Haden

The Top League Report: The Double Advantage Eights Winston Gardens manager asked other teams to try and beat Eights United as they mounted their own title bid, this week they had two chances to do this themselves but failed both times. The first game saw Eights play a 4-5-1 formation against Winstons 4-4-2. This saw Eights dominate possession and chances but fail to score in the first half, in the end the United midfield was to much with Seljevold breaking the deadlock after a quick breakaway, Isfjord made it two before Seljevold scored another to make it a comfortable 3-0 for the home side. The rematch was a must win game for Winston and it showed, they sported a 3-4-3 formation with Eights playing 3-5-2 it promised to be an explosive encounter. It started off quickly as Coren blasted in a long range shot to give Winston the lead, Eights hit back quickly with Wilder and Granas scoring in quick succession. Wilder's goal was especially sublime as he lost his marker and wrong footed two Winston defenders on his way to the goal. However brilliance turned to madness as after being shoved in the back by a Winston defender he lashed out and slapped the player in the face, a straight red was the only option leaving Eights with 10 men. After the break Winston made the advantage count straight away as Coren turned provider swinging in a cross for Ingham to head home to level up the scores. Soon the Winston chances were adding up and again Coren found Ingham who had ghosted past 3 Eights defenders to give himself a 1 on 1 chance with the goalie that he blasted in. The home fans roared as their side looked to have secured a crucial victory! However in the last few seconds Eights were awarded a corner, it fell to the captain Granas who somehow hit it home. Eights fans roared while for Winston fans they knew this may have been the moment the title slipped away. Submarine keeps head above water When Yellow Submarine met Lylat it was a compliment to Lylat that many thought this could be a very even double however it was Submarine who in the end won both games and put themselves right behind Eights United in the title race. In the first game Lylat had a very harsh start, they came out with purpose playing 4-4-2 but Gray saw his goal disallowed and then experienced defender Roberts was badly injured in the 23rd minute. Yellow Submarine had dominated chances before this happened but in the 2nd half they really started to go through the gears. Kirkby made space for Baryla who slammed in a long range shot to make it 1-0. However this proved to be a hard hitting game and the next victim was Submarine defender Villa, moments after he went off Dowell equalised for Lylat. However the joy of this moment was short lived the Submarine Captain Delipiano hit in a long range shot and set up Ataisik to score another to make it 3-1 to the away side. In the return leg Submarine set up to dominate midfield with a 4-5-1 set up with Wanderers playing the same hoping to stifle their opponents. With 7 chances to 3 it was clear to see Submarines strategy paid off in the end, with goals from Viana and Falcao they secured their 3 points but not before a scare when Gray scored via a breakaway to make it 2-1. This was an important double for both teams, it ended Lylats good run of form that sees them crashing from near the top of the table to 4 points above relegation. For Yellow Submarine this was the type of double win that was badly needed as they pursue Eights United who are now only 2 points ahead of them. Destruction Derby The Silverdale Inter matches may not be the title deciders of old but are still marked down in the diaries of each of their fans. The derby this season had the added twist of being in the double season, the first game was a real war with two horrific injuries and a red card for Inter striker Kirk. Inter was edging the match but with 5 at the back Silverdale held out and in the end frustration meant Kirk was given a 2nd yellow for a silly tackle that had his manager fuming. The 2nd game saw both teams play 4-5-1 but with the inclusion of a youth striker and youth goalie by Inter Silverdale looked fired up for this game. First Morell scored via a breakaway, Inter had chances but in the 2nd half Jeffers and Orellana made it 3-0 to Silverdale. Scabos got one back in the end but it was to little to late. This was a huge win for Silverdale while for Inter their poor season is starting to turn into a disaster that they need to correct correctly. Legends on the rise For the Legends the double period was a good one for them, they have lacked a killer instinct in the top league but showed it in spades when pitted against Rossers Rovers. In the first game Rovers held out against the Legends in the first half but bringing on Castanheira had an instant impact as he set up Mulholland and then scored a goal himself to give Legends a 2-0 lead, a late header by Burlett put an exclamation mark on this one sided victory. The 2nd game saw a more attacking minded Rovers who played 4-4-2, it was a close affair with only 3 chances each but Ciobotaru and Somner were clinical for the Legends and showed a calmness that was lacking from the Rovers side. This result will be a huge boost for the Legends survival prospects while Rovers are now surely doomed to relegation but can concentrate on getting ready for next season. A DuD? The last of the doubles was between Coloccini and DuD Baggies that saw one thrilling match and another that can only be described as a DuD. For the Baggies it has been a mixed season so far as they look to be a middle of the table side while Coloccini are showing their potential but knowing that they may still go down despite their best efforts. The first game saw Coloccini take the tie by the scruff of the neck as first Ha then Costa scored to make it 2-0 however the Baggies playing 3-5-2 mounted a brilliant fightback. Ashe set up Shearer for a diving header before the Dhall Izon partnership saw each set the other one up for 2 goals in 2 minutes to make it 3-2 to the Baggies. Coloccini fans and players were shocked and they were unable to recover. With both managers maybe wary of letting in 2 or more goals again both teams set up with 5 defenders and only created 1 chance each leading to a boring 0-0 draw. For Coloccini this could be a crucial moment in the season where they threw away 3 points against a top tier side and for the Baggies it the way they played at home will really disappoint fans who want their team to start playing with some championship winning ambition. Team of the Week: Yellow Submarine, they showed true grit to pick up their 6 points and have now inserted themselves into a championship winning position. Goals: Eights: Granas 8, Inter: Kirk 6, Scabos 5, Eights: Wilder 5 Granas proves his dominance with 8 goals at the time of writing. X11: Eights: Granas 8, Eights: Hapnes, Clevan 7, Yellow: Falcao 7 We can see why Eights are top with 3 players having over 7 X11 apperances. Assists: DuD: Izon 5, Dhall 4 The Baggies best trait in attack is their instinctive teamwork as seen in their 3-2 win against Coloccini.

