Wallace v Roberts 2009

[bermybhoy]

Northern Monkeys - April

39 - Rugby v Salisbury

I've grown to hate playing this mob, but this game was altogether different from previous ones. We controlled throughout, and the first goal was only ever a matter of time, eventually coming from Matty Knowles (although inexplicably given as an o.g.). Evans quickly followed that up with a cool finish, to give us a comfortable win and leaprog them again.

40 - Darlington v Rugby

Not much I can say here - presumably basking in the glow of the last game, we were terrible. Contributed nothing, and went down without a fight.

41 - Rugby v Tamworth

Back at home and back to form, we performed much better. A second half Holdsworth goal gave us the lead, which he doubled in injury time. Tamworth still had time to pull one back, but it was too late for them.

42 - Rotherham v Rugby

Featuring a massive number of changes to cope with a fixture pile up and injuries, we had nothing going forward. The defence held firm as ever to hold out for a draw.

We secured at least a play off place with that result, and sit 2nd, one behind Salisbury.

43 - Rugby v Ashford

A great performance this that nearly didn't give a result to match. Holdworth converted a Morgan cross to give us the lead early on, but it was cancelled out when againi we were the victims of a goal direct from a corner. We pounded them, but it wasn't until the 4th minute of injury time - with only 3 added on - that Holdsworth finally slammed home the winner. Salisbury were hammered by Bristol Rovers, sending us top again.

44 - Rugby v Basingstoke

Well, we seem to be hitting form at just the right time. Evans scored two identical goals, running onto through balls for nice finishes for a good half time lead. A fluke from Raw, header from Scott and late, fantastic finish from Holdsowrth where he beat three men and rounded the keeper wrapped it up. A couple of goals from their striker didn't take the shine off a good win.

45 - York v Rugby

With two games left but Salisbury and Crawley both breathing down our necks, a win was vital. Midway through the first half we got a lucky start through a bizarre og. But our play had deserved it, and just before half time, with the pressure still on, Holdsworth fired home from about 15 yards with a fantastic volley. He wasn't done there, and just after half time got up to win and bullet home a header from a Morgan cross to secure another comfortable and MASSIVE win.

46 - Rugby v Barnsley

By now we were 3 points ahead of Crawley, who'd made a late push. Salisbury had collapsed into 3rd and Barnsley sat 4th. We needed a point to be sure of things. And sure enough, we got off to a dream start - after just 30 seconds, Matty Knowles crossed into the middle, where Milsom headed in. And that was it, an entertaining enough game, but no more goals.

Rugby are Champions! As it goes, our result didn't matter - Crawley could only draw, so we actually won by a comfortable looking 5 points.

[brettney1980]

Well done Bermybhoy, Excellent 2-0 win against Salisbury.

[bermybhoy]

Northern Monkeys - Season end

FA Trophy Final - Rotherham v Rugby

Going into the game on a high after the league win and on a run of good form, the bookies rated us heavy favourites for this one.

45 mins - after we absolutely dominated the first half, Rotherham took a shock lead, a belter by their centre mid from 30 yards.

64 - Fraser tears down the right and plays in a dangerous cross, which Holdsworth neatly knocks in at the back post to draw us level

90 - That's it for the regulation 90 minutes. Chances at both ends, but nothing clear cut.

100 - Rugby win a free kick out on the right. Pritchard swings in a dangerous ball which Holdsworth throws himself at, at the back post - 2-1!

105 - Although not the quickest, Holdsworth reacts first to a neat ball over the top, runs through, beats his man and knocks it past the keeper to finish his hat-trick and surely seal the Trophy for Rugby?

107 - Rotherham's winger has other ideas, firing in a cross which he completely mis-hits beyond Peacock in goal, pulling it back to 3-2.

120 - But that's it! Rugby easily see out the remaining time to bring the FA Trophy back for the first time and to complete the double!

Summary

Well, that season was a bit of a slog. Sorry for taking so long. At the start I made a ton of signings and it took a while to work out who were the best players. It then became a case of trying to keep them all happy, so some had to be shipped out, a few of whom in other circumstances I'd maybe have kept.

When it came to it though, we had easily the best squad in the division - maybe not individual players, but enough sufficiently decent to rotate and keep grinding out results. It was a bit of a slog in truth, for all we were usually winning, it wasn't by much and franky wasn't as enjoyable as some seasons I've done before where we rattled home the goals using very similar tactics. Ah well, it finally came good at the end. A double is way more than I expected. Even with 4 or 5 games left, I'd happily have settled for the play-offs.

The squad

I think we're in ok shape for next season. The assistant's report right now says nothing (all 7 star), but it should change once we're in League 2.

