[FMT20] Getting Fleetwood FC to the Premier League and beyond!

[xray1324]

Last year, I was one of those players who basically played their saves and kept it to themselves, mostly. Not this year. I intend to take up the task of getting my hometown's football team, into the Premier League, and if possible? Beyond that.

What they have asked of me should be doable this season - hopefully. So let's look at their current team, alright? (Colour Coding: Green = GKs, Blue = Defending Players (excluding DMs), Yellow = Midfielders, Red = Attackers)

So, in the squad, we have 2 goalkeepers, with 1 reliable but very old backup goalkeeper (37 years old), who we will likely save for cup games, and 1 younger goalkeeper who will start every game (Matt Gilks and Alex Cairns). We have 2 Rotational Defenders with 1 who will see the First Team regularly and 2 Backup, with Ashley Eastham, Peter Clarke, Jimme Dunne, Harry Souttar and Nathan Sheron respectively (the latter likely playing more in the DM spot than as a defender.) We have two defenders that will have to be interchanged with each other, and hope for the best. (If not, then go for the youth.). That will likely be something we'll want to improve. Then, we've got 2 First Team Midfielders, 2 Rotational Midfielders and 1 Backup Midfielder  in Jordawn Rossiter and Paul Coutts, Jack Sowerby, Kyle Dempsey and Nathan Sheron (who again will likely spend time being a backup DM.) respectively. Additionally, we have a 3 and a half star player that will actually make playing 4-4-2 a possibility. Interesting. We've also got a wealth of Wingers and Strikers, each of the Wingers capable of playing as backup strikers if one of the two main ones go down. Then, we'll try to build upon that, and build a good system to get us to where we want to be. My intentions are a solid defensive asymmetric tactic to overload one side of the pitch to loosen up the other. Hopefully it works!

 

So, here's our tactic, an asymmetric 4-3-3, which will be tweaked as the days go on, but here it is with our first line-up.

 

Then, not even a few days into the season, not even a single game in, and our main goalie is injured for 6-7 weeks!

So, Gilks replaces him in the line-up, and we go into our first friendly, against St. Mirren.

Then, this was the result. Not bad, if I do say so myself. But I think I'll call it a day from here.

Edited November 7, 2019 by xray1324
extra image

[xray1324]

A day later, I got this from Clint Hill, the Assistant Manager.

With the Head of Youth indicating that no players were worth noting or needing attention. I did check out a few of the players, and there are some slight potential players, but I don't think any of them will be in the First Team anytime soon. Then, Ashley Hunter came up, demanding a new contract after interest from San Jose. Considering how in my opinion he isn't worth a new contract, as he rarely fits well in any place on my team, I have denied it. We'll see what San Jose and other clubs offer if they do. 

Next, however, we're up against St. Johnstone. 

Aaaand we ended up losing 3-2.

In all honesty, this result shows more that the Defence of our team is at fault, while we have decent enough Attacking Strength. So it's not a very bad result.

To try and curb that Defensive Issue, I've changed the left IWB to a WB S, which should convert into a 3 man defence rather than a 2 man defence with both WBs going too far forward. We'll see if it works against Ayr.

We dominated them. I think the ratings for the defending group indicates how solid their defending was. We're next up against Bath.

Again, we dominated, finishing 7-1, the majority of the defence performing VERY well. It's looking good for us.

Then, for our final Friendly Game before League 1 kicks off in early August, we're up against North Leigh. 

Another dominating victory, overall looking good. Now we're choosing our team's Captain and Vice-Captain. I'm picking them based on what role they play, with leadership considered important after that. 

Which is why I didn't pick Peter Clarke as Vice Captain. Since it's extremely close to the season starting, I'll end it here.

[xray1324]

August 2019

-----------------

 

Leasing.com Trophy Northern Section

Looks like a tough draw for us. Most of the teams we're up against shouldn't be too much pressure, but Liverpool Reserves might be a difficult two matches. If we win everything else we should secure 2nd Place at least.

 

Match 1 - VS Peterborough (League)

As a result of our victory, it looks like a fine game all around for the gang. Defence did a good job by making sure only 1 of the 5 shots On Target were conceded, and the rest was history. A few days after this, Alex Cairns recovered from his injury. He'll likely be first choice now.

 

Match 2 - VS AFC WImbledon (League)

Alex Cairns first match back into the side wasn't very good, but I'm going to attribute that to him being injured recently. On the other side of things, the defence as usual seemed fairly solid.

 

Match 3 - VS Rochdale (Carabao Cup) 

Despite the loss, I finally know that my system is sort of working, since the only goal was my Raumdeuter. On other news, though, this game was disappointing, but allows more rest time for League Games.

 

Match 4 - VS Doncaster (League)

Another solid victory, solid all the way through

 

Match 5 - VS Wycombe (League)

Another strong defensive showing. A good win, too. On another note, I've received Loan Offers for Harrison Holgate, from York, Maidstone and Ebbsfleet. I declined all but Ebbsfleet, as he is a Vanarama National Quality Player.

 

Match 6 - VS Accrington (League)

Another solid victory, and another solid display from the defence, which was shown in that the opposition wasn't allowed to get a single shot on target.

 

Match 7 - VS Lincoln (League)

Another fine match, the defensive work wasn't as good as usual, but they did well enough to score 4 goals. 

