[FM23] Chapter Two: Schalke04, Rebuilding in Royal Blue with a budget of $5 dollars a day

[Hootieleece]

6 hours ago, 13th Man said:

Definitely the definition of midtable form right now! Rough October, great November, decent December…all averaging out to midtable. Which is good but can also be so frustrating.

You planning on sticking with the 5–2-2-1 for the most part? It’s tough to go away from defensive solidity!

Yes, we are midtable and still on schedule. Jester is looking to move some of the "Old Guard" this offseason. Jester will continue to use the 5-2-2-1 and is tinkering with it further based on in game experiences. One thing I am doing is moving the mentality from Positive to Balanced and thinking about dropping the LOE and defensive line.

[13th Man]

3 hours ago, Hootieleece said:

One thing I am doing is moving the mentality from Positive to Balanced

I’ve been all about balanced for a while now, especially for possession systems. The ball isn’t forced as much and it’s recycled when nothing is on. The players will still attack and go after it when there’s an opening though.

Does seem like a time to take a chance and move on from the old guard. If Jester was just trying to keep his job, it might be too risky, but if there’s ambitions of Premier League and more, seems as if the current core can’t get you there.

[Hootieleece]

10 minutes ago, 13th Man said:

I’ve been all about balanced for a while now, especially for possession systems. The ball isn’t forced as much and it’s recycled when nothing is on. The players will still attack and go after it when there’s an opening though.

Does seem like a time to take a chance and move on from the old guard. If Jester was just trying to keep his job, it might be too risky, but if there’s ambitions of Premier League and more, seems as if the current core can’t get you there.

I would have moved two of them in the January transfer window, but they were injured. 

The two I want to move are among the bigger wages on the team. I have to move them before really bringing in more talented younger players. 

That is why I really use the young player list that comes up in March for Free Transfers.

Mikey O'Neill is the man on the team. Cross-Adair has settled into Super-Sub off the bench. (He is just too small and can be marked out of the game)  Woodburn hasn't really settled back into form since his injury at the beginning of the season. I am hoping for a bounce back next season.

The up and downs of a midtable team are definitely frustrating.

[karanhsingh]

1 hour ago, 13th Man said:

I’ve been all about balanced for a while now, especially for possession systems. The ball isn’t forced as much and it’s recycled when nothing is on. The players will still attack and go after it when there’s an opening though.

Does seem like a time to take a chance and move on from the old guard. If Jester was just trying to keep his job, it might be too risky, but if there’s ambitions of Premier League and more, seems as if the current core can’t get you there.

Totally agree on both counts!

Perhaps it is time to take the risk indeed. 

[Hootieleece]

January 2025: Regular Season "Injury Crisis and Defensive Football"

Manager's Thoughts

The month of January was busy. The Physios had a lot to handle and Jester had to juggle lineups to keep enough fit players to play the matches. This all happened as the team took a more defensive mentality on the pitch and tried to keep the ball more which defensively showed dividends due to the team being named best defensive team in the division. If the team could just shoot more often, we might get more wins!

Schedule

Highlights

The first match of the New month was held on the first of January at Deepdale. Cardiff was visiting.

It was an ugly match but one that is a step on our becoming a possession team with a lower mentality.

This was the team (Starting XI consistent)

We got lucky but Jester is happy with the defensive effort.

The starting LWB got a bit of a raise and some more time to develop. Even though Jester is thinking of bring in a player to give competition next season.

The next match was versus Oxford FC.....the team would take a trip to the University Town.

Preston was favored but since the match was just a few days after the Cardiff match Jester rotated the squad.

It was a bore draw with little imagination shown in attacking by the side. It shows that there is a real lack of depth at the club.

Injuries in training seem to be the bane of this team's existence.

After that our only true LWB goes down the injury crisis continues.

The team hosted Burton in the FA Cup.....

I wanted a better result than the Oxford match! No more bore draws at home.

The team won but it came at a cost....

The Backup LWB goes down now the team will be using Central midfielders as LWB's.

This is the current Physio list on 1/11/25!

Manchester City lost in the Third Round!

As a reward we will now travel to Nottingham to face the evil Sheriffs!

another training injury......

The next match was against Sunderland and another "Star Manager" Marco Silva!

The Black Cats didn't enjoy their visit to Preston very much as PNE played one of their best of the season so far!

I was not playing mind games!

A young member of the U-21's who will probably in First team next season.

The next match was a trip to Hull....

Before the match Mikey O'Neill confirmed his loyalty by signing an extension.

The match was another bore draw.

The Hull match saw Jester play a rotated squad.

The rotated squad came off second best but battled to a draw.

Another injury the emergency cover for LWB gets hurt and will miss next match!

A month without losing not too shabby!

The Pass map is pretty good even if neither side really threatened the others' goal.

The last match of the month would see the team travel to London to take on Fulham.

Fulham now managed by Chris Wilder.

Fulham tore us apart early in the match and Jester made some defensive adjustments, but it was too little too late.

The match made Sky Sports!

The pass map shows some penetration of the Fulham half of the pitch, but we didn't possess the ball enough.

It was going to be a rather slow Deadline Day, but Jester would pick up a player for the future.

Jester had to do something about cover for the CB's and this player in his last 6 months with City is a perfect fit for us.

Jester hoped the player would enjoy his loan and sign as a free for next season.

We shipped out 7 players with no future with the team, but we are unable to get rid of any of the "Old Guard" due to injuries.

PNE works with a "Shoestring" Budget considering Jester's ambitions.

League Table

Monthly Analysis

The team was still overachieving and not shooting enough even though we scored on more of our shots than anyone in the League.

Our Month of Success was shown by us being the top defensive team in the League due to the lowering of mentality on the pitch.

Player of the Month

Our Goalie had a superb month and needs to get mentioned for the excellent defensive record as well.

Management Report

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

[SixPointer]

Considering your budget think you’re punching above your weight! Top half finish would be hugely successful but if you put a good run of form together next month you could close in on a shot at a playoff. 

[Hootieleece]

7 hours ago, SixPointer said:

Considering your budget think you’re punching above your weight! Top half finish would be hugely successful but if you put a good run of form together next month you could close in on a shot at a playoff. 

Luckily, I am not really pushing for Playoff Spot until Season 4. (This is season 2) Some better performances against "Big" teams would help. I do agree that we are punching above weight. Unfortunately it a good month then bad month sort of seasons so far. The life of Mid-Table Mediocrity.

[SixPointer]

32 minutes ago, Hootieleece said:

Luckily, I am not really pushing for Playoff Spot until Season 4. (This is season 2) Some better performances against "Big" teams would help. I do agree that we are punching above weight. Unfortunately it a good month then bad month sort of seasons so far. The life of Mid-Table Mediocrity.

Just gotta keep plugging away at it 

[Hootieleece]

 

 

February 2024: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The team continued to play well but injuries and tiredness from a Hectic schedule caught up with the team. Playing Nottingham Forest 3X in Three weeks was a bit much. The change in mentality and its defensive benefits are obvious. The team unfortunately doesn't shoot enough, but it is hard to shoot from your own end when you are pressed. The team's Target Forward has underperformed when brought in to try route one. He only wins 24% of his headers. The team is also dropping places in the table but should comfortably avoid relegation.

Highlights

The month of February saw the first match be against Bristol City on the 1rst.

Preston was favored but would have to do a professional job to keep their run going.

and it was with Cross-Adair scoring.....

He refound his star form.....

Jester is trying to find the right players for the roles of the Front Three. Today Woodburn played Trequarista instead of F9. Cross-Adair is a little small and Jester is worried he can be marked out of a match by bigger stronger players.

It worked on this day.

The team has been overperforming all season and Jester took a look at some interesting XG Stats compared to the League.

an almost 10 goal difference from XG!

and best conversion rate at 14%! We just need to shoot more!

The team then had to ready themselves for a trip to Nottingham and play them back-to-back. First in the FA Cup then in the League.