The squad

Goalkeepers

Martin Peacock - only 20, but did well for us after coming into the side, keeping plenty of shut outs.

Damian Newton - At the other end of his career. Started the season with him, but he's deteriorating badly.

Verdict: keep Peacock as backup at least, but a top class GK should be a priority.

Full backs

McKenzie and Morgan - not much to choose between these two, can see they rotated through the season. Both did fine and both still young.

Hamilton is definately our best left back. Also good in left mid, check the number of assists. McDermott is a squad filler only.

Verdict: Could use better cover at left back; right back might be ok with the two we have.

Centre backs

Moses - not the tallest, but an absolute rock at the back, who chipped in with a fair share of goals from set pieces. Can't remember him having a bad game.

James Scott - eventually settled on this fella as the best partner for Moses. Did fine, but might lack the quality to step up a division.

Stuart Hamilton and Craig MacKenzie also got some game time, but I wouldnt trust either in the higher division.

Verdict: Moses is good, but we could use at least one or two more to help him out.

Wingers

Fraser and Redknapp shared right wing duties, but neither was especially convincing.

Knowles came in mid season to pay on the left, is our highest earner and although his average rating isn't great, should be capable of the step up. Udall is good backup and looks promising, but wants to leave - we should get a good £100k at least for him.

Verdict - right wing needs an overhaul, probably need new backup on the left.

Centre midfield

Heath and Lowe are both versatile, but probably best as defensive midfielders. Wouldn't trust them at the back, but both did fine in the middle.

Pritchard and Raw are attacking midfielders with not much to choose between. Marginally preferred Pritchard, who has a lot of dig for an attacking player (watch it when he gets booked!)

Verdict: We're ok here, but if any room for improvement, certainly it's in the attacking midfielders.

Strikers

Holdsworth - came in mid-season and became our star player. Got better as the season went on, and finished strongly with some braces and that Trophy final hat-trick.

Milsom - our other strong forward, scored quite a few but was injured at inconvenient times. The rest of our backup isn't worth talking about, none really did anything to prove themselves when called upon.

Verdict - Holdsworth is easily good enough, Milsom's ok as backup but this should be a priority. We struggled to score all season, we should be throwing a fair portion of the wage budget here.

Other stuff

Finances - we're in VERY good shape here. Made a profit almost every month due to healthy attendances, the cup runs, a couple of sales and underspending the wage budget for the whole season. Don't blow it all!

Transfers - plenty of wheeling and dealing during the year (and some more at the tail end of the previous season). Don't think we missed anyone who left.

Club info - we're in the middle of a board takeover. Therefore, no requests can be made or more importantly, transfers brought in. Hopefully it's resolved soon, without being saddled with too much debt. Btw, the pitch is a mess - remember to ask for it to be relaid!

Think that's about it. Who is next? No reason we can't keep shooting up the leagues with the right signings. I'm not attached to anyone, so don't object to another big clear out - it's probably needed to take us up again. Good luck with it!

SAVE GAME FILE

[brettney1980]

I wouldn't mind going next if theirs no one waiting?/ No Objections!? (I'll start downloading and take a look just incase).

[hasdgfas]

I would like another chance soon, but go ahead for this season, brettney

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - first impressions;

After taking my first look over the squad it looks really strong baring the odd signing here and there definately a new GK is needed, and possibly 2 strikers but other than that i can only see me signing any players i find that are better than the current crop we'll certainly be able to boost the staffing ranks so i'll take a look for some potential new Coaches and Scouts.

To add to the 2 Trophys Bermybhoy bought home for us last year, 3 members of the team made the Blue Square Premier's Elect, Holdsworth got the 2nd best Goal of the Season and Paul Wallace was Manager of the Season.

The Board Takeover is finally completed with the new Chairman announced ... and no money being invested.

Oh and the final Blue Square Premier Table!

Now lets take a quick nostalgic look at what Blyth Spartans have been up to in the League, they also won the League Cup and The Champions League.

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - @ Season Turnover;

Season Summary - Best 11 - Overall Best 11.

The Youth Prospects for the season aren't going to be earning playing time anytime soon here's the best.

Season Expectations.

Anything else anyone wants to see/know just give me a shout.

[Dava]

Well done Bermy, great season.

Good luck brettney.

[bermybhoy]

How's it looking Brettney, made much of a start?

CV next for the Softies?