2-2 9 chances, its gonna be epic but in the end indecisive

3rd place in dreamland! Doubt I will finish in this position but it is fantastic being here at the moment, massive game up next if we win I think it will devastate Winston Gardens title hopes but we are missing a senior striker so it might be a big ask. Btw @dansliketrees as you are going away now shall I just take over the reports? I will do this week to restart them and carry on from there

Good solid win for us, looking at some of the other teams we are doing really well on the injury front! Hoping to take this positive momentum into the next two games and pick up some points Things are a bit quiet on here has everyone gone away for the summer? I will try and post catch up reports later this week

Yeh sorry I need to catch up as well will do that tomorrow. Tbh I chalked this game up as a guaranteed loss but thought I would try my old 5-3-2 tactics I have used before against superior teams. When I saw I had guessed your formation and playmaker I have to admit I did let out a slight chuckle. Still when you equalised I expected you to lay down a beating but we held out luckily. Good luck for the title though! Would be great to see you win it you have a huge two games next, thing is it is so close loads of teams are still in contention. I am nervous about my double header against Rovers will be expected to win which I don't really like.. Lylat is doing so well because he poisons opposition senior goalies before matches.

Big big point for us today, we are proving very hard to beat away from home with 3 draws and only 1 loss so far. Still I knew playing Bruise would mean one of my own players would get injured, alas it was my poor captain Palmer

It is results like you had today that put me off ever playing my youth goalie, it is the one position where everything hinges on an individual. I have a youth goalie atm and am trying to think what games I should play him in, ones I think I will win or those I think I will lose?

Big win today, needed that to keep momentum heading in our direction every game we are playing better and with more confidence! Nice win for Peeps today still I will try and help you out Tales but I don't think I have good odds of getting anything from Winston

Pleased with the draw expected the peeps to try and win but obviously he is fearful of the might of conden and Burlett on the break! Game against silverdale is a big one but I am pleased with my teams high form and think the results will follow shortly.

Thanks Zell was great fun we should do this again when euros come around. I think the most important thing we learnt from this World Cup is when we are all given an equal team Tales is by far the worst manager on the forum.

Annoyed with the draw today, in a weird position at the moment my team is performing very well but we are not getting the results. I think that will change in time but we will have to see the thing we have going for us is brilliant depth so maybe we can exploit other teams losing players down the road. Apart from me interesting results today with Zell getting back into the title race, Tales do you think selling off your striker was a mistake? If your other one gets injured or suspended you may be in trouble? @dan\-likes\-trees how is the report going :P

Congrats Mexico!!!!!!!!!!!

Good luck Dedede! Will be great to see you guys go at it in the final.

Happy with the draw today need to try and aim for a draw in away games and victory at home will be tough but hopefully we have enough to stay up. Eights united are looking good for the title so far!

Emerson Vicente and Gregor Mossley have secretly been meeting up in private and maintaining a hush over their activities. A local hack decided to investigate after a tip off but instead found out that the players were giving up their own time to support charities and help out at the local hospital. As a result of all the positive press coverage, the form has improved greatly for the two players although they remain very modest regarding their headlines 'Top Role Models'!