Both teams are in good form, but the home team is favored.

Nottingham Forest has become one of our "Bogey" Teams. Jesse Lingard runs amok for them!

The Change of Attack player will miss the FA Cup match.

It was a well-played match between two teams that were defensively solid.

After the match these were the soundbites.

The rematch sets up a busy Two weeks that will see PNE play Forest twice the second week!

Since we are an up and down team and Jester doesn't really think the team can make a playoff push, we will concentrate on the FA Cup for the money and hopefully a trip to one of the Premier League teams. Jester isn't disregarding the League as the team hasn't attained at least 50 points yet.

Derby County was the next visitor to Deepdale.

Before the Derby Match we found out that the winner of the rematch would host Liverpool!

A rotated team was able to salvage a late draw.

We just don't take enough shots, but Jester is loathe to use the shoot on sight team instruction. 

Derby's defense forced us into a congested middle of the field which made it harder to attack their goal since we depend on crosses from the Wingbacks.

PNE then packed up for a trip to Wales and Swansea.

Jester partially rotated the team with an eye on the FA Cup rematch.

The match started off well and we controlled the match in the first half. Unfortunately in the Second half Jester made some changes with the FA Cup in mind and was punished for it.

Because he was saving him for the FA Cup!

Playing the same opponent twice in a row.....

The plan worked to perfection! An Even first Half and encouragement at halftime saw us through to Victory!

Two very different press conferences.

Mikey O'Neill is the "Real Deal", leading the line from the SS-A position.

As a reward for our trouble, we would host Liverpool!

The victory Celebrations had to be cut short because of another trip to Nottingham.

Jester used a half-rotated side and it was obvious....

But it was a close match.

Now we lose or RWB!

The starter could only play about half the match because of tiredness and Forest scored early then pressed us hard.

After the disappointing loss to Nottingham Forest the team returned home to host West Bromwich Albion.

The other coach plays mind games.....

and it worked!

After our first goal, Albion pressed us hard and we had a hard time breaking the press.

The next match would be on March 1rst and would be the Visit of Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool to Preston!

League Table

Player of the Month

Monthly Analysis Report

Dropping in the table even though we are overperforming as well as we have all season!

Management Report

The fans and players aren't happy with losing. The Board is happy with how things are going overall.

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

[Hootieleece]

March 2024: Regular Season "The Madness of the Steward"

Manager's Thoughts

The team came into March following back to back losses and started the month with Liverpool another one. The team was able to bounce back with some winnable matches and the only regret was the draw against Blackpool. The problem is that if teams press us and keep us from playing out of the back our starting F9 Cross-Adair isn't really tall enough (5'6") to battle for balls over the top. Unfortunately playing him their makes the most sense because Woodburn has slotted more naturally into the Trequarista position on the left. The problem is that Jester can't fix the problem and persists with the tactics and formation. It does give results against inferior teams.

Schedule

Highlights

The first match of the month was held on the First. It was Liverpool visiting Preston and there was plenty of Media hype with Jurgen Klopp's boys coming to town.

Liverpool were big favorites and Preston was in a poor stretch but playing well defensively.

PNE favorite stating the obvious.....Mo Salah is a goal scorer, and we need to stop him!

Woodburn was one of Klopp's "misfit toys" but has found a home in Preston.

Both managers were excited for the spectacle.

As one can tell the match was overhyped. PNE came out flat and were dominated in the first half. PNE played better in the second half, but the damage was done.

The full weight of "Heavy Metal Football" had been used to blitz our defense.

Jester had learned a lesson but was ambitious enough to try and reach their level someday!

Another big match was coming to town with rivals Bolton providing the opposition.

Preston were big favorites because Bolton was on an even worse.....

Jester relishes matches against rivals be they competitive or local.

It was an ugly match, but playing Woodburn as Trequarista worked a treat.

A "hobbit" leads the line none to well, but Jester insists on this madness because he believe Cross-Adair is the English Messi.

60% possession and only 9 shots!

PNE would have yet another Home match with Huddersfield coming to Deepdale.

another team in bad form and a match PNE needed to win!

Frank Lampard in Huddersfield!

Old Frank shouldn't have talked trash before the match!

Woodburn led the line this day and had his best of the season.

Cross-Adair came in as his sub and got on the scoresheet as well.

We shot more than the other team!

Hatrick Hero!

Player of the Week!

Pass map is promising.

Man City with 10 of the best players in the world won a trophy.....

Time to play a Local Rival as we travel to Blackpool....Eggs are thrown at our bus on the way to the stadium.

Blackpool is facing Relegation almost at the bottom but are still favored in the match. Jester doesn't understand.

West Lancashire Derbies are important!

The Blackpool manager playing mind games with his team!

and Jester said as much in his press conference.

Biggest Match of the week!

We went ahead and was cruising to victory until Shane Lavery came on. He was unreal for 8 minutes and it changed the match from a win to a draw!

a Back handed compliment from Jester....

Woodburn missed the match with a nagging injury and Mikey O'Neill was rested.

Another match where we are out shot!

Decent map. Some penetration by Cross-Adair and the Treq, Galbraith.

The final match of the month would see the team travel to Middlesborough for a tough match against the 2nd placed side.

They blitzed us like Liverpool and we didn't recover.

The map shows that Cross-Adair was marked back into our half and that the team showed too little inclination to go forward after going down early.

Katongo is out for a month.....hope our physios make him want to stay.

League Table

Mikey O'Neill is the man.

Monthly Analysis Report

Still overperforming!

Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

 

If present trends continue Jester is proud to say that the team will have a positive bank balance at the end of the season.

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

[13th Man]

At this point, are you just wondering the streets looking for players?  How are you even putting 11 players on the pitch!

All things considered, it's a miracle you are midtable.  Maybe need to tone down the training sessions for those two match weeks?  In general?

I found that when I had players with top fitness etc, they could handle the intense training much better.  Lower down the leagues, it led to a lot more injuries.

[Jogo Bonito]

Doing a steady job there in Lancashire and in a solid mid-table position. Financially going well and hopefully soon (next season?) ready to launch a challenge. Keep up the good work.

P.S. It would be great to see Lampard take Huddersfield down. A really terrible manager.

[Hootieleece]

2 hours ago, 13th Man said:

At this point, are you just wondering the streets looking for players?  How are you even putting 11 players on the pitch!

All things considered, it's a miracle you are midtable.  Maybe need to tone down the training sessions for those two match weeks?  In general?

I found that when I had players with top fitness etc, they could handle the intense training much better.  Lower down the leagues, it led to a lot more injuries.

I have players there are a bunch in U-21's that just aren't ready: 17-18 Year olds. As for training I try to balance out the training with recovery sessions and Teamwork stuff. (lower intensity.

2 hours ago, Jogo Bonito said:

Doing a steady job there in Lancashire and in a solid mid-table position. Financially going well and hopefully soon (next season?) ready to launch a challenge. Keep up the good work.

P.S. It would be great to see Lampard take Huddersfield down. A really terrible manager.

I am planning on another season of this but with less losing streaks . Then hopefully the young players will be ready to take the World by storm in 25-26 season.

[karanhsingh]

Gotta say, well done on riding through a rough period. I hope your luck improves from here, you surely deserve it. 

[Hootieleece]

37 minutes ago, karanhsingh said:

Gotta say, well done on riding through a rough period. I hope your luck improves from here, you surely deserve it. 

Thanks. As you will see shortly....not so much April is awful for results (spoiler)

[Hootieleece]

April 2024: Regular Season "One Step forward, Two steps back"

Manager's Thoughts

April would be a busy month and would see the team play better sides. The month of March the team ended in bad form and unfortunately it continued for an entire month. The team wasn't playing that badly it was just like luck deserted us once we had become safe from relegation. The only match that Jester regrated the team's effort was versus Luton Town where the team lost 4-1 to ten men. The team was playing the new system well it was just that teams had found a good counter which was to press the team hard and keep them in the defensive end as much as possible.  It is on to next season already in Jester's mind.

