement but these are soon extinguished as David continues. “As I was saying, this is just one of the conditions we had to go along with and in the long term will benefit the club. With the agreement of Vodafone the Royal Bank of Scotland will now be co joint main club sponsors. Now for some more shocking news to many of you, although it was going to happen in the next few years anyway, Sir Alex has resigned as manager due to differences of opinion with the John and JP here.†David points at Magnier and McManus beside him as the suite breaks out into a lot of voices shouting and questioning but from the rear of the conference room a loud Scots voice slurs “Ah'll have you Irish bashtardsh if itsh the lasht thin ah ever dae. Yuv coast me ma joab ya cuntsh, an' ma money.†The next thing the people on the stage know is that there are three bottles of what appears to contain frozen yoghurt (it is in fact the frozen sperm from Rock of Gibraltar the horse Sir Alex co-owned with Magnier's Wife) flying at the Irishmen. “Here huv yer ****ing horshe back, ah want proper payment thish time ya bashtardsh, ye kin shtart wi' geein' me ma joab back†Sir Alex forces his way up onto the stage and then to put it all bluntly all hell breaks loose. “ Are you ****ed†shouts McManus trying to hold an enraged Fergie back who’s fists are flying. “Naw, ahm Scots an' ah like ma' whishy'†he slurs back before being dragged of by a pair of big security guards wearing their trademark uniform on Black everything and Black glasses plus those stupid earphone things. Just as Sir Alex disappears out of the suite a final shout of “I’ll be back†in a dodgy Scots Drunken Arnie imitation is heard as Sir Alex vows to get his vengeance. “Well that livened things up a bit didn't it†David Gill says “Time for a brief adjournment while I make sure Sir Alex is escorted off the premises.†The Press Conference Continues “Right back to the important things†says David Gill as he makes his way back out to the podium. “Regarding the resignation of Sir Alex as you will all gather it wasn't by mutual consent more mutual hatred really but despite having had two weeks to find a replacement we have had no luck just yet. We will have appointed someone by the start of the season but for now the assistant manager, Carlos Queiroz, is running the team.†Sir Roland Smith and Maurice Wilkins both step up to the podium next. “Good afternoon†says Sir Roland, “I'd like to announce that part of the agreement in this takeover was that what we paid out as a share dividend will still be paid out but now to the new owners as a thank you for helping us prevent Glazer's bid attempt.†“The proposed expansion to the West and East corners of the North stand will have to go on hold until the financial position of the club is more secure,†continued Maurice. “But don't worry the long term aims remain the same in that we want to expand the ground to fulfil our full potential.†“That's about all of the important stuff, bar the usual we are not upping ticket prices by more than inflation nonsense we mention each season†finished off Sir Roland. “ We'll be holding another press conference nearer the start of the season to welcome the new manager to the club but for now we hope to see some of you over in Japan on the pre season tour.†The press conference ends with the podium people wandering off and a video clip running advertising the forthcoming Japan tour. 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Bagpuss Posted January 31, 2005 Author Share Posted January 31, 2005 Manchester United Press Conference July 27th The Centenary Suite Old Trafford It's another packed press conference in Manchester and this time everyone is eagerly awaiting the announcement of the new manager. David Gill , Sir Roland Smith , Maurice Wilkins , and Sir Fred Goodwin all make their way up to the stage. “Welcome to this press conference ladies and gentleman and members of the press. Today we are happy to announce the appointment of the new manager for Manchester United. It is a bit of an unusual signing in that the new boss has very little football experience especially at anything other than playing level†says David Gill. “We have decided up at boardroom level that due to the modern footballing world focusing on bizarre entities known as head coaches etc., it has been decided that we don't really need a manager who knows a lot about the game as their are plenty of coaches and the assistant manager himself to take advice from. In fact we have gone for someone who is more well known outside of football than in it. He is actually a leading young businessman who has lots of high profile clients and is also a bit of a marketing whizz too. With the modern footballing world getting ever more marketing and business focused we feel he is the ideal manager as their isn't a lot of difference between managing a squad of football players and managing a team of office staff really. The only help he'll need is on the finer points of tactics which I have been assured he'll pick up in no time at all. This will be a footballing first for any team to appoint a manager from outside of the profession, although you could argue anyone who wanted David Platt as a boss already had done so. Nowadays for big clubs the manager is to busy to run everything so its down to the coaches and assistant manager to organise training etc., although modern managers do still keep a fairly close eye on players to see if they can see any improvement from them. Any way now is the apt time to welcome the new manager of Manchester United to his new job so without any further hold ups or waffling on from me I give you Mr Stephen Baxter to tell you about his plans for the future and to answer your questions.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted January 31, 2005 Author Share Posted January 31, 2005 Press Conference Continued From the side of Conference Room a man walks out and on to the Podium. “Good afternoon every one I am Stephen Baxter and I am here to answer any questions you may have at all. Now I'm in no doubt that quite a few of you recognise me from the media, mostly down to my role as Chief Executive and Chairman of the multinational conglomerate Carlisle Group. I have stood down as Chief Executive but I will be remaining as the Chairman which the board has accepted mainly as Carlos Querioz will be handling the day to day running of the team. Better news for the club is that I will not be paid to manage Manchester United and in actual fact the entire backroom staff wages is being funded via the Carlisle Group saving several million pounds a year. I did enquire to buying the club outright but was blocked by the Government on dubious grounds of it being anticompetitive. Lord knows why, I know Carlisle Group owns a lot of smaller companies in the media and leisure industries but nothing that big. Anyway the reason I was approached to be the manager is that I have been a fan of the club for a long time now and I was negotiating with the old board into ways I could invest into the club. It was mentioned a while ago now that perhaps a different type of manager was needed in the modern era, one who knows more about the financial side as well as man management side. So that brings me to the hard part, answering your questions. I think you can take it in turns as I imagine there will be quite a few questions.