[FM20] Climbing Up the Salisbury Hill

[Lodi Lemmer]

November 2024

     

While results weren't terrible, it felt like a bad month. We had to deal with injuries to some important players (Springer, Bennett), and it was fairly clear that we don't have enough depth to cover for them. There seems to be a pretty big drop off from our starting strikers to Cerulli and W.Ocran. I signed a DC (see below) on a free transfer to help, but it was probably a bit much to expect him to be successful immediately. I didn't realize that he was such a poor passer. Hopefully, he'll improve as he becomes more familiar with the squad. Khari Allen (DL) is starting to show signs that he may have plateaued as a player, too. On a positive note, Jordan Hamilton finished 2nd for Young Player of the Month. He has really been a solid find.

 

[Lodi Lemmer]

December 2024

     

We played 2 teams in playoff places (Leyton Orient, Havant & Waterlooville) and 2 midtable teams and earned enough points to stay out of the relegation zone. It was nice to beat Stockport after being knocked out of the FA Cup by them. I'm not terribly concerned about relegation. We rarely are blown out in games, but the games we win are close, too. Nothing has been easy, and a midtable finish would be a pretty good accomplishment. The second half of the season will give many of the starters an opportunity to prove that they should continue to be a part of the squad. I believe that we need to make some upgrades to the team. At the very least, the attack could use an influx of talent. I would prefer not to resort to loans so I'll do my best to sell potential signings on the opportunities available.

Awards

Jahquan Springer finished 2nd in Vanarama National Player of the Month and 3rd in Young Player of the Month. (Interestingly, the player who won Young Player of the Month was nowhere to be found on the Player of the Month list.)

Youth Intake Preview

Per usual, there doesn't appear to be much long-term help arriving from within.

[Lodi Lemmer]

January 2025

The year started auspiciously as I agreed to a 2-year extension that will pay $68.5K p/a through June 2027. The team celebrated that by beating Boston United, who was top of the table at the time. The victory may have been the deciding factor in Pinnington extending his contract through June 2027 a day later. The optimism seemed to disappear with a poor draw at home against relegation zone Darlington and a rout against Wrexham in the FA Trophy game. I challenged the team to prove a point prior to the Cambridge game, and we walked away with a convincing win. The month ended with a loss to Port Vale, who went top of the table as a result.

Results & Table

     

Something to keep an eye on...we seemed to struggle with fitness concerns most of the month, which is a new experience for me with this club. There were a few players who were jaded and in need of a rest after each game.

Finances

I've also been keeping my eye on the bank balance. I'm pleased that we have been able to stay in the black for the duration of the season so far. Hopefully, this continues so that I can request some upgrades in the near future.

Edited October 31, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

February 2025

Results & Table

     

Unfortunately, the milestone appeared to be a distraction to the team in the match against Boreham Wood. We barely eked out a win against the worst team in the league before being hammered in the next 2 games. A very disappointing month overall. We are losing our way into a potential relegation battle. The Stockport game had 2 embarrassing goals where opposing attackers took the ball off the foot of our last defender on the first and off our GK's foot on the second. I lit into the squad after the game, but I didn't see the kind of reaction that I had desired. That scares me considering that we have 7 games next month!

[Lodi Lemmer]

March 2025

Results & Table

     

A couple of roller coaster games to begin the month. An early lead against Morecambe dissipated into a 1-3 deficit before 2 goals in the final 15 minutes earned us a draw. An early goal by Rochdale was answered almost immediately, which inspired us to a lead. When McGaughey saved a PK, I thought we may steal a huge win, but a late equalizer cost us much-needed points. We squeaked out a "home" win against Eastleigh in their stadium (which we are sharing), and I had a bit of optimism for the rest of the month. However, our defense took the rest of the month off. I'm trying not to be discouraged about the gap closing between us and relegation.

[Lodi Lemmer]

April 2025

Results & Table

     

We limped to the finish, going winless in the last 9 games, but we somehow managed to stay clear of relegation. It's pretty clear that there need to be some changes. I'll be taking a close look at players and tactics during the offseason.

 

Awards & Stats

          

Season Review

Squad Season Stats

During the club vision and expectations meeting at the end of the season, an interesting new item was introduced..."Build a new stadium...Preferred"?!? I'm thinking that is more likely near the end of the plan., but at least it's on the board's radar. A bit of a boost as I go into the offseason.

At the team's end of the season meeting, I told the squad that I was proud of them for avoiding relegation and that we needed to learn from this season so that we aren't in this position next season. That didn't go over well, as they all thought we aren't good enough for that. I'm disappointed with that mindset. More information for me to process as I review the club in the offseason.

[Lodi Lemmer]

[Lodi Lemmer]

May 2025

If it wasn't for Springer, I'm not sure if we would ever score.