 

End of Month League Table

League One Manager of the Month

Other Monthly Awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited November 7, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

September 2019

----------------------

 

Transfer Window Deadline Day

In: Pontus Dahlberg (Loan, End of Season, From Watford)

Out: Nobody Nobody (Free, To Nobody FC)

 

Match 1 - VS Salford (Leasing.com Trophy)

Another solid enough victory. Moving on, don't need to say much about it, other than Kyle Dempsey did really well this game. Not an expected source of goals, but glad he scored 'em.

 

Match 2 - VS Oxford (League)

Another solid victory, this time, Conor McAleny getting close to a Hat-Trick. Defensive Work is also still pretty good.

 

Match 3 - VS Southend (League)

Despite, the loss, I'm not worried. We had enough quality from other areas that another game, we'd have won it. Additionally, another positive is that we have scored every game thus far.

 

Match 4 - Rochdale (League)

I stand corrected. At least we didn't concede any goals, and at least the defence was (mostly) solid.

 

Match 5 - Shrewsbury (League)

Our defence was very shaky this game. Luckily, we still managed to score goals. It's obvious that our tactics are beginning to get weaker, so I'm going to change up my tactics for next month. 

This is the new tactic, which attempts to be stronger at the back by having the right WB not go as far forward as usual. Additionally, our RPM has been converted to a DLP in order to have both a chance creator and an almost defensively minded player to help out the defence. Then, Morris's role has been switched to the more defensively minded Defensive Winger, which also happens to be his natural position. We'll see how this works out next month.

 

End of Month League Table

League One Manager of the Month (I know, I'm not it, I'm just putting it here, to keep up with last month's.)

Other Monthly Awards

[Bigshow1]

Wow, bit of an over ambitious chairman there wanting playoffs and 3rd round of the FA cup. Couple of things I'd play with regarding tactics. Does playing extremely wide not leave you vulnerable through the middle with only having two cm's? Also, I find playing with a TM doesn't usually work well together with pass into space so maybe try experimenting with that on and off during games.

[xray1324]

It is a bit over-ambitious, but there's nothing wrong with being ambitious - that's the point of this, it's ambitious in itself wanting to get to the Premier League. Yeah though, I'll tinker around with what you've said when I get ready to post next, which will be later. Cheers for the comment, man.

[Bigshow1]

No worries dude. I'm only down the road in Preston so I'll be following this for sure.  Thing I love most about these forums is the advice and feedback from other members. Best thing to remember is just because it works for someone else doesn't mean it has to be that way for you .

[xray1324]

October 2019

-----------------

Match 1 - VS Ipswich (League)

A poor game for us, but we're still in the playoff spots. On a positive note, we did score once in this game. Better than none.

Additionally, this is the first game testing out both of Bigshow1's suggestions. We'll try them out for another 2 games to see if they affect our recent turmoil, or not. 

Match 2 - VS Shrewsbury (Leasing.com Trophy)

This game was important, mainly to inspire confidence from the team again, but also to continue testing the new improvements to our tactic. Hopefully we don't go straight back to losing next game. Very close game, too.

Match 3 - VS Sunderland (League)

This game was more even than the scoreline suggested, we just failed to hit nearly enough shots on target, i.e. they were more clinical than us. It doesn't worry me, as it wasn't a game we were favourites for.

 

A Team Meeting

The assistant manager suggested I hold a Team Meeting to address the poor form.

This is the effect that it had on the players. Hopefully this translates into league results. Hopefully.

Match 4 - VS Burton (League)

This match was surprising. For one, it showed that the defence needed reviewing. For another, it showed that chance creation and conversion isn't the issue here, most of the time. We're scoring goals. We're just not defending too well. So, for the next match, Morris will be working as a Wide Midfielder, to see if that has any benefit on defence. He's typically been really good for us of recent, so hopefully he'll be able to help push us through.

FA Cup Draw, Round 1: Doncaster

Match 5 - VS Coventry (League)

A very close game, we were fortunate in all honesty to win it. But it might be enough to turn our fortunes around.

It's looking like we're back into winning ways, so Morris is staying as a Wide Midfielder. The defensive work here was top-notch, shown by the defender ratings.

Injuries

As a negative, Conor McAleny got himself injured for 3 months, and Sam O'Halleron, who is a youth player, out for 5-6 weeks. 

As a result, Paddy Madden is replacing Conor for those months, being an Advanced Forward instead of a Trequartista, which Madden is very awkward in as a role.

[xray1324]

November 2019

----------------------

Match 1 - VS Bolton (League)

Just one of those days in my eyes. A late loss for us, really. Nothing special, moving on.

 

Match 2 - VS Doncaster (FA Cup, 1st Rnd)

Another close game, with our players being unlucky in general, concluding to a narrow 1-0 defeat, with it being a late one especially. You might've noticed that the mentality is now Attacking instead of Positive. This is an attempt to improve our chances by making more shots. 

 

Match 3 - VS Liverpool Reserves (Closest Match to the Premier Division thus far! Leasing.com Trophy)

#ThankYouPeterClarke, a surprising victory mainly thanks to the finishing penalty of Peter Clarke. We're through to the next round of the Leasing.com Trophy!

 

Leasing.com Next Round Draw

 

Match 4 - VS Portsmouth (League)

Another close game, that unfortunately we lost. Not much more to say.

 

Match 5 - VS Tranmere (League)

A victory, but I can't help like feeling like we should've done more. Josh Morris proved to be the separating mark here, but we should've scored more. Oh well. 

 

[xray1324]

December 2019

----------------------

Match 1 - VS Blackpool (League)

Could've easily been a win, but VAR had to interfere. A match against rivals too. At least the defensive work was top notch.