†Daily Mirror Question: How does someone with no football management experience expect to get things to work? “Well to be honest managing a football team is no different to managing a company. It has the same general principles of getting the best from the people you have and if you have a area that is under strength you try and recruit someone who is capable of improving the area.†Daily Mail Question: How exactly our you going to work with Carlos Querioz and the other coaches? “Well Carlos is a very good assistant manager, who in fact is a more than capable manager in his own right hence him being in charge of day to day matters like training etc. He will be assisted by the other coaches and back room staff as if he was the manager. I suppose it is fair to say in effect we are sharing the managerial role. He is the training and coaching expert where as I am the general manager. We will be discussing the best formations and who to play for each match between the two of us and any input from the other coaches. I will be implementing a few new schemes though when it comes to selecting the squads.†The Sun Question: What transfers are you likely to make? “Well so far I've not had that much of a look at the squad but Ricardo has been sold to Barcelona for £4 million. Also pretty much the entire youth team is available for loan so they can gain experience quicker playing first team football, albeit at smaller clubs.†Daily Telegraph Question: What exactly are these new squad selection schemes? “Well basically if a player gets less than 7 as a rating from the media after the match he is dropped for the next match, even if the team is short of players. Also expect some of the youngsters to get a fair few games as subs to give them experience.†Daily Star Question: What formation are you likely to play this season? “Well I quite like the idea of 2 strikers up front with a man behind them even if it leaves the midfield a bit light. It's basically going to be a 4-3-1-2 formation although a straight 4-4-2 or even a 4-3-3 formation may well be employed during the season. One thing I will not be playing is the Christmas tree rubbish.†David Gill steps up to the podium. “Thank you for your time Ladies and Gentleman that draws this press conference to a conclusion for today but you'll get plenty more opportunities over the coming months. We'll see you all here back at Old Trafford for our first home fixture of the season against Everton on August 18th.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 1, 2005 Author Share Posted February 1, 2005 Meanwhile at a secret location in North London Sir Alex is sat in a small room talking to someone else sat in the dark in the corner who for now shall be known as Mister X. Sir Alex Ferguson (SAF): “Well then how shall I go about getting my job back then I'm sure you have a few ideas.†Mister X (Mr X): “ Well I have a few ideas but don't you think it is best to wait and see what happens for the first few games before attempting to find a way back there?†SAF: “I suppose you're right even if, I hate to admit it, it's coming from you. Do you think a media smear campaign will work? If so it will give me some time to dig out some dirt as well as prepare a few lies for the gullible press to gobble up.†Mr X: “Yes that would be the way to do it at first undermine the board then press for their dismissal. You can use the same guy you used before when you were trying it on with the Irish goons over that horse†SAF: “I sure can I'll go give him a ring and er don't you have a match to prepare for.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 2, 2005 Author Share Posted February 2, 2005 Wed 8th August Nikos Goumas Stadium Athens AEK Athens Champions League 3rd Round Qualifer MUTV Commentator “Its the first game in charge for the new boss of Manchester United and with a few key players out namely Rio Ferdinand who is banned until September, Wayne Rooney out with a Broken Ankle for the next few months, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer out for the season with cruciate ligament damage and Roy Keane not fully recovered from his Groin injury picked up on the Japan tour its an interesting squad. Its the 4-3-1-2 formation tonight lining up as on screen. GK Howard DL Heinze DR G Neville DC Silvestre DC O'Shea MC Ronaldo MC Giggs MC Fletcher AMC Scholes FC Smith FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Carroll Brown Saha Rossi Spector Bellion Kleberson “So it looks like it will be going for the kill tonight looking for the clear win. Nice to see some of the youth team squad on the bench this early in the season too. I'd imagine if we take an early lead one or two of them may make an appearance tonight.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 2, 2005 Author Share Posted February 2, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report A dry warm night in Athens saw new Manchester United boss Stephen Baxter start his new career with a resounding win. From the start Manchester United were out for the win as after only 3 minutes Gary Neville crossed the ball into Alan Smith who had a fine shot saved. For the next 10 minutes or so it was all one way football with Manchester United finally scoring after a load of shots. Ryan Giggs intercepted a loose ball before turning and dribbling towards the AEK goal before spotting Alan Smith in an ideal position in the box. Giggs exquisite cross was met by a powerful header from Alan Smith which went straight into the net as he scored on his début for the club. Lots more attacking play from United saw Ronaldo pick up the ball from his own half before weaving around 2 AEK players followed by a pin point cross field pass to Smith who whipped a first time cross into the box for Ruud Van Nistelrooy to head home. The second half started pretty much the same way as the first with United attacking from the start. Gabriel Heinze, in his first competitive match too, picked up the ball on the half way line and tore down the left wing before unleashing a unstoppable shot past Alexis Manos making it 3-0. United took it a bit easier from then on and with 30 minutes to go young Jonathan Spector came on