Xpert 11 Season 32 Reports Interval? Inter fans are used to a slow start to seasons but unused to losses so it was a week of familiarity and surprises both of which were unwelcome. The familiarity began when Inter after some positive football that saw Scabos hit in a long range shot were pegged back by a Coren header to draw 1-1 with Winston in the opening game of the season. While a slow start can be excused having not lost for 14 games a 1-0 loss in a very tight game to Hadens Legends was a shock. After an early Legends goal Inter seemed to have nothing to reply with giving Legends a shock victory on a platter. The Inter manager has released some cryptic PR's suggesting his team is heading for a period of hibernation for an unknown reason. The next game for Inter is against Eights United expect this to reveal more about the season Inter will have. Champions elect One team who have been acting like champions is Eights Untied, they are the only team left in the top league with a 100% record and this came after two away wins. While it was against Middle league promoted sides it has been impressive none the less. Eights dominated Hadens Legends with 6 chances to 1 and converted 3 of them with an offensive 3-5-2 formation. They then edged past Rossers Rovers 2-1 again making 6 chances but this time playing 4-5-1. It seems the midfield will be key for them this season. With such a strong start it is worth remembering Eights will have two home games against Middle League promoted sides to finish their season off, already they are looking like a strong favourite to win Season 32. Winston Garden Lions 2-0 Yellow Submarine This was one of those ties that fans had pencilled in to watch and analysts made sure they studied to seek clues about where this seasons title was heading. Winston lined up with a 3-5-2 formation while Yellow Submarine countered this with a 5-3-2 set up. This led to Winston dominating chances 6-2 but Yellow Submarine able to hold out with a very strong defence. The game saw three injuries and became a duel between the two midfielders Akera and Viana. Viana trying to create opportunities with little time and space while Akera dictating the pace of the game and marshalling his side. In the end Akera's Winston got the breakthrough when Tobin dummied a shot and passed to Benmouih who fired home an irresistible drive. The pressure then became to much as a late penalty was given which Joyce ran up to and deftly tucked into the left hand corner to make it 2-0 with 6 minutes to go. Yellow Submarine tactically did very well in this match but ironically for them were not creative enough. For Winston despite a couple of injuries the influence of Akera won out over Viana and they passed their first test at home with flying colours. Rossers Rovers 1-1 DuDs Baggies A game that may not have had the romance of the previous but was enjoyed by many Rovers fans was Rossers Rovers 1-1 DuDs Baggies. This was Rovers first ever game in the Top League and was a brilliant start for them. They played without fear against a far superior opponent, both teams played 3-5-2 and both created numerous chances. Baggies bosses possession 57%-43% and when Izon hit in a long range shot it looked to be over for Rovers. However the Rovers captain Przhevalsky nailed an opportunity of his own making it 1-1. Both teams then had numerous chances but you thought Baggies had to eventually break Rovers down for the 2nd. However Brezhnev the Rovers goalie was having the literal game of his career. Shearer, Izon, Nixon they all tried but Brezhnev parried, saved, hit away and smothered chance after chance. At the end of the game the Rovers fans were chanting his name it was truly a day for him and the club to remember as they earned their first ever top league point with a valiant draw. Team of the Week: Eights United Eights have done what no other team could do in week 1 and that is win both their games. The fact that they were away games makes this achievement all the better. Top League Star Players Goals Scored: At the moment Beck stands above the countless others who have scored 1 goal the veteran midfielder proving age is no limit on his abilities. Eights United, Beck: 2. Assists Made: Again it is an Eights United player who stands above everyone else and again it is a veteran player Hapnes at 33 years old shows he has the vision to provide for others. Eights United, Hapnes: 2. X11 Appearances: The strikers Falcao and Goodison show Winston and Yellow Submarine have potential to score plenty of goals this season but also with 2 X11 appearances and providing stability at the back is Celvan for Eights Untied. Eights United, Celvan: 2 Yellow Submarine, Falcao: 2 Winston Garden Lions, Goodison: 2 Game edit Had a few chances but couldn't quite get the breakthrough to tie the game up at 1-1. Big game against Coloccini next and my best striker decided to get himself suspended for it...

I can do week one if you like? I will try and get it done on Tuesday and leave this week for you?

Great write up Zell, will predict early exit for my team but will try my best to make it to semis probably to end up facing Germany and go out on penalties. Germany are my personal pick to win, cannot believe Xpert put those teams together from knockout lol.

Big win today not sure what is going on with Inter but I will gladly profit from it as any 3 points are gold dust for me this season! Looking forward have two big away games now with Yellow Submarine and Coloccini, damn this league is hard!

Just like that river twisting in the sand. Elite league winner: Eights United Elite league demoted teams: Coloccini FC, Silverdale Salmon, Rossers Rovers Middle league winner & promoted teams AC Elites, Aquila,Russian Revolution Middle league demoted teams Leeds M.O.T, Madpool, bob Lower league winner & promoted teams Lords of Hydra, The 64s, The Great Mcoy

European power? Surely you want England to win over those darn Brazilians?

England 0-0 Brazil England and Brazil go through... I tried my best...

I was going to say well played you got your tactics spot on and good luck in the championship. I will still say that but after I play him I am backing Inter to win to end your tyranny once and for all :P Or of course Winston who I would love to see win the championship. Expect another loss against Inter but it feels good to play in the top league despite the losses form kept nice and high.

Er oh fake team in alliance that can't be good lol, do we get bonus points I am happy to share top league reports with dansliketrees ala World Cup? We could do a week each in the talking points format?

