Generic Journeyman Career Title

[andychar]

Dawn of the Dead

This month needed to be good, or its curtains and I'm back to square one regarding North America.

Mostly home and mostly winnable...on paper at least.

A new formations sees us go more attacking. It worked with Pohang when I started to struggle, it needs to work here.

First up is mid table Puebla. Honestly I have no idea how this is going to go, just gotta keep everything crossed we can stop the rot before its too late.

That Mexican Cup game against Tigres is suddenly massive. Go out there and I miss the expectations for the Mexican Cup Opening Stage.

I have a feeling this new tactic shift is make or break...last time I did something this drastic was just before the playoffs...

Oh we need to beat his ass...

Give the pressure its time for goal by goal updates! Wooooooo!

0-0 at HT 

Finally finally finally! We have dominated from start to finish and finally we grab the breakthrough. Please hang on!

When I say we dominated...

I mean we dominated! I not even going to start to complain about the lack of shots on target. We won.

The crazy thing is despite everything that win takes us up to 3rd...we finished 4th last season and went all the way. I think maybe the board have been overreacting a wee bit. Hell we are only 4 points off top!

We need to build on this now and go on a bit of a run, if only for my job. Problem is there is now a 15 day gap between fixtures thanks to pointless Internationals!

10th place Necaxa are next, normally I wouldn't be worried but every game has me scared! I just need to survive the season so I can at least have a go at the Champions League.

The odds are getting shorter!

I had a message in inbox before the game saying the board are losing patience and a loss here could be the end. Hoping that's just media speculation.

0-0 at HT again...

We are leaving it later and later but once again a priceless goal from a substitute.

We have out shot our opponents 58-2 in the last two games and won 1-0 twice.

First time in a while we have back to back wins and I can feel the noose slowly loosening around my neck.

9th at home in the league next and once again its going to be tight and cagey. I have a feeling we are close to absolutely spanking a team, we are deserving I think.

Still listed as insecure...

Same message as before...

A first half goal finally! Honestly it was against the run of play.

Bah! Can't grumble.

Another goal from outside the box and this game has come to life.

Breathing room! Fingers crossed its enough.

And that's how it finished. If that doesn't take pressure off I don't know what will. 3 wins from 3 and I'll stop going goal by goal updates!

7th away next in my biggest test since the change of tactic. 

3 wins from 3 still not enough. I'm 4 points off top and 2 points off 2nd...yet its still not enough. Despite the expectation being reach playoffs which we should do absolutely no problems.

Results went our way before we even kicked off! Notice the above expectations bit!

Back to Stable! I think the worst is behind us and if we can have a decent showing in playoffs I should be safe for the Closing Stage.

Not the end of the month but I think this is a good place to leave the negativity!

 

 

 

[andychar]

The Pursuit of Happiness

I want to put that tricky spell right behind me and move forward.

Best way to do that? Win!

Yeah like that! A brilliant opening half hour and the damage had been done. 4 wins from 4 since my job went insecure. I think that's definitely the end of that.

Next up its current league leaders at home in the cup. This has been dubbed a must win, pretty much like the entire month.

The biggest positive was somebody got sacked this week and it didn't appear in my inbox because I'm not longer one of the favourites to get fired next.

0-0 at the break against Tigres but we have absolutely battered them.

We finally got the breakthrough on the 70th minute...

That's what a hammering against the leaders looks like. Brilliant result and amazing performance. Yes we could have hit the target more but I'm just happy with the win.

Not an easy tie but there isn't going to be at this stage of the competition. The board's expectation is Quarter Final so in a way, pressures off.

A home game against 19th closes out the month. Once again its an easy win on paper. Problem is football isn't played on paper!

We didn't show up in the first half. In the second half however it was a different story. Brilliant 45 minutes.

We came into this month needing to improve...

We 100% did that.

We sit just one point off top with 2 games to go. Not to go all Kevin Keegan but I would love it if we came top! Love it!

[andychar]

The Double

Technically we are still chasing the double but the title refers to the fact we have 3 scheduled games left (the playoffs will obviously come) and 2 of them are against Cruz Azul. One in the cup and the other in the league. One home one away. If I had to choose I'd prefer to win the Cup game to be honest. but lets win both.

Cup first away from home.

Great win and it seals our place in the Semi Final of the Opening Stage of the Cup. We technically have a double already this season I'd love to make it a triple. 

It means we have another game this month.

Chivas in the Semi Final of the cup. Could have been better, could have been worse. They are currently 4th in the league.

Back to back games and back to back wins. We did well to bounce back from a defensive error to grab the win. Chirico had a brilliant game.

It means the league table with one game to go looks like this...

1 point seperating the top 3. Will be a fun final game. Semi Final will be before that though.

All Asia countries have finally been removed from the game meaning I'm free to add all South American leagues! Once I finish North America and remove Mexico and USA I will be adding two European Leagues; England and Spain. Exciting times ahead!

So after an International Break (don't miss those) it was time for the Semi Final of the cup.

We started the better team and got our reward.

We have taken control of this tie and are looking good.

Brilliant 45 minutes. 

Picked up where we left off an technically the 4th came before the 3rd.

We declared at 4. Brilliant performance and we have reached the final.

The board are disappointed with my first place in the First Division.

First v Third and with 1 point separating us it will be a tasty final. Looking at the date it could be after the playoffs.

So we finish the regular season with a chance to finish top. Amazing after the crap I've had to put up with. We are away to 11th place Atlas while 2nd play 3rd. Tasty games.

And I've only finished 1/5 of my challenge. At this rate it will be 2500 games before we are done here!

Guaranteed to lose the next game.

Boom great win to finish the regular season.

We finish top. Absolutely delighted. We just need to come through the playoffs now. Remember a trip to the final qualifies you for the North American Champions League next season.

We finished 19 points ahead of these in the league. Over two legs we should be getting through.

[andychar]

Playoff

1st vs 8th and there really isn't any excuse for not winning this over two legs. So lets jump straight into it!