Considering that we had a rough season, I'm glad that this hasn't dropped more. They also are a disappointed because I said I was flattered to be rumored for the Norwich opening, but that I wanted to keep improving.

[Lodi Lemmer]

June 2025

Player Extensions

1. Matt Weston - STCL (Target Man, Support) - 22yo, 2* CA, 3* PA -  So far, the  best partner that I have found for Springer, though I'll be looking to add to this position.
2. Dan Bartlett - MCL (Advanced Playmaker, Attack) - 24yo, 3* CA, 4.5* PA - The captain was one of our best players last season (though that isn't saying much) and is very consistent
3. Rayner Silva - MC (Central Midfielder, Support) - 23yo, 2* CA, 4* PA - Only received a handful of league appearances, but has some very intriguing attributes (Vision - 15, Passing/First Touch/Work Rate - 12)
4. James Thomas - MC (Advanced Playmaker, Attack) - 21yo, 2.5* CA, 5* PA  - Can play either of the 2 MC positions
5. Benjamin Bennett - DCL (Central Defender, Defend) - 23yo, 3* CA, 4* PA - I'm not convinced that he's good enough to continue to start at this level, but I'm giving him another season.
6. Avan Jones - DC (Central Defender, Defend) - 23yo, 2.5* CA, 4* PA 

Player Signings

A true Target Man to pair with Springer.

Players Leaving

1. Jordan Hamilton (MR) - I'm absolutely heartbroken that he left. I couldn't get him to agree to an extension. As it turned out, a Nigerian team offered him $193K p/a, which was about 7 times what I could offer. It will be very difficult to replace him.
2. Emilio Regini-Moran (MC/MR) - Released on a free
3. Johnathan Tumber (DC) - Released on a free
4. Wilberforce Ocran (ST) - Released on a free

Staff Extensions

1. Andrew Johnson - Scout - Judging Player Ability (11), Judging Player Potential (13)
2. Sam Avon - Scout - Judging Player Ability (11), Judging Player Potential (11)
3. Kyle Fairgreave - Physio - Physiotherapy (15)
4. Alex Baptiste - HoYD - Continental Pro License - Working with Youngsters (12), Judging Player Ability (12), Judging Player Potential (13)
5. Casey Sharman - Coach - Continental C License - Technical (13), Mental (11), Attacking/Defending (10)
6. Ryan Northmore - GK Coach - Continental A License - Distribution (11), Handling (13), Shot Stopping (12)
7. Danny Kedwell - U23s Head Coach - Studying for Continental A License - Attacking/Mental (13), Tactical/Working with Youngsters (12)
8. Darren Kelly - U18s Head Coach - Continental Pro License - Tactical (15), Technical/Defending/Working with Youngsters (14)

Staff Signings

1. Luke Rooney - Scout Judging Player Ability (11), Judging Player Potential (10) - The board allowed me to add a scouting position

Staff Leaving

1. David Martin - Chief Scout - We couldn't agree on salary
2. Stephan Morley - Assistant Coach - We couldn't agree on salary
3. Ian Baird - U18s Coach - retired

 

I'm proud to have earned my Continental Pro License. I'm very appreciative to the Salisbury board for allowing me to attempt this.

From the Vanarama National League season review...

[Lodi Lemmer]

July 2025

Season Predictions

24th (media & oddsmakers); 45-1 promotion odds, 1-5 relegation odds

Results

The Team

Someone will need to step up to replace Jordan Hamilton (MR). Based upon past performance, Brendan Ocran will get the first opportunity. I'm hoping the fact that Orrett Fitzpatrick (STCR) is a true Target Man will jump start the attack.

[Lodi Lemmer]

August 2025

Results & Table

     

A terrible start to the season as our pathetic run continues. We have now gone winless in 14 consecutive games dating back to last season. I didn't think that our attack could get much worse than last season. I guess I was wrong. I adjusted tactics a bit, which resulted in our lone draw. Dan Bartlett is playing very well (7.86 rating in 1st 5 games), but that is the lone highlight of the month. My job is secure according to the board, but if it's not fun, does it matter?

[anagain]

Congratulations of avoiding the drop. Good luck for season two.

[Lodi Lemmer]

14 hours ago, anagain said:

Congratulations of avoiding the drop. Good luck for season two.

Thanks. Things started picking up in the next month.

[Lodi Lemmer]

September 2025

Results & Table

     

What a difference a month makes! As I pondered tactical changes, an obvious solution came to mind. I couldn't believe that I hadn't thought of this earlier. If Bartlett (MCL) was playing such great football, why weren't we focusing our play through the middle in an attempt to use him more? Some focused work in practice led to a huge increase in chances created and goals. We buzzed Leyton Orient for 4 goals in the opening 30 minutes, and our confidence had returned! The Player of the Month award confirmed the improvement in our play.