 

Injury Reports

Ashley Hunter is out for 4-5 weeks. Oh well, hopefully we can work well without him.

 

Match 2 - VS Everton Reserves (Leasing.com Trophy)

Solid game. Several chances to score more, but we did well. 

 

Leasing.com Round Three Draw

...The mystery.

 

Match 3 - VS Gillingham (League)

Brilliant game, Brilliant defending, brilliant attacking. Paddy was brilliant this game. I know, I've said brilliant a lot here. I'll stop now.

 

Match 4 - VS Rotherham (League)

Poor game in many areas, other than some part of our defence. We lacked much of an attacking threat for the majority of this game, except Paddy Madden.

Match 5 - VS Rochdale (League)

 

 

Surprising victory considering the possession. Not much to say here.

 

Match 6 - VS Bristol Rovers (League)

Solid in some areas, not in others. Not much to say here.

 

 

 

 

Edited November 8, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

January 2020

------------------

Match 1 - VS Sunderland (League)

Despite the draw, we were fairly solid, decently solid at the back. On a positive note, Ashley Hunter is now back in the First Team, ready for next match. Hopefully that'll mean some better results.

Match 2 - VS Ipswich (League)

A solid at the back victory, well deserved. Looks like a upturn in form. Potentially.

 

Match 3 - VS Port Vale (Leasing.com Trophy)

Good defensive work shown today, but at the same time, we were lacking sometimes in attacking threat.

 

Leasing.com Trophy Qtr. Final Draw

 

Match 4 - VS Shrewsbury (League)

With this game now done, I do think we're very good defensively now. Just, we've lost a lot of our goal scoring ability. Peculiar.

 

Match 5 - VS Bristol Rovers (League)

Even after putting McAleny back as a Trequartista, we still struggled to win, and ended up drawing. Hopefully he still can perform later down the line, though. 

 

Outgoing

James Cottam is a max 2 star potential player, so it was good to get a fee, even if it was only 7k, off him.

Match 6 - VS Coventry (League)

Finally, another win. Defensively sound, while also showing plenty of attacking threat.

 

Transfer Window Deadline Day

Sadly we couldn't get him on loan.

 

[xray1324]

February 2020

-----------------

Match 1 - VS Doncaster (League)

 

Match 2 - VS Burton (League)

Very defensively sound game here. Not much else to say other than that the chance conversion was particularly poor today.

 

Youth Move-Ups (Youth to First Team)

Ryan Rydel as a backup Midfielder Left, will get some potential game time.

Harrison Holgate as a fringe Defender, again potential game time.

Eddie Clarke as a fringe/backup Wing Back (on Loan currently)

 

Match 3 - VS AFC Wimbledon (League)

 

An absolute domination of a match on our part. Dominated in defence and attack. The best part? That Ryan Rydel, one of the new people from Youth moved into the First Team, scored on his first game this season. Fantastic.

Oh, and we broke a record. Woo!

 

Match 4 - VS Wycombe (League)

Can't really stay much about this game other than the midfield duo both did well. Otherwise, average all around.

 

Match 5 - Peterborough (League)

Good win, defensively sound. What's surprising is that 2 of the 3 goals came from a single Midfielder. Well, it works, I guess.

 

Match 6 - VS Burton (Leasing.com Trophy)

Defensively sound, again. Slightly disappointed though that only 1 of the 10 shots on target was converted into goals, but it's a victory regardless. We're through to the next round.

 

Leasing.com Trophy Semi-Final Draw

 

Match 7 - VS Portsmouth

Defensively sound, once again. I know, I just repeated myself, but whatever. I'm elated with this game, really I am. Beat the current 1st Place Team, Portsmouth, 2-0. ...Yet we're still 5th. Somehow.

We've also got 2 more games, making this a longer post than normal.

 

On another note...

Injury.

 

Match 8 - VS Crewe (Leasing.com Trophy)

Well, that was unexpected. But that's what penalty shootouts are all about. So good luck to Crewe. Good luck!

 

Match 9 - VS Transmere (League)

Another defensively sound game. VAR was the likely factor of this game not being a 1-0 victory though.

 

League One Manager of the Month

How dare he.

 

Other Awards

Edited November 9, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

March 2020

----------------

Match 1 - VS Blackpool (League)

A very solid defensive victory, especially considering the only goal was by a defender. I'm convinced we'll finish this season in the league unbeaten, but we might keep drawing a lot.

 

Match 2 - VS GIllingham (League)

Another solid win, with very good defensive work. Jimmy Dunne scored again, too.

We also managed to get another record set. Woo!

 

Match 3 - VS Rotherham (League)

We're back in the game for scoring a ton! Really good game, also a pretty good defensive showing. Also, Ashley Hunter did pretty well this game.

 

Prospect Preview

Interesting. 

 

Match 4 - VS Bolton (League)

Another great victory, but if Bolton had been paying attention, this game would've been 2-1, so I'm not THAT impressed with it. Still, it's a victory, and that's nice.

 

Contracts Set to Expire

 

League One Manager of the Month

 

Other Awards

 

Weird Thing

We're currently 3rd place in the league, and the board is worried we might not get promotion this season. But this is supposed to be for End of 2020/21 season, which has hardly started yet.

[xray1324]

April 2020

--------------

 

Match 1 - VS MK Dons

We dominated them, despite what the possession says. Solid showing from the defence, and a good showing from the midfield/attack.

Well, that's great. The board isn't happy with this though. But I think that's a known bug, so I'll move on.