Oh no! We were caught with our trousers down from a corner. He was on his own from the halfway line and we are losing.

1-0 down at half time wasn't part of the plan. But its the only shot they have had so no need to panic just yet.

I was calmed and relaxed. Good response.

Not the best of results but we are still in control with the home leg to come.

Monterrey did the best but all games are still up in the air. You'd fancy Chivas, Monterrey, Us and Tigres to progress.

Perfect start to the second leg but we can't assume this game is won.

A good goal but a pointless one! They needed 2 goals to go through before and still need 2.

We deserved the win. Safely into the Semi Final as was expected.

Chivas in the Semi Final and I think its seeded all the way through even though it presents itself as a draw. Its 1st v 4th and 2nd v 3rd. 

We are one tie away from Champions League next season, just in case. I've wanted a cull for a season now but this squad keeps giving me reasons not too. A win here and the cull will be delayed yet again and I'll take this squad into the Champions League this season.

Great start, we started strong. Its been a carbon copy of the Cup game we won 3-0. If we have that result here I'll be more than happy!

Same player two brilliant finishes and we take control of the game!

Richly deserved and we should put the game to bed in the second leg.

We should be through now. They need 3 goals.

Easy! Easy! Easy!

Icing on the cake really.

We are very easily into the final and with it qualification for next seasons Champions League has been secured, before we have even taken part in this season's!

The reason why I haven't shown the other fixtures is because they haven't taken place yet! For some bizarre reason.

Just looked and its because Monterrey are taking part in the Club World Championship. Makes sense!

It means our next match will the the Mexican Cup Opening Stage Final against a hopefully tired Monterrey, annoyingly its away.

2 and a half year deal. I hope to be out in 6 months.

We have our best 3 CM's out for the final so we have a ready made excuse!

I missed a goal! It was all Monterrey, I looked away and suddenly we are 2-0 up!

Didn't miss that one.

2-1 with 20 minutes to go and I am working under the thought that there is still no extra time.

A little bit against the run of play and we are level. This Cup Final is going to go down to the wire.

We will finish the game with 10 men as we picked up a sending off in added time.

I was right its straight to penalties...

2 penalties each 1-1. Things are getting tense.

1 miss each from 4 and we have effectively reached sudden death.

We scored ours...

But they didn't!

We got knocked out on penalties last season. This season we won the whole thing.

So another trophy in the bag, we still have the Playoff final to come! 

The Transfer window has also opened but right now we have no money to bring anybody in and I can't really justify selling many players!

 

[andychar]

This is The End

A little dramatic, its the end of the opening stage. 

I await the winners of the other semi final...

Which could go either way. I beat both of them in the Cup after changing my formation (albeit Monterrey on penalties).

Before anything the First Round draw of the NACL takes place...

Alajuelense are from Costa Rica and should be beaten over two legs. 

The rest of the First Round looks like this...

Personally I thought Mexico and USA were kept apart but obviously not! Great opportunity for a Canada or El Salvador representative in the Quarter Final. 

 But it wasn't just the First Round drawn...

If we win its more than likely Monterrey in the Quarter Final. A very tricky draw.

But if we get through we will avoid another Mexican team until the Final. I should be able to beat any team in the Semi there, assuming I get there obviously. Then its pick one from the above 8. Probably America. 

So the path has been drawn, they are the teams who stand in our way of lifting the NACL.

Board expectation?

Will have to get through Monterrey at least.

Monterrey it is in the Opening Stage Final. It feels like an age since we played the Semi!

Will be sick of the sight of them by the end of this continent.

The second leg is on the 9th January. The closing stage started on the 10th January last season. I can't imagine the turn around is going to be very long!

The Brazilian League has been loaded and I've added a fix name patch so I won't have to look at BAH or FLA...

It did not work .

Job for another day, its time for some actual football.

First leg away from home. Lets do it.

A pretty lacklustre first half ends goalless. Still a lot of football to be played in this tie.

A goal out of nowhere and we are in control of this tense tie.

Not a great game but it puts us in control, still all to play for in the second leg.

Neither side have enough time to dwell, its time for the second leg...

Monterrey needed two before...they still need 2.

Now we are cruising.

2-0 at the break and it looks a formality now.

It was a nothing first half an we are Champions!

Mexican Cup obviously doesn't count.

We are given a full 8 days off before we go again!

 

 

 

 

 

[andychar]

The Missing

First thing I've noticed is the fact I'm not in the Mexican Cup Closing Stage this season. I don't know if this is because I won the Opening Stage or if its because I'm in the NACL. Either way its started without me. Maybe I get an automatic bye in the knockout stages. Who knows!

Second thing I've noticed is the cruel start I've been given. 2 games in 3 days to start the competition.

The transfer window passed with some departures but not a single player incoming. Every time I built myself a nice little transfer budget somebody would play their 50th game or play for the 5th time Internationally and it would all disappear.

Logic says there's no need to bring in any players, would have been nice though.

Great start to the season, shame about the late goal but I'm not going to grumble.

Always nice to break records.

2 days later it was time for our second game of the season and it was a repeat of the opening stage Quarter Final.

Another great performance. I didn't make too many changes as don't want disjointed performances.

Away to Tigres next then away to America. Two very tough games and will be a good indication of where we are in the Closing Stage.

Very annoying result. They scored with their only shot on target. We weren't good enough and a very early set back in the league. It's the first time we have lost with this new tactic and formation so I'm worried now it will spark something. I've hit a bad patch in each of the previous 2 stages. I don't want to start with one here. All that being said...its just one loss when they scored with their only shot on target.

That being said we still need to bounce back, America away is probably not the best fixture in order to do that.

Brilliant come back. It was an even game and could have gone either way really so I'm delighted it went my way!

Still enough time to fit one game game in this month.

A few changes might be needed as there is some fatigue going through the ranks.

Toluca had a goal disallowed in the last minute to give me a nice mini heart attack. In the end we clung on. Not pretty but a win nonetheless.