for Silvestre. The game slowed down somewhat after that as United looked to consolidate their victory with Scholes replaced by young Giuseppe Rossi with 13 minutes to go. Both Spector and Rossi did well enough in their first senior games. AEK Athens 0 Manchester United 3 Smith 17, Van Nistelrooy 32, Heinze 48 Booked O'Shea, Spector, Scholes MOM Giggs Attendance: 21227 Ratings: Howard 7, G Neville 8, Heinze 7, Silvestre 6, O'Shea 6, Fletcher 7, Ronaldo 7, Scholes 7, Smith 9, Van Nistelrooy 9, Giggs 9, Rossi (Sub for Scholes 77 mins) 7, Spector (Sub for Silvestre 57 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 5, 2005 Author Share Posted February 5, 2005 Sunday 12th August Millennium Stadium Arsenal Charity Shield MUTV Commentator “Today's game sees a few changes from Wednesday's win over AEK. With the same players out injured as well as Djordjic it was a fairly limited choice and with his policy of not playing any one who scores a rating of 6 or worse it is a interesting team. Phil Neville comes into left back with Heinze moving into central defence along side Wes Brown. On the bench Spector is swapped with Djemba and Fortune is taking Brown's spot. This one should be an interesting match and could even be an early indicator of this season's likelihood of winning the league as we face a strong Arsenal team. GK Howard DL P Neville DR G Neville DC Heinze DC Brown MC Ronaldo MC Giggs MC Fletcher AMC Scholes FC Smith FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Carroll Fortune Saha Rossi Djemba Bellion Kleberson Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 6, 2005 Author Share Posted February 6, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report Two games played two games won. What a way to start your career by picking up a trophy at your first attempt. It wasn't a great performance from United as Arsenal were the better team on the day but a wonderful piece of Welsh wizardry by Giggs early on saw him weave and jink past both Ashley Cole and Kolo Toure. Most of the match saw the Arsenal defence solidly withholding all the United attacks with Van Nistelrooy particular frustrated resulting in a yellow card for pushing Cole on the way to the ball. The Arsenal strikers suffered the same problem too though with Brown and Heinze making a formidable barrier in front of the United goal. Arsenal 0 Manchester United 1 Giggs 10 Booked Heinze, Van Nistelrooy MOM Heinze Attendance: 72454 Ratings: Howard 8, G Neville 7, Heinze 9, Brown 8, P Neville 7, Fletcher 7, Ronaldo 8, Scholes 8, Smith 7, Van Nistelrooy 6, Giggs 8, Saha (Sub for Van Nistelrooy 71 mins) 6, Djemba (Sub for Fletcher 71 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 6, 2005 Author Share Posted February 6, 2005 Mister X's House Mr X and Sir Alex are discussing things in the living room. SAF: “Well I hate to say it but so far Baxter has done well, although his team selection leaves a lot to be desired.†Mr X: â€He did say he'd drop under performing players and he has done it so he isn't lying to the press yet. Picking up a fair few cards so far too but then they were both must win matches really and it is still early in the season.†SAF: “Hmm I like that train of thought perhaps if the number of cards remains high I can get a media campaign going along the lines that they are a dirty team. Mind you it would have to be pretty bad as nothing ever happened to Arsenal about their dirtiness.†Mr X: “Less talk about Arsenal please. Now how are things going on smearing the Irish twats?†SAF: “Well so far there are one or two possible lines to follow as it appears they are mixed up in this horse race betting scandal to some level, which to be honest if it is as big as the police reckon they must have had some knowledge off being they are leading owners.†Mr X: “Good good anything I can do to help you?†SAF: “Yes you can go and fetch me some more food as I'm running out and its not yet time to reveal my location just yet.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 7, 2005 Author Share Posted February 7, 2005 Saturday 18th August Old Trafford Everton Premier League MUTV Commentator “Welcome to the first home game of the season and its also the Premier League opener too. There are a few changes from the last match but the biggest change is to a 4-4-1-1 formation. The defence sees O'Shea return for Phil Neville but other than that it's the same as the last match against Arsenal with up front Smith as the sole striker with both Saha and Van Nistelrooy dropped from the team. Roy Keane makes his first appearance of the season after recovering form injury. The midfield today sees Giggs and Ronaldo on the wings with and Fletcher and Keane in the centre. Scholes is playing behind Smith as a kind of half forward where Sheringham played back in the treble winning season. GK Howard DR G Neville DL Heinze DC Brown DC O'Shea MR Ronaldo ML Giggs MC Fletcher MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Smith Subs: Carroll Fortune Bellion Miller Silvestre Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 8, 2005 Author Share Posted February 8, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report What an emphatic start to the season for Manchester United 3-0 up in under 20 minutes. Attacking from the start, as is their customary style, United were after a goal immediately with Smith having 2 shots saved inside 3 minutes. On the 11th minute an early cross from Giggs picked out Ronaldo who smashed home the volley. A free kick shortly afterwards saw Giggs again turn provider with a well flighted ball being met by Keane's head straight into the top corner of the goal. Straight from the kick off Keane won the ball and crossed to Smith. Smiths header was saved but fell to the feet of Scholes who fired home easily notching up United's 3rd. United took it easier from then on but still threatened more goals if they were ever pushed hard by Everton. Mid way through the second half a double substitution and a change of formation saw Everton get back into the game more. Bellion replaced Scholes to go up front with Smith whilst Miller swapped with Fletcher and slotted in behind the two forwards. The last ten minutes or so saw intense pressure from Everton and with 5 minutes to go Kevin Campbell managed to score a late consolation goal for the Toffees. Overall it was a fair win but it could have been a bigger defeat for Everton as Ronaldo had hit the post twice and Martyn had made a load of very good saves too. Manchester United 3 Ronaldo 11, Keane 18, Scholes 19 Everton 1 Campbell 85 Booked O'Shea MOM Keane Attendance: 67644 Ratings: Howard 9, G Neville 7, Heinze 8, Brown 8, O'Shea 7, Fletcher 7, Ronaldo 8, Scholes 8, Smith 8, Keane 9, Giggs 9, Bellion (Sub for Scholes 67 mins) 7, Miller (Sub for Fletcher 