Schedule

Highlights

The list of players that Preston would scout hard came out, some of these players may be signed for U-21'S to start.

The first match of the month was versus Luton Town

Many saw it as a match of equals with PNE being favored at home.

We went down to ten men and had no answers especially in the second half. Even though many of their goals came from lucky bounces off of clearances.

The Ten men had to go into a defensive shell and that just allowed them to keep up the pressure.

The next match came just 3 days later....

A match against Reading FC!

Jester has made it to 100 matches quite an accomplishment for a no-name manager brought in on a lark..to try and save a season!

The trip to Reading would be a chance to play against a team in Bad form.

It would be a even match and the Homestanding team got the luck in the 83 minute because Jester's adjustments hadn't gone into effect after Reading went down to ten men and brought on a wave of subs.

The real problem is that we keep the ball well with this formation we are relatively "toothless" going forward because teams are beginning to press us hard.

We did deserve more, but a lucky loss is still a loss!

Jester Couldn't fault the possesion numbers it was one Route one ball over the top that beat us before Jester could make adjustments because of Readings subs.

How do other coaches handle Opposition Instructions for Subs?

Youth Intake 2024 Review

Joshua Tyson- MC

Junior Mubarak-MC

KyleWardle-ST (Poacher)

None of these players look like they will be talented enough to join the First Team, but they will be trained up anyway.

The next match of the month would take the team to Watford.

Preston was in a bad stretch again and Jester hoped for better effort against a top team.

Mind Games for his team....since we are in bad form.....

We played well took an early lead and were playing well defensively, until Watford Subbed in a Wave of players and went Route One. This time the "Super Sub" was named Saviour Godwin!

What a name for a Super Sub?

We played more defensively after our early score as Jester was looking for a "Smash and Grab" win.

We lacked penetration, but then again, we spent most of the time defending.

The media noticed our woes even though we only played badly in the Luton match.

Crystal Palace a top team that had a bad run of form to begin the season were coming to Deepdale. 

Another late adjustment broke down our defenses even though we were rather anemic going forward.

The fans had had enough of the losing and Jester decided it was time for a Team Meeting and he reverted to the 5-2-1-2WB for the next match versus Norwich

Neither team was in particularly good form, but Norwich's was better than PNE.

It was a match that saw neither team concentrate on Defense and the match remained tied after Extra Time that had two dramatic Goals!

The Player brought in to be a Target Forward that can't win headers does great as a Pressing Forward something to think about for next season.

Norwich pressed us hard but the Positive Mentality meant our Counterattacks were more lethal.

Decent Penetration on the Left flank from the LWB-A Slater.

The final match of the month would be for table position against a near equal in QPR even though the team needed to travel to London.

Because of a Promise to Mikey O'Neill the team reverted back to the 5-2-2-1WB formation so he could play SS-A

They scored a fluke goal early in the match and kept the press going which stymied our attempts to even the score.

It was truly an ugly Squib of a match!

It is good to see Mikey O'Neill in the mentions for Young Player of the Year.

League Table

Player of the Month

Monthly Analysis Report

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

[karanhsingh]

Ouch, bit of a rough month. But Saviour Goodwin drew a chuckle 

[13th Man]

13 hours ago, karanhsingh said:

Ouch, bit of a rough month. But Saviour Goodwin drew a chuckle 

Second all of the above!

[Hootieleece]

 

May 2025: Regular Season "Finishing on a High note"

Manager's Thoughts

The team had just finished it worst month of the season and with the new month. Jester wanted to win out to send the fans and players home happy. Unfortunately, both games would be played against tough teams. The team did well to win the home match and draw versus our rivals in the final match of the season. Jester is already planning to move on from some older players to allow the team to play a more aggressive press to make up for so shortcomings next season.

Schedule

 

Highlights

After the month of April Jester wanter the team to repay the fan's faith in them with a win in the last home match. The opponent was Stoke and would be tough, but after a Team Meeting there was a renewed sense of purpose.

Even though PNE was the home team Stoke was favored. Probably due to recent results.

 

The team responded and put on a very good show for the fans.

The match stats back up the performance.

The pass map and the team made over the magic number of passes (500)

Then that brings the last match of the season a trip to our hated rivals Blackburn.

Jester was hoping to pull off an upset to end the season on a high note!

Plenty of Hype before the Rival Clash!

Everyone expects defeat except for Jester!

It was a close match in that an overmatched PNE rose to the occasion of a Rivalry match and played it even.

If we had been able to get anything out of Woodburn we might have won.

We controlled the match Woodburn let us down with his misses.

Mikey O'Neill is a Star! He led the team this season with 17 goals.

A good pass map and 590 passes!

Norwich became Champions on the Final day of the season against second place Middlesborough.

Final League Table

It is obvious that Mikey O'Neill is the star of this team.

The Relegation team were led by "Star" Managers: Sheffield Wednesday: Nigel Pearson, Huddersfield: Frank Lampard. Yet a former University Professor who never did anything but kick about with friends still has a job!

As one can see from the average ratings only three regulars put in consistent good shifts: Mikey O'Neill, Bambo Diaby, and Ben Whiteman.

The Board called Jester to a meeting for the future of the team:

We have a little wiggle room with some players leaving.

The Supporters are slowly growing.

Season Analysis Report

Preston overacheived.

our numbers were right on expectations but that could be attributed to the fact that we changed defensive tactics about halfway through the season to get it to that point.

The Outlier is the Attacking efficiency: 15 goals more than expected!

The team started its clear out of underperforming players right away....

The Backup Left Wing back was sold.

and a new Starting Left Wingback was brought in

in other news....

Liverpool does the Domestic Double!

Mikey O'Neill is runner up for young player of the month!

Jester also started his restructuring of the staff for the future. He would look for an Assman that had a similar outlook and tactical formation.

Some other teams are looking at our players. He is good but if some club activates his release clause so be it even though he is a player that Jester wants to keep. It is a financial decision above all else.

This is the first time that I have ever had this happen in game being invited on a tour. Usually the board plans training camp.

The Youth Canidates officially joined the team to midfielders for the future.

Management Report

Jester is in a good place with the triad.

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

Awards Night:2025

The marketing department created a Season Review Slide Show to be shown at the Club's Awards night honoring fans and players alike.

The incoming players had an impact on our season none more than record signing GK Teddy Sharman-Lowe. He was between the sticks 43 times!

but the best bang for the buck was former Tottenham player Malachi-Fagan-Walcott who bolstered the defense.

D'Mani Mellor can be thought of as a failure so far.....

Some of the outgoing players would be missed, especially goalie Freddie Woodman who didn't even get a game at Tottenham.

Of the Loanees Kian Best did the best and will be given a chance next season in First Team.

It was an up and down season and after that late losing streak Jester was happy to be mid-table.

The FA Cup was tough we ended up playing Liverpool the eventual winners.

The Carabao Cup was embarrassing losing to a League One side even though they got promoted to the Championship for next season.

The Finances were quite as good as the season before but not off by much.

This was our most consistent Starting XI even if they are in their actual positions.

Mikey O'Neill won almost ALL the awards!

The marketing dept put lipstick on the "pig" of a month that was April.

The Timeline says we were worse than last season.....fans are disappointed.

to be continued:

 

 

 

[karanhsingh]

Decent season that. Hope you can push on in the summer. Btw any academy boys have broken through yet?

[13th Man]

With all the injuries and setbacks, it was not a bad season on the whole. Clearing out the deadwood…time to put Jester’s fingerprints on the club and mold it into his image (to mix metaphors and all that).

[Hootieleece]

1 hour ago, karanhsingh said:

Decent season that. Hope you can push on in the summer. Btw any academy boys have broken through yet?