[hamilton162]

Yep, CV should be starting soon bermy

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - August Report;

[u]Friendlys.[/u]

Home vs Bridlington.
 13 - 0
Home vs Coventry.
  0 - 2
Home vs Hamilton.
  2 - 0
Home vs Wrexham.
  1 - 1
Away vs Rushall.
  3 - 0
Away vs Woodford Utd.
  7 - 0
Away vs Vauxhall.
  1 - 0
Away vs Boston Utd.
  2 - 2
Away vs Cefn Druids.
  8 - 0
Home vs Sunderland Nissan.
 11 - 0

[u]League Campaign Begins.[/u]

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/awayvsmacclesfield.jpg?t=1255209868"]Away vs Macclesfield (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 3
Hoping to get the League campaign off to a good start we handed debuts to 3 Summer signings and 
had 3 more on the bench. We were always going to have a tough game here with Macclesfield being 
a League 1 team last season.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/homevssouthend.jpg?t=1255209991"]Home vs Southend (League Cup 1st Rd).[/url]
  1 - 2
A Cup game against a League 1 team another tough game not too worried aboyut getting knocked 
out staying in the League is way more important. New signing Bartley got his first goal.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/homevsguisley.jpg?t=1255210179"]Home vs Guiseley (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 1
Our first Win even with 3 players taking knocks we looked the better side. An own goal and goals 
from Pritchard and Holdsworth gave us the victory.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/awayvsworcester.jpg?t=1255210360"]Away vs Worcester (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 3
Goals from Milson, Moses and Knowles gave us an hard fought point in this tough match.

Summer Transfers.

Haddow - I wanted to bring in a Goalkeeper or 2 as this along with

the strikeforce was our weakest position (in my opinion) Haddow will mainly be used as a backup to

Tuohy.

Healy - Midfield wasn't really an arean that i thought we'd need to

strengthen but our Ass Man advised it at Season Turnover and so i bought in this man.

Little - A second Midfield signing who i will be using

on the Right as well as Centre.

Horton - I bought Horton in to replace Redknapp but struggled to offload him.

I struggled all Summer to bring in strikers to strengthen our attack losing out to clubs in League 1 on

numurous occasions in the end i bought in 2 free transfers mainly for backup incase of Injurys to

Holdsworth or Milson - Harrison + Bartley.

If anyone wants any more information/any further screenshots just give me a shout.

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - September Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-homevsbarnet.jpg?t=1255251783"]Home vs Barnet (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
A game in which we dominated without Barnet having a single shot on our goal on target.
Milson scored the only goal of the game.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-awayvsoxford.jpg?t=1255251821"]Away vs Oxford (Johnstones Paint Trophy).[/url]
  0 - 1
Another Cup game another League 1 side but this time we picked up the win thanks to a
Udall Penalty.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-awayvsportvale.jpg?t=1255251850"]Away vs Port Vale (CC League 2).[/url]
  0 - 0
A 3rd clean sheet in a row we just couldn't seem to put the ball in the net ourselves
despite dominating the game.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-homevspreston.jpg?t=1255251869"]Home vs Preston (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 1
A cracking game against the team currently at the top of the table, we came back from 1 -
0 down to win 2 - 1 with goals from Udall and McKenzie.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-awayvsaccrington.jpg?t=1255251895"]Away vs Accrington (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 2
An annoying draw here after we were winning 2 - 1. Although i'll have to conceed that on
the night Accrington were the better side. Udall and Holdsworth got our goals.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/sept-homevsswindon.jpg?t=1255251930"]Home vs Swindon (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
Swindon are 22nd so we were expected to win here and goals from Little and Holdsworth
ensured we did.

Player Stats.

Coca-Cola League 2 Table.

[canvey!!]

Keep it up, brettney - good to see you getting involved in the Challenge too.

[bermybhoy]

Yep - what Canvey said - good start, Brettney.

A few of the player links didn't load for me, anyone else?

[canvey!!]

Tuohy, Healy and Little do not work for me.

[brettney1980]

Tuohy, Healy and Little do not work for me.

Hopefully they now work. I'm almost at the end of October so will have that up tonight maybe even November (i'm getting very much addicted to this Save).

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - October Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-homevscambridge.jpg?t=1255289934"]Home vs Cambridge (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 0
We went into this game against 8th placed Cambridge without our first choice Goalkeeper
Craig Tuohy (who will be out for 6/7 weeks with a broken finger). We still won the match
though and David Haddow kept a clean sheet on his League debut goals from 

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-awayvsplymouth.jpg?t=1255290009"]Away vs Plymouth (Johnstones Paint Trophy).[/url]
  0 - 1
A tough game against the team in 5th place in League 1 and we lost 1-0 despite putting up
a good fight.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-awayvslincoln.jpg?t=1255290046"]Away vs Lincoln (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 0
A team we should beat (now that it seems we're a top third side). And beat them we did
with CB Paul Moses getting an hattrick to put us 2nd in the league.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-homevswoking.jpg?t=1255290098"]Home vs Woking (CC League 2).[/url]
  7 - 0
A game in which Woking were the favourites according to the betting but we dominated them 
in what was easily my best game so far beating 2 club records for highest gate recieved and highest
win. The game puts us joint top with Walsall and Salisbury (Top on goal
difference).