The means the table looks like this after a very busy start...

All over the place really. Teams have played anything between 2 and 5 games. There's only one team who can over take us with games in hand and thats Monarcas Morelia. Personally I'm not worried about that.

Next month sees my first ever North America Champions League game. Finally!

[andychar]

2 Fast 2 Furious

For the second month in a row we start with 2 games in 3 days. The Mexican calendar can be harsh!

I have to be careful because I don't want this team to burn out before the start of the NACL.

Straight forward win. Was nice to have no dramas!

1 day rest then another game!

Quite a few changes were needed before this one...

Not that you could tell. A brilliant performance.

Next up was a home tie against Monterrey who will be sick of the sight of us, I envisage more games against them too come.

Very disappointing result really. We should have been 3-0 up after 10 minutes but only took one of the chances and it was probably the hardest one. They very rarely threatened but managed to snatch an equaliser. From then neither side looked like scoring. Opportunity missed.

Leon away next, they are struggling but it won't be an easy game.

Cracking performance. We were on top throughout and didn't look back once the 3rd went in. Nice and comfortable.

Just what we needed as the next game is...FINALLY...NACL! Is it wrong to expect a lot of goals.

Away leg first...

NYCFC secure their passage into the 1/4's with the tasty looking tie between DC United and Club America still all to play for. Remember we could play one of them in the Final if we get there.

Shocking intake and I don't think anybody here will end up challenging for a first team place.

Took a while but finally we broke the deadlock.

I was hoping that was going the be the floodgates opening...

Steady progress.

Dominance is coming through now.

Woooooo.

Starting to feel a little bad now.

We gave them a break.

Just enough time for one more.

I got what I wanted. A lot of goals and a great performance.

No surprises elsewhere.

Table looks like this. Still all over the place. Look at the bottom Orizaba with 5 games in hand on the team above them! Mental.

Our next game? Pumas.

[Mandy42]

Die hard is most definitely a Christmas film!! (if not the best Christmas film of all time)

following along, and now I am going to have to add humorous titles to my posts.... though I can't exactly steal the movie theme "gross" pointe blank....

[andychar]

13 hours ago, Mandy42 said:

Die hard is most definitely a Christmas film!! (if not the best Christmas film of all time)

following along, and now I am going to have to add humorous titles to my posts.... though I can't exactly steal the movie theme "gross" pointe blank....

Try telling that to the Mrs, yet every year I have to watch Alan Rickman break Emma Thompson's heart (God rest him).

On a Roll

(Type it into IMDB. Honestly it's a film!).

A few good months saw us milling around at the top but its going to be tight between the top 4.

We started the month with 2 huge games, the first at home to Leon in the league and the second at home in the NACL where we take a slender 7-0 lead into the game.

There were no shocks at all and in fact the only game that is close is the one between and American and a Mexican team.

There's starting the month well and then there's this. The stats don't tell the half of it...

We could have easily found ourselves up against it after the sending off but Orue, whose found a bit of form, put the game beyond any doubt and Goroso added icing on the cake. Huge win.

I won't do goal by goal of the NACL because its absolutely pointless. I will be changing the entire 11.

Club America left it late but managed to get past a tricky first round tie. We are still on course to meet them in the final. NYCFC probably had the same idea as me and didn't get out of first gear.

So for the first time I believe I had a completely new starting 11 in two consecutive games. 

Lots of goals and no shocks. I'm a bit disappointed as I thought I'd get a badge for winning games with 2 different starting XI. Oh well. We are safely through with the best aggregate score...not that I was aiming for it .

Confirmation of what we know and just look at the date. Its literally the next game with the second leg a week later. Being home first has its advantages, we could potentially build up a lead. But we need to be tight at the back. It should be a good two legged tie.

And the pointless round comes to an end.

Quarter Final draw looks like this...

All Mexican and American with a Canadian playing in America. We will play the winners of that Cincinnati-Toronto game should we get through.

Monterrey played a league game so they will be that little bit more fatigued than us.

A brilliant comeback from NYCFC gives them the advantage heading into the second leg. If Club America go all the way they will have done it the hard way!

So I started the first leg and made a cup of tea. Forgot about goal by goal updates so here's a very rough update.

3 minutes - Pachuca 0-1 Monterrey - The worse possible start to this tie and we are always chasing.

6 minutes - Pachuca 1-1 Monterrey - We weren't chasing for long but with that away goal its still advantage Monterrey.

11 minutes - Pachuca 2-1 Monterrey - What a start to the game and we have turned it around. Still not a bad result for Monterrey if it finishes like this.

20 minutes - Pachuca 3-1 Monterrey - That's better, a bit of breathing room and at the moment this could finish anything.

25 minutes - Pachuca 4-1 Monterrey - Stunning, absolutely stunning.

Now I'm watching the second half its all going to go Pete Tong.

This is dreamland stuff.

Just to show how dominant we were!

One foot and 4 toes into the Semi.

Unless there is a turnaround it will be Cincinnati in the Semis.

Leon look doomed meaning there could only be me as a Mexican representative in the semi final. 

First game for what seems like ages in the league...

Great performance. Puebla didn't register a single shot all game so I'm happy.

Back to NACL...

NYCFC are through to the semi final following a really good tie. Looks like we will be flying the Mexican flag and potentially giving me an easier route to the Title. I say that because the last time an American team won the competition was....never.

An update regarding the Mexican Cup Closing Stage...we won't be taking part in it at all. No idea why or if its normal. Its not the end of the World just one less trophy I can win this season.

I've not rotated in the NACL despite the 6-1 lead. Seems silly but I don't want to take any chances.

And my decision was justified.

This has been so much easier than I thought it would be.

Easy game and brilliant result over two legs.

What a turnaround by Toronto and its a trip to Canada in the Semi's. An 89th minute penalty deciding the game. Rough on Cincinnati.

Confirmation if needed.

Could Leon following Toronto's example and make an epic comeback!?

No.

It means the Semi's look like this.

I don't want to curse myself here but this is mine to lose.