Xpert 11 Season 32 Youth trainer reporting to the manager everything is on track over and out rock and roll God Bless Xpert. Location: Xpert 11 NE Season 32 Crew: 30 Contract: 7 years Good morning Trainer shall I recruit a youth? “Our team remains on top of the league because of the hard work of trainers like you.” A season is a long haul but the change report makes it worth it. “I know the pressure is on but I am proud of you” Two weeks to go till the change report. Two weeks to go buddy I am getting a double jumper. Looks like we have a change report I am going to go open it! Ok Trainer. VIP approved Opening Report... I found him after the report he hasn't changed skill level you tell me his DV value!! Perhaps you are imagining things? What's going on what is his form why is he still 6 skill? You have been training for to long man you've lost your marbles. Double Jump, Double Jump, Double Jump I don't understand what is happening I am losing my econs. I want to do a direct transfer. I know. Previous Champions Intergalactico Stars 31 Intergalactico Stars 30*(CL winner) Eights United 29 Yellow Submarine 28 Yellow Submarine 27 Eights United 26 Eights United 25 Intergalactico Stars 24 Intergalactico Stars 23 Silverdale Hotpot 22 Haden United 21 Essex Elites 20 Essex Elites 19 Mcoys Sons 18 Essex Elites 17 Dysonian Wanderers 16 Haden United 15 Dysonian Wanderers 14 Essex Elites 13 Roostophe Rovers 12 Haden United 11 Roostophe Rovers 10 Oddy 5-9 Haden United 4 Bayern Bru 3 Oddy 2 Happenstance FC 1 The Sun: the center, will it burn out or will it shine brighter? Intergalactico Stars The current kings of Xpert, having had their customary poor start to the season went on a 9 match winning streak that saw them win the title after looking like non contenders for a large part of the season. They are a team that are very hard to break down with Sergio Ramos heading an airtight defence that know each others movements like the back of their hands. They are a compact team but even their youths look to threaten with Skywalker already a striker to keep an eye on at the tender age of 19. What comes across with their team is a self assured confidence that will translate to any formation be it 4-4-2, 3-5-2 or 4-3-3 that their manager asks them to play. Other teams will be gunning for them this season but without being as in form, prepared or having the same belief as Inter it could end up being Inter's season yet again which would mean a historic third season win in a row would have been achieved, will it occur? Don't bet against it. A good season if: They focus on getting a good early start and drive their advantage home can they beat their early season blues this time around? If so they may well win a third trophy in a row which will be a historic achievement. A bad season if: Other teams take on board lessons from Inter, keep form high, rotate players and formations smartly meaning they are no longer unique and become another club to fail to win three in a row. Mercury: Close to the center always moving always there. Eights United Fell just short this season as costly losses to their rivals Yellow Submarine and Intergalactico Stars cost them the championship. Still they finished 2nd and were in contention on the very last day of the season so it was not a bad season by any means. Their team is still strong but several players are now nearing retirement age with star defender Zahora calling it a day after this season having already amassed 255 games in his amazing career. United always have an eye on the future with Mache looking like a great future midfield player and Norheim will be learning from Capwell and Wilder up front this season. While they do not have a whole host of players with special skills United have a belief that they can win any match and a manager who demands success. The manager more than anyone will want a title win next season and you have to believe they will be more ruthless than ever in every game they approach. A good season if: They are able to score some morale boosting wins against their bitter rivals Yellow Submarine and title rivals Intergalactico Stars as well as maintaining their ruthless edge against lesser teams to take back the title. A bad season if: Sides like Winston and DuD start to edge past them into the top 3 spots leaving them clinging to a team of legends that cannot deliver more trophies. Winston Garden Lions Winston had a fantastic season in the Elite League, gaining 10 points from their first four games and carrying on with a great string of results throughout the season. They only lost against Eights United and Inter and even then by only 1 goal each time. In the end they were one point behind Eights United and just four behind winners Inter. They scored 32 goals in the season 2nd behind Eights and it is easy to see why, Ingham and Benmouih provide dangerous pace with Goodison a free kick master. Their midfield is stacked with talent with Thomas and Akera creative outlets although it will be the last season for club legend Rosebotham if the manager decides to keep him on. Their defence is strong but lacking any cover with 17 year old Williams the backup in case of crisis which is rather worrying. This team loves to boss the midfield often playing with five midfielders in an attempt to dictate the game, this was shown with great effect in their dramatic 3-2 away win against Silverdale in which they played with a 4-5-1 formation. A good season if:They maintain or better their finish from last season, they will need to beat Eights United and Inter two teams who stand in their way to becoming champion. A bad season if: Other sides replace them as the team to disrupt the battle between Eights and Inter leaving them as an also ran. Venus: Beautiful football causes the Universe to marvel Yellow Submarine Yellow Submarine had a season of stops and starts that ultimately saw them finish comfortably in 4th place. They battled to a fantastic 3-0 away win against Eights United but then dominated chances but not goals in a 1-1 home draw with DuDs Baggies. This summed up their season as they only managed to string two victories together at one point in the season. While the midfield core is ageing Delipiano and Viana still give the side a creative bite moving forward while Kirkby and Villa at the back are starting to reach their prime. Falcao is dangerous up front but lacks any real quality support. With youth in every position Yellow Submarine will want to swap between veteran and youth sides depending on the occasion. Yellow Submarine are always a good side to watch and able to create chances almost at will, success for them this season will depend on their ability to be clinical in their finishing. A good season if:They are able to find a killer edge to their side that turns draws into wins, this may enable them to regain their status as champions. A bad season if: Falcao is injured and their front line is exposed as being the weak link in a side that is full of potential championship winners. DuDs Baggies Along with Winston Gardens this is a team that many expected to break into the top three of teams this season or in the very near future. While Winston achieved this last season DuD had a good season and was able to avoid relegation in a season of highs and lows. The high point was a 5-1 decimation