Mikey O'Neill is an academy grad and a star. Cross-Adair is a Super-Sub and Slater the LWB was the regular Starter this season but will become a backup.  Those Three are the best so far from academy.

1 minute ago, 13th Man said:

With all the injuries and setbacks, it was not a bad season on the whole. Clearing out the deadwood…time to put Jester’s fingerprints on the club and mold it into his image (to mix metaphors and all that).

Spoiler:The "Old Guard is on the way out this off season. Jester made a mistake in the end of year meeting that ruined the Preseason (Don't promise to play young players until the Preseason Team Meeting) This season is going to be tough. Started off against the Two best teams in the league and a tough rival (Blackburn) in Carabao Cup. Media is making noises about relegation already.

Woodburn hasn't found his form again and the leftover Old Guard (Captain Browne and RWB Potts) led a player revolt about locker room atmosphere after those 3 losses. It will be an interesting season.

 

[13th Man]

Ouch! Is Jester going to try to stamp his authority on the squad? Or try and let it all burn off?

[Hootieleece]

June 2025: Offseason

Manager's Thoughts

The team and Jester was ready for a renovation. Most of the old guard of players he inherited two seasons ago had to be let go. It was obvious that many lacked the ability to play how Jester truly wanted mostly for lack of pace and ball skills.  Unfortunately, The team didn't have the budget to bring in Younger First team ready replacements, so the team continued to look for potential. The coaching Staff also saw a shake up so that everyone was on the same page as far as style and formation as much as possible. This will allow us to go forward with the plan and be ready for the Promotion Playoffs in the 2026-2027 season.

Highlights

Jester tried to start building the team and staff in his image by getting the board to allow him to hire better coaches and retain Paul Gallagher the 5-2-1-2WB Guru.

Jester did his best negotiations but because of Salary restrictions was unable to rehire him as a coach or make him Assman. Jester would try a different approach later in the month.

Watford that had a better team had a player that beat Mikey O'Neill for Young player of the Year.

Ben Whiteman was Runner-Up for Goal of the Year. Those two awards sort of sum up the season of what could have been.

Jester Signed another Ball-Playing CB for the January Window.

Seary is an Academy player that has a chance of becoming great and will be loaned out this season.

While those negaotiations were going on Jester was also overseeing a clear-out of players from the U21's that would never make the first team. They all had less than a month left on their contract and Jester was trying to get something anything for them.

Jester found his new Assman.

A great personality and better tactically and technically than Gallagher and he has been to Preston before....

Jester happy to have Lucketti as his assistant.

More Old Guard on the move.

A new HYOD that has the same formation as the team even if he doesn't have a great personality.

Gallagher signed a deal because Jester asked the GM (DOF) to negotiate for him. (Two Year Extension)

Jester has no idea where this rumor comes from $3.8 million is double the amount of the transfer budget!

Another of the "Old Guard" gone to our new rivals in Portsmouth.

He was a good defender just lacked pace to play a high line and that leads to mistakes and opponent's goals!

It was time to plan the Preseason.....9 matches in Four weeks. Jester Believes in Match Fitness.

The Board was happy about our reputation boost.

The season officially came to an end.

Preston is playing a lot of U-21's as backups and rotation options. The team made DOUBLE League average!

The board was rather unexpectant about the coming season.

The Laughable TV money in the Championship!

This is a Utility player that can play many positions rather well from midfielder, Wing Back or Center Back.

O'Neill gets his deserved extension, and the team will make a decent amount of cash if he leaves. A win for both!

The GM find a player that can if needed be brought into the First team.

Jester is continually building for the future.......He should be in the First team within Two seasons!

The Carabao Cup match is about as tough as we could get.......our Rivals who should be pushing for Promotion in Blackburn.

Building up the U-21's on GM's Suggestion.

The team brought back a former loanee to try and be the Target Forward that Jester wants as a change of attack sub.

The Team may have too many Strikers right now, but Jester wants to repurpose some to Attacking Midfielders.

Another signing for the future from the Youth List.

Cort Jester now has the best license available.

Jester added a 10th Friendly as a Testimonial playing our rivals Burnley after learning he could give the Captain, Brown, a testimonial.

Management Report

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

14 minutes ago, 13th Man said:

Ouch! Is Jester going to try to stamp his authority on the squad? Or try and let it all burn off?

rSpoiler: Some of both! He's keeping Brown, the Captain, but trying to sell Potts. Brown will be allowed to finish the season because he is "exploring his options" now. 

I am ahead of my posts in my playing, and you keep asking questions I want to answer.

[Hootieleece]

 

July 2025: Preseason "Not the best of beginnings"

Manager's Thoughts

The team returned mad because of a promise made in the end of season meeting to play youth players (Problem: Promise ran out on 6/25/25 while everyone was on vacation) The Starting XI then thought they could go through the motions in the match against the U-21's, They were wrong! losing 0-3! (I normally start every preseason off with a friendly between the First Team and the U-21's no matter who I am managing) The rest of the Preseason went well enough with the Backups playing on Tuesday and Wednesday and the Starting XI on Saturdays (better competition). The Media and Casinos think that the team will be in the relegation battle because of the quality of the teams relegated from the Premier League. Jester thinks if he can weather the morale drop and get a few early victories the team will be ready for mid-table.

Schedule

Highlights

The team came back from vacation in a mood because of an unwise promise to play Youth in the end of season meeting. (The promise ran out on the start of the new season schedule on 6/25/25) and the Old Guard really thought they could go through the motions and beat the U-21's.

Boy were they in for a surprise and were left red faced.....with the loss, but that only made the ring leaders more upset.

That allowed Jester to put in motion his plan to ship the "Old Guard" out.

It started with Hughes and continued with Robbie Brady the LWB as well.

The Trip to Scotland was cancelled last minute so instead the team headed to Belgium where they took on Anderlecht and a lesser side RFC Liege.

Anderlecht played Keep Away against a toothless team, because they are even more pathetic offensively.

The team played better against Anderlecht than in earlier matches this preseason. Anderlecht kept possession of the ball and that got Jester to thinking his current tactics were too defensive minded. So, he started tinkering with TI's in the remaining matches in preparation for the first match versus Fulham.

The First match against RFC Liege showed results:

A 4-0 win against a Semi-Professional side, but it was something to build on.

Galbraith our Trequarista received an extension now that wages were freed up with Hughes leaving.

The Penultimate Preseason Friendly was against Burnley and was a Testimonial for our Captain Brown.

The 1-0 win vindicated the slight changes to the tactics that happened so far.

The Team will play our Rivals Two more times during the Regular Season.

Transfers

The June Transfers are considered this season by Jester.

So far this season.

Preseason Preview

The team is predicted to finish 19th in the Championship at 50-1 odds because of the strength of the teams relegated from the Premier League.

The Team Preview

Keeping the main tactic from last year but Jester made defensive tweaks.

Teddy Sharman-Lowe GK-SKS

Jordan Storey RCB-BPD

Sam McClelland CB-BPX

Bambo Diaby LCB- BPD

Brad Potts RWB-WBA

Ali McCann DMCR-DMD

Ben Whiteman DMCL-DLPS

Nathaniel Ogbeta LWB-WBS

Mikey O'Neill AMCR-SSA

Ethan Galbraith AMCL-Trequarista-A

Ben Woodburn STC-F9S

Monthly Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[karanhsingh]

I like your tactic, particularly the roles you have assigned to the front 3. Although I've never been able to make Treq work but i know you're a fan. Also the new young Welsh striker looks quite promising. 

[Hootieleece]

August 2025: Regular Season

Manager's Thought's

The overall low morale led to a slow start not helped by starting the season off with three straight defeats. That brought a rebellion from the Locker Room and Jester said he would try and improve it. He did that by shipping out Ringleader Brad Potts on Deadline Day. He had become expendable once Jester signed a new Starting RWB. The Captain was involved as well andhe announced he would be mulling his options. He will be allowed to leave gracefully but Jester has NO intension of extending him. Jester also continued his tweaks to the tactic and player roles and thinks he found something that will work. Two encouraging matches to end the month help his confidence for the future.