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-awayvscolchester.jpg?t=1255290143"]Away vs Colchester (CC League 2).[/url]
  0 - 1
Well after a 7-0 win you'd be forgiven for expecting us to comtinue our 4 game winning
streak (in the league) but we didn't ... a 1-0 loss. We are now 3rd behind Walsall and
Salisbury.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-homevssalisbury.jpg?t=1255290171"]Home vs Salisbury (CC League 2).[/url]
  4 - 0
Our chance to jump above Salisbury ... 4 Goals from set pieces later and we're 2nd 1
point behind Walsall. Oh and a second Hattrick of the season for CB Paul Moses the other
by Josh Lowe. We beat the Attendance record and the Gate record again.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/oct-awayvsbournemouth.jpg?t=1255290213"]Away vs Bournemouth (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
A game in which we dominated really and should of at the very least got a draw (our Away
form just isn't as good as our home at the moment.

We have been drawn at Home against York (BSP) in the first round of the FA Cup.

Paul Moses has been Voted League 2 Player of the Month.

Coca-Cola League 2 Table.

.. and finally the Softies Manager gave a press conference this Month.

[canvey!!]

.. and finally the Softies Manager gave a press conference this Month.

I also really love some of the little bits and pieces people throw in here. Who knew of this exclusive interview with Danny Roberts, for example?

I knew it! Danny Roberts has amnesia/alzheimers/dementia.

[brettney1980]

I knew it! Danny Roberts has amnesia/alzheimers/dementia.

You'll be pleased to know its all been confirmed, by a Dr no less ... Softies Press Conference!

[canvey!!]

Poor Danny, his Alzheimer's getting worse - he still thinks he's managing Braintree.

[brettney1980]

Poor Danny, his Alzheimer's getting worse - he still thinks he's managing Braintree.

Yeah i'm abit worried that he broke into his old Ground to have the press conference too.

(didn't realise i'd put the old club until after damn! )

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - November Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-awayvsmorecambe.jpg?t=1255296160"]Away vs Morecambe (CC League 2).[/url]
   2 - 3
A rare away win for us here made even more impressive by the fact Michael Healy was sent
off in the second minute. Goals came via Jamie Scott and Steve Pritchard got 2.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-awayvsyork.jpg?t=1255296216"]Away vs York (FA Cup 1st Rd).[/url]
  1 - 1
A game i'd of put money on us winning even with all the changes i decided to make i'd of
lost the money of course because we drew 1-1 which is actually quite lucky as they missed
a Penalty in the dying minutes.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-homevsblackpool.jpg?t=1255296253"]Home vs Blackpool (CC League 2).[/url]
   2 - 1
A win here moved us up into second place (Good news) we also managed to add 2 more 

players to our Injured list (Bad news obviously) goals were from Richard Fraser and Leon 

Harrison.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-homevsyork.jpg?t=1255296298"]Home vs York (FA Cup 1st Rd).[/url]
  1 - 1 We win 7-6 on Pens.
We once again struggle against York it takes Penaltys to eventually go through to the 2nd
Rd where we will face League 1 side Burnley.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-homevsebbsfleet.jpg?t=1255296328"]Home vs Ebbsfleet (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
A match we dominated and came out on top the players were probably doubly focused after i
turned down an offer to become Fulham manager. 2-0 goals came for us from Leon Harrison
and Sam Udall. We are now top and 2 points clear of Salisbury.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/nov-awayvsgrays.jpg?t=1255296366"]Away vs Grays (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 2
We keep our unbeaten record going that now stretches to 4 games but unfortunately just
couldn't pick up the win Udall and Holdworth score the goals. We stay Top but only on
goal difference.

Coca-Cola League 2 Table.

Manager of the Month Award!

[Cardiovascular]

Just letting you know I am here, although I may lose internet connection soon. I am going to start with the Softies tomorrow (in fact, I've started but 1st report tomorrow hopefully)

[Cardiovascular]

I don't think I'm going to make it before we lose connection, so I'm going to hand it over for now. My apologies.

[bermybhoy]

That's unfortunate CV. Anyone else want to go for the Softies?

How's it going Brettney?