After all this there was still 2 more league games this season. The league has taken a bit of a backseat recently and with games being rearranged next month is set to be a very busy one!

Good win. All 3 goals came from players we grabbed on free transfer. Satisfying indeed!

The final league game of the month comes against the team who were bottom but with 5 games in hand over pretty much everybody, by the time we play them they have propelled themselves up to 6th in the league. Suddenly on paper it looks very tricky.

Damage done in the opening 15 and the rest was a walk in the park.

It means the table looks like this heading into the final month.

Still all over the place with some teams having as many as 3 games in hand over others but we are looking good at the top with a chance to open up a gap. 

Its been a brilliant month. Next month will see plenty of rotation as the Semi Final of the NACL will be taking place.

[Mandy42]

7 minutes ago, andychar said:

Try telling that to the Mrs, yet every year I have to watch Alan Rickman break Emma Thompson's heart (God rest him).

That office woman is rather hot though if I remember correctly, not as hot as some of you cup performances! but still... quite close

 

 

 

 

 

[Sebastian Szlenkier]

28 minutes ago, andychar said:

I say that because the last time an American team won the competition was....never.

The last US team to win it was LA Galaxy when they won it in 2000 when it was still called the Champions Cup

[andychar]

14 minutes ago, Sebastian Szlenkier said:

The last US team to win it was LA Galaxy when they won it in 2000 when it was still called the Champions Cup

Yeah I thought it would be something like that. I just went by this...

Lots of finalists but no winner since it has been known as the Champions League.

And regards to the woman in the office @Mandy42....I would.

[andychar]

Now or Never

I say that because...

We are losing a lot of money each month. Don't know why. I'm not over my wage budget or anything but it leads me to believe we need to win the Champions League this season!

I mentioned it was a busy month...

I want 8 more fixtures after these!

I am going to make changes ahead of the first league game this month with one eye on the Toronto game. I am leaving 51 goals on the bench...

It wasn't a problem thanks largely to Murguia's hattrick. Not a straight forward game but a good win nonetheless.

Gives us a great bit of momentum heading into the first leg of the NACL. We will be looking to put the game to bed in the first leg just like the previous two rounds.

Never really in doubt but here we go. Did it without even kicking a ball!

Great game in the other semi final. Portland Timbers hold the advantage but you get the feeling anything could happen. Now its our turn...

Its been coming and finally we have the breakthrough. Now get 6 or 7 more.

Doubled our lead in comical circumstances. Long range shot hit the post then hit the keeper before my striker blasted the ball in from 1 inch out. I'll take it.

2-0 at the break its been easy so far but we need to make sure we don't concede.

On the 81st minute we got some massive luck as Toronto saw a goal disallowed for offside. 

Its not tie over my any means but 2-0 should be enough to send us through. Its tight enough that a full strength XI will play the second leg.

Some nice records tumble.

Its been a good run.

We now have 5 out of 6 away games to close the season before the Playoffs.

More potential records to be broken.

Fixture congestion is bad. We are playing 4 games in 7 days meaning rotation is a must and some results might not look good.

I made 9 changes ahead of the next league games, 2 days after the first leg.

Good performance. Could have been a lot more but I'm happy to pick up the win. 

Next game is in 2 days so just need to keep the train moving.

A few more first team members brought in as fatigue is starting to play a part.

It was top v bottom and it showed. Great win and it gives us a comfortable cushion at the top of the closing stage.

We get 2 days rest before the 2nd leg of the Semi Final of the NACL. We have a 2-0 lead so its good but not final. A goal will really boost our chances.

Leaving my mark in what is hopefully my first full season and my last in Mexico.

Back to NACL and as I said before the first goal here is vital. We get it and its all but over, if they get it its very much game on. If nobody gets it then...wooooo.

Looks like it was a great game and it will be Portland Timbers in the Final should we get there. If we do (and I'm nearly confident we will) we will be heavy favourites I imagine.

Bit of a fluke but I'll take it. Game surely over.

Job done. Not spectacular but it didn't need to be. Into the final we go.

Look at the date on that. Its only a week away and we have 2 fixtures before hand. Fatigue could end up costing us here! Luckily we have a good second XI.

That's April so far. 

Maybe its best to split this up and go for a unofficial sequel!

[andychar]

Never Say Never Again

So you have seen the month and the ridiculous week ahead. Not much time to train between games and the second XI will see a lot of action. 

Lets jump straight into it.

Hopefully we can make that 9!

A few days rest before it was back to league action. We had a good lead at the top and could afford a bad performance or two.

Red card could have left us in the lurch but another great performance saw us not only hold up but extend the league. The winning run continues. 

1 day of rest now before the next game and we have a suspension and Res will miss the rest of the month with injury.

Excellent achievement!

Drastic changes ahead of the next league game with 2 players making their debut from the u20s. I fear the winning run could be over here.

I was right but I'm happy with the point. Especially coming from behind. 

It means our first team is fully fit ahead of the First Leg of the Final. We are at home first so we have a chance to put this tie to bed.

Absolutely brilliant start. We could have taken the lead 30 seconds earlier but I'm happy enough.

We have been dominant but its 1-0 at HT. We have a chance here, we can't let it slip.

I thought it wasn't going to come but finally we have a cushion. We have been dominant and I'm happy to double the lead.

That could be it. I can't see us losing 3-0 in the second leg.

Brilliant time to get the 4th and that will surely be that. A brilliant 2nd half.

That's how dominant we were. Deserved 100%!

We have 7 whole days between the games and I happy for the rest! No suspensions or tiredness although we picked up a few injuries, thankfully to the back ups and not first team. We will surely see it through now.

I will do goal by goal updates as I bask in my success!

Well that wasn't suppose to happen. Great free kick and its a lifeline for Portland.

A lifeline that lasted all of 41 seconds. Move along. Nothing to see here.

At this point Portland need another 5 goals.

Nice to be winning on the night. Eventful 2 minutes 10 seconds!

They just made us angry.