Schedule

Highlights

The Regular Season was going to begin at Deepdale against Fulham the Bookies favorite to win the Championship.

Even though PNE was the Home team they were underdogs! Could they pull off the upset?

The Board reminded Jester of their objectives.

and the marketing team announced the Season Ticket Sales....still growing SLOWLY!

The match had much hype including the fact that Jester often beat and that Chris Wilder had a bad record against PNE.

Would that mean victory for the Lilywhites?

 

It was obvious to everyone that Fulham was the better team and PNE was dominated.

The Next match was Three Days later with another Tough one as the Carabao Cup match Versus Blackburn.

Blackburn is a Playoff contender and was about as tough a first-round match as we could face.

Jester even said it out loud!

Blackburn got off to a fast start and PNE never recovered.

By XG and match stats the match was much closer than the score line suggests.

After those two losses Jester rotated the team for the next match.

It would be another tricky match....

The Captain is finally happy after the broken promise hopefully the locker room will settle down.

Jester is still planning on letting him go after the season ends....

It was a close match until in the second half.....then West Brom Broke down our defense. Our Goal Keeper stopped a penalty, and then as we were chasing the draw we were hit by a Long Ball over the top of the defense.

After the match and how toothless we were going Forward because we predictably brought it up the pitch on our right our possession was often for nothing.

So Jester Changed some TI's to make the team less predictable in possession.

Two defeats and the Media make us favorites to go down.....SMH!

One of our Defensive linchpins goes down.....

Also the team found a new RWB so that "Old Guard" Potts who was losing the ball too much and complaining off of it could be let go.

Pace and Dribbling ability two things Potts lacks.....

Jester had to overpay but he thinks it will work.

After that paperwork the Team showed up in the office to complain about Atmosphere:

The malcontents were led by the Old Guard including the Captain and Jester took it seriously, but tried to convince them if they played better, it would be better.

Jester backed down and said he would try to make it better. (Mostly by shipping out Malcontents)

The Captain is considering his options......good don't let the door hit you in the A** on the way out!

and the team might be taken over.....

Jester has to "Sell the Drama"

With the tweaks and training work Jester was hoping for a better performance.

The next match was versus Sheffield United at Deepdale.

It was a good performance, but a late goal spoiled the victory.

another tweak the New Trequarista would be Dele-Bashiru instead of Galbraith.

Another player is pondering his options. No big deal the team hadn't really gotten anything out of him.

The last match of the month was versus QPR who were visiting Preston.

Right now, he is Fourth in Rotation, and it is always good to have depth at CB.

another late goal ruined our day....

The New Treq is returning the Faith for getting a chance!

Transfer Deadline Day

Jester went into the day not looking to add anyone but trying to move some players.

Particularly this malcontent! and it is a loan with future fee but he is gone from the Locker Room!

League Table

Monthly Analysis Report

Monthly Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

to be continued:

 

[13th Man]

Hit the road Potts!  Tough times indeed, steadying the ship though.  May it turn into wins before too long.

On 23/05/2023 at 12:21, Hootieleece said:

I am ahead of my posts in my playing, and you keep asking questions I want to answer.

HA!  Sorry about that.  I'm also generally a good bit ahead of my write ups as well (sometimes I wish I wasn't, as I think up something that would have been helpful).

[karanhsingh]

Bit of a tough start to the season, but it's good that you are weeding out the bad influences. I think your squad may be in need for some renewal.  

[Hootieleece]

4 hours ago, 13th Man said:

Hit the road Potts!  Tough times indeed, steadying the ship though.  May it turn into wins before too long.

HA!  Sorry about that.  I'm also generally a good bit ahead of my write ups as well (sometimes I wish I wasn't, as I think up something that would have been helpful).

Still ahead of posting but not as far for a short moment yesterday I was caught up.

3 hours ago, karanhsingh said:

Bit of a tough start to the season, but it's good that you are weeding out the bad influences. I think your squad may be in need for some renewal.  

I do need a rebuild, but I can't really afford to bring players in without some leaving and right now I have a bunch of Attacking midfield/Striker types that need to leave due to goal droughts and bad play. Laird sort of blew up the budget. He is highest paid player.

[Hootieleece]

 

September 2025: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

After the player revolt was settled the team started playing better especially defensively. We still weren't getting wins though. This was because of some epic goal droughts and bad paly from players in the F9 role mostly. If some how Jester can figure out how to get the team back to scoring like last season and the team keeps its defensive cohesion the team would be well on its way to the top half of the table instead of being just out of the relegation battle. The one problem is even though the team pace has gotten better, and we play a mid-block susceptible to the long ball over the top.

Schedule

Highlights

The team is rumored to be taken over, but unfortunately from within which probably means no bigger budgets.

The first match of the month was against Stoke City and was a win.

It was a win due to a good shift put in by our Attacking Mids who both scored a goal.

It was a lucky victory if you look at the stats from the match, but at this point Jester will take any win!

Jester is pleased for the boys and the supporters.

We are keeping possession but are getting very little out of the Striker Position.

The Assistant Captain is now back on side after worrying about the Youth Promise from the Summer.

The next match was a rescheduled match due to international call ups against Bristol City.

Jester would play a rotated side in this fixture.

The Striker/F9's woes have been obvious to everyone.

Jester loves when a rotation option is slated to play and then comes up with an injury....

The Rotated side played well, and Woodburn did too until he was sent off for a bad tackle. We went down to 10 men but Bristol couldn't break us down in the last 40 minutes!

Secret Woodburn played as a Trequarista instead of F9.

We did well considering that we were down to ten men for over 40 minutes.

An Academy player who was on emergency duty was brought into the side as a Middle CB-Stopper.

Tunisian. English, and Italian! Good Personality 

Considering we spent quite a bit of time defending with Ten men the pass map looks good.

After his good performance in the First team his extension was triggered. He will probably get a new contract in the offseason.

After the Two victories the team had to travel to London to take on Crystal Palace.

It was an even match until they went Route One and over our press late for the first and the second was a worldly goal in the closing seconds.

It was a good performance defensively until the last ten minutes.

The pass map shows some penetration when we brought on Impact-Sub Cross-Adair.

The next match would see Swansea City visit the Deepdale Stadium.

The struggling Woodburn would miss a further two matches....

Our New Left Wingback would face his former team. Jester was hoping for a good performance.

Neither team could penetrate the others Press until Swansea Changed tactics and had a few chances including a penalty shot that was stopped!

The pass map is good, and we had a lot of touches.

The Final match of the Month would see League Leading Luton Town com Calling on Preston.

We couldn't stop their Striker who is in a rich vein of form even after man-marking him!

Nobaody palyed particularly well except the goalie and even then he let in 3 goals because of sub-par defense.

Stats make it obvious we were dominated.

Our Impact-Sub is having an epic goal drought.

Jester appreciated Adebayo's Player of the Week performance.

The pass map shows how we were dominated and couldn't get anything done offensively.

The Chairperson ends all talk of an Internal Takeover!

League Table

Monthly Analysis Report

Player of the Month

The captain and "Old Guard" member is in a contract year and is now playing for his future so he has been instrumental in our wins.

Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

 

 

October 2025: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The month of October would see only four fixtures and an international break. Jester hoped to use the time to rebuild team cohesion and morale. The team needed to play better and its woes in front of goal can be almost attributed to one player Ben Woodburn. He was seriously injured in the Preseason and has not found his form since. Jester has great faith in him but it is being tested. The team did play better during the month slowly climbing out of the relegation zone.  Jester is happy with every point because a even a draw brings them closer to the team objective of staying safely in the Championship.

Schedule

Highlights

The month would begin with a trip to the Turf Moor the home of our ancient rivals Burnley.