 

Match 2 - VS Accrington (League)

Surprisingly even game. There were times where I thought we were going to win, but that's football.

 

Match 3 - VS Lincoln (League)

I have the feeling the players are falling asleep considering it's near the end of the season. 

 

Match 4 - VS Oxford (League)

Despite not dominating via possession, we dominated the rest of the match, with 3 goals in. Solid defence.

 

Takeover?

 

Match 5 - VS Southend (League)

We've actually done it. Promotion? 

Well, maybe not entirely. But it's possible, right?

 

Other Awards

Edited November 9, 2019 by xray1324
hit upload limit

[Bigshow1]

Good to see you going well with a good spread of goals throughout the team. Just noticed on your club's vision page they want you to play 'Winning football'. Haha, what a strange thing for a board to ask for

[xray1324]

May 2020

-------------

 

Before Playoffs League Table

We were just THREE points away from automatic promotion!

 

Promotion Draw, Semi Finals

 

Match 1 - VS Blackpool (Playoffs, Leg 1)

#ThankYouDahlberg. This game was really good, and we won especially thanks to Dahlberg's efforts. Good defensive work across the board, though.

 

Match 2 - VS Blackpool (Playoffs, Leg 2)

I'm really glad we won 3-0 on the first leg, because this was less of a good game than the last. Still, we managed to draw 2-2, so I'm happy.

 

Promotion Draw, Finals

 

Match 3 - VS Ipswich (Playoffs)

 

Sadly, Ipswich were just better than us today. 

 

Loan Leavers

Unfortunately, as we were unable to afford to keep these players on loan for another season (with them leaving a day after the Ipswich Match), all loan players apart from Lewie Coyle and Pontus Dahlberg have left.

 

Retirements

Additionally, the following players have decided to retire.

 

End of Season Awards

Long Term Vision for Next Season

 

Next Seasons Budgets

 

Edited November 9, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

31 minutes ago, Bigshow1 said:

Good to see you going well with a good spread of goals throughout the team. Just noticed on your club's vision page they want you to play 'Winning football'. Haha, what a strange thing for a board to ask for

Thanks for that, by winning football I always assumed they meant to win as much as possible, really.

[xray1324]

June 2020

-------------

 

Transfer Window

Moved up from Reserves to First Team

 

Transfer Window at a Glance

 

Edited November 9, 2019 by xray1324

[deltablue]

Shame you couldn't go up, but I'm glad we did instead

[xray1324]

July 2020

------------

Match 1 - VS AFC Wimbledon (Friendly)

Despite the loss, I feel like we were just unlucky. Not that weak in defence, and we were just unfortunate with shots.

 

Transfers

I couldn't resist after seeing this person on a Free Transfer, so I snatched him up. Well, I tried to at least.

What surprised me was the amount of people going out on a free. 

I mean, Tottenham, why? Why get rid of Eriksen?

This disappoints me. 

 

Match 2 - VS West Ham (Friendly)

Considering the fact that this is a Premier Level Team we were up against, a 2-1 loss speaks volumes for how well the squad defended. We could've conceded a lot more if they weren't prepared to fight.

 

Match 3 - VS Chesterfield (Friendly)

Considering this is a Vanarama National team, this victory wasn't unexpected. Still, a good game, nevertheless.

Youth Intake

I'm not excited by any of them, to be honest.

 

Match 4 - VS Cliftonville (Friendly)

Dominated another friendly match, nothing huge, really though.

 

Match 5 - VS Lancaster (Friendly)

Another domination. I think this shows quite well that we've not lost our attacking touch.

 

Match 6 - VS Sunderland (League)

The first league match, and we won it with solid defence and good attacking threat. 

Edited November 9, 2019 by xray1324
Accidental Post, revised

[xray1324]

20 minutes ago, deltablue said:

Shame you couldn't go up, but I'm glad we did instead

Yeah, it was a shame. We should be able to do it with a bit of luck this season! 

[deltablue]

Just now, xray1324 said:

Yeah, it was a shame. We should be able to do it with a bit of luck this season! 

I hope you do

[xray1324]

August 2020

-----------------

 

Leasing.com Draw

 

Match 1 - VS Lincoln (League)

We were lucky to win this game, scoring 1 from 11, if VAR hadn't gotten involved, this would've been a draw. Josh Morris performed well though today.

 

Match 2 - VS Blackburn (League)

Even game, despite the scoreline.

 

Match 3 - VS Crewe (Carabao Cup)

Well, we're out of the Carabao Cup. Again. In the first round, once again. 

 

Match 4 - VS MK Dons (League)

Strong defensive showing here, narrowly winning thanks to it.

 

Match 5 - VS Stevenage (League)

A very good game for us. Defensively speaking for the most part we were very good. But the same goes for the attacking threat here.

 

Match 6 - VS Burton (League)

Curse you VAR. On other notes, generally solid efforts from the entire team, with a few exceptions.

 

Match 7 - VS Doncaster (League)

We just got dominated. Along with that, most of the team's performance was lacking.

 

Transfer Window Deadline Day

 

[xray1324]

September 2020

---------------------

Match 1 - VS Macclesfield (Leasing.com Trophy)

Solid defensive victory. Not much more to say.

 

Promoted From Reserves to First Team

 

Match 2 - VS Luton (League)

Fairly solid defence, with the main attacking threat coming from Davis.

 

Match 3 - VS Southend (League)

Stellar defensive work from the defenders, with Ashley being key to our victory here. 