of Silverdale Salmon early on in the season that had many talking about DuDs title credentials, this was undone cruelly by Eights Untied who defeated them twice in the double with an aggregate of 7-1 making light of their defensive strengths. However this is where their strength lies, Ryman and Unnarsson are a formidable pair of old fashioned central defenders dominant in the air often organising formations with 5 defenders in them. In midfield the pace of Nixon and free kicks of Dhall are something to be watched for. While Shearer and Izon are a brilliant pairing who usually deliever. The team is very small with only 14 players so the midfield and front line may be affected by an injury crisis, you may think DuD would bring in a youth as backup to one of these positions. If they can defend well and expose teams on the counter this could be the season where DuDs potential is realised. A good season if:They can replace Winston as the new kids on the block, they have a brilliant back line if they can consistently score a top 3 finish is not unthinkable. A bad season if: Shearer or Izon have a bad run of form leaving the manager with a real lack of attacking options. Silverdale Salmon For Silverdale their championship winning days feel a long time ago as they had a very tough season that left many thinking that their glory days may well be behind them. They picked up some good victories against some of the lesser ranked sides but failed to have any impact on last seasons big hitters. The two results that stand out are their duel 3-2 losses to Winston, painfully reinforcing how Winston have replaced them as a threat to Eights United and Inter. However before writing this team off it is worth looking at their squad. The manager has structured his team to progress in stages with good teenage prospects in all positions with Bowey being a real star for the future. While other teams lack depth Silverdale have three great strikers and a good range of defenders with different skill sets. Calderwood and Elloriaga will be leaving at the end of the season but as mentioned the team has good players ready to replace these veterans. At the back the goalie Housham is one of the best in the best multiskilled players in the league. This will be a season where the fans may have lowered expectations but the manager with a mix of a strong attacking line up and depth may well be able to restore some pride to the terraces. A good season if: This season is about finishing in the top 3 and showing newer teams that Silverdale are still a strong and influential side in the league. A bad season if: They fail to field their youths but also struggle to pick up points the manager will be criticised now for no future gain. Lylat Wanderers Avoiding relegation by default Wanderers have spent time over the summer training their players and the results are there for all to see. They look like a new team, one that still has Pilgrim leading the line but players like Accrington and Rosbottom now provide this side with incredible depth and youth. Their defence is commanded by the trio of 27 year olds which leaves two youths as back up suggesting this new depth does not spread across the whole team. However some of their games last season such as the 4-0 home defeat by Eights United were they only made 1 chance will surely not be repeated now with a midfield that has both potential threats and playmakers standing side by side. The team likes to switch between 4-4-2 and 4-5-1 but maybe now would be the time to take a risk with a 3-5-2 formation every now and then? This will be a big season for the Wanderers they will want to avoid relegation by more than chance this time around. A good season if: They can start to take more risks and create and score more goals from both their midfield and strike force, 6th or above would indicate a good improvement. A bad season if: Their strikers do not perform again, last season Wanderers did not score a huge amount of goals they need that to change this time around. Earth: Unique, full of life and expertise where none exists. Hadens Legends The Legends had a breakthrough season last time around, winning the Middle League title with a solitary loss against their biggest rivals Coloccini FC. The high point of the season had to be when they avenged this loss with a 5-0 victory over Coloccini that saw their stars Conden and Ciobotaru score. At the heart of the side is a midfield full of talent, flair and stamina. It is one full of depth with even the youth Pachon able to make an impact in the game, while this is Legends strong point their defence and attack have both improved recently with Ciobotaru and Castanheira providing their manager with different options. This will be the first season in the top league for the Legends and with a lot of their players reaching prime playing years they want to make an impact. However the first season will need to see them play smartly and use their depth in midfield to their advantage trying to pick up points through a long and gruelling season. A good season if: They crack the top 6 in their first season, some teams adapt straight away to the top league for others it takes a few seasons, the manager has been here before but for his team it is a new challenge. A bad season if: They are relegated with a bad change report, it would be sad after last season for this team to have another bad change report and even worse if it was on the heels of relegation. Coloccini FC Last season was the season this team came out of the shadows and took centre stage in what was a dramatic fight for the Middle League Championship. While it did not end in triumph the statement had been made Coloccini had obviously moved from a potential force, to a great team. Before losing to the Legends they were on a 12 game unbeaten streak which was longer than any other club in all three leagues and to add to this a seven game 100% start. Their 4-0 away win against Rossers Rovers even with a 4-5-1 formation shows the danger their midfield poses and why they often play with 5 midfielders. It is without doubt their best area with Costa being a fantastic talent both full of stamina with a wicked long shot to boot. In defence Pantaru and Dogaru are fantastic at breaking up moves while Madeley has to carry the forward line by himself a lot of the time. This is a young side who may struggle in the top league but will benefit from the experience, their attitude will be key this season to keep them competitive. A good season if: They can scrape survival it will be a great triumph, these young players may just need a bit more time till their ready but you do not go 12 games unbeaten without mental fortitude. A bad season if: They finish last and all the good feeling and momentum from last season disappears with their top league status. Rossers Rovers How many people picked Rovers to go up? How many picked them to go up after losing their first two games? If you said I did to the first question I probably wouldn't believe you, if you said it again to the second I would want to ask you for the next Grand National winner. Rovers have no right to be in this league by any conventional measurement but they are here under the brilliant management skills of RLTA. Beating Russian Revolution 4-1 was when people started to believe they