A big turnout was expected for this Lancashire Derby

Recently Relegated Burnley were firm favorites and Jester was just looking for a good performance now that the morale problems are mostly behind us.

The media trying to stir up a war of words before the match!

Why is it that anytime you put a player in the Starting lineup before the matchday after being rotated out for rest they get hurt?

We played them tough and had some luck on our side to come out with a 1-1 draw. Ben Woodburn could have won it for us but missed the penalty.....his form has never recovered from his torn hamstring injury.

The control of the ball was good we just couldn't really do anything with it.

Woodburn has been awful since returning from injury and his missed penalty and performance summed up his season so far.

As well as picking on our struggling players the media are trying to pressure us by asking other managers do we have enough to stay up?

The team received a small payment from one of the first of the "Old Guard" to leave.

The team played a match against Oxford United and it was a bore draw.

 

 

After this article came out Jester held a team meeting. Saying that everyone is against us and let's show the world how good we are!

We were fighting against a parked bus and most of the shots would have been great Feild goals in the NFL!

The next match would see the team host another Relegation battle favorite Lincoln at Deepdale.

Jester decided to rest most of his starters for the match just to try something different.....

It worked with the team scoring two goals on corners thanks to team Captain Browne.

The other manager didn't take losing too well.....

It was his Cornerkicks that led to the goals!

After the victory Jester was in good spirits and showed confidence in the team...

This was a message to the team that it is us against everyone else....time for a Siege Mentality!

The last match of the month would be another one in the Relegation Battle....with Derby seen as favorites even though they are the Visitors.

Jester was unsure because he wanted the team to decide for themselves to seize the day!

This was a tale of two halves.....First half Preston dominated scored two goals and looked to be coasting to victory. After Halftime it was all Derby all the time with Long balls over the top. Even with specific man marking Tyler Roberts scored two goals!

The ref wasn't the best but then again he was in our favor......

League Table

to be continued:

 

[13th Man]

On man marking - I find it’s weirdly harmful with strikers, especially when defending over the top balls. I honestly loved when CBs got close as a forward. Meant you could either lean against them when back to goal and force them to tackle through you, OR as you’ve found, you could accelerate around them into space with a step or two head start as they had to turn and sprint back. If they were a bit off and to the side. they’d at least be able to put pressure from the side….

In game, I’ve found no success in tight marking forwards. I usually reserve it for midfield playmakers when I want them constantly under pressure when they receive the ball.

[karanhsingh]

6 hours ago, 13th Man said:

On man marking - I find it’s weirdly harmful with strikers, especially when defending over the top balls. I honestly loved when CBs got close as a forward. Meant you could either lean against them when back to goal and force them to tackle through you, OR as you’ve found, you could accelerate around them into space with a step or two head start as they had to turn and sprint back. If they were a bit off and to the side. they’d at least be able to put pressure from the side….

In game, I’ve found no success in tight marking forwards. I usually reserve it for midfield playmakers when I want them constantly under pressure when they receive the ball.

I agree with you although I was the defender in your example. I only liked tight marking in friendly games with no referee as I could keep fouling and kicking from behind 

In game i agree though especially with the midfield playmakers who are usually not that quick. 

[Hootieleece]

I usually "Zonal"(Opposition Instruction) mark the 4 most active playmakers in an opposing team. It was just after the first long ball I decided to Man Mark the Striker with a PI.

[13th Man]

11 hours ago, karanhsingh said:

I only liked tight marking in friendly games with no referee as I could keep fouling and kicking from behind 

Ha! Fair play. My move was to push off with my shoulder (no raised arms!) when turning in behind - can’t get my feet when you’re stumbling just a bit! Always a cat and mouse game between defenders, attacks, and the ref.

8 hours ago, Hootieleece said:

I usually "Zonal"(Opposition Instruction) mark the 4 most active playmakers in an opposing team. It was just after the first long ball I decided to Man Mark the Striker with a PI.

I get it - I just tend to find pressing/marking the passer is more effective than marking the forward. The one exception sometimes is wingers. It’s more worth the risk because even if they get in behind, they’re at the touch line so not just through on goal…

[Hootieleece]

November 2025: Regular Season

PS: (I lost some images when I was having problems with Windows 11 and had to Reset the computer also lost some edited screens because I had to reinstall FM23)

Manager's Thoughts

The team came together in October and continued playing well in November. Defensively the team has tightened up and is now getting scoring from the front three even though Jester is still trying to decide who they are. O'Neill and Cross-Adair are the definites, and Jester is searching for the third member of trio. Also he thinks that to help Woodburn regain his form moving him from F9 to Trequarista and replacing him with O'Neill. It is all in flux but the team is beginning to win so this is a decent problem to have if the winning continues.

Schedule

Highlights

The month started off with a trip to Ipswich.

We then played a lot of good football during the month of November and shot up the table like Jester thought we would. The only problem or concern is Woodburn's lack of form and Jester still trying to find the right three players and roles for the top of the Formation.

The month of November would end with the team getting ready for a Lancashire Derby against Blackpool.

The Team is drawing interest because of our strong showing on the pitch for short money.

Confidence from the manager before the match is key to success!

All eyes are on Preston and Blackpool this week!

The team played well defensively and were incisive on the counterattack. Jester's search for a #9 continues with Transfer Listed D'Mani Mellor actually scoring.

The match's highlights made Sky Sports!

Good Triangles were created and the ball was shared.

The last match of the month was versus Sunderland and would show Jester if we were contenders or pretenders after out slow start.

The Sunderland GK is quite good, but if we don't believe we can beat him how are we going to win the match?

After being rotated for rest player is hurt when set to start again!

Even without our LWB we were able to triumph over Sunderland!

Jester is still trying to find the right player for the #9 position as a False Nine.

We actually took our chances in front of net in this match!

Our Very Special Hobbit won the day for us!

Now Just imagine if we started better....in August and September!

The team is getting Media notice now that we are just outside the Playoff Places!

Decent Pass Map penetration by LWB that set up the goals.

League Table

Player of the Month

Other Awards

Our Hobbit was 3rd in Player of the Month, 2nd in Young Player of the Month, and had the Goal of the Month!

and after this spell of good form Jester was runner up for Manager of the Month!

Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

[13th Man]

What a month!!!! Crazy how you can flip your place in the table with a handful of good results.  Funny how reshuffling the pack with Woodburn playing technically deeper can change things. Also maybe just the team gelling.

[Hootieleece]

13 minutes ago, 13th Man said:

What a month!!!! Crazy how you can flip your place in the table with a handful of good results.  Funny how reshuffling the pack with Woodburn playing technically deeper can change things. Also maybe just the team gelling.

It is true that a good month (actually two) does wonders for table position.

The Top three in my formation are still a work in progress. Jester has never been happy with the results up top and has been shuffling players in and out. Like I said O'Neill and Cross-Adair are certainties but the troublesome #9 role is making his headache.

Woodburn's form is either hot or cold and mostly cold......Jester has been about as loyal as he can be....

I might have to change formation and roles up front yet again to get consistency up front, but that is for next season.  (I am playing in February right now)

[Hootieleece]

December 2025: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The team came into the month on a roll and Jester wanted to keep it going. The team played well at the beginning of the month but then complacency and congestion began to kick in and the team had two bad games back to back. (actually 3 halves) The team then steadied the ship by the end of the season and sit just outside the playoff places. The team is susceptible to the Longball but generally defends well. The problem these past two seasons is going forward. The team is clinical but doesn't take enough shots. This isn't helped by the fact that Jester can't settle on the Front three and their roles

Schedule

Highlights

The month of December began with a trip to Reading where Jester hoped to continue the good play on the pitch.

Due to current form PNE was favored, but Jester was taking no chances.

The savior of the side was Woodburn! Would this break his streak of bad form and help kick the team to the top?

We are on quite a roll.