What are people thoughts in general here? Should we think about just wrapping this up soon, or is anyone feeling motivated to keep going?

[dafuge]

What are people thoughts in general here? Should we think about just wrapping this up soon, or is anyone feeling motivated to keep going?

I can't see myself having any time to complete one more season before the release of FM10, I think I've done five now which is probably more than anyone else anyway.

I'm just assuming that this will be back for FM10?

[brettney1980]

That's unfortunate CV. Anyone else want to go for the Softies?

How's it going Brettney?

Just got in from work .. I've done December and will have a report up in a mo.

[bermybhoy]

I can't see myself having any time to complete one more season before the release of FM10, I think I've done five now which is probably more than anyone else anyway.

I'm just assuming that this will be back for FM10?

I'd say so, yeah. Not really sure if/when I'll get the new version mind you - as alluded to your challenge thread, I'd actually like to complete that before I think about getting it.

Need to give some serious thought as to whether I'll be able to afford the time it takes to run it (I've already been pretty bad this time for leaving ages between updates of the list, for example), but at the same time not sure I'd want to pass it to anyone else.

My thoughts are also that maybe it's best to wait a month or two before launching...I think going by this current version, which was very slow in getting going, people struggled to get into it as they were more focussed on playing their 'own' saves on the new version of the game. Not sure. Would welcome thoughts on it.

[Cardiovascular]

There is a chance we could still renew with our current ISP, so I'll keep going but I'll try to inform of any mishaps.

[dafuge]

My thoughts are also that maybe it's best to wait a month or two before launching...I think going by this current version, which was very slow in getting going, people struggled to get into it as they were more focussed on playing their 'own' saves on the new version of the game. Not sure. Would welcome thoughts on it.

I think that would be a good idea, I know I will certainly be heavily involved in my own game for a while as I create my new tactics and get used to the game. I wouldn't want to do a season on this until I've got a decent grip on the new tactics.

[ssestig]

What level will we be starting at in the next version? Will we be starting lower due to the new editor?

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - December Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-awayvsburnley.jpg?t=1255469341"]Away vs Burnley (FA Cup 2nd Rd).[/url]
  0 - 1
A tough game against a League 1 side we only just had enough fit first teamers to fill
the 11 + 7 subs so wasn't expecting much here.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-homevswalsall.jpg?t=1255469382"]Home vs Walsall (CC League 2).[/url]
   1 - 2
A match against 1 of our promotion rivals i decided to bring Tuohy back in and he unfortunately
let in 2 goals Leon Harrison got the consolation, our strikers didn't perform at all 
we need Holdsworth fit.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-awayvsrochdale.jpg?t=1255469421"]Away vs Rochdale (CC League 2).[/url]
   1 - 1
We need to keep up with the teams around us now if we are hoping for a top 3 place and
against a team in 13th we need a result (even away). A draw was all we could manage
though and we now drop to 5th 5 points off top.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-homevscarlisle.jpg?t=1255469455"]Home vs Carlisle (CC League 2).[/url]
   1 - 0
A must win as we are without a win thus far in December. A win we got only 1-0 but we'll
take it with the goal coming from McKenzie and even the sending off of Lowe didn't ruin our
day. We now sit 3rd.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-awayvswrexham.jpg?t=1255469485"]Away vs Wrexham (CC League 2).[/url]
  0 - 0
A match against another of our promotion rivals and we manage a 0-0 draw ok but we are
still struggling to dominate team when playing away.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/dec-homevshereford.jpg?t=1255469526"]Home vs Hereford (CC League 2).[/url]
  0 - 1
We couldn't even get a shot on target here and finished up losing the match and
subsequently dropped to 6th.

Table.

[Cardiovascular]

Southern Softies - July 1st

Only the main talking points:

New Stadium being built - christened 'Mansgotsfield Stadium'

Original, huh?

Fans Player of the Year Award goes to.. Dave Arnold!

And finally.. James Kelly joins on a three year deal from Leicester.

Sadly, we're £6.25K over our wage budget and £70K in the red so some of our better players may need to go.. - Does anyone want somebody particular to stay?