could do it and well they went and did it! With a strong defensive core headed by Gamov the manager then likes to pack the midfield with 5 players using Przhevalsky to create and finish moves off. Rovers forward line up will be the worst in the top league by a mile but somehow the manager gets players to work for him. Josema is a proven aerial threat and has a good amount of experience at the age of 23. The defence is the best part of Rovers and it will be tested in the top league, hands up who thinks Rovers won't get relegated? Can they defy you all yet again? A good season if: I was going to write if they develop youth because they are sure to go down, but with this side who knows it is really unlikely but if they could stay up it would be an achievement of epic proportions. A bad season if: They break records for losing games by margin and quantity, the fans of this side don't deserve humiliation but it could happen. Mars: War and Thunder exists here, approach with caution. AC Elites It all went a bit wrong for AC Elites last season, after a great win against Inter near the start of the season they failed to win any more games during the rest of the season. They were a team that had the players that could have made an impact but now the manager has decided to start a transition after last seasons group failed to deliver. Madpoo and Huber are leaving at the end of the season with the manager bringing in youths for several positions to give his team some fresh blood. This is badly needed in midfield where the group of four midfielders there are world class but Bull and Pratchett may follow Madpoo and leave soon. This is why playmakers like Nagai and attacking midfielders like Tang are so important. The team usually play 4-4-2 but given a chance to play in the Middle League they might want to mix up their tactics against lesser teams. This is a season where the Elites need to bounce back after a miserable Season 30. A good season if: The Elites live up to their name and using youths and current talent get straight to the Elite League with a morale boosing Middle League win. A bad season if: They find the Middle League full of hungry young teams that outsmart their older team playing rigid tactics. The Roger Federer Crew Poor RFC had an awful season in the top league with their free flowing style completely shut down by the sheer strength of teams in the top league. There were signs of their old self as they basked in a fantastic 4-1 win over AC Elites, 3-5-2, 10 chances goals from forwards and midfielders it was RFC of old. However this was a very stern lesson for them, Looking at their team now it is one with experience and some new youths. Some very good teenagers such as Dickson and Walker have been brought in while Fosatti, Dewhurst and Normqvist remain strong and in place for their team. Club legend Sauber will be leaving at the end of the season but luckily he leaves a much stronger midfield than when he joined. In fact every position is one that lacks individual flair but has collective strength. The way the team works together has always been RFC's biggest upside, with their collective attack being magnificent against the right opponents. In the middle league the team has a chance to regroup and remember what made them so respected in the first place. A good season if: They rediscover their attacking flair and creativity on the way to a Middle League title. A bad season if: Their bad run bleeds into this season and leaves the team adrift of even the promotion spots. Kippen FC After their heroics in the group stages of the Champions League this was a more solid season for Kippen with a good six game unbeaten run leaving them just outside the promotion spots. This saw resilience with a 2-2 away draw against Russian Revolution combined with grit to see out Rossers Rovers 1-0 at home. The side is starting to take shape now with defensive crises seeming a thing of the past with a very good back line led by the talented Monaco and MacSwain. Lazzarini and Galvao provide experience for a midfield that is improving season upon season with only the forward line looking a tad shallow if MacEllar were to become unavailable. Kippen often have a hard hitting style that requires a large team, they do have enough players to swap around in most positions and smaller teams may dread games against Kippen. Keep an eye on them they could just through sheer willpower win this league. A good season if: They are able to use their team spirit, large squad and bruising style to leave other teams fearing to play them on their way to a title win. A bad season if: Injuries and suspensions crop up as a problem again with the team imitating Stoke City a bit to much. Athletico Aqui1a They started as title favourites but ended the season having only lost twice but conversely only won 5 games, with four 0-0 results and six games where they failed to score it was Aqui1as problems up front that denied them only hope of a shot at the title. This season Aqui1a have one of the smallest teams in any league with only 14 players and the manager does not seem to trust youth bringing in two veterans to bolster their midfield. Their back line has four 100 match veterans and proved the best part of the team last season, the problem lay further up front with a lack of chances being made in midfield and converted up front. The team now has five aerially dominant players up front, three playmakers and three poachers, surely this will be enough to start scoring more? Upson and Isler are still young in their careers but the pressure will be on them to make sure this season is not another flop. Expect some 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 formations to be used as Aqui1a become more adventurous. A good season if: They can solve their problem up front they could be red hot favourites to win this league at a canter and put last seasons problems behind them. A bad season if: When other teams fail to do well they are at least developing youth with Aqui1as set up this is not the case this may be a do or die season for this club they cannot afford to fail. Jupiter: Large and intimidating, the sleeping giant? Russian Revolution For many Revolution were the team they half expected to be promoted against the odds as they have such a brilliant team spirit and ability to surprise teams with their tactics. They started the season strongly with a good 2-2 draw away to Aqui1a and 2-0 win against The Familia. However a 5 game streak without a win after the mid point of the season put paid to their promotion hopes. However the season had a good impact on their players, their team is very big and comprises of key veterans in all positions paired with very good and sometimes in the case of Valuev remarkable youth talent. Alderton is a fantastic striker who may not have may seasons left but may want to go out in glory by helping to promote Revolution. Their midfield is industrious and fast while the back line is held together by the talented Sunnerborn. It is a team that is still gelling with few legends but they have amazing depth, their problem may be giving everyone the time to play and spending vast sums on training for 21 players. Still Revolution could live up to their name this season and overturn the Middle League order. A good season if: They are able to