This is the preferred Starting XI 

Reading played more direct and fouled us more to stop us from breaking down their defense.

A lot of sideways passes trying to breakdown a bus.....

Since the team is playing well but losing money on a small budget. Jester is secretly in favor of a takeover that provides more money for Payroll and Transfers.

Cardiff FC come calling to the Deepdale Stadium. PNE should win this match.

The Youth Preview is absolute trash.....The team is going to have to raise funds to pay for better Youth Development somehow.

Tha Analysis Department was so happy to share their findings with Jester due to our great play for the last two months and a half.

McClelland is the CB in the center of the Back Three and the Future Captain!

Cardiff played us tough but the quality off the Bench helped the Backups beat them.

 

 

Cardiff also wanted to play Rugby instead of Football and one of our players was hurt.

The Pass Map shows penetration by Mellor the F9, who scored the winning goal.

The next match was versus relegation threatened Millwall, but it was also a trip to London and all of its Distractions for players from a more rural area like Lancashire.

Laird just signed with us and Jester isn't against him leaving of the three mentioned only Mikey O'Neill would be truly missed (Leading Scorer)

Millwall Sat deep and beat us with the Long Ball it was ugly......

Our unbeaten run comes to an end. It has propelled us into the top half of the table and we flirted for a week or two with a Playoff place. Jester thinks if we hadn't got off to such a bad start we would safely be challenging for playoffs especially if our offense could become a little more dependable.

Jester was upset with the loss to a relegation threatened side. (No Days OFF! , On to Nottingham Forest, that is the Lilywhite Way!)

Preston was about to take on a reeling Nottingham Forest, but this would be a tricky match in that they had players like Jesse Lingard that gave Jester fits!

The Hype is starting, this is dangerous if the team start believing the media. NF is a dangerous team otherwise why would they be favored being 19th in the table?

Jester wanted the Team to play better in this match.....

The first half was ugly....we were carved up like Turkey on Thanksgiving and gave up 3 goals! After a Hairdryer at halftime the team played better but it wasn't enough!

After the match the Press Conference was actually about Jester than the Loss....

Jester wants success, but only at Preston North End!

The Board and Fans are happy with the answer to that question.

The next match would see Reading come Preston for Boxing Day celebrations!

Reading is propping up the table and Jester is hoping to send the fans home happy.

Due to match congestion Jester started the Backups and that was a mistake, but O'Neill salvaged a draw in Extra-Time!

The next match would see the team travel to League leading Luton Town for a match that in Jester's mind would certify us as contenders or pretenders.

The Starter's Would be playing this was a "Big Match"

Middlesborough did follow through with the Interview offer, but Jester declined to take them up on it.

If Jester gets sacked or fired due to a takeover, he might just try to find another "Sleeping Giant"  with History! Looking at you ASSE!

Luton found out the hardway that we can play football.

With Woodburn's struggles with form this all-around midfielder has become the Trequarista.

The pass map isn't bad and shows some penetration by Cross-Adair.

The Chairman ends discussions of a takeover and here Jester was hoping for "Sugar Daddy"!

League Table

Monthly Analysis Report

Attacking Efficiency is slowly getting back to last season's efficiency. Jester would still like the team to take more shots!

 

Player of the Month

Monthly Management Report

Monthly Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

January 2026: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The team played well in January but didn't get all of the wins it needed to become a true contender for the Playoffs. Analysis shows that the team is good defensively even if Jester likes to complain about long balls over the top ruining his day. The Troubling thing with the team is trying to find a reliable #9 it seems to be the difference between contender and pretender. O'Neill is being tried at the F9 position but he plays better as a SS or Treq. Cross-Adair claims to be a Striker but the little hobbit does better as a Shadow Striker.  If Jester finds a Striker then everything will be in place for a title run.

Schedule

Highlights

The new year would see PNE take on their Ancient Rivals Burnley at Deepdale.

Jester was wary of Burnley just like he was wary of Nottingham Forest, Plus Burnley was Leaderless Vincent Kompany being sacked a few days before....

It's a Big Match!

The Burnley Players came out with a point to prove and there was nothing to differentiate the sides at the end of the match!

Dele-Bashiru penetrated the Burnley defense the most.

The team would have the luxury of 9 days between matches after the congestion of the Holiday period.

Before the FA Cup match the Media wanted to know if Jester got along well with the Chairman especially after trashing the takeover rumors.

The Backups made short work of Rotherham especially late in the second half when they tired of defending their box.

As a reward we would have a tricky match up next in the FA Cup

West Bromwich was a Playoff Contender and would be a tough match up.

The team then had to travel to Lincoln and play a match with rested Starters.

It was an even match up except we were toothless in face of their defense.

They scored on a break away after a bad pass in the build up just before  the half.

The stats show that this could have gone either way.

The team then returned home to host the Team from Oxford

PNE was favored but that was only due to their Home advantage because ever since their unbeaten streak was ended they have played poorly.

a bore draw, but at least it wasn't a loss! Points are Points, but any Idea of us making Playoff run are taking on Water!

The Analysts sat we should have won....Jester is looking for a reliable #9!

The next match would be Ipswich Town in a Six pointer in the mid-table.

Cross-Adair is waiting talks to stay with Preston, He is on the list of players to be extended for sure.

A little luck went our way and Cross-Adair scored the goal!

Ben Woodburn will probably be in the unemployment line when the season ends a lot of talent but is now hurt constantly and when in the lineup not playing well.

Cross-Adair's Goal made Sky Sports!

Good triangles if a little too congested but then we are told to play narrow.

The Derby Match was the last of the month!

It was a long ball to Tyler Roberts that set up the tying goal!

As Cannon couldn't find a place in the lineup it was good to get him possibly off the books with a loan with possibility of Transfer!

 

League Table

Player of the Month

Monthly Analysis Report

Analysis shows that Jester just needs Halland to become a Premier League Team!

Management Report

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

February 2026: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The team started off the month full of promise near the Playoff Spots. The team played well during the month defensively, but the lack of consistency up front and susceptibility to the Long ball manifested themselves and the team had a month to forget about and slid down the table.

Schedule

Highlights

On deadline day the team let go of one of its borderline players that had a few starts but had been returned to the U-21's.

A few players went out on loan because Jester didn't see a future for them if PNE was to take the next step.

The Fans were upset about the Taylor deal and Jester asked everyone to "Trust the Process."

The first match of the month would see the team travel to West Bromwich Albion for the 4rth Round of the FA Cup.

It would be a tricky match against an equal or better team.

A little intrigue heading into the match.....

West Bromwich played long ball from the off and it was effective in creating a 3-0 halftime lead. Jester made adjustments and the team played better in the second half, but it was too little too late.

The match stats show that the match wasn't even close.....

There went our chance for a Deep Run in the FA Cup!

The mind games obviously worked against us to their advantage.

Actually Jester shouldn't be so about it because he did play the Backups!

Another trip to London awaited the team this time versus QPR!

The Starting XI would play in this fixture.

QPR had a new manager, would that give PNE a chance?

Praise is only called for after the match maybe....

This was a winnable match but we just didn't get the necessary luck!

The Stats bear that out!

QPR played a little better than we expected and won considering Jester praised the coach ahead of the match it was only polite to praise the team afterwards.

The team returned home to the friendly confines of Deepdale Stadium for the next match versus Stoke.

Stoke went down to 10 men and we took advantage. Especially Mikey O'Neill!

The stats show that it was a close match.

Stoke played more direct thus had more shots.

Jester wanted to show appreciation for the team's efforts.

The GM retires and then submits his resignation a week later.......

Crystal Palace are coming to Preston. Jester hopes to give them a warm welcome.

Projecting Confidence in the Team before the match.

It was the Longball to Luis Suarez show and one got a penalty!

The problem is that the team is almost always trying to breakdown teams prepared to defend deep. To borrow a Basketball analogy, we don't score enough "Fast Break" Points and are mired in a "Half-Court" offense that is easy to defend.