Staff Promotions

1. Danny Kedwell was promoted to Assistant Coach from U23s Head Coach.
2. Andrew Johnson was promoted to Chief Scout

Player Signings

We signed Dom Jeffries, a 22yo Welsh midfielder, who has been thrust into the starting MR position and has performed decently so far.

[Lodi Lemmer]

October 2025

Results & Table

     

The defense disappeared mid-month when we played teams challenging for the playoffs, but we maintained our midtable standing. I'm disappointed to lose to Bath in the FA Cup, but I played a team of backups hoping to have starters fresh for the Darlington league game. I guess I would have been better off playing starters in the cup game and trying for more money.

Staff Signings - Tim Green was signed to be U23s Head Coach. I continue to search for the open Scout position.

[Lodi Lemmer]

November 2025

Results & Table

     

We are tied for the most losses in the league, yet we sit near midtable with just 2 games left until the halfway mark of the season. Springer was injured in the Ebbsfleet game and sat out until the Wrexham game. It's very clear how important he is to the club's success. McGaughey let in some questionable goals this month, renewing the debate in my head about whether it's time to replace him. I admit to having an affinity for him. He has started every game since I signed him. The Ebbsfleet game saw him set a club record for league appearances at 200.

Club Records

In addition to McGaughey's league appearances record, a club record was set against Eastleigh. (Even if it was set at their home stadium.)

[Lodi Lemmer]

December 2025

Results & Table

     

A frustrating month as we were even on goal differential in league games (5-5), but only managed to earn 4 points from 5 games. Even with the most losses in the league, we are managing to stay above the relegation zone.

[Lodi Lemmer]

January 2026

Results & Table

     

A challenging schedule saw us play 4 of the top 7 teams and the cellar dweller. I was a bit concerned that we may take Morecambe lightly in the league game given that they sit at the bottom and that we had just beaten them in the FA Trophy game. We followed up those victories with a big win against Port Vale (5th place in league) for some very important points. We still top the table in losses, but we seem to get an important win against a club above us each month. (I'm trying to be optimistic.)

Youth Intake Preview

There didn't seem to be anything overly impressive. (That's probably why I forgot to get a picture of it.)

[Lodi Lemmer]

February 2026

Results & Table

     

An encouraging month even though it held 2 wins and 2 losses in the league. One goal losses to teams ahead of us in the table were understandable, if a bit difficult to stomach. The two wins were dominating performances against teams that I believed that we should beat. Springer scored a club record 4 goals against Gateshead, including his 100th league goal for Salisbury and overall. Our season goal differential improved by 8 goals this month. I'm hoping that this is the start of what has been historically strong finishes to our seasons.

Monthly Awards

I was proud to see Springer recognized for his strong month (actually...2 games against weak competition) and flattered to hear him give me some credit for his form. TM Orrett Fitzpatrick finished 2nd in the Young Player of the Month award with 3 goals and a 7.97 rating. Meanwhile, substitute CM James Thomas had the 2nd best Goal of the Month on a free kick from 32 yards.

 

[Lodi Lemmer]

March 2026

Results & Table

     

We took advantage of a schedule that had us playing teams from the weaker half of the schedule this month (with the exception of York). The match against Chester may have been the best comeback I've seen as we scored 3 goals in stoppage time to rally to a win. I could not believe that we were awarded a penalty in the 95th minute.

What a way to extend our unbeaten streak to 5! If we can extend our run through April, we may sneak into the playoff places!

I finished 2nd in Vanarama National Head Coach of the Month even though I had the same win ratio and head coach points as York's Kasper Schmeichel.

Player Signing

I signed Harry Dunning,  who I am asking to train as a Target Man, in my quest to develop youthful depth in the attack.

[Lodi Lemmer]

April 2026

Results & Table

     

A fairly lackluster last month of the season saw the club lock up it's highest finish ever with a win over Ebbsfleet.

 

Awards & Stats

          

Dan Bartlett (MC) set a team record for assists in a season.

Squad Season Stats

Season Review

 

A few days after the end of the season, the board gave me some surprising news. We'll be returning to Salisbury after next season! Stadium plans were approved by the planning commission.

 

Edited November 11, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

May 2026

Board Review

Player Extensions

1. Avan Jones - DC (Central Defender, Defend) - 24yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - I had promised him a new contract at the end of the season. He's a dependable backup at both DC positions and can fill in at DL when necessary.

Player Signings

I'm going to add Kevin Scott into the mix at MR. He'll be replacing Brendan Ocran, who I think is not good enough for this level.

