Xpert 11 Season 28: The Underground World

[Haden]

Another world, another time, in the age of wonder...

 

A thousand years ago, this forum was green and good... until the Playground cracked... For a single game was lost... a shard of the Playground. Then strife began, and two new races appeared -- the cruel Mafia Players... the gentle Xpert Managers.

 

Here in the castle of the playground, the Mafia took control. Now the Mafia players gather in the secret chamber where the Playground hangs under talk of a Wii U and a PS4 ...The Mafia with their hard and twisted games, their harsh and twisted members... For a thousand years they have ruled, yet now they only have ten threads. ...A dying game, ruled by a dying admin, imprisoned within themselves within a dying sub forum. Today, once more, they gather at the Playground as the first users log in. For this is the way of the Mafia... As they ravage the forum, so too they learn to draw new users from the forum. Today, once more, they will replenish themselves, cheat death again, through the power of their source, their treasure, their fate -- The Nintendo Sub Forum. But today, the ceremony of the Nintendo Sub Forum gives no comfort. Today, a Game lies dying... today a new Game must seize the throne...

 

 

A thousand years ago, the Playground cracked... And here, far from the castle, the race of Xpert Managers came to live in a dream of tactics. Their ways were gentle ways of natural strategists... Yet now, there are only twenty nine... a dying race... numbly rehearsing the ancient ways in a blur of forgetfulness. But today, the ritual gives no comfort... Today, the wisest of the managers lies dying. Today, they summon the one who must save them...

 

Xpert 11 Season 28

 

 

Previous Champions

 

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

Cup Winners

 

Inter, Inter, Silverdale, Eights, Eights, Yellow Submarine, DuDs Baggies.

 

The Predators

 

 

Ants

 

These teams are more like finely honed machines, they work without rest and together their players can win against any outfit, unstoppable?

 

 

Yellow Submarine

 

Last season this team had 11 losses and a -4 goal difference, this season they lost 3 times and ended up with a plus 31 goal difference. Winning the league on the final day of the season will go down as one of the greatest xpert 11 moments in the history of this league. No-one gave them a chance of winning the league least of all this reporter who said in last seasons preview “A good season if: Yellow Submarine break into the top five at the expense of one of the above teams.” They achieved an incredible 100% record at home and landed double victories against four other teams. A key part of their team is intelligence, they have six players who are very talented at either creating or breaking up play. The defence of Yellow Submarine are still maturing but their midfield and attack look like that of a champions team. Delipiano and Falcao will give teams now and in the future nightmares. They face one big disadvantage this season, they are the champions. Everyone will be out to beat them but if they have the belief that they had this time around they may well retain their title. Look for some tactical but exciting football and another season of drama from this side.

 

A good season if: They retain their championship they can start to build a legacy around a group of players who made the unthinkable a reality.

A bad season if: They are sent crashing back outside the top 3 and fail to build on the momentum from last seasons legendary season.

 

Eights United

 

While they were behind most of this season when they caught up they looked to have delivered a fatal blow to Yellow Submarine's title chances. However their only home loss to relegated AC Elites saw a third title in a row slip away from them. They are however as fearsome as ever, their midfield is a huge strength with Isfjord showing amazing potential and Granas providing the talent to a team full of it. Their defence is full of strong aerially dominant players but may be lacking in the future, the attack is also rather long in the tooth outside of Wilder. However a narrative of decline would be absurd, this team is still an incredible one and the manager can still usually play 3-5-2 and decimate most teams without many worries. What the team needs is some fight, they have lost their automatic number one status and will want to seek some revenge in what will be a fascinating season. Having lost on goal difference this time around look out for United destroying promoted teams by huge margins at home as they seek to regain their crown.

 

A good season if: They can come back and win the championship with a couple of games to go after last seasons final day drama.

A bad season if: They finish outside the top two and a couple of veterans ask to retire seeing the glory days have to an end.

Intergalactico Stars

 

An awful start to the season and some inconsistency here and there put paid to any title charge but it was also a season of consolidation and proving they are still a top side. They finished a place higher than last season with about the same points total. However they scored some good wins against sides that were looking to replace them. They are a very solid side at the back but this season lacked the overwhelming force of Eights or the pure intelligent play of Yellow Submarine. They need to find a way to create and convert more chances, the have a range of midfield options and Grey is looking to be a fantastic future playmaker. Keeping this squad fit and rotating it properly will be the challenge for Inter. If Kirk or Arnold could have a standout season things could start to fall into place but they need to beat rather than draw with defensive teams like Odwinica.

 

A good season if: They can move on from 30-32 points and achieve over 10 victories, this will see them edging towards getting back in the title picture.

A bad season if: They stagnate or drop down the table while failing to break down awkward teams like Odwinica.

 

 

 

Spiders

 

Almost the kings of the league, clever tactics and fearsome home grounds can they enter the top rung this season?