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - January Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/jan-homevsmacclesfield.jpg?t=1255474403"]Home vs Macclesfield (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
Back to winning ways for the new year with an Own Goal and a goal from Milsom.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/jan-awayvsguiseley.jpg?t=1255474559"]Away vs Guiseley (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
Another Own Goal helped us win with a second from Knowles who also picked up Man of
Match.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/jan-homevsworcester.jpg?t=1255474587"]Home vs Worcester (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 0
Another Own Goal from our opponants and we win I'm seeing a pattern here ... Moses and
Milsom got the goals.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/jan-awayvsbarnet.jpg?t=1255474625"]Away vs Barnet (CC League 2).[/url]
  4 - 2
A very good away victory here we seem to be picking up a good run of results at the
moment. The win puts us 2nd 5 points behind Salisbury though, the goals came from Lowe,
Healy, Holdsworth and Milsom.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/jan-homevsportvale.jpg?t=1255474657"]Home vs Port Vale (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
A fairly even game that we just managed to win to keep our run going with a goal from
Substitute Steve Pritchard.

Table.

Player Stats.

Manager of the Month.

[berty1978]

Only the main talking points:

New Stadium being built - christened 'Mansgotsfield Stadium'

Original, huh?

Fans Player of the Year Award goes to.. Dave Arnold!

And finally.. James Kelly joins on a three year deal from Leicester.

Sadly, we're £6.25K over our wage budget and £70K in the red so some of our better players may need to go.. - Does anyone want somebody particular to stay?

New stadium, that's ridiculous, wish I hadn't spent our budget now. I'd sell a couple of strikers (Powell and Cropper or the one I signed) tbh, as long as you keep Jeff 'berty' Jackson. Pity you won't be able to offload Colin Whitney.

[Cardiovascular]

Actually, Whitney left...

[bermybhoy]

Form piced up again nicely in January, Brettney. You've got them scoring too, which was my biggest frustration. Got boring just grinding out 2-1 and 1-0 wins.

[brettney1980]

Form piced up again nicely in January, Brettney. You've got them scoring too, which was my biggest frustration. Got boring just grinding out 2-1 and 1-0 wins.

I was trying to just nick the odd goal at the start of the season away and it was hurting us i think so i've attacked more and it seems to of paid off. The crosses seem to be coming in thick and fast it's just that opposing defenders seem to be putting them in the net for us ...

[Cardiovascular]

[b]Pre-season; July[/b]

vs. Frickley (A), 3-0. Neill (2), Webb
vs. Aston Villa Res. (H), 0-1.
vs. Bournemouth (H), 0-2
vs. Hereford (H), 1-1. Arnold
vs. Chippenham (A), 1-0. Arnold
vs. Grimsby (A), 2-1. Arnold

Transfers

In

James Kelly, £200,000 - A good, solid looking DC. Cost a little on the hefty side but should eventually be worth it.

Paul Wiles, Free - In his late thirties, signed as a short-term back-up to Hunter following an injury to him during pre-season (tunrned out to be nothing!)

Out

Glenn Wright, Free - Contract was expiring and because berty left it, I assumed he was not needed. Frees up wage budget more.

Jamie Powell, Free - See above

Mike John, Free - See above, although I kinda regret this one looking back.

Colin Whitney, Free (Grimbsy) - Swallowed up a MASSIVE amount of the wage budget so really was a gonner from the minute I took over (and apparently, previous managers)

Dave Hooper, £12,000 (Aldershot) - Again, freeing up wage budget and trying to get the balance back up out of the red. I felt we had adequate cover also.

Chris Burrows, £75,000 (Aldershot) - Disappointed to let go of such a highly-rated player but it really was too much to turn down. This gets us out of the red.

Bryan Bryant, £12,000 (Aldershot) - Not needed as we have plenty cover in these positions.

The Start of CCL1 Campaign

Hereford v Mansgotsfield (1/46)

A nice easy game for us, as Brock, Neal and Simon Smart ensured a comfortable win.

Mansgotsfield v Crystal Palace - LC

I thought it was going to be a difficult game but it turned out rather easily as we advanced, thanks to Brock and Neil.

Mansgotsfield v Sheffield Wed. - (2/46)

Arnold gave us the lead early on, but it took 'til late for us to make sure of the win as Jeff 'berty' Jackson scored just into injury time. Neal added his two-pence worth with the last kick of the game.

Cardiff v Mansgotsfield - (3/46)

I thought it would be very difficult, and I was proved right as we were totally outclassed in every area of the park.

Bolton v Mansgotsfield - LC*

Bolton took the lead via a stone-wall penalty following a trip by Miles. We were often on the back foot and it was a rare counter attack which saw Neal score to take it to extra time. Beevers had come on for Neal who was tired, and he slotted it home to win us the match and send us through.

Mansgotsfield v Shrewsbury - (4/46)*

Damian Miles scored the only goal in what was a boring match, heading home from Brock's free-kick.

League Table

Squad

Danny Roberts wins Agust Manager of the Month

The squad is very thin but we do have cover in all positions and thanks to our League Cup wins, we're back in the black.