 

Match 4 - VS Shrewsbury (League)

A defensively solid game, that unfortunately didn't have all that much attacking threat involved. I'll be changing this up for the next match with some tactical changes.

 

Match 5 - VS Crawley (League)

A good win for us, more attacking focus here, resulted in this victory. The change of tactics seems to have paid off with this strong win.

 

Match 6 - VS Wycombe (League)

Strong display overall, Crellin in particular doing well - but almost every area was well done in this game.

 

Reserve promoted to First Team

 

League One Manager of the Month

 

Other Awards

 

[xray1324]

October 2020

--------------

Match 1 - VS Blackpool (League)

Feels good to win against rivals. Good win.

 

Match 2 - VS Bolton (Leasing.com Trophy)

Another solid victory, defence was strong here.

 

Match 3 - VS Gillingham (League)

All around good performance from everyone in the team.

 

FA Cup First Round Draw

 

Match 4 - VS Coventry (League)

We were level before Josh Earl was sent off! Argh! One of the only positives was that Josh Morris performed well this game.

 

Match 5 - VS Rochdale (League)

Back to great again, dominating the game despite the possession - strong defensive showing, and a lot of attacking threat on display that connected with the back of the goal. Keanis Davis also did brilliantly this game with 4 goals to himself.

 

Match 6 - VS Forest Green (League)

Two things majorly went wrong this game - Alex Cairns made a pretty bad error early in that lead to him conceding the ball, then Ched Evans completely missed his penalty and fired it into bloody Neptune. That's coming out of your paycheck, Ched.

 

Other Awards

[xray1324]

November 2020

--------------------

 

Match 1 - VS Wycombe (FA Cup)

Very shaky defensive performance, but we were saved by the efforts of Ched Evans especially.

 

FA Cup Second Round Draw

 

Match 2 - VS Burnley Reserves (Leasing.com Trophy)

Defensively sound, all game through - we lost the penalty shootout though.

 

Match 3 - VS Rotherham (League)

Being defensively sound ensured us that we'd draw at the very least. Paddy Madden, who was later subbed on, scored the only goal of the game.

 

Stadium Expansion

 

Offered a New Job

Considering that this is mainly going to be me attempting to get Fleetwood into the Premier and beyond, this was a no go.

 

Match 4 - VS Tranmere (League)

Another strong defensive showing that resulted in a 3-2 Victory. Mind you, I'd have wanted a better win than this, but it's a win, so I'll take it.

 

Leasing.com Trophy Second Round Draw

 

Match 5 - VS Swindon (FA Cup)

Fairly strong defensive showing, other than that, not much to say.

 

League One Manager of the Month

[xray1324]

December 2020

--------------------

 

Match 1 - VS Oxford

No one can say now that we lack attacking threat.

 

Match 2 - VS Hull (League)

Oh wait, I can. Sometimes we can chuck in goals, and some other times, we just bloody can't.

 

Match 3 - VS Peterborough (League)

Can't believe we didn't capitalize on the two Frankie Kent mistakes. Still, a victory. 

 

Match 4 - VS Swindon (FA Cup, Replay)

Were our lot just fast asleep or something?! 

 

Job Offer

Offered a job by the team who beat us into the promotion hunt last season. I'm sticking with Fleetwood.

 

Match 5 - VS Colchester (League)

Defensively strong victory, in particular Alex Cairn - saving 14 shots in one way or another.

 

Match 6 - VS Accrington (Leasing.com Trophy)

We were extremely strong in most areas in this game, and the 4 goals scored show this.

 

Match 7 - VS Sunderland (League)

Like the last game was solid in all areas, this match was disappointing in all areas.

 

Match 8 - VS MK Dons (League)

Another solid in all areas game, showing what we're really capable of. 

 

End of Year League Table

Other Awards

 

 

[xray1324]

January 2021

---------------

 

Match 1 - VS Stevenage (League)

Solid game in all areas, especially defence. Ched did really well this game.

 

Match 2 - VS Lincoln (League)

Despite the red card for the opposition, we only managed to win 2-1. Still, a victory is a victory.

 

Match 3 - VS Blackburn (League)

Despite the score, this was a poor game. We only won because of a penalty. Parts of the team were playing well, but the majority wasn't. Luckily for us, Blackburn also happened to be pretty terrible today. You could say, it was a battle of 2 terrible teams. Well, on this day at least, both teams played badly.

 

Match 4 - VS Peterborough (Leasing.com Trophy)

Just one of those days, really. We played well, and so did Peterborough. Hell, a hat-trick from Ched didn't give us the win. We ended up losing in a penalty shootout.

 

An ironic job offer.

I was just offered a job. By a team we had beaten, what, 2 games ago? Don't make me laugh.

 

Match 5 - VS Burton (League)

We were just poor in this game. Not much more to say.

 

Match 6 - VS Doncaster (League)

Another one of those solid defensive victories. We like doing those, don't we?

 

Match 7 - VS Luton (League)

A defensively sound draw, even after we had both been reduced to 10 men we still managed to draw.

 

 

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

February 2021

-----------------

 

Transfer Window Deadline Day

Well, that was quick.

 

Match 1 - VS Southend (League)

Strong win on all fronts. I'd just wish the board wouldn't keep telling me every month that I'm struggling to get promotion.

 

Match 2 - VS Shrewsbury (League)

A partially sound defensive force made sure that this game didn't become a 2-1 loss.

 

Match 3 - VS Crawley (League)

Good in all areas, I just wish we had more of an attacking threat, but it's a victory.