Nothing really I can say other than this has been a very each tournament to win after the Asian Champions League gave me grief.

Picking up where we left off in the first half.

They need 8 more in 6 minutes + stoppage time.

This time it took us 42 seconds to respond. Slacking.

More even than the first game but not by scoreline.

Its almost as if the Mexican Cup Opening Stage doesn't exist!

And with that 2 out of 5 Champions Leagues have been won.

And here are the records we broke on the way to winning it...

He got a hat trick in the Final Second Leg to take the crown.

More awards and stuff...

My tactics tend to be booking heavy so that last one is the biggest shock of them all!

My next planned stop is Africa and South Africa being the only African Nation available to me out the box. That being said I will be looking out for any jobs in South American and will head there if there is something to good too turn down.

So what jobs are currently free...

That many!

I will be finishing the season with Pachuca and then resigning. No point stopping here any longer than needed.

After all of that...we still have one more game of the regular season.

I've played a full strength team as I want to keep the momentum.

A great second half and finally the month is over although technically that was the first of the next month!

The table finishes like this for the closing stage...

Top once again meaning we will face a tricky tie against Pumas in the playoffs. 12th was not enough for Atletico San Luis who are relegated thanks to the average points table which looks like this...

Very close indeed!

Next up any potential job updates and potentially (probably) the playoffs!

[andychar]

The Long Kiss Goodbye

My time in Mexico had its moments but overall was much less stressful than South Korea and I get to go into the Closing Stage Playoffs knowing that whatever happens it will be goodbye North America.

We broke more records both domestically and for the team.

There was no rest as we played the first leg just days after our season finished.

I'm a Rangers fan and have them listed as a favourite team. I've not heard anything about them until this popped up in my inbox...

I'm in the year 2027 so he lasted a long time! He won the Premier League once...amazing he lasted as long as he did! Either way the Scottish league isn't and won't be loaded so hey ho.

So 20 points separated us in the league but we start equally at the beginning of the first leg. I somehow think this will be harder than the NACL! I'm forced to make 4 changes due to tiredness and suspensions so its not going to be easy.

We are away from home first so lets get some goals but most importantly stay in the tie.

Great start scored by one of my forced changes!

A penalty has helped us double the lead and we already are in control of the tie.

2-0 at the break and we are looking comfortable.

It was a nothing second half really but it didn't need to be.

Advantage us.

A mini 3 day break before the second leg. Enough time for some players to catch their breath then we go again.

Already a shock as Monterrey have been knocked out meaning if we get through we will face the 7th seed.

A few more forced changes ahead of the second leg but really its a stronger side.

Only 10 minutes on the clock and we have been reduced to 10 men. Could make things interesting.

And they score from the resulting free kick. Game on massively. Remember they need to win 3-0 thanks to the higher seed rule. We still have the advantage but suddenly it looks in danger.

Gyazo has stopped working so no more screenshots but a penalty gives us a massive boost. 1-1 on the night 3-1 on aggregate and we should be safe now.

Just 2 minutes later Pumas strike again to make it 2-1 on the night and 3-2 on aggregate. Now away goals comes into play and we don't look safe at all.

Gyazo is back so just for confirmation...

(Remember I'm playing these games as I'm going along).

In stoppage time another massive blow...

Another red card and we are down to 9 men. We are imploding.

2-1 at the break and we are in for a massively stressful 45 minutes.

We defended brilliantly all half but just ran out of puff. We have 15 minutes to find a goal otherwise our season ends here.

Sometimes just absolutely everything goes against you and this was one of those times.

Not the way I wanted to leave things in the slightest. Be interesting about that straight red after 10 minutes because I didn't see anything wrong with it personally.

The assistant suggests I appeal. Obviously it makes no odds as I'll be leaving. I just want to see if I was screwed or not...

So yeah, pretty screwed.

So on that note...

I'm just quietly leave.

2 down 3 to go!

[Mandy42]

always nice to get one last screw in before you flee the country!

[andychar]

On 21/01/2019 at 21:02, Mandy42 said:

always nice to get one last screw in before you flee the country!

I was so cocky I didn't think for a second I wouldn't win it!

Oh well eh. On wards and upwards!

[andychar]

Jobs

After the Mexican season finished I loaded up England. I was always planning on leaving Europe till last but when something falls into your lap you can't ignore it...

I applied not thinking I could get it. Amazingly the Chelsea fans were more than happy with the idea.

Mr Abramovich invited me to his gaff and amazingly...

I didn't get it. They went for the tried and tested Porto to Chelsea connection.

Personally I'm kinda glad I didn't get it. I had done well but only in Asia and North America. No disrespect to those continents but they aren't exactly football powerhouses.

I always planned on moving to South Africa next but absolutely nothing opened up, so I extended my vision and came across 3 interesting jobs.

It seems there had been a cull in Argentina following the end of the season...

3 of the best Argentine jobs were free and I had my eye on all of them. "I'm merely considering my options".

The previous Boca manager resigned and retired from football.

The previous River Plate manager left to become Argentina manager after 14 years at River.

The previous Independiente manager resigned and retried from football. 

Luckily I was around when this holy trinity happened!

My choice out the 3 would be River but its a case of playing the waiting game...

It was River who came to me first with an Interview offer which I obviously attended.

A few days past without any more action, once again maybe I was getting too cocky and just assumed the Interviews and Job Offers would rush in.

4 days after my interview with River Plate...

I wasn't out of work for very long, although it felt like an eternity. Leg 3 of this journey begins!

[Mandy42]

don't know how I feel about you turning down the mother land  but all the best with River, what a team to come available!

[andychar]

Evita

Ok before I get into anything I need an opinion.

The Copa Libertadores takes place over 2 Argentine Seasons. Meaning the club is already into the knockout stages. The format is exactly the same as the UEFA Champions League so its the Last 16 River Plate are currently in.

If I go onto lift the trophy will it count? I didn't do anything to qualify for it and I didn't start this season's competition but will have navigated through the 4 knockout rounds. What's everybody's opinion?