67 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 9, 2005 Author Share Posted February 9, 2005 Wednesday 22nd August Old Trafford AEK Athens Champions League Qualifier 3rd Round Second Leg MUTV Commentator “Good evening folks here we are at home for the Champions League qualifier second leg with a nice comfortable 3-0 lead on aggregate and a home game. Tonight's team news is that its back to the 4-3-1-2 and only one change on the starting XI. Ruud is back replacing Fletcher who drops to the bench. GK Howard DL O'Shea DR G Neville DC Heinze DC Brown MC Ronaldo MC Giggs MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Smith FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Carroll Djemba Silvestre Saha Fletcher Spector Richardson Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 9, 2005 Author Share Posted February 9, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report It was a bit of a strange night for some players as they once more lived up to the expectations of them after a poor season the year before. Tonight John O'Shea reminded the footballing world just how good he can be. Both goals came form O'Shea assists and he spent the entire match flying up and down the left wing threatening to score at times himself let alone form his crosses. The first goal started of from O'Shea charging down the left flank before whipping a cross into Keane who touched it on to Smith who scored from a sublime diving header. The 2nd goal was even better with O' Shea collecting the ball in his own half before heading of down the left flank once more. A pin point cross field pass to Ronaldo was quickly returned to O'Shea who had continued his run deeper into the AEK half, where a quick side step around the defender was followed by a pass to Van Nistelrooy who out jumped the keeper to score finishing off a very fast flowing move. The second half saw young Kieran Richardson come on for Ryan Giggs with 30 minutes to go to get some experience at this level. Richardson had a good spell working well with O'Shea on the left showing the potential he has of becoming Gigg's long term replacement. Manchester United 2 Smith 5, Van Nistelrooy 21 AEK Athens 0 Booked O'Shea MOM Nikos Paedlidis Attendance: 67631 Ratings: Howard 8, G Neville 7, Heinze 7, Brown 6, O'Shea 8, Ronaldo 7, Scholes 8, Smith 9, Keane 7, Giggs 7, Van Nistelrooy 9, Silvestre (Sub for Brown H-T) 7, Richardson (Sub for Giggs 63 Mins) 7, Saha (Sub for Keane 63 Mins) 7 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
OMDave Posted February 9, 2005 Share Posted February 9, 2005 Your sparing use of the comma gives the text a certain breathless quality Good start to the season Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Tyrone the Magazine Posted February 9, 2005 Share Posted February 9, 2005 Good stuff Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 10, 2005 Author Share Posted February 10, 2005 Dave: I've always had that problem or writing long sentences Tyrone: Cheers plenty more to come Post Match Press Conference David Gill and Stephen Baxter are up on the podium preparing to take questions from the gathered media. DG: “Good evening everyone welcome to this press conference. I'm sure you'll agree Stephen's start has been very good to date and I'm hopeful it will continue too. Now without further ado I'll pass over to Stephen and then we'll let the questions flow.†SB: “Good evening everyone I think i start with a quick few words before I let you ask your questions if I may. I'd like to say the players have started of very well after the changes in the summer and I am looking forward to having Rooney and Ferdinand back in action and then the team will be flying. On tonight's performance it is nice to see the John O'Shea of old is back after last season's blip. Also Gabriel Heinze has started very well for the club. It was very nice to beat Arsenal in the Charity Shield and it was also my first hand taste of the bitter rivalry between the clubs. Now it's time some questions I think.†Daily Mirror Question: Are you enjoying the job so far? SB: “Yes I'm enjoying myself and as of yet the fans haven't had a reason to complain yet either which is also good. I suppose that will be the easiest question to answer tonight too.†The Sun Question: Are you going to stick with the 4-3-1-2 formation for most of the matches like you said or are you going to vary it somewhat? SB: “Well my aim is to play it most of the time but injuries and squad selection will mean that other formations are more appropriate. Also a bit of variance keeps the opposition guessing.†Independent Question: Tonight's win puts you into the Champions League Group stage but how far do you reckon you'll get in the competition? SB: “Well I'd like to say we will defiantly win it but there is no such thing as a dead cert in Football. Yes I'd say we are more than good enough to win it but to do that we'll have to play well in a lot of games and one poor game could put us in a bad position, especially in the Knock Out stages.†Daily Telegraph Question: So far you have kept to your word about under performing players being dropped but will this last all season long or is this some way of getting the players to give their all in each match? SB: “Well I am intending to keep up this policy and as you rightly pointed out it does also inspire the players to play the best to avoid being dropped from the team. I imagine given a month or so I'll have a better idea at what the strengths and weaknesses of the squad are.†The Times Question: Is there any substance to the rumour that at this early stage of the season the club are struggling to maintain enough money to pay off the loan? SB: “Well David is the better person to answer that question really but as I am a businessman myself I can deny that rumour myself. It is the start of the first season since the loan was started and as all of the TV money and season ticket sales funds were used before I joined the club did start with a weaker financial position than normal. As the season progresses and the further we get in all competitions the more money will take in. Of course as we as a board were fully aware that the first season would be a little tight for cash we are prepared to go into debt a fair way with the promise of TV money and Season ticket sales to come in the summer. Also I must add that part of the agreement with the fans was that we disclose a quarterly financial statement and the first one of those is due at the end of September.†David Gill steps up to the podium. DG “That's all we have time for tonight people but I'd like to reiterate the point Stephen just made on the finances. We are going to be revealing quarterly financial statements in September, December, March and June of each year to keep you informed. If you have any further questions please refer them to the press office. Good night and we look forward to seeing you here again in the near future.