 

Match 4 - VS Wycombe (League)

Now that's more like it. More of a comfortable game, having an heavy attacking threat, while still staying defensive throughout.

 

Match 5 - VS Blackpool (League)

It's always good to end a post on a high. But this is a low, so it's always bad. This is the last match of the month, and we lost it. 3-2. ...

There is one positive from this, I guess. At least we scored. 

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

March 2021

---------------

 

Match 1 - VS Oxford (League)

Good all round win. Not much else to say here, other than that Paddy came on as a sub to get a brace.

 

Match 2 - VS Gillingham (League)

Another all round win, everything done good enough, with Paul Coutts being quite the creative force in this game.

 

Match 3 - VS Coventry (League)

I think we were fortunate to finish that game with a draw, as we might have lost if VAR hadn't gotten involved.

 

Youth Intake Preview

Not exactly inspiring, but who knows?

 

Match 4 - VS Rochdale (League)

Solid enough defence leading into a narrow victory. Not much else to say.

 

New Contract

I've signed a new contract!

 

 

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

April 2021

-------------

Match 1 - VS Forest Green (League)

Well, that's... One way to start off a month? Despite the scoreline, the defence wasn't that bad. We just couldn't score today.

 

Match 2 - VS Rotherham (League)

At least we didn't lose again.

 

Match 3 - VS Tranmere (League)

If it wasn't for Paddy, this would've been another 3-0 loss!

 

Match 4 - VS Hull (League)

We might've won this 3-2 if VAR hadn't gotten involved. But at least it's not a loss.

 

Match 5 - VS Peterborough (League)

Strong defensive showing, both goals from both teams by penalties. You don't see that every day.

 

Initial End of Season Stuff

That wage budget and transfer budget should be handy for us.

Finally, they can stop saying I'm struggling with that despite being high up in the league.

 

 

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

May 2021

------------

 

Match 1 - VS Colchester (League)

Despite having the ball for more than 50% of the game, we lost. But it's not all bad, because we still finished 2nd.

 

Final League Table for League One

Other Stuff

Great.

Yearly Awards

 

Misc. 

I've been approached for several jobs. Obviously I declined them all!

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

June 2021

------------

 

Transfer Window

 

The gist of it

I did try to get Paul Coutts on another contract, but I didn't manage to get him to agree terms. So, to replace him as a captain, I brought in Tom Clarke, who should be able to do a good job.

[xray1324]

July 2021

------------

Other Deals

Because we're in need of a main midfielder, I decided to get this guy on a free.

Plus, he's bound to improve in the future, so it's a fairly solid investment.

 

Match 1 - VS Torquay (Friendly)

How did we lose to a Vanarama team? What the hell?

 

Match 2 - VS Bolton (Friendly)

That's more like it. Defensive showing was strong, but we should expect that from fighting against a League 2 team.

 

Sold Wes Burns

After some tough negotiating, I made a profit on his value (well, eventually). He's worth 500k. 

 

Match 3 - VS Lancaster (Friendly)

Wow. Despite the huge victory, I have genuinely not much to say. Other than that Ched is a beast! ...Let's not get too carried away, it's only a friendly.

 

Morris wants Out

Considering he's very much a key player for us, I told him to get on with his job, basically.

 

Match 4 - VS Crewe (Friendly)

Ched is very much still a beast. 2 of the 3 goals scored were from him.

 

Collective Bonuses

 

Match 5 - VS Hertha Berlin (Friendly)

Ashley Hunter actually really helped this game.

 

New Captains

 

Match 6 - VS Swansea

As you can tell, Alex Cairns is the main reason why this match didn't end up a 10-1 loss for us. So all the credit mainly to him.

 

Sold Goldsborough

I sold him because of his stats - he wasn't likely to improve much in crucial areas.

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324
Accidental Post, revised... again.

[xray1324]

August 2021

-------------

 

Transfer Window Deadline Day

 

Match 1 - VS Millwall (League)

Despite the scoreline, we didn't do too badly. Alex Cairns again was a real help, even if we lost, he only conceded 4 out of 12. What I can say we did badly was overall shot making. Only managed to score 1 out of 9.

 

Match 2 - VS Crewe (Carabao Cup)

Confidence builder, but credit to the team for finishing in top, defensive work was strong enough here. 

 

Match 3 - VS Norwich (League)

We were never likely to get much out of this match, but credit to some of the players for really giving it their all.

 

Match 4 - VS Brentford (League)

Another match we weren't expected to get anything out of, but at one point it looked briefly like we were going to draw. Despite going 2 down, a lot of the team put their all into it. If we keep trying like this, eventually we're going to win.

 

Match 5 - VS Lincoln (League)

We kept fighting all the way through, and ended up drawing. All we need right now is a league win to stay out of relegation for the moment.

 

Match 6 - VS Crawley (Carabao Cup)

This all-round good victory should inspire a little confidence to go into the next match. Which is Huddersfield, in 1st. Great. Another loss, probably.

 

Carabao Cup Third Round Draw

Well, we're out of the Carabao Cup then, unless something goes right for us. Also, 4th? In the Premier Division? What?

Well.

 

Match 7 - VS Huddersfield (League)

Wow, talk about proving me wrong. Just, wow. Almost everyone in the team performed well, especially Alex Cairns for making sure not one of those 10 shots on target went in goal. Well, one did, but VAR helped us out on that one.

 

New Tactic

To attempt to get stronger defensively and hopefully avoid relegation, we're going cautious instead of attacking.