Now that's out the way this is the current situation of the club, Argentina and South America.

The League actually starts in 9 days so I have very little time to prepare before the start of the season.

Since the start of the game River Plate have only missed out on the top 3 once but at the same time have only won the league twice, but they are the current holders. (I assume this will mean that qualification is already in the bag for next seasons Copa Libertadores.)

Its a simple league. 20 teams 38 games.

Although relegation is still average points which is stupid but shouldn't ever affect us!

The foreign rule is interesting. Only 6 in the squad and only 5 are allowed in the Match Day Squad. I've dealt with this before so it shouldn't be a problem.

As mentioned previous the Copa Libertadores is already in full swing and this is the second round draw...

We have a very tricky game against Flamengo.

3 finals for the club but only 1 win since the start of the save.

The squad looks like this...

I'm taking over a very good squad with the potential to make this a 1/2 season wonder. I'm looking forward to getting my teeth sunk into the league season.

Finances aren't brilliant for me...

No wiggle room really for bringing in many decent players. Once again it will be players on the cheap. That being said the state of the club looks healthy...

I'll keep you updated with how things change over the first few months.

Let me know what you think regarding my dilemma. 

[andychar]

13 minutes ago, Mandy42 said:

don't know how I feel about you turning down the mother land  but all the best with River, what a team to come available!

I didn't turn it down, they rejected me . I would have bit Roman's hand off!

[Sebastian Szlenkier]

36 minutes ago, andychar said:

If I go onto lift the trophy will it count? I didn't do anything to qualify for it and I didn't start this season's competition but will have navigated through the 4 knockout rounds. What's everybody's opinion?

I'd have to say it counts. These are the circumstances surrounding the job you just took and there's still a long way to go to the final/winning the competition. If you manage to guide them to win the tournament this season that will still be a huge achievement so I'd say it should definitely count. 

[andychar]

14 minutes ago, Sebastian Szlenkier said:

I'd have to say it counts. These are the circumstances surrounding the job you just took and there's still a long way to go to the final/winning the competition. If you manage to guide them to win the tournament this season that will still be a huge achievement so I'd say it should definitely count. 

I have mixed emotions regarding it. I didn't want it to appear as a bit of a cop out but like you said there is still a long way to go. In fact there's more games left to play than what I've missed and looking at the Group Stage I'd like to think it would have been a formality. I think it might be a case of crossing the bridge if we come to it. Could even argue if I won that I would only need to qualify from Group Stage next season to "complete the cycle".

Ride Along

I love friendlies. A chance to sit back and relax while my ass man does everything.

Alright mate, calm down.

Seriously back off the jobs mine!

We only had two friendlies under my rein before the start of the new season.

My first game will be at home to Velez. I've gone back to a formation which worked brilliantly in Asia but not so well in North America so I have no idea what to expect. The ass man got it working against lower league opposition any way.

My first major decision was regarding transfers. A player was on transfer list and up for sale until I found a place in my team for him, hes happy. My first choice RB is 30, for me that's very over the hill (I was 30 in January myself). So when a bid for actual money came in for him I accepted. My second choice RB had been asking for more first team action...well there you go. 

Only one game this month so I'll be nice and give you goal by goal updates before cracking in with a big month next month!

Home to Velez, they are looking a bit defensive...

Manchester United (still lead by Jose) have come in for my star CM. I've promised him a Copa Libertadores. Anything to keep him for at least half a season. Was quite amazed I was able to offer him anything to stay. I'll add him to the list...

Only been here 2 minutes!

So new season and once again I find myself in a position with something to prove. 

I'm not able to play my strongest XI due to suspensions and fatigue so whatever happens here there will be room to improve.

Great start and a goal by Marcelo Torres...well one of them anyway...

Yeah cos that's not going to get confusing.

Cracking stuff as we take early control.

Couldn't have asked for a better start.

Nothing much doing in the second half as the job was already done. Velez even waited until the 88th minute to put on a striker.

Great start but I imagine I will face harder challenges than that this season.

Next up to start next month is the small matter of the First Leg of the Second Round of the Copa Libertadores. Talk about thrown in at the deep end!

[Maaka]

2 hours ago, andychar said:

If I go onto lift the trophy will it count?

If you win it, you win it. Simple.

[Mandy42]

4 hours ago, andychar said:

I didn't turn it down, they rejected me . I would have bit Roman's hand off!

I suppose that is true! And I can understand the self doubt over taking the position, i'm in the job and I have doubts every day!

and at 36 i'm so far over the hill i'm going up the next one!

[andychar]

Brazil

First time I'm going to manage there so lets get that movie out the way!

I haven't been in the job long and already the season and started and I'm thrown into Continental competition. We are away first so its important to try and grab as many goals as possible while staying in the tie. Its a tricky game and a big measure of where we currently stand.

I imagine they will be a bit more attack minded than Velez was!

I wasn't going to show the table after just 1 game but you'll notice something a little unusual about it...

Only 3 winners out of 10 games. Can we be top from start to finish. I doubt it but would be nice! (The answer is no because teams played while I played Flamengo.

Any way enough of that lets jump straight into the action.

(The Brazilian names have disappeared it seems since the recent update).

Once again I can't play my strongest XI due to various circumstances...

Totally against the run of play a defensive error puts us behind.

Great start to the second half after I gave them a calm grilling. Thanks to the away goal we are now in control of the tie.

We were reduced to 10 men with 65 minutes on the clock. It was all about holding onto the 1-1 draw and taking that back to Argentina now.

Unbelievable scenes as it seems we have stolen a winner. Its been all the home side after the red card but we finally had our chance and took it brilliantly.

A very even game where a loser probably wasn't deserved but what a brilliant result it was. The tie is far from over but we have put ourselves in a brilliant position ahead of the second leg in Argentina.

A few players offloaded meaning I was able to bring in a player I've had my eye on since I arrived at River Plate...

Straight into the first team with room to improve. Cost me 8m and I believe that could be a bargain.