 

[Lodi Lemmer]

June 2026

Player Extensions

1. Trent Mahorn - DR (Fullback, Defend) - 24yo, 2.5 CA, 4 PA - Coaches continue to call him a Fringe Player, but he has 195 career appearances with Salisbury during my tenure.
2. Jack Burchell - DCR (Central Defender, Defend) - 23yo, 2.5 CA, 4 PA - Another "Fringe Player" who has 199 career appearances at the club.
3. Benjamin Bennett - DCL (Central Defender, Defend) - 24yo, 2.5 CA, 4 PA - 205 career appearances and a good partner to Burchell
4. Jubril Okedina - DC (Central Defender, Defend) - 25yo, 2.5 CA, 4 PA - He is pretty much the 4th center back. I'd hoped to see more from him, but I'm not ready to release him yet.

Player Releases

1. Kain McGaughey (GK) - I decided to make a big move and sign a new First Choice Keeper. I offered McGaughey a Backup contract, but we couldn't agree on a salary. I refused to pay him the same salary that he was receiving as the starting GK.
2. Brendan Ocran (MR) - Had become the backup to Dom Jeffries last season. After the signing of Kevin Scott, I felt that there wasn't a place for him any longer and that I owed him the opportunity to sign with another club ASAP.
3. Rayner Silva (MCR) - Had only made 17 total appearances in 3 seasons with the club. Wasn't worth what he was being paid.
4. Alfie Cerulli (STC) - Scored the first goal in my first non-friendly match with the club. He never developed as I had hoped. The last couple seasons, he slid farther and farther down the bench. I'd rather have him help another club than waste away on our bench.
5. Matt Weston (STCL) - Lost his starting spot to Orrett Fitzpatrick last season. I'm going to search for a younger, better prospect.

Staff Extensions

1. Alex Baptiste - HoYD - Continental Pro - Judging Player Ability/Potential (13), Working with Youngsters (12)
2. Sam Avon - Scout - Judging Player Ability/Potential (11)
3. Luke Rooney - Scout - Judging Player Ability/Potential (11)
4. Ryan Northmore - GK Coach - Continental A - Handling (13), Shot Stopping (12), Distribution (11)
5. Kyle Fairgreave - Physio - Physiotherapy (15)
6. Darren Kelly - U18s Head Coach

Staff Releases

1. Casey Sharman - Coach
2. Tim Green - U23s Head Coach
3. Harry Wheeler - U18s Assistant Coach
4. Peter Worthington - U18s Coach

We were selected as biggest overachievers in the Vanarama National for the 2nd year in a row.

Edited November 12, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

July 2026

Player Signings

Last month, I mentioned that I had decided to look for a new First Choice GK. Jones is younger, cheaper and has more potential, according to scouts, than McGaughey.

I hadn't made a point of finding a new DL, but when scouts found this guy, I couldn't pass on him. The coaches are very high on him. I like his personality and that he has U19 international experience. He'll go straight into the first team to see what he has.

Staff Signings

1. Ian Herring - U18s Assistant Coach - Continental A

Season Predictions & Board Expectations

24th (media & oddsmakers); 42-1 promotion odds, 3-10 relegation odds

Preseason Results

We hung tough in the first two games against stronger competition. Leeds routed us in the testimonial match in large part due to newly signed Kevin Scott getting sent off in the 12th minute. We beat up on a couple teams from lower divisions.

The Team

[Lodi Lemmer]

August 2026

Results & Table

     

We had almost as many draws in the league this month as we did all of last year (5 vs. 6). Perhaps I should be happy that they weren't losses, especially against table toppers Bradford City, but I feel more frustrated that we couldn't beat Sutton and Boreham Wood. The players don't seem too bothered. The locker room atmosphere is very good, and I still enjoy excellent support from them. The board doesn't seem too bothered either.

Club Record

With McGaughey leaving the club during the offseason, it wasn't going to be long before Springer set this record.

[Lodi Lemmer]

September 2026

Results & Table

     

Not much to say...if you struggle to score, you struggle to win. We couldn't even beat the last place team at home, giving up a tying goal in the final 10 minutes. New GK and DL have yet to make an impact.

[Lodi Lemmer]

October 2026

Results & Table

     

We slid into the relegation zone, but a game in hand and a logjam in the table mean we could get out of there with a win. The good news is that our scoring as increased a little bit as a result of some changes in Team Instructions. The victory over Gateshead was a nice way to celebrate a personal milestone.

Staff Signings

1. Derek Hartnett - Fitness Coach - I decided to fill the open coaching position with a Fitness Coach so that the Assistant Coach can focus on other areas.
2. Nick Oliver - U18s Coach - Continental B

[Lodi Lemmer]

November 2026

Results & Table

     

Still in the relegation zone as we're still not scoring. We still have the game in hand, though.

Player Signing

I signed Hughes to give us more depth in MC. Coaches see him as an exciting prospect, but I think that he can contribute to the first team.