[xray1324]

September 2021

--------------------

 

Match 1 - VS Portsmouth (League)

That's more like it! Good all-around win, and because of it we're now 18th, 6 points clear of relegation spots!

 

Morris Stays

Well, that's good news, isn't it?

 

Match 2 - VS Crystal Palace (League)

Despite the best efforts of some players, we ended up losing 4-1 to Crystal Palace.  

 

Match 3 - VS Fulham (Carabao Cup)

Despite most of the players performing admirably, if not all of them, we ended up losing. But despite the loss, the team performed very well considering Fulham is a Premier Division team.

 

Match 4 - VS Bristol City (League)

Despite a stellar performance from a lot of them, we ended up losing 5-3.

 

Match 5 - VS Sheff Wed (League)

Strong defensive showing led to a comeback victory. Paddy saved the day too, for us, scoring both goals.

 

End of Month League Table

[xray1324]

October 2021

-----------------

 

Match 1 - VS Wigan (League)

I think we did well this game, despite the draw, defensively we were pretty strong. Cairns as usual did well, saving in one way or another, 9 out of the 10 shots on target.

 

Match 2 - VS Derby (League)

Hardly any of the team members involved did enough to even get us close to winning, but despite the loss, I think a lot of them worked hard.

 

Match 3 - VS Reading (League)

Despite us fighting hard, we lost anyways. Defensively for most of the game we were sound, but Reading just had a slight edge over us.

 

Slight Changes to the Tactic

Since Nathan Sheron, our main Wing Back is in need of a rest, and Clarke is more of a natural in NFB, we will be trying out Clarke in that spot for a few matches. This should result in a stronger defensive play.

 

Match 4 - VS QPR (League)

A solid victory for us, with Ched Evans performing particularly well, giving us a brace.

 

Match 5 - VS Cardiff (League)

Both Ched and Madden played very well today, but most of the team did well, if not all - it was a very good defensive showing for the team too.

End of Month League Table

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

November 2021

--------------------

 

Match 1 - VS Wolves (League)

Despite the scoreline, we dominated most of the proceedings with our defensive work, and Alex Cairns ensured that this wasn't more than a 3-0 loss.

 

Match 2 - VS West Brom (League)

Really wasn't much positive to say about this match, Ched as usual performing well enough, but that's about it. Oh, and Alex helping it not be worse than a 4-1 loss.

 

Match 3 - VS Preston (League)

Another poor performance from most of the team, apart from a few players who were better than average.

 

Team Meeting

Well, hopefully this has an effect on results. Maybe a little.

 

Match 4 - VS Nottingham Forest (League)

Strong team performance from the majority, except for a surprising poor performance from Ched Evans.

End of Month League Table

Exactly where we were last month, with just 4 points separating us from relegation spots.

 

[xray1324]

December 2021

-------------------

Match 1 - VS Blackburn (League)

Alex Cairns was the most positive thing about this loss - Letting only 2 of the 20 shots on target pass.

 

Match 2 - VS Barnsley (League)

In some parts, the defence was poor. Performing across the board fairly well wasn't enough though to get a draw or more.

 

Match 3 - VS Middlesbrough (League)

Thanks VAR. That's all I have to say. Thanks VAR.

 

Match 4 - VS Birmingham (League)

I don't have much to say other than majority of the team bar a few did poorly today.

 

Match 5 - VS Swansea (League)

Another poor game, bar a few members. Including the fairly consistent Jake Doyle-Hayes, who was the best performer of the group.

 

Match 6 - VS Brentford (League)

 

Another poor game. Not much more to say. We're approaching the transfer window opening, and some changes do need to be made. For example, Danny Andrew wants to leave to another club, so I'll be likely selling him and looking for a defensively minded left NFB.

 

 

[kidthekid]

Just caught up with this. I'm loving it so far. Congrats on the promotion. Hope you can escape relegation and build from there.

[xray1324]

3 minutes ago, kidthekid said:

Just caught up with this. I'm loving it so far. Congrats on the promotion. Hope you can escape relegation and build from there.

Yeah, me too - we were sitting comfortably about 18th or so a couple months back, but a few bad results and you're slowly losing the battle, but we should be able to do it with a bit of luck, I intend to make a few defensive signings this window since Tom Clarke plays in both DC and as a full back, but he's best in the full back spot as a NFB (he can play both), if we get someone defensively geared we might push on a bit better.

[xray1324]

January 2022

-----------------

 

Match 1 - VS Mansfield (FA Cup)

A draw inspired by a strong defensive performance, Josh Morris being useful in scoring that equaliser goal.

 

Attempting to Purchase Stephen Kingsley

Match 2 - VS Millwall (League)

]

Despite more shots on target, we ultimately lost, despite also majority of the team performing admirably.

 

New Tactic

With the signing of Kingsley, I decided best to have two NFBs instead of one. This might help us defensively.

 

Match 3 - VS Norwich (League)

Despite the scoreline, this was a very close game. Defensively we were incredibly strong, thanks to the new signing's efforts.

 

Match 4 - VS Mansfield (FA Cup, Replay)

Strong overall showing from the entire team, bar a few.

 

FA Cup Fourth Round Draw

Paddy Madden is out for 3 months!

 

Match 5 - VS Lincoln (League)

Strong defensive performance ensured that this was a draw only.

 

Match 6 - VS Huddersfield (League)

A poor performance from most of them.

 

Morris wants to leave. Again.

 

Match 7 - VS Arsenal (FA Cup)

Despite the loss, nearly everyone performed extremely well. Considering it's Arsenal, only losing 2-0 is surprising.