Calm and steady rights the ship.

Another Starter goes down.

The last match of the month was a trip to Wales and a meeting with Swansea City.

Jester changed the mentality to Defensive but made no other changes.

The team scored both its goals on Corner Kick's!

Ben Woodburn continued his awful play when he missed a penalty......

Small's Heading on Corner's was magnificent!

The team played well even if it was mostly backups to shake things up!

The GM left even before his retirement date. So Jester set up an application in the Job Center.

League Table

Player of the Month

Monthly Analysis Report

The XG table and the Team Defending graph support the contention that the team is playing well, It is just lacking in the scoring department and a little luck. One bad month from Playoff Contenders to Mid-Table Mediocrity. Maybe next month we can do the reverse!

Management Report

Good Support from the Board and Team means the job is safe, only a better table position will get the fans on our side.

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[karanhsingh]

Crazy that you're 12th but only 4 points off the play-offs... anything can happen!

[Hootieleece]

2 hours ago, karanhsingh said:

Crazy that you're 12th but only 4 points off the play-offs... anything can happen!

April will decide it most likely.

[Hootieleece]

March 2026: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

The team started really clicking in March it used its defensive solidity as a basis to work on the offense which was still a work in progress as Jester continued to tinker with roles and players in the front three. Overall because we spent much of the time versus team in much worse form, we were able to come up with wins and end up just outside of the playoff spots.

Schedule

Highlights

The first match of the Month would see Hull FC visit Deepdale Stadium.

Preston was taking on a team in bad form but would have to make sure to do a professional job.

Hull decided to play Rugby and had two players sent off. Even so it was tough to break them down and it took world Class Long shot from Ben Whiteman to get the victory.

By stats we should have scored two or three goals

Whiteman's goal made the Highlights!

Look at those season stats!

Good Pass map.

We lose the backup DLP for the rest of the month.

The next match was trip to visit our local rivals Blackburn Rovers......

Blackburn was favored but PNE had a chance!

Plenty of Hype leading up to the match.....

Match of the Week!

In other news Arsenal wins the Carabao Cup!

We got lucky, but a win is a win!

eating some humble pie now.....

 

O'Neill's performance was superb and I complimented him to the assembled press.

Sky Sports Highlights again.....it is almost like We are the story of the season!

D'ani Mellor showed glimpses getting forward in the #9 position.

The next match would see the team face some of the "Old Guard" players that Jester let go!

Fans and Stalwarts are getting excited by our play and table position.

"Old Guard" Liam Lindsey featured by the media to stir up interest!

Jester has confidence in his team.

It was an away match and Jester is happy with the point!

The outcome of the match seems fair given the stats.

Marco Silva was reacting to PNE hiring another GM (DOF)

This was Jester's Choice for the Job.

After the trip to Portsmouth the team returned home to host rivals Blackpool.

Preston is in good form, but Jester isn't taking any chances playing the first team.

A PNE Icon spoke on the importance of the West Lancashire Derby.

A fan favorite decided to tell Jester about their Striker......

and the always obligatory because we are playing well.....takeover Story.

All that leaves is the match itself.

A Big win over Rivals is always good!

Woodburn played well for once......leading the mostly second-string squad to victory.

The victory was comprehensive as the scoreline.

Bitter to be defeated by a better team.....

Jester try's to build off of each fixture regardless of win or loss but it easier to do with wins!

More media Coverage for us as we get close to the rareified air of the playoff places!

Woodburn and Mellor gained penetration of the Blackpool box which helped set up our goals.

West Bromwich Albion was coming to town and would be a challenge after playing relegation fodder.

Preston was playing well and expected to win the match at home.

Even though the media pointed out that West Brom was a bit of a "Bogey" team for us.

The match was a hard-fought stalemate, but a point is a point!

We are now in Promotion Contention!

most glaring stat is not shots on target!

After Warne complimented me and the team before the match Jester tried to return the favor.

They did stifle our offense!

Their press kept us from penetrating their box which led to the lack of shots on target.

Jester signed a pair of our young stars to pre-contract extensions to sort out the team for the future.

League table

Monthly Analysis Report

Player of the Month

Management Report

Financial Report

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Hootieleece]

April 2026: Regular Season

Manager's Thoughts

Jester can't actually explain why the team is playing so well right now, but he believes that it justifies his moves in the early season to rid the team of older troublemakers. The team is playing more defensively and getting just enough scoring from a front three that Jester is constantly tinkering with. The unbeaten streak that goes back to the end of February brings the team into playoff and promotion contention! Jester is enjoying the ride just like everyone else even if it is a season too early according to Materplan 2028!

Schedule

Highlights

Now that the end of the season was near Jester finally had a chance to mostly use his Starting XI. Even so He was still tinkering with players and roles in the Front three.

The first match of the month was another trip to London this time to face Fulham.

As our good form persists the media start caring about records and other things.....

Jester just thinks the Goalie is doing his job.....

The team had to come from behind and did so with the help Dele-Bashiru who was subbed in for Woodburn as Trequarista.

The stats show that the match was close and that we were lucky to win but this got Jester believing that something great could happen this season.

The Liliywhites are the Story of the season headlining Sky Sports once again!

Dele-Bashiru was player of the week and notice his stats versus the average attacking midfielder.

We didn't have much possession but made it count when we did.

Checked off an objective.

and when asked about it Jester said the team was getting closer to being the team he wanted.....

The next match would be pivotal in the battle for Playoff Spots:

Both teams come in to the match in good form and the visitors are favored. Can PNE pull off the Home Underdog Upset? Jester believes!

Match of the Week again!

The team played their best match of the season, and the fans were ecstatic, and Woodburn finally put in a good shift!

Match stats showed that we took our chances and really kept them penned in their end of the pitch!

Woodburn was the hero! If he had put in performances like this all season, he might be on the team next year!

Woodburn led the line from the Trequarista role.

Another big match awaited this time a trip to floundering Sheffield United FC.

Sheffield were playing poorly but could prove to be too much for PNE.

The Sheffield Manager started the mind games.....

I think we can keep this going!

Lady Luck smiled on us yet again.....Jester is becoming confident in his team.

The stats show that the plan was to play defensively and grab a goal and hold on for dear life.

It really came down to the GK and he stepped up to save the game including a penalty!

That loss got the Sheffield boss fired!

and look who may comeback!

Next the team traveled to relegation threatened Cardiff.

Preston is favored due to form and table position would they do a professional Job?

The fans are coming out of the woodwork now!

The Analysis Department didn't want to be left behind talking about how well we were playing either!

Then came the match:

Give Cardiff credit they fought hard but in the end a draw was clutched from the Jaws of Defeat by Dele-Bashiru!

Stats say we probably should have won, but a draw is also a fair result.

Looking back this draw probably kept us from being promoted.....

The Team also checked off another objective on the Club Vision ahead of schedule!

Another player who was beginning to contribute up front goes down for the rest of the campaign.

Since we are playing well the Chairperson doesn't want to leave......he has dreams of Premier League Money dancing in his head.

The Next match would see Relegation Threatened Millwall visit Deepdale Stadium.

Jester wants a better result versus a worse team!

The players responded!

The fans are starting to believe!

The Match Stats show how dominant the win was.

Jester told the team how aprreciative of their efforts he was through the media.

And the Captain of the team became the greatest PNE player of all time!

In other News: The U-18's show that the team has a future.

Look at that number of Goals!

Mikey O'Neill our main man is up for EFL Young Player of the Year!

League Table

Monthly Analysis Report

Management Report

Monthly Financial

to be continued:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[DavidBeckham]

Automatic promotion surely? KUTGW mate!

[Hootieleece]

1 hour ago, DavidBeckham said:

Automatic promotion surely? KUTGW mate!

Not quite. Spoiler: We came in third by a difference of two goals and was denied in the final as well. I will post later today I think.