[Lodi Lemmer]

December 2026

Results & Table

     

A winless month extends our streak to 8 games in the league and 10 overall. The ship is sinking. The squad called a meeting to complain about locker room atmosphere and not having any fun. I told them that complaining wasn't going to change anything and to focus on their soccer. They agreed with my views, which somewhat surprised me. The fans and media are questioning my tactics. I was offered an interview by Stade Lavallois but refused it. That may have been a mistake. I did get the board to agree to another Coach position so that makes 3. I'm hoping that it will help our players improve since there's little chance of improving the training facilities any time soon.

Youth Intake Preview

As usual, it appears that there isn't much help coming from the youth. I'm hoping that the central defender and forward will be decent enough to help soon.

Edited November 15, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

January 2027

Results & Table

     

We managed to end our streak with a solid game against Boreham Wood only to start another one. We found some scoring this month only to become worse in the back. I don't think we can climb out of the relegation hole this year. I find myself wondering how we managed to avoid relegation the past 2 seasons. I thought this would be a better team than either of those were.

Staff Promotion

Darren Kelly - U18s Head Coach to first team Coach - Continental Pro - Defending/Tactical (15), Technical (14)

Edited November 16, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

February 2027

Results & Table

     

An inspiring month as the team attempts to show that we are not dead yet. This club has had a pattern of late season runs. I hope we can make another one this season.

[Lodi Lemmer]

March 2027

Results & Table

     

Not a terrible month, but nowhere near good enough. I don't believe that we have any hopes of staying up. This season can't finish quickly enough.

It seems there's some question about my future with the club...

[Lodi Lemmer]

April 2027

Results & Table

A fitting end to a disappointing season. After the Hartlepool draw, we were relegated. We scored the least and conceded the 2nd most. It's no surprise that we're going down. I was offered an interview by Sheffield Wednesday, but refused it.

Awards & Stats

          

Season Squad Stats

Squad Discussions

At the end of the season, Craig Gallagher (DL), Orrett Fitzpatrick (STCL), Kevin Scott (MR), and Dean Pinnington (MCR) wanted to talk about moving clubs. Jahquan Springer asked to talk with the first three and convinced them to stay. Pinnington would only talk with me. I asked him to stay and give me a chance to turn it around, but he refused. I told him that I would offer him to clubs and see what happens. He has been an important piece for a long time, but I'm don't believe that he's irreplaceable. He also had a very high wage, which is important considering that the board cut my wage budget by almost half. Not a single offer came in for him. I told him that he needed to start talking with clubs since it was his idea to leave.

In other interesting news, apparently I am the favorite for the Reading job, which happens to be our senior affiliate. I told the media that I had no comment.

[Lodi Lemmer]

May/June 2027

Stadium Plans

Some disappointing news in late May...

Contract

I signed a contract extension and took a bit of a pay cut. I figured the club is in pretty dire financial straits, we were relegated last season, and I'm asking many of the players to take cuts.

Player Extensions

1. Trent Mahorn (DR, fb/s) - 25yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - Dropped from the first team midway through the year in favor of Simpson but returned to starting for the final couple months
2. Jack Burchell (DCR, cd/d) - 24yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - Regressed last season but still fairly young
3. Benjamin Bennett (DCL, cd/d) - 25yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - Similar to Burchell, but I'm not ready to break up this partnership yet
4. Jubril Okedina (DC, cd/d) - 26yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - Becomes the cover for the starters with the departure of Jones. It's likely his last season to prove something to me.
5. Dan Bartlett (MCL, dlp/s) - 26yo, 2.5 CA, 4 PA - Assists dropped way off last season, but he still has a rating over 7.00. He's the captain and a fan favorite.
6. James Thomas (MC) - 23yo, 2.5 CA, 4.5 PA - Coaches insist that he has significant potential and thrives in big matches. I have yet to see it.
7. Dom Jeffries (MR/MC) - 24yo, 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA - Mostly played out wide, but I may give him some time centrally this season
8. Nick Head (MC) - 21yo, 2 CA, 4.5 PA - Young prospect who likely will get an opportunity in cup matches this season

Players Leaving

1. Avan Jones - Released - Was the 4th choice DC last season and had the most expensive contract. Since I'm over the wage budget after being relegated, I can't afford to keep him.
2. Khari Allen - Signed by Kettering on a free transfer - DL had lost his spot to Gallagher

Note Pinnington is not listed here. I offered him to clubs 3 times since the end of last season. Not a single club made an offer.