truly bring together their comradeship to grind out results giving them a trophy and season in the top league. A bad season if: Their players are starved of training and fail to both perform and level up at the end of the season. The Familia FC Like Aqui1a the big problem for The Familia was a lack of goals but they also suffered from a very leaky defence, their 5-1 humiliation at the hands of Fedex was a real low point last season. However a strong 1-0 win against Kippen was a moment of progress for the side. They are a side that is more balanced than before, at the back Wallwork and Milosevici provide a strong defensive presence while their midfield so long a weak point looks a lot more competitive now. Up front Auffret is one of the best strikers in the league but his back up has not quite reached a competitive level, however this may be the season for the two youngsters to prove themselves. The side has often been criticised for a defensive outlook but now with a stronger midfield could they branch out and try to play more attacking football? A good season if: They can use a more balanced side to try and improve both defence and attack and aim for a top 5 finish this season. A bad season if: Progress made is exposed as too slow to match the other teams and they are left again looking into the relegation abyss. Leeds M.O.T After this Champions League adventure this season they came crashing down to earth. Their exciting brand of 3-4-3 football scored a big win against Fedex at the start of the season and they looked to have affected the title race at one point holding Hadens Legends to a 1-1 draw but for the most part they endured a multitude of losses. This side love to play with 3 up front and it shows as they have 3 capable strikers and a new youth ready to come in and play, in midfield they have two stars but sadly one of them will be leaving at the end of the season, which will leave a really big gap. At the back they have again a mix of veterans and youths but again you fear injuries or suspensions could expose a lack of depth in this position. They are an exciting team but may need to hold back at points so they don't end up playing attractive football but not getting results. A good season if: They can avoid the bottom three and give their youths a chance to step up and secure the future for this club. A bad season if: They are beaten in midfield consistently and unable to use their fantastic attack, if this happens they may go down. Saturn: Running rings around others. Madpool After their early knock out in the group stages of the Champions League many thought it was all over for Madpool but this season they came back in style destroying all competition to win the Lower League in glory. Reggie Hales scored 32 goals for them in what was a remarkable season to give hope and a trophy to the Madpool fans. In the Middle League they will need to carry on their long term project against much tougher opponents. Hales, Monk, Gerrard and Newell are all brilliant players but the manager must carry on cultivating Coutinho, Niedermyer, Thijssen and others if he wants this season to be a real success. They look a little vulnerable it has to be said but they do have Gerrard and Hales to get them out of trouble when the chips are down. Hopefully they can carry on a good run and make sure they stay in the Middle League with an even better team ready for next season. A good season if: They are able to both shine up front but also keep their youths playing and gelling together looking to achieve their next step to regain their former glory. A bad season if: To be demoted would be a real set back after the last season they had and could prompt anotehr of the veteran players to retire. Bob After only a few seasons bob have made a name for themselves, attacking football at any cost they score and concede an average of 3 goals in each game. Their season ticket holders always get a good result. Nearly 60% of goals conceded come within 30 minutes which is rather worrying but when Onifang, Leppe and Makondele get going bobs attack is often a joy to watch. Their defence is still unsurprisingly not great but they have a couple of good youths coming through. If they can pack the midfield and create enough chances you could see bob gaining quite a few wins through sheer offensive power. They will want to establish themselves as a Middle League team this season. A good season if: They can score enough goals to make up for their defensive frailties they might be able to score enough wins to stay up for another season. A bad season if: They could be exposed by teams that know their attacking style and come prepared to counter it. AFC Dedede Dedede had a good season last time around living up to their early potential as they saw off rivals Lords of Hydra by beating them twice 3-1 at home and then crucially 3-2 away to seal a promotion spot. Of all the promoted teams they have the best squad, it has depth, promising youths and a nice mix of fast, intelligent and dangerous players. Playing with 4-4-2 usually but switching when the time calls for it Dedede should fit in nicely to the Middle League and may even be a surprise package by teams underestimating a side that have come from the Lower League. Their only concern may be managing a rather large amount of midfielders who will all want a game, up front keep an eye on Ainsworth to create and score some goals this season, himself and Willoughby at the back may be key to a successful season for Dedede. A good season if: They can keep under the radar and get results that people do not expect, looking at this team they have an outside chance of promotion. A bad season if: If the midfield is mismanaged it could lead to a poor change report and fielding to many youths may lead the side to dropping points and being in danger of relegation. Uranus: Mysterious and Distant, what lies here? Fedex United After a rather poor season Fedex find themselves in the Lower League again with a couple of retirements from their side meaning it could be a season of reorganisation. Fedex usually play 4-4-2 with legends like Blackburn still their marshalling the middle of the park for the team. They do have some great players such as Armi in goal, Akerland in midfield and Platt up front. They do have some youths coming through but their defence has six players over 30 and 1 under 30. You would have thought they may have used this pre season to bring in some young players but it seems they will not. However with this team they have to be considered one of the favourites for the title and their experience at this level should benefit them. A good season if: They can rotate their team and use their experience to gain a Lower League title. A bad season if: They are overtaken by younger more hungry teams and face another group of retirements next season. Lords of Hydra For Lords of Hydra after a brilliant start that saw 6 wins out of their first 7 games they went on a 6 game losing streak to see their promotion hopes torpedoed. They like to play attacking football with a 3-5-2 set up emphasising their midfield trio of Lowry, Phillips and Zendegi. The team is a huge one with 23 players, six forwards seems to many and their midfield has some youths who have failed to progress it may be worth the manager culling some players