Straight into the next league game, some teams have played 2 more games than us so I have a feeling we are going to spend a good portion of the season playing catch up.

A good win and a goal from my new  signing Insua on his debut. Things are looking good to start the season.

Games are coming thick and fast this month and I will be heavily rotating in most games just to avoid fatigue.

Our first league away game was next and probably our biggest domestic test so far, that being said we are still favourites to win.

3 from 3 to start the season. One of 3 teams to do so. Couldn't ask for more really.

We haven't had the hardest start ever but you can only beat whose put in front of you and that's what we are doing at the moment.

We dominated from start to finish and it really could have been more comfortable. That being said I'll take it to keep the momentum going!

Still a lot to go this month including the second leg against "FLU".

Two games in the league before that.

Back away but a game we really should be winning (said that before). We do have an away trip to Independiente coming up followed by Continental football so some changes maybe in the offing.

Another European club came in for another brilliant player. I promised him we would win the league. I basically need a league and Copa Libertadores double in order to keep this team together.

Another 2-0 win and a good result considering the swaps I made. One swap I didn't was Insua and I paid the price. He may have scored but he also fractured his toe meaning he will miss at least 3 weeks. A bit of an early blow after he started so well with his new club.

On paper the next game is the hardest one we have faced so far, on form it could be one of the easiest.

I helped contribute to most of these!

Some changes and debuts for youngsters meant we were already up against it in our hardest league game to date. I didn't want to take any chances ahead of the second leg.

One of the debutantes managed to get himself sent off after 30 minutes, guess whose career just ended. At this moment 0-0 would be a brilliant result.

11 v 11 and we win that game. No question. That U20 player ensured he will be staying there for the duration. We lose the winning streak but remain unbeaten so it could have been worse.

The decisions I made will all be worth it if we finish the job and qualify for the Quarter Final.

Again I helped!

I'm going to leave this here for now as I'm coming off my machine and really don't want to lose this big post! Next will be the second leg and the final league game of the month!

[andychar]

Flatliners

So just the two games this update as I round up what has been a very busy first month of the season.

Second round second leg first up.

We bring a 2-1 lead home with us so its ours to throw away really.

*Edit* In the previous post I called the team FLU when its FLA easy mistake to make when the team names make absolutely no sense.

We were dominant but weren't able to find the back of the net in the first half. 0-0 and I'm hoping we don't live to regret some missed chances.

Finally dominance pays and we are ahead on the night!

Job done! We are one more round closer to having to make a big decision.

Money money money!

GRE (or Gremio) await in the Quarter Final. They are currently 2nd in the Brazilian League so can argue its up there with one of the hardest draws we could have got.

The Quarter Finals consist of no less than 5 Brazilian Teams. With the other 3 Argentinian. 

The quarter finals legs will take place next month and as you can see, we are away first.

The final game of the month was a league match. We were keen to bounce back from that 0-0 draw and maintain our lead at the top.

It came late but we more than deserved it. In fact we hit the woodwork more times than they managed a shot on target, they scored with each one.

It means for the first time in Argentina the table looks like this..

We have raced into an early lead after 7 games. 2 teams remain unbeaten. Spare a thought for Argentinos Juniors. 

International Break is next with the next game after that being Boca away. Big game.

[andychar]

Rebirth

Ok time to try and win the Champions League on every continent.

I did an unsuccessful Chelsea save imposing the transfer ban. Players and fans were annoyed I didn't buy anybody so it became clear that until its properly implemented in the game (probably FM20) it's not worth doing it. 

It's made me want to finish this however. So lets get to it.

I'm using a new skin. Will see how get on with it. 

 

The month ahead looks like this...

Its going to take me a bit to get back into the swing of things and Boca away is probably not the best game to be playing after a long absence!

It was a "welcome back to the save" start as we were behind after just 16 seconds. A nice deflection brought us level. As the game went on I was caught between being happy with a point or going for the kill...I made a few defensive changes, drew them onto us and smashed them on the break. 2 great late goals gives us a huge win and bragging rights. 

Next up is the away leg of our Champions League Quarter Final. Historically in the save Argentinian teams have the upper hand over Brazilian teams so lets see how we get on.

We started strong and finally have our reward. Great start.

1-0 at HT. Gremio have come into it a bit more and its quite an even game.

1-0 the final score. It was a very even game and we have done brilliantly to come away with the win. This tie however, is far from over.

Regarding the Copa Libertadoras I've decided if I win it here that's it I'm classing it as won. Even though I've not completed a full tournament I will have played more games than I missed and that's good enough for me. I would finish the Argentine season and move on, preferably to South Africa but quite possibly Europe.

I've also made a decision to return to International Management. I have some unfinished business.

Its my second stint with Cameroon.

My first stint ended when we were dumped out of the African Nations 2-1 against Burkina Faso. They had 1 shot on target all game. I want to avenge this.

My first game will be a home friendly against South Korea of all places. Will be nice to see some familiar faces!

Back to Domestic issues and we have a chance to open an early 8 point lead at the top if we can beat Newells Old Boys at home.

It was a tale of two set pieces. There's a free kick ours a late point saving penalty. Truth be told we were that dominant it feels like 2 points dropped despite the late penalty.

We are away to bottom next and it would be nice to go into the second leg of the Copa Libertadoras with a win.

A very good first half. We didn't really do anything the second half but we didn't need too. Onward to the second leg of the tie against Gremio. All to play for with us having a slender 1-0 lead.

Its a goal that changes nothing. They needed 2 and they still need 2. Gives us a platform.

1-0 at the break and its one foot in the semi final.

A red card with 15 minutes to go really makes it mission impossible for Germio. 

Beltran misses the penalty then converts the rebound. We are through.

We are rubbing it in now, I was late with this screenshot, the reason why I need to tell you is...

...these goals weren't scored this close together.

4-0 is the final score. That sending off really hurt Germio. Not that I'm complaining!

The table looks like this at the end of the month...