Staff Extensions

1. Danny Kedwell - Assistant Coach - Studying for Continental Pro - JPA/JPP (14), Attacking/Mental (14), Tactical (13), Man Management (20), Motivating (18)
2. Liam Bradley - U23s Head Coach - Continental Pro - Technical (17), Defending (14), Mental (12), Tactical (11)
3. Ryan Northmore - GK Coach - Continental A - Handling (13), Shot Stopping (12), Distribution (11)
4. Alex Baptiste - HoYD - Continental Pro - Judging Player Ability/Potential (13), Working with Youngster (12)
5. Kyle Fairgreave - Head Physio - Physiotherapy (15)
6. Andrew Johnson - Chief Scout - Judging Player Ability (13), Judging Player Potential (15)
7. A-Jay Leitch-Smith - Scout - JPA (12), JPP (10)
8. Luke Rooney - Scout - JPA/JPP (11)
9. Sam Avon - Scout - JPA/JPP (11)

Edited November 18, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

July 2027

The month started with rumors of a takeover. These have proven to be false in the past, but we have never been nearly $600 million in debt. Late in the month, the president trashed the rumors.

Kevin Scott replaces Dan Bartlett as the captain. I believe Scott is better suited to the position, and I felt the time was right for a fresh start after last season's relegation. The locker room seemed a bit shaken but no major reactions.

Season Predictions & Expectations

15th (oddsmakers), 15th (media); 9-1 promotion odds, 4-1 relegation odds

The board isn't sure we'll be decent at this level! It wasn't so many years ago that we won it!

 

The Squad

 

Results & Table

     

A decent pre-season that saw us beat the clubs that we should and draw against clubs better than us. An inauspicious start to the season as Pinnington beautifully headed Maidstone's first free kick into our own net. Springer put on an Academy Award performance to draw a foul in the box, Berisha slotted home the resulting PK, and we had a draw. Not the result that I was hoping, but not the result that I was dreading.

[Lodi Lemmer]

August 2027

Results & Table

     

I was fairly pleased with our start, including a wonderful birthday gift of a well-played victory over Oxford City. A slip in form saw us drop to mid-table in the last week.

[Lodi Lemmer]

September 2027

Brought in Simon Thompson as another option in attack. Harry Dunning has yet to score in 41 games with the club. I desperately need to find a 3rd striker. Thompson may not be it, but he can't be any worse than Dunning has been, and he was fairly cheap.

 

Results & Table

     

An unbeaten month saw us earn 11 of a possible 15 points and climb into a playoff position. The backups advanced us a round in the FA Cup, although it took them a replay at home to do it. I'm happy with how we're playing, though I am concerned about the number of draws we've had already.

Awards

Bekim Berisha (ML, w/s) finished 2nd in the Player of the Month voting. I finished 3rd for the Head Coach of the Month award.

Edited November 20, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

October 2027

Results & Tables

     

The backups kept winning FA Cup matches with Harry Dunning (STC, tm/s) finally scoring his first goal for the club against Hayes & Yeading in his 45th game. The first eleven was able to concentrate on league games and almost pulled off a perfect month. Seven of the starters currently have ARs over 7.00. The lowest AR of the starters is 6.85. We have great balance in our scoring with Jahquan Springer (STCR, p/a), Orrett Fitzpatrick (STCL, tm/s), and Bekim Berisha (ML, w/s) all leading the club with 7 goals. I wasn't expecting a start like this, but I'll take it gladly.

Awards

I again finished in 3rd place for HC of the Month.

[Lodi Lemmer]

November 2027

Some exciting news...

Results & Table

     

I continued to play the backups in the FA Cup. Their Cinderella run ended at L1 Doncaster. I very much appreciate the rest they provided the 1st team and the experience they gained by playing. I decided to let them play the FA Trophy games, too. The game against Faversham was the opener for the new Salisbury Stadium. I'm disappointed about conceding late to Woking, but we're still within spitting distance of the top of the table. We start December with a big game against Wealdstone.

[Lodi Lemmer]

December 2027

Youth Intake Preview

Another year of little to no future help. Perhaps a MC if we're lucky?

 

Results & Table

     

Knocked out of the FA Trophy, but a perfect month in the league saw us rise to the top of the table! On the field and in the locker room things are going very well. However, our finances continue to decline (~$600K in the red), and many of the players' contracts expire at the end of the season. It's going to be very difficult to extend them given the salary range that the board appears to be willing to allow me. I would prefer to remain at Salisbury, but I struggle to see a way out of this financial mess!

 

Awards

 

The president is pleased. I wish he would show his appreciation by finding us some money!

Edited November 21, 2020 by Lodi Lemmer

[Lodi Lemmer]

January 2028

Results & Table

     

The loss at Maidstone ended our league unbeaten streak at 18 and saw us fall out of 1st place. We continue to perform well, and I continue to hear my name linked to other clubs. I declined interviews from Luton and Rotherham. I'm going to complete this season with Salisbury and see where things are at that point. The club is projected to be nearly $1M in the red by the end of the season.

Awards

Springer had been out of form for a bit. He'll be a key to remaining in the title challenge for the rest of the season.

 

I cancelled our link with Reading and asked the club to look for a senior affiliate that could increase income. The only useful thing we got from Reading was a friendly each year. I don't think we've ever loaned a player from there in my time with Salisbury.