 

Match 8 - VS Portsmouth (League)

Curse you VAR. If it hadn't gotten involved, we would've won by 1.

 

 

Edited November 10, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

February 2022

-------------------

 

Match 1 - VS Crystal Palace (League)

Despite the loss, this was a fairly tight game, and we could've gotten away with a draw here, but we weren't that lucky.

 

Team Meeting

Hopefully this helps.

 

Match 2 - VS Bristol City (League)

Annoyingly, that team meeting did little to help us. Luckily, we still have chances - we only need to get a win or two in this or the next month, and we should be relegation free. 

 

Match 3 - VS Sheff Wed (League)

The fight is back. We need to keep fighting like this, and we'll get a win.

 

Match 4 - VS Wigan (League)

A stellar performance from the lads. Unfortunately, we're still in relegation spots. I forsee only needing another win to get out though.

 

Match 5 - VS Derby (League)

Another poor game for us. 

 

New Tactic

The only major change is both wingers changed to Support. Just an experiment to see if something happens because of it.

 

Match 6 - VS Reading (League)

A strong defensive performance - it's a pity we couldn't have a strong defensive performance and a strong attacking performance. I'm changing up the next game for the more forward Winger to be attacking - maybe this will increase attacking threat, while not compromising the defence too much.

 

End of Month League Table

 

[xray1324]

March 2022

-------------

 

Match 1 - VS QPR (League)

Alex Cairns shines again! It's just a pity he couldn't save us and get us a very needed victory. But it'll come. Hopefully.

 

Match 2 - VS Cardiff (League)

Despite best efforts, we lost again. 

 

Match 3 - VS Wolves (League)

A below par performance from nearly everyone in the team. 

 

Team Meeting

 

Match 4 - VS West Brom (League)

This was a rather lucky draw. Despite it, we're still in 23rd place. We're also getting very close to the end of the season. In order to stay in for next season's championship, we need to win a minimum of 2 games and draw 1. Otherwise known as 7 points. Next month, is crucial. We only have 6 games left.

 

End of Month League Table

Edited November 11, 2019 by xray1324

[xray1324]

April 2020

------------

 

Youth Intake Preview

 

Morris wants to stay! ...Again.

Despite my slight annoyance at this, the fact that he now wants to say, means that our performances may be stronger. Maybe.

 

Match 1 - VS Preston (League)

A disappointing loss, but it was to be expected. If we lose 3 more games after this, we're done for.

 

Match 2 - VS Nottingham Forest (League)

Another fightful loss, we're this close to being relegated, and we'll clinch dropping down with two more losses.

 

Match 3 - VS Blackburn (League)

Another loss, another game. We have three more games, and we will probably need to win all 3 to stay up. Not a easy task.

 

Match 4 - VS Barnsley (League)

With relegation now a certainty, many players will want to leave, and many players will be leaving. We will likely need to do a squad rebuild, this time with the tactic being a 4-4-2 (after this season ends in two matches)

Following this, these 6 players will likely leave out of my control - maybe not all of them, but I'm expecting some to go. We need some to go.

 

Match 5 - VS Middlesbrough (League)

We managed to draw with Middlesbrough thanks mostly to a surprising but far too late brilliant performance from Jamie Wood.

 

Match 6 - VS Birmingham City (League)

Gutted. Still, a good match despite the loss, and the relegation that was confirmed 2 matches ago.

 

End of Season League Table

We ended the season dead in 24th. Disappointing, but we'll come back next season, with a bit of luck!

[xray1324]

May 2022

-----------

 

Board Expectations for the next few seasons

They don't seem to be as high as my first season. Interesting.

 

Nothing else of note happened.

[xray1324]

June 2022

------------

Ashley Hunter leaves

 

Payment from the Sky Bet Championship

 

Youth Intake

Not encouraging!

 

Match 1 - VS Southampton (Friendly)

A very surprising but promising victory over Southampton!

 

Match 2 - VS Bolton (Friendly)

A strong, but expected performance.

 

Match 3 - VS Torquay (Friendly)

Surprising loss. We decided to rest a fair few of the players, and paid for it.

 

Match 4  - VS Lancaster (Friendly)

 

Match 5 - VS Bristol Rovers (Friendly)

Decent performance.

 

Match 6 - VS Nottingham Forest (Carabao Cup)

A disappointing loss.

 

Match 7 - VS Lincoln (League)

A good draw, though we should've done more.

[xray1324]

 

August 2022

-----------------

 

Leasing.com Trophy Draw

 

Match 1 - VS Portsmouth (League)

A solid defensive performance led to a narrow 1-0 win that could've been more.

 

Match 2 - VS Hull (League)

A disappointing loss, but this is football.

 

Match 3 - VS Southend (League)

Really good victory, with a nice display from Paddy.

 

Match 4 - Coventry (League)

Another good win, but Tom Clarke is doing ****. Time for the reserve team for you then.

 

Match 5 - VS Notts Co (League)

A strong performance against Notts Co.

 

Match 6 - VS MK Dons (League)

A really good win for us.

 

Match 7 - VS Crewe (Leasing.com Trophy)

We could've easily finished this game 4-0, but we gave away a penalty, and that was that.

 

Transfer Window Review

 

Manager of the Month Award

 

End of Month League Table

 

[Bigshow1]

Going well back in league 1. Have you invested any money into your junior coaching or youth recruitment yet?

[xray1324]

Actually, yeah. We recently started working on improving Youth Facilities, but other than that, no. We'll be considered Level 1 when it's completed though.