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 12, 2005 Author Share Posted February 12, 2005 Saturday 25th August Old Trafford Middlesborough Premier League MUTV Commentator “Good evening and welcome to the prematch warm up before today's match against Boro. The only change in the starting XI is Silvestre for Wes Brown with O'Shea moving back into central defence along side Heinze with Silvestre out at left back. It's still the 4-3-1-2 formation for now and hopefully another win. All this switching around at the back I suppose is Baxter figuring out who plays well along side each other at centre back. Don;t see much point really as once Rio returns he'll be there with one from O'Shea, Silvestre and Brown with Heinze probably going out on the left permanently.†GK Howard DL Silvestre DR G Neville DC Heinze DC O'Shea MC Ronaldo MC Giggs MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Smith FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Carroll P Neville Saha Fletcher Richardson Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 13, 2005 Author Share Posted February 13, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report Another game another convincing win for Baxter, he's taken to his new job very well. It was the old classic tale of two halves today with a minor difference. In each half United were easily the best team their but in the first half nothing was going in, Alan Smith had 6 chances himself yet failed to score with any of them. In the second half it was pretty much the same before an inspired double substitution by Baxter. Off came Smith for Saha and off went Scholes, who had also struggled to make a mark on the game, for young Richardson with Richardson going on the left wing and Ryan Giggs slotting in behind the strikers. Almost straight away from their introduction the first goal was scored. Richardson made a run down the left flank but ran out of space and crossed the ball back to Keane who let rip with a thunderbolt of a strike that Schwarzer somehow blocked. Not to worry for United as Gary Neville was well forward and smashed home the rebound, his first goal quite some time. A nice run down the right wing by Ronaldo mid way through the half saw him break through the Boro defence to cross the bar to Saha who headed it home easily. To top it all of Van Nistelrooy made a quick break towards goal in injury time and managed to squeeze a pass off to Saha who slipped the ball past Schwarzer into the goal. Manchester United 3 G Neville 66, Saha 76,90 Middlesborough 0 Booked Silvestre and O'Shea MOM Saha Attendance: 64700 Ratings: Howard 9, G Neville 9, Heinze 8, Silvestre 8, O'Shea 9, Keane 7, Ronaldo 9, Scholes 6, Smith 6, Van Nistlerooy 8, Giggs 7, Richardson (Sub for Scholes 63 mins) 7, Saha (Sub for Smith 63 mins) 9, Fletcher (Sub for Ronaldo 84 mins) 7 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 14, 2005 Author Share Posted February 14, 2005 Mr X's House in North London Mr X's Living room Mr X: “I see Baxter hasn't ****ed up yet then still getting the results.†SAF: “Yep he even managed to get O'Shea back into form too but then I always knew last season was just a blip. I may be getting somewhere with the Irish goons too got some interesting information back today whilst you were out.†Mr X: “Anything useful? Anything that will put some pressure on them?†SAF: “Hell yeah my information says that they are involved in this race fixing scandal and another 'friend' has given me the contact details of someone who he described as a protege of Sir John Stevens if you know who he is.†Mr X: “John Stevens erm he's that **** of a copper ain't he, the one who thinks he's god and can do whatever the **** he wants. Talk about corrupt cops he's the godfather of them I hear he's got a sideline in offing people too.... oh wait is this guy an offerer of people??†SAF: “He sure is taught by known other than Sir John himself apparently he is very good and has taught himself a few more subtle techniques which to be frank isn't Sir John now is it. By the way you are sounding more like a ****ing Londoner every day what happened to your accent?†Mr X: “**** off I am NOT a Londoner you Northern Twat. From what I have heard about Sir John he's as subtle as a bull in a china shop. So who is this protege anyway?†SAF: “It's someone who goes by the codename of Bagpuss I know he's a Brit but thats it, probably ex SAS and dare I say alleged to be better than Sir John too. Anyway I don't think I can let you know any more as the less you know about him the better in case things **** up.†Mr X: “Okey dokey whatever you say. Hey where's the ****ing pizza guy anyway I ordered it before we stared talking for ****s sake.†There is a knock at the front door and Mr X heads of to answer it. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 16, 2005 Author Share Posted February 16, 2005 Wednesday 4th September 2001 St Andrews Birmingham Premier League MUTV Commentator “Good Evening and welcome to all our loyal viewers. Tonight we see the return of Steve Bruce as Birmingham boss and Dwight Yorke on the subs bench for them too. Also tonight with the policy of dropping under performing players it's a bit of a different line up especially with Heinze away on International duty for Argentina. Tonight will see the first start for Jonathon Spector replacing Heinze at Left back ahead of Phil Neville who only made the bench. Also Giggsy will be behind the strikers as Scholesy has been dropped after his last performance. Saha is in for Smith on the same grounds and Fletcher returns to the starting XI. Also tonight Roy Carroll starts his first match with Howard on the bench.