 

[Lodi Lemmer]

February 2028

Results & Table

     

Trent Mahorn (DR, fb/s) scored his 1st ever goal with the club to defeat Torquay. It would have been a shame to drop 2 points, especially considering that they were playing with 10 most of the game. Craig Gallagher (DL, fb/s) twisted his ankle against Wealdstone and is projected to miss 3 weeks. I thought this had the potential to be a devastating injury, but Leon Harding has performed decently in place of him. I finished 2nd to Dulwich Hamlet's Head Coach in the monthly recognition. The board was unable to find a suitable affiliate club. We continue to leak money, nearly $750K in the red.

[Lodi Lemmer]

March 2028

Results

We only missed out on 2 points this month, and I was very happy with our performance. Springer scored his 150th goal for the club in the win over Chippenham as we guaranteed ourselves a playoff spot. Heading into the game against leaders Dulwich Hamlet, we were tied with them on points but trailed in goal differential. I chose to play with an attacking mentality rather than our normal positive mentality. The team responded beyond my wildest dreams with Fitzpatrick effectively ending the game within the first half hour. A solid victory at Billericay left us sitting atop the table at the end of the month.

 

Awards

[Lodi Lemmer]

April 2028

Results & Final Table

We started the month with a solid win over Bath. Boreham Wood did us a huge favor by upsetting Dulwich Hamlet to grow our lead to 6 points with 3 games remaining. The win over Bromley meant we clinched the title at home in front of our fans. It was a fantastic way to finish the first season in the new Salisbury Stadium. Everyone thought we'd be battling to avoid relegation. Instead, we're lifting a trophy and bouncing right back up to the Vanarama National League. We tied a club record for wins and set a club record for points. On a personal note, I have now become a club icon.

 

Player Extensions

Fitzpatrick has become the important player that the coaches have said he could be. He's been integral to our title run, and I was thrilled to get him extended. The contract has a lot of incentive clauses, but he agreed to drop his salary by nearly half.

Kevin Scott (MR, w/s), Dan Bartlett (MCL, dlp/s), and Jahquan Springer (STCR, p/a) also agreed to extensions. I wasn't so sure about offering Bartlett, but he played very well down the stretch and is a fan favorite. As a result of these extensions, I have cut the wage bill by approximately $45K p/a.

 

Youth Intake

Another poor intake. I wish there was money available for upgrades.

[Lodi Lemmer]

End of Season Wrap Up (April 2028)

Season Review

Awards & Stats

          

Season Squad Stats

Finances

Board Review

Player Extensions

Craig Gallagher (DL, fb/s), who was named to the substitutes for the All-Time First 11 this season, signed a new contract, which is good because I don't have another good option there.

 

I declined an interview with Swansea (Championship). I'm really intrigued by what they have to offer, but as frustrated as I am with the finances, I'm not ready to give up on Salisbury.

 

 

[Lodi Lemmer]

May 2028

Jahquan Springer finished as the 3rd top goalscorer in the league. 

Player Extensions

1. Dan Hughes (MC, cm/a) - 3 CA, 3.5 PA, 22yo, Welsh/English - Versatile player who can has provided cover for both MCs and for MR

 

I asked the club to go professional, to increase the youth recruitment and to add an affiliate club. The president refused everything. He did manage to get us a new main jersey sponsorship worth $840 more p/a than the last deal.

[Lodi Lemmer]

June 2028

The promotion came with an increase to the wage budget, got my bill back under the budget. I have decided to take a bit of a different approach with regard to players for our 2nd spell in the Vanarama National. I am going after young players who have been released by clubs in higher leagues. I signed a new contract and took a $10K p/a pay cut to help with the financial mess.

Player Signings

The first signing following my new philosophy is Rhys Neal (Reading), who will take over as the starting GK. I haven't decided what this means for Craig Jones. While he wasn't bad last season, I believe he had a tendency to let too many shots go through his hands. That didn't bode well for moving up a level.

Andre Hearne (Arsenal) is the second signing who was released by a higher club. While I don't like his personality, I'll give him every opportunity to win the starting DR job.