before the season begins. It will be important for Dolby to remain fit as he is their only great rather than good defender and also has a mean shot that can get Hydra the odd goal. They need to try and keep up the momentum this season and that will involve the manager training his players and keeping them fit so they can mount a sustained title challenge. A good season if: They are can leave the blocks sprinting and not stop until the last game of the season, A bad season if: They suffer another blip that they can't recover from the manager and players may be shown up to have no leadership skills. Recall United United had an interesting season last time around, going through series of wins, losses, wins and then finally losses before winning the final game of the season. They had the lows of a 7-0 loss to Madpool and the highs of a 4-0 victory over the 64s. What is telling is the Recall has a better balance to it than it has seen for years, apart from the goalkeepers every other position has a good progression of veterans and young prospects. The only stand out players are Celbridge and McAteer but they have a lot of exciting players such as Backhaus in midfield who is intelligent and has stamina as well as Carlos at the back who provides counter attacking potential from the back. They play a lot of 4-5-1 but may want to put two up front to try and kill of some games, this season may be theirs to win and surely a promotion is inevitable? A good season if: Their balanced team is able to show a greater maturity than previous teams and steadily gather wins on their way to the title. A bad season if: Their relative weakness up front means they cannot capitalise on a good side that has been put together by the manager. Neptune: God of the sea, will they be left adrift? Spurs After getting to grips with the game Spurs had a brilliant end to the season that saw them win 6 of their last 7 games including 2-0 and 3-1 away wins against Hydra and Recall. The team is a large one with 20 players but has some strong players in it, Blundell scored 13 last season while Farrington is a great leader at the back. The team play almost exclusively 4-5-1 which allows them to try and play the game at their own pace and maintain control. There have been talks of the manager wanting to leave to manage in the Spanish Football Manager league, we hope he doesn't as Spurs fans deserve some glory and this side could deliver it in Season 32. A good season if: They can carry on progressing and be a surprise challenger for the title. A bad season if: If the manager decides to leave then it might be the end for this young team. Gibbs Probies It was a hard first season for Gibbs with most of the season being losses with the odd win and draw to give their fans some cheer. They also have a big side of 22 players and some like MacDonad, Ballis and Lambourne are very lucky to still be receiving a salary. Rainford give s the team some spark in midfield but their real strength comes from two good goalies with Culverton a great goalie for the lower league. The team has an average of under 1 goal per game and this is something they will need to rectify next season. Their best striker Huntley will be leaving at the end of the season so hopefully one of the other strikers uses this season to step up. A good season if: They can sort out their first team and get rid of some of the baggage, they will want to aim for a top 5 finish this season. A bad season if: To many players get game time and they do not improve on their two wins from last season. The 64s Sometimes with the 64s you feel they are observers a team not here to compete but here since Season 1 that watch others, retell stories, gather wisdom not for competition but for the sake of learning itself. However they are a football side and do compete, they have been playing 3-4-3 more of late but to little effect. Their team has several players who are young and have potential but have not reached it yet with only a couple of veterans to really guide the rest of the team. Maybe another season will see promising youths like Masabat and Majid progress and then the masterplan of the 64s will be enacted! A good season if: Their range of players who have potential gain some good experience and help this team become competitive. A bad season if: They stay frozen in time. Liverpool Another hard season for a new team Liverpool do have some interesting players like the multi talented Leaver that are unexpected in this side. In fact in midfield they have the creativity of Aspinall, the aerial dominance of Hills and the speed of Mayer. At the back they have some good young players and a great shot stopper in Spence but their forwards need some time to develop. As a team they use 4-4-2 a lot but it may be good for them to experiment with different styles and formations to try and break other teams down. A good season if: They beat the the other teams that joined last season in league position. A bad season if: They fail to adapt to different tactics or make any of their own and finish last in the league. The Great Mcoy This writer is so glad to see the legend that is Mcoy back, Mcoy won the top league championship in Season 18 and is now back with a new side to start again in Season 32. He has some cracking players in Batty who is a fantastic defender for his age. Knight will be a good midfielder for his first few seasons while Accrington is their current best striker. Mcoy has already brought in four new players all youths in every position. It is great to have you back Mcoy good luck! A good season if: They can show the new players what Xpert is all about and gain a top 5 position. A bad season if: If they fail to adapt to new features and get stunnered into last place. Pluto: Is it a planet, are they teams? The lower league will be joined by two fake teams, if you are in the lower league use these games to play your youths! Alliances Peeps can clarify what alliances we are having this time around? Spotlight Guess results and other variables in matches and win prizes! Spotlight will come when the season starts. Predictions Competition This season we will attempt to bring back the predictions competition. Please visit the forum (discussions tab, forum) and predict the following: Elite league winner Elite league demoted teams Middle league winner & promoted teams Middle league demoted teams Lower league winner & promoted teams It will be run on a points system, ie , 5 for Correct placing, 3 for one place out and 1 for two places out. Only counting the top 3 teams (so you get 1 point if your first place choice comes third, but not if your third place choice comes 5th). Jobs Edit this as appropriate. Top League Reporter: Middle League Reporter: Lower League Reporter: Interviewer: Wherever you are in the Universe, enjoy Season 32! AC Elites: @dan\-likes\-trees Yellow Submarine: @Zell --- Atlético Aqui1a: @Aqui1a Coloccini FC: @MilaGi Fedex United: (not on forum) Hadens Legends: @Haden Kippen FC: @Charlie Leeds M.O.T: @Lucas3693 Rossers Rovers: (not on forum) Russian Revolution: (not on forum) The Familia FC: (not on forum) --- AFC Dedede: @Dedede bob: @bob Gibbs Probies: @Agent Gibbs LiVeRpOoL: (not on forum) Lords of Hydra: @Esequiel Madpool: @MadDog Recall United: @Jimbob Spurs: @dazzybee The Sixty-Fourthers: @gaggle64