*Games were replayed due to a crash

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - Febuary Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/feb-awayvspreston.jpg?t=1255518239"]Away vs Preston (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 1
We did have way more shots than them but all in all we have to be happy with an away draw
against our promotion rivals. The goal was from Matty Knowles.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/feb-homevsaccrington.jpg?t=1255518269"]Home vs Accrington (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
A Barry Holdsworth goal gives us a 1-0 win.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/feb-awayvsswindon.jpg?t=1255518305"]Away vs Swindon (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
A good win here that puts us back on top on goal difference thanks to Milsom for the
goal.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/feb-homevslincoln.jpg?t=1255518335"]Home vs Lincoln (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
It's funny hom sometines you love the fixture computer sometimes you hate it anyway
Lincoln sit 23rd so you'd expect us to win in our current dominating form ... A 2-0
victory wasn't quite as dominating has you'd expect but goals from Moses and Holdsworth
give us a deserved victory.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/feb-awayvswoking.jpg?t=1255518367"]Away vs Woking (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
Top vs 18th here and it was described as a poor match but we got the win thanks to an 
Own Goal so we'll take it Salisbury also won so we're only top on goal difference still and
thats 4 wins from the last 4.

Table.

Awards:

Goal of the Month

Manager of the Month.

[Cardiovascular]

Bugger. Game crashed and lost the last two games of August. Will replay and edit as appropriate :/

[berty1978]

I signed the youngsters thinking a nice profit could be made if we can't keep hold of them, but the new stadium looks to be crippling us a bit now. Sorry, I should have mentioned the 'keeper situation, I forgot about it, at the time I was hoping the next manager could find one from the trial games.

Good start though.

[hamilton162]

A fantastic start there CV

[dafuge]

Great start to the season

Would be possible to have a different squad view next time, so we can see all the stats on the players that show games, goals, Avr etc?

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - March Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-awayvscambridge.jpg?t=1255608375"]Away vs Cambridge (CC League 2).[/url]
  1 - 0
Will be a tough game against the side sitting in 3rd and only 2 points behind us and
Salisbury ... We nicked a 1-0 win thanks to a Milsom goal and managed to hang on with 
Udall sent off near the end. I turned down a Portsmouth Job Offer before the game so
maybe that helped spur the lads on.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-homevscolchester.jpg?t=1255608414"]Home vs Colchester (CC League 2).[/url]
   3 - 0
A game against the 16th placed team and we dominated the first half. Bartley scored his 
first goal in nearly a 1,000 minutes of football. The other goals came from Hamilton and 
Knowles. Salisbury still matched us and won.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-awayvssalisbury.jpg?t=1255608455"]Away vs Salisbury (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 3
.. and now the big 1 we beat them 4-0 at ours back in October so they will be gunning for 
revenge and the winners will be clear at the top ... Lets quick compare defences too
Tuohy not conceeded in 607 minutes and their keeper Kemp has not conceeded in 372
minutes. Goals from Milson and Holdsworth were nothing more than consolations in a game
where Salisbury deserved their win, we had alot of possetion 2nd half but didn't do
anywhere near enough with it. We are now 2nd with Preston only 1 point below us.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-homevsbournemouth.jpg?t=1255608531"]Home vs Bournemouth (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 0
We must keep up our form now with Preston breathing down our necks and also hope for a
Salisbury slip up. Goals from Horton, Milsom and Holdsworth's 25 League goal for the club
gave us a win (top 3 remains the same).

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-awayvsebbsfleet.jpg?t=1255608569"]Away vs Ebbsfleet (CC League 2).[/url]
   5 - 0
With Salisbury and Preston both playing top 8 sides a win here is vital. win we did and 
what a win it was 5-0 in the end and it all started as usual with an own goal, the others
came from Josh Lowe (2) Matty Knowles and Milsom. We are now joint top again with 
Salisbury on the same points.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-homevsmorecambe.jpg?t=1255608610"]Home vs Morecambe (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
We are now clear at the top and are garenteed at least a Playoff spot. Goals came from
Udall and Milsom.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-awayvsblackpool.jpg?t=1255608640"]Away vs Blackpool (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 0
A win here has the potential to put us more clear or atleast keep us top with Preston 
having a tough game against a 7th placed Wrexham (they are now 2nd 1 point behind us). 
Harrison not only ends his goal drought but helps keep us top with both goals in this 2-0 
win. Still 1 point clear of Preston.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/march-homevsgrays.jpg?t=1255608773"]Home vs Grays (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 1
We win Preston lose = Good day!! We are now 3 points clear with just 5 games to go Healy
bagged a brace and a goal from Milsom gave us the win.