Player Extensions

1. Trent Mahorn (DR, fb/s) - 2.5 CA, 2.5 PA, 26yo English - Coming off his best season with the club after I asked fullbacks to play a bit more offensively. Didn't prove much in the previous Vanarama National stint so I'm looking for a new possible starter
2. Benjamin Bennett (DCL, cd/d) - 2.5 CA, 2.5 PA, 26yo English - The coaching staff keeps calling him a Fringe Player, and he keeps starting nearly every game and performing well. I think the fact that he and Burchell have a good partnership helps minimize their lesser attributes.
3. Jack Burchell (DCR, cd/d) - 2.5 CA, 3 PA, 25yo English - I feel like everything that I say about Bennett could be said about Burchell. I would like to find some youth to groom as their eventual replacements.
4. Jubril Okedina (DC, cd/d) - 2.5 CA, 3 PA, 27yo English/Nigerian - I was on the verge of setting him free, but everything seemed to come together for him mid-season. The coaches say he dreads big matches, but he scored some timely goals against important opponents.
5. Nick Head (MC) - 2 CA, 3.5 PA, 22yo English - Has yet to make an senior appearance with the club. I'm hoping to loan him out to see what he has.
6. Jordan Jones (MC, cm/a) - 1.5 CA, 5 PA, 19yo English - The one player from our many youth intakes who seems to have any chance of making it so far. Certainly not a guarantee. More like best of the worst.
7. Dean Pinnington (MCR, cm/a) - 3 CA, 4 PA, 25yo English - It always seems to be a roller-coaster ride as to whether he'll resign. We agreed to terms at the last minute that are reduced from last year, which was arguably his best season.
8. James Thomas (MC) - 2.5 CA, 4.5 PA, 24yo English - He has served as a capable backup. He has scored in some big games but hasn't proven that he's ready for a 1st team spot yet. The coaches keep saying he has potential, though. So, he stays.
9. Bekim Berisha (ML, w/s) - 3 CA, 4 PA, 23yo Belgian/English/Albanian - Improved greatly scoring almost as many goals last season (16) as he had in the previous 4 seasons (17). He has become our primary PK taker going 7/7 last season.
10. Harry Dunning (STC) - 2.5 CA, 4.5 PA, 21yo English - Has performed decently in the handful of cup games in which he has appeared but has had minimal impact in league games. He's too young to give up on yet, though.
11. Simon Thompson (STC) - 2.5 CA, 3.5 PA, 24yo English - Didn't make much of an impact in his 1st season with the club. I'm giving him another year to prove something to me.

Players Leaving

1. Craig Jones - Released - I got him to agree to a contract as a backup GK, but he insisted on a higher salary than he was making when he was the starter. "Out the door you go."
2. Dom Jeffries - Released - He didn't cost much, but he only made 8 appearances with the 1st team last season. Once Hughes proved he could cover at MR, the writing was on the wall.

Staff Extensions

1. Danny Kedwell - Assistant Coach - 2.5 rep, studying for Continental Pro - Man Management (20), Motivating (18), JPA (14), JPP (14)
2. Darren Kelly - Coach - 1.75 rep, Continental Pro - Defending/Tactical (15), Technical (14), Motivating (17)
3. Derek Hartnett - Fitness Coach - 1.25 rep - Fitness (9)
4. Ryan Northmore - GK Coach - 0.5 rep, Continental A - Distribution (11), Handling (13), Shot Stopping (12)
5. Andrew Johnson - Chief Scout - 1.25 rep, National B - JPA (13), JPP (16)
6. Sam Avon - Scout - 1.25 rep - JPA (11), JPP (12)
7. A-Jay Leitch-Smith - Scout - 1.25 rep - JPA (12), JPP (10)
8. Luke Rooney - Scout - 0.75 rep - JPA/JPP (12)
9. Kyle Fairgreave - Physio - Physiotherapy (15)
10. Alex Baptiste - HoYD - 2.25 rep, Continental Pro - JPA (13), JPP (14), Working with Youngsters (12)
11. Liam Bradley - U23s Head Coach - 2 rep, Continental Pro - Technical (17), Working with Youngsters (18), JPA (11), JPP (12), Motivating (14), Man Management (10)
12. Marcel Ritzmaier - U18s Head Coach - 2 rep, Continental B - Working with Youngsters (17), Man Management/Motivating (14)

After all the signings and leavings, I was somewhat surprised to learn that I'm currently about $33K p/a under the wage budget. Hopefully, enough room to fill any hole, if necessary.

[Lodi Lemmer]

July 2028

Season Predictions & Expectations

23rd (oddsmakers), 24th (media); 45-1 promotion odds, Even relegation odds

The Squad

 

Results & Table

     

I am really happy with the preseason where my goals were to build confidence and to try to earn some money. Poor finishing cost us in the league opener against Cambridge.

[Lodi Lemmer]

August 2028

Results & Table

     

Fitzpatrick rescued a draw in the opening match of the month, which inspired us to an unbeaten month collecting 11 of a possible 15 points. Dan Bartlett's goal against Solihull Moors, a 31-yard free kick, was selected the Vanarama National goal of the month. The MC depth took a hit when Dan Hughes fractured his arm in a U23s game. He was sent to a specialist and should miss about 2 months. Nick Head gets a chance to prove his worth to the club.

[Lodi Lemmer]

September 2028

Results & Table

     

Aldershot ended our unbeaten run, but we started a new one against Hereford. The highlight of the month was erasing a 2 goal deficit against Leyton Orient to overtake them for 2nd place.

Awards