†GK Carroll DL Spector DR G Neville DC Silvestre DC O'Shea MC Ronaldo MC Fletcher MC Keane AMC Giggs FC Saha FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Howard P Neville Bellion Djemba Richardson Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 16, 2005 Author Share Posted February 16, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report Well today saw Baxter's first defeat and a poor defeat it was too. An early goal from Emile Heskey gave Birmingham the upper hand in the first half as the United Defence took time to settle. It was a better start to the second half for United, with lots of early attacking play culminating in a goal for Roy Keane via a Giggs corner. It was a simple header and made up for a very dubious off side call a few minutes early, which had ruled out a perfectly good goal by Ronaldo. More bad luck for United was to follow as Heskey clearly fouled Spector before crossing the ball to Dunn for Birmingham's second goal. The third Birmingham goal followed soon after and this time Heskey didn't do anything wrong. Heskey went past both Spector and Gary Neville before slotting the ball easily past Carroll. The game overall was a tale of two defence's, one who were excellent and one which was rather poor. United's defence looked out of place and not fully aware of where each other was. Birmingham's however where excellent and easily managed to contain all the United attacks. Birmingham 3 Heskey 12, 77 Dunn 74 Manchester United 1 Keane 70 MOM Mario Melchoit Attendance: 29972 Ratings: Carroll 6, G Neville 6, Spector 5, Silvestre 7, O'Shea 6, Keane 7, Ronaldo 7, Fletcher 7, Saha 7, Van Nistlerooy 8, Giggs 8, Richardson (Sub for Fletcher 61 mins) 7, Bellion (Sub for Saha 76 mins) 6, P Neville (Sub for Spector 79 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 19, 2005 Author Share Posted February 19, 2005 Mr X's House Somewhere in North London Sir Alex is in the living room with a stranger discussing things. SAF: “Good evening welcome to my hosts house I know its a bit of a ******** but beggars can't be choosers. Now I suppose you want to know why I asked for your services?†Bagpuss (BP): “Well yes it would be useful to know what exactly you want doing. That way I'll know what my fee will be.†SAF: “Its a simply job at first I just need you to 'rough up' a couple of people, I'll let you decide how yourself. The people I want 'hassled' are Magnier and McManus the horse owners.†BP: “I think I can handle them quite easily, care to give me a bit of background an then I can give you a few options.†SAF: “Well I presume someone with your skills and knowledge is aware of what's been happening in Manchester over the last year. Also I have no doubt you are also well aware of my little spat with the Irish bastards over some money they owe me. I think it is safe to say it was those two who got me booted out of the club. All I want to start with is some pressure on them. I assume you have heard about the alleged bet fixing going on with the horses right? Well here is a nice little document my security advisers acquired for me.†Sir Alex hands over a document folder stuffed full or information. Bagpuss has a quick glance through some of the sheets before closing the folder. BP: “Cheers for this info I'll have a proper look later on and probably pass it on to my MI5 contacts for their info. Gotta keep an eye on the Irish too these days. Right I think a simple hassling of one or two of their staff should suffice for now. Naturally a message or two will be passed along too.†SAF: “I'll leave it up to you what you do what sort of payment do you want for this or shall we leave it open for now as there will be more work afterwards no doubt.†BP: “Well £25,000 will cover my expenses for now and for some time to come. I think that will cover things for now if it gets more involved I'm sure we can reach some sort of agreement.†SAF: “Ok thanks for doing this I look forward to hearing some progress in the next few weeks.†BP: “See you for now, you'll probably read about anything I do in the papers before I get back to you personally.†Bagpuss leaves the house and Sir Alex settles down with a chuckle and a quiet “I'll get you two ***** yet mark my words.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 21, 2005 Author Share Posted February 21, 2005 Saturday 8th September 2001 Old Trafford Charlton Premier League MUTV Commentator “Well after the last match away to Birmingham we were expecting a few changes but what Baxter has done is pretty large. Due to poor performances O'Shea, Carroll, Gary Neville, Spector, Bellion and Phil Neville are all dropped from the team, some where expected really. In comes Wes Brown and Quinton Fortune at the back along with Heinze back from Argentine duties. Scholes returns behind the strikers with Fletcher dropped back to the bench. Howard is back in goal with young Thomas Heaton on the bench in place of Carroll. Young Gerard Pique makes a first appearance as a substitute too. Baxter is still sticking with the same 4-3-1-2 formation but I reckon if these performances continue a switch to a more simple 4-4-2 may well happen soon.†GK Howard DL Fortune DR Brown DC Silvestre DC Heinze MC Ronaldo MC Giggs MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Saha FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Heaton Pique Smith Djemba Fletcher Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 24, 2005 Author Share Posted February 24, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report Well United stormed back into winning ways today despite conceding an early goal again. An early free kick saw Charlton take the lead from a Holland header that had Howard had no chance to stop. It was the kick United needed to get going properly and they were soon level. Van Nistelrooy picked up a loose ball just outside the Charlton box and with a quick turn and change of pace he got free from the defenders and smashed a shot past Kiely. Attack after attack followed and United were soon in front after Ronaldo quickly pounced onto a loose ball after Heinze's header had been blocked. The rest of the first half was a bit quiter with United just looking to maintain there lead into half time. Early on in the second half Ryan Giggs took a knock and had to be replaced by Richardson, it turned out to be a twisted knee putting him out for a few weeks. Again United went on the attack pushing for the third goal that would seal the win. After a lot of attempts the third goal finally came when Van Nistelrooy scored his second of the match. It was a thunderous strike after he had received the ball from Scholes. With Baxter looking towards Wednesday's clash against Barcelona Silvestre was replaced with Pique, giving the youngster a few minutes experience. Manchester United 3 Van Nistelrooy 21,85 Ronaldo 27 Charlton 1 Holland 11 MOM Ruud Van Nistelrooy Attendance: 64003 Ratings: Howard 7, Brown 8, Fortune 9, Silvestre 7, Heinze 9, Keane 7, Ronaldo 10, Scholes 8, Saha 8, Van Nistlerooy 10, Giggs 6, Richardson (Sub for Giggs 57 mins) 7, Djemba (Sub for Keane 72 mins) 7, Pique (Sub for Silvestre 86 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 26, 2005 Author Share Posted February 26, 2005 Wednesday 12th September 2001 Barcelona Champions League Group Stage 1 MUTV Commentator “Good Evening and welcome to the first night of European football. Tonight we face Barcelona at home and here is the team news for you. Giggs is out with an injury and Fortune and Djemba are ineligible for tonight so there are a few changes. Kleberson makes his first appearance of the season on the right wing with Ronaldo out on the left covering Gigg's absence. O'Shea is back in at left back and Gary Neville is in the right back position. Spector and Rossi both make the bench looking to get a bit of a run out at the end of the match. GK Howard DL O'Shea DR G Neville DC Silvestre DC Heinze MC Ronaldo MC Kleberson MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Saha FC Van Nistelrooy Subs: Carroll Spector Smith Richardson Rossi Brown Miller Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest Posted February 26, 2005 Share Posted February 26, 2005 Quality story mate keep it up. Will be reading this story about the best club in the world. Lookin forward to the next post. Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted February 28, 2005 Author Share Posted February 28, 2005 Daily Telegraph Match Report What a game for United. Total dominance throughout. A rock solid defence and a biting attack lead to a very very simple 4-1 win. Baxter must be ecstatic at the result and a good cup run or two will do wonders towards shoring up the negative cash flow problems the club are rumoured to have. O'Shea and Neville were both storming down the wings terrorising their counterparts and also preventing them from going forwards themselves. Needless to say the first goal was a result from these runs. Gary Neville went surging down the right wing before whipping a quick cross in towards Keane. Keane out jumped Victor Valdes and headed the ball into the top corner. More or less straight away United won a corner and Ronaldo whipped it in for Saha to out jump the Barcelona defence putting United 2-0 up. The one bad point of the night followed for United as Larsson struck a very optimistic shot from 35 yards out, which somehow went in. Mid way through the second half both the United wing backs got involved in a move which got United their 3rd goal. O'Shea gathered the ball on the half way line before going on a sensational run deep into the 18 yard area. A sublime chipped cross to Gary Neville, on the other side of the goal, saw a powerful header fly into the net straight past the Barca keeper who was stationary. A quick bunch of substitutions by United saw Ronaldo replaced with Richardson, to rest one and to blood the other. Scholes swapped with Rossi so the young Italian could get some big match experience. Spector replaced Silvestre who had begun to struggle a bit. Manchester United 4 Keane 33, Saha 36, G Neville 68, Fernando (OG) 89 Barcelona 1 Larsson 37 MOM: Louis Saha Attendance: 67650 Ratings: Howard 9, G Neville 9, O'Shea 8, Silvestre 7, Heinze 7, Keane 9, Ronaldo 8, Scholes 7, Saha 10, Van Nistlerooy 7, Kleberson 7, Richardson (Sub for Ronaldo 65 mins) 6, Rossi (Sub for Scholes 78 mins) 6, Spector (Sub for Silvestre 78 mins) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bartley_m Posted March 1, 2005 Share Posted March 1, 2005 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by sir_sprogenbogen: Quality story mate keep it up. Will be reading this story about the worst club in the world. Lookin forward to the next post. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Thats better None the less, the story doesnt suffer from its poor subject matter. KUTGW Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 1, 2005 Author Share Posted March 1, 2005 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by bartley_m: <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by sir_sprogenbogen: Quality story mate keep it up. Will be reading this story about the worst club in the world. Lookin forward to the next post. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Thats better None the less, the story doesnt suffer from its poor subject matter. KUTGW </div></BLOCKQUOTE> poor subject matter cheeky bugger dare i ask which team you suppport? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 1, 2005 Author Share Posted March 1, 2005 Post Match Press Conference David Gill and Stephen Baxter are once more up on the podium preparing to take questions from the gathered media. DG: “Good Evening and welcome to this nice little Press Conference. So what did you lot think of the game tonight then?? Good wasn't it!! Who still has any doubts about appointing a manager with no proper footballing experience at all? I think it's best to let Stephen have a few words now before you all get your say, so without any further delay here he is.†SB: “Thanks Dave and good evening people. If I get carried away answering any of your questions blame tonight's scoreline. A quick summary of the last few games is that the team is playing well. Obviously their was a little blip at St Andrews but these things happen. The convincing wins look promising already and Rio is yet to return in defence too as well as Rooney up front. Right I think its time for a few questions now.†Daily Mail Question: You seem to have adapted to the football world quite well wouldn;t you say? SB: “Well yes as we said before it isn't that much different to running a company really. The general principles are exactly the same, you get man management in both football and general management.†Daily Mirror Question: Are you looking to buy or sell any players yet? SB: “Well as of yet I do not see any need to buy any more players. As for selling any its far to early to worry about that as nobody has had long enough playing under me yet for those sort of decisions.†Daily Telegraph Question: Are the rumours that the club is losing money true or not? SB: “Well currently we are running at a slight loss to when I took over but most of the prize money is loaded towards the end of the season. It is a situation I am keeping an eye on as with the starting point being already £10 million in debt, we have no real room for leeway.†The Times Question: Are you still going to continue with your player performance policy? SB: “For the foreseeable future the answer is yes. Although once Rio and Rooney are fit I think i'll just go to a straight forward policy of giving people a rest now and then as there is more than enough depth to the squad.†David Gill steps forward. DG: “I think we'll call it an evening their folks, remember the next press conference at the end of the month will include the first quarters financial summary too.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