Table.

[brettney1980]

Northern Monkeys: Rugby 2034/35 - April Report;

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/april-awayvswalsall.jpg?t=1255617527"]Away vs Walsall (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 2
A game against another team battling for a playoff spot and they dominated us in the 
first half, we came back in the second and at 1 point a win looked possible but a draw 
will have to do and with Preston drawing as well we stay 3 points clear. Goals came from 
Milsom and Lowe.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/april-homevsrochdale.jpg?t=1255617553"]Home vs Rochdale (CC League 2).[/url]
  2 - 1
With 2 Injured left sided players were looking a little weak out there .. and another
takes a knock in this match we scrape through though Milsom and Holdsworth grab the 
goals.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/april-promotion.jpg?t=1255617597"]We are now garanteed promotion so all thats left is to win the Title.[/url]

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/april-awayvscarlisle.jpg?t=1255617633"]Away vs Carlisle (CC League 2).[/url]
  3 - 1
We are still 3 points clear after this win and with only 2 games to go its looking good.
Scorers were Milsom and a brace from Holdsworth.

[url="http://i386.photobucket.com/albums/oo302/brettney1980/Wallace%20Challenge/april-homevswrexham.jpg?t=1255617664"]Home vs Wrexham (CC League 2).[/url]
  0 - 1
A lot of injurys/tired players for this match but the 1-0 still made me unhappy as the
Title race now goes down to the last game of the season and we are still missing a few of
our better players.

Table.

This is the state of the squad going into the last game.

[Cardiovascular]

Southern Softies - September

Yeovil v Mansgotsfield - JPT

We faced lower league opposition and probably should've breezed it, but Yeovil had other ideas. Chris Thomson twice gave them the lead, but we pegged back through O'Briend and Neal on both times before Jeff Jackson nipped into to steal the win in stoppage time for us and send us through.

Bristol City v Mansgotsfield - (5/46)

Disappointing to say the least, but Bristol were the more superior side and deserved the win. It would be this team we'd face next in the JPT.

Mansgotsfield v MK Dons - (6/46)

An totally even game, and a draw was fair for both of us. Arnold equalised for us with 16 minutes left to earn a point.

Mansgotsfield v Burnley - (7/46)

A game we were predicted to struggle in against higher opposition but 'berty' Jackson had other ideas, scoring to give us a win in a game we did dominate.

Fulham v Mansgotsfield - LC

A disappointing yet expected loss as we crashed out despite being all over Fulham. In the end, we were ending up trying to keep the score respectable.

Chesterfield v Mansgotsfield - (8/46)

We took our chances in this match and played extremely well. Arnold and Neal scored 7 minutes before and after half-time respectively to earn us 3 points. The only blip was an injury to Scott Johnston late on, which leaves him out for 5 days.

League Table

Squad

I made a loan signing to cover for the right wing - Aaron Dawes joined from Fulham for cover and he can even challenge Neil for his place.

[canvey!!]

Some excellent late season form brettney! Good luck in the final game.

[Cardiovascular]

Southern Softies - October

Ebbsfleet v Mansgotsfield - (9/46)

A very disappointing match for us as we were unable to convert possession into chances.

Bristol City v Mansgotsfield - JPT

Again, we failed to convert possession into chances and ultimately 'paid the penalty.' We go out early on in the JPT.

Mansgotsfield v Walsall - (10/46)

Miles had given us the lead by volleying home a corner, but we were pegged back almost instantly. The game seemed to be staying that way until Cropper game on and slotted home a good team effort.

Bradford v Mansgotsfield - (11/46)

Again, Miles gave us the lead by heading home Jackson's corner, but we were pegged back by his clumsiness as he fouled Graham Dean in the box, and he made sure they equalised. However, he seemed determined to redeem himself and he tapped home a goalmouth scramble to win us the match.

Mansgotsfield v Sutton Utd - (12/46)

A very disappointing match as we played off the park and our only goal came from an unfortunate own goal, as Jackson's header off the bar hit their 'keeper and rolled in.

Notts County v Mansgotsfield - (13/46)

Things started promisingly as Jamie Neal broke the quickest goal record, scoring within 27 seconds to give us the lead. Things slowly went downhill from their and we were lucky to hold on for a draw in the end.

Mansgotsfield v Swansea - (14/46)

We finally get a decent win and this hopefully gets us back on track. It did take some words of encouragement at half time, as Johnston and Dave Arnold - who had come on to gain some fitness while returning from injury - who ensured we won.

League

[bermybhoy]

Congrats on the promotion Brettney, great stuff. Good luck in the last game, another title would be fantastic