 

 

 

Battlestar Odwinica

 

Their 11th season in the top league is at an end and their fans will be disappointed with their worst points and goal scored tally for quite some time. Odwinica did not please many neutrals with their defensive style but this was not all the managers fault. While striker Tygesen had a good season Odwinica's other two strikers scored two between them in a combined 26 outings. However before this report gets to negative there is a lot to hope for this season. The midfield is a good mix of 3 elite players with youths and the team is full of Odwins favourite type of player, the free kick specialist. Craven and Trifkovic keep the back looking strong with a trio of excellent young defenders also in the mix. Fans will want to see more of the 3-0 victories of teams like Winston Gardens that was a real positive of the end of last season. If he can get the strikers scoring Odwinica's manager may gain some new fans and more success.

 

A good season if: They can get straight back into the top three and provide a much bigger offensive threat.

A bad season if: Their strikers fail to turn up again and the team starts to look vulnerable against younger hungrier promoted sides.

 

Madpool

Went into the last day with a very outside chance of being relegated and posted their lowest ever points total in the modern NE top league. The team still have a fantastic core of players with Hales being one of the best in the entire league. However they do not quite carry the same threat that they used to. Home wins against Eights United and Odwinica were a real positive but away results against the top sides were poor. Newell is really reaching his potential as a great defender but the age gap in all aspects of Madpools set up may require attention in the next two-three seasons. It must be said with a range of abilities and when kept in high form this team is an incredible one playing possession based attacking football but the manager needs to do something to change the perception that they are a once great club in decline.

 

A good season if: They can start to get some big wins and some of their youth perform on the big stage, a top 3 finish would be a real return to form.

A bad season if: They fail to turn things around and finish 6th or lower prompting some big names to leave the club.

The Familia FC

 

They finally stayed up in the top league by legitimate means after a few seasons of playing ping pong between leagues. Key to the success this campaign were doubles against Madpool, Winston and AC Elites. They performed badly against the top tier teams but did enough with JJ in his last season to avoid the drop. Now they need to build on this and cultivate their youth to make their stay a long term prospect. Gibbs and Crossley give the team real power in controlling a game and Auffret has turned into a lethal striker. It is also promising that the team now has youths such as Collett to come on now and again as a fresh substitute. The strength of this team lies in its defence and goalie but they need to impose their will on the promoted sides and not just sit back. They have some players with mean striking ability who can make a difference and it will be very interesting to see how this team fares this season.

 

A good season if: They can crack the top 5 and get a good change report, they need to pick up some high profile wins to take the pressure off relegation battles.

A bad season if: They fail to score one big win against the top sides and are relegated on the back of last seasons success.

 

 

Silverdale Salmon

 

Last season we said it would be a A bad season if: Silverdale again get off to a bad start and find themselves in a relegation fight two seasons in a row. Sadly they did find themselves in another fight with only a single victory against the top 4. However they also showed great spirit and were undefeated against five clubs which is a very good achievement. It should also be pointed out their squad had a great developmental season they have fantastic strength in many areas with the 35 year old Jerome in midfield but also with young players like Gutierrez in defence proving a huge asset. Another positive is the diverse range of talents in the team, lots of quick players, powerful players, good headers of the ball and Housham is a wonderfully multi-talented goalie. The team usually goes for 4-4-2 but it may be worth trying to really push a couple of areas of their team with a formation that alters the nature of the game. To many times they were held to draws by weaker teams they will want to give tactical direction to this beastlike team this season.

 

A good season if: they can live up to their potential and get in the top three with some big wins against the top sides and double victories against weaker ones.

A bad season if: They fail to break into the top four, anything less is a failure with such a strong and talented squad such as this.

 

 

 

Stag Beetles

 

Teams that are growing in brute power every season, are a scary prospect to face.

 

Lylat Wanderers

 

After three seasons in the top league this team rebranded their name and won the Middle League for the first ever time. They did this in style with four victories were they scored 4 or more. This is a small squad of just 16 who are still developing but have found a good leader in Pilgrim, Peeps is cultivating a range of 23 year olds in defence with different play styles. Midfield is dominated by tall strong players who can win the ball in the air and are helpful up front and in defence. As of this report the front line of Wanderers is very weak with only two young players but this is after a 5mil transfer of their best striker. I would expect the manager would want to bring in a highly skilled veteran forward and may be waiting for the right deal to come along. If he can bring in a good striker then expect this team to carry on doing well and providing a nightmare to teams from set pieces and corners.

Update:

The manager did indeed bring in a veteran forward with Johnson looking to make his mark up front and help Wanderers stay up.

A good season if: They can stay up and cause one or two upsets while keeping their small set up fit and healthy.

A bad season if: They go down and are humiliated by some of the stronger teams in the league.

 

 

Atlético Aqui1a

 

Posted another 2nd place performance in the Middle League after being relegated from the top flight last season. We said we wanted their youths to merge together and give them success and this side delivered. The manager however has changed his squad somewhat and brought in some experienced players like striker Yallop to give his team some added edge. The defence looks very impressive with plenty of old school centre backs making it a tireless outfit. However the midfield looks less impressive, players like den Turk look to be fantastic prospects but there is not one real Elite League worthy player in midfield yet. The attack is also an odd combination of 34 year