A few games in hand. Rather have the points though!

[andychar]

Argentina

Yes there is a film called Argentina. 

The draw for the semi final was made...

There is still chance for an all Argentinian final but we need to get through Sao Paulo first. They are 5th in the Brazilian league so its a very winnable tie.

October looks like this. We will know before the month is out weather we will have a Final or we will be here at least another 365 days.

Scratch what I said, we are flying the flag for Argentina. Didn't realise there was still a second leg to be played.

Our first game of the month comes against a team who has just won 7-0...lets hope our games ends a bit differently.

We start the game 6 points off the top but with 4 games in hand! Velez keep winning putting us under quite a bit of pressure. That game at the end of the month with them is already looking huge.

We had to come from behind but we did and we showed some grit and determination. Redondo had a brilliant game from midfield.

Gap is now 3 with 3 games in hand. As I said before I would prefer the points but we aren't in a terrible position.

Its time for my second first game in charge of Cameroon. Friendly against South Korea. I normally don't do friendlies but wanted to see where this team is at.

Here are the stats

And here the final score

Really glad I gave International Management another shot! For the second time in a row with Cameroon I've lost when the opposition has had more goals than shots on target. You really couldn't make it up.

Next match with Cameroon is against Gambia in the World Cup Qualifiers.

Back to domestic issues and another winnable home game.

Once again a come from behind win. Its all well and good while we can come back but we need to figure out how to score first!

Next is the first leg of the Semi Final. Once again our first leg is away from home. If we can repeat our Quarter Final exploits I'll be very happy.

I've changed formation and gone 4-3-3. I'm going for the jugular, it could back fire spectacularly.

0-0 at the break. We have probably just edged it but it could go either way.

26 seconds into the second half and we have a let off. The ball hits the back of the net but its ruled offside. Still 0-0 but a warning shot.

It finishes 0-0 with us having the better of the game. Real knife-edge this tie has been left on.

I will be making a few changes for the league, despite us being 2nd we are in a very strong position and although I'd love to keep the unbeaten season alive, the Copa Lib has to take priority.

A great win considering the circumstances and it gives us confidence ahead of a massive second leg.

So its simple. Win and I'm through to the final. Score draw or lose and I'm out. 0-0 and we reach extra time. We were the better side in the first leg but didn't really create anything clear cut while they had a controversial goal disallowed so it could go either way.

But before that game we had an intake day...the best player had 3 star potential. Very disappointing. I was promised Argentinian wonderkids!

Anyway back to the matter at hand.

Huge goal! We need to defend now.

A penalty and a good lead. From this point its our to lose but we are far from through. I've lost bigger leads.

On the 32nd minute we had our own goal disallowed via VAR. Its 1-1 for disallowed goals now.

2-0 at the break but I don't feel confident yet. I fear a twist.

24 minutes to go and its become mission impossible as Sao Paulo find themselves down to 10 men. Last round same thing happened and we bagged 3 more goals...

No more goals but I don't care. We are in the final and it will be Santos we play after a very gripping tie. 

Apparently the final isn't two legged anymore, so its us vs Santos at a neutral venue for the Copa Libertadores. One game away from being 3 down 2 to go.

Velez away next in a top of the table clash. Its crazy to think if we lose we will be 6 points off the top (with 5 games in hand).

A great game and an even better win. It means the table looks like this at the end of the month.

We have a chance to open up a 12 point lead at the top if we win all our games in hand. Things are looking very rosy. Although next month its all about the Copa Libertadores Final.

 

 

 

[andychar]

The Time is Now

November is shaping up to look like this...

Busy week but then that lovely International Break just before the Copa Libertadores Final. Fingers crossed nothing nasty happens between now and then!

First up though we have a few league games to get through. Maintaining fitness will be key with 3 games in 5 days.

A very good performance and a good win to keep the good times going. Its going to be tough, we need to dig deep to maintain our unbeaten record.

A goalkeeper error gifted us a win. We were against 3rd so this is a massive result. I think even at this early stage its going to be hard for us to lose the league.

Next we have another home game, this time against the team currently 4th. The previous two games have left an impact so we are going to have to rotate heavily.

It was a dissapointing first half but the second half we came into our own. Great win. 

Our next domestic game is the Copa Libertadores Final.

But before then we have a two legged tie against Gambia in the World Cup Qualifiers.

I shouldn't come into any bother against Gambia but my International experience has taught me to expect the unexpected.

At 2-1 I wasn't happy. But we turned it on when we needed too and that should be enough to see us through.

We grabbed the win which was the main thing it means we are comfortably through to the next round.

Drawing Ivory Coast makes things harder for us and Burkina Faso won't be an easy game. Group winners qualify for the World Cup automatically. The 3 best Runners Up also qualifier with the 4th best Runner Up going into a playoff with an Asian team. Plenty of chances to qualify and I'm hoping we can manage it.

So that's enough International Football it was time for the big one. The Copa Libertadores Final.

Our run has a very Brazilian feel to it. I've not included the Group because I played no part. The best stat for me is only 1 goal conceded in 6 games against very tough opposition.

Santos' route to the final...

Only the one defeat early in the group stage. Other than that near perfect although it took a penalty shootout in the semi. They have knocked 2 Argentinian sides out already and will be going for the hattrick. 

I feel prepared! Lets do this!

We are classed as favourites but only just.

First Blood Santos. Now we will see what we are made of.

But wait! Its been chalked off! High drama in the first 20 minutes!

No chance of this one being chalked off! First Blood River Plate!

We have taken control since the goal and deservedly get a second. This isn't over yet.

2-0 at the break. Its a massive 45 minutes ahead. Can we hold on?!

The second half has been the opposite of the first, a complete non-event but suddenly here we are 2-1 and its game on. 

The Final Whistle blows!

A great game of football but we have come away victorious! 3 down 2 to go. I will finish the season with River Plate unless a massive job falls on my lap before hand.

Delighted! (I still have 2 more matches this month but I feel this is a good place to end this post!)