bartley_m Posted March 1, 2005 Share Posted March 1, 2005 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Bagpuss: <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by bartley_m: <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by sir_sprogenbogen: Quality story mate keep it up. Will be reading this story about the worst club in the world. Lookin forward to the next post. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Thats better None the less, the story doesnt suffer from its poor subject matter. KUTGW </div></BLOCKQUOTE> poor subject matter cheeky bugger dare i ask which team you suppport? </div></BLOCKQUOTE> Crewe. Problem Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 1, 2005 Author Share Posted March 1, 2005 Nah nothing wrong with Crewe might have to buy a few players from them as they would be cheap Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 3, 2005 Author Share Posted March 3, 2005 Saturday 15th September Fulham at Old Trafford MUTV Commentator “Good afternoon and welcome. Today sees us face Fulham at home and to be honest it should be an easy win. Yes Giggs and Ruud are both out injured but with the team selected we still have more than enough quality on the pitch. The only change in the starting XI is Smith replacing Ruud. There is no real depth to the bench but there are people who want to make an impact if they are brough on. GK Howard DL O'Shea DR G Neville DC Silvestre DC Heinze MC Ronaldo MC Kleberson MC Keane AMC Scholes FC Saha FC Smith Subs: Carroll Bellion Richardson Rossi Spector Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
eScotty Posted March 3, 2005 Share Posted March 3, 2005 Wow this is a fantastic story. I love the plot you've given it and your game policy is a great one to see in action. Only shame is I'm gonna have to wait for updates to see the story progress! Keep it up Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 4, 2005 Author Share Posted March 4, 2005 eScotty - ta mate i aim to do one update a day roughly some times i do two at a time if i get a few games played. The plot isd actually still devolping as you'll read sunday/monday when i return from manchester Daily Telegraph Match Report Well after the midweek trouncing of Barcelona, United were brought back down to earth by a fairly poor Fulham Side. A fairly poor first half saw both teams fail to make the most of their chances and the 1-1 scoreline at the interval was flattering. Alan Smith eventually opened the scoring after 41 minutes slipping the ball past Van De Sar from a Saha cross. Just before half time Collins John popped up for Fulham to smash a volley past Howard in to the back of the net making it even. In the second half United looked more dominant and Saha got his 3rd of the season, heading home a Gary Neville cross. Soon after Tim Howard brought down Alain Goma inside the box and was sent of for a professional foul. Carroll came on for Ronaldo but failed to save Malbranque's penalty. For the rest of the half Fulham's extra man was put to good use but they were unable to finish any of their numerous chances. The United defence did their best to try and limit shots but couldn't really cope and were probably lucky to hang on for the draw. Manchester United 2 Smith 41, Saha 68 Fulham 2 John 45, Malbranque 74 (Pen) MOM: Louis Saha Booked: Gary Neville Sent Off: Tim Howard Attendance: 62278 Ratings: Howard 7, G Neville 7, O'Shea 7, Silvestre 7, Heinze 7, Keane 7, Ronaldo 7, Scholes 6, Saha 10, Smith 8, Kleberson 6, Richardson (Sub for Scholes 68 mins) 6, Carroll (Sub for Ronaldo 74) 6 Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 7, 2005 Author Share Posted March 7, 2005 Fergie learns about M&M's 'problems' Mr X's House A cellphone on the coffee table rings and Sir Alex answers it. SAF: “Hello†BP: “Are Hello, I have some news for you regarding our business transaction.†SAF: “Good is it done??†BP: “Yes it is done you'll be able to read about it in the papers tomorrow.†SAF: “**** tomorrow I'll look on the internet a bit later tonight. Care to give me the details now so I can gauge what sort of cover up the buggers have pulled off?†BP: “Sure as you asked nicely and pay well. I thought I'd send a message via one of their key staff members. Naturally I went for the highest profile target possible Kieran Fallon, their newly appointed Chief Jockey. I quiet word in his ear was all I was intending to do, well with a bit of arm twisting if you catch my drift.†SAF: “I think I get your meaning, a few broken bones I hope.†BP: “Yes well that's what I'd normally do but he foolishly fought back as well as threatened to get his own back with the help of your buddies. I was forced to break a few bones and then take him too the Coolmore. Once I got their I dragged him into their offices and delivered a nice little message personally. I'd suggest you stay out of sight in here for the next few months as they were rather mad.†SAF: “What did you say in the message?†BP: “Oh nothing major just that a client of mine wished to express his disappointment at your sacking. I'm fairly certain they knew it was you as they told me to tell you to **** off and die. I can take things a step or two further if you like.†SAF: “What are you suggesting you do for me next then?†BP: “How about hitting them where it hurts most, their pocket. Through my government contacts I can get a nice little substance called VEF from the MOD. It's probably best that you don't get told what it is but suffice it to say that VEF will cause them severe chaos.†SAF: “Good, good, do you need any more money yet?†BP: “I don't but it will cost me £5000 to get some VEF. There is still enough funds left to cover this though so you needn't pay any more just yet.†SAF: “OK. Goodbye for now.†BP: “See Ya.†Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
eScotty Posted March 15, 2005 Share Posted March 15, 2005 Did the story die? Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 15, 2005 Author Share Posted March 15, 2005 <BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by eScotty: Did the story die? </div></BLOCKQUOTE> No just been busy or ill so i've not had time to play any more just yet. I may get some done tonight depends how i feel Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
eScotty Posted March 16, 2005 Share Posted March 16, 2005 No problem Still looking good ^.^ Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bagpuss Posted March 16, 2005 Author Share Posted March 16, 2005 Tuesday 18th September 2001 Porto Champions League Estadio do Dragao MUTV Commentator “Good Evening and welcome to sunny Portugal. Tonight its the 2nd Champions League group match of the season against Porto. It's pretty much the same team as last time with a few changes. Carroll is in goal in place of Howard> Heinze moves to left back covering for the suspended O'Shea, with Wes Brown taking the centre back berth. Miller is on in place of Scholes and the bench is mostly full of youngsters. GK Carroll DL Heinze DR G Neville DC Silvestre DC Brown MC Ronaldo MC Kleberson MC Keane AMC Miller FC Saha FC Smith Subs: Howard Bellion Rincon Rossi Spector Fletcher Ngalula Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
eScotty Posted March 16, 2005 Share Posted March 16, 2005 Risky lineup Link to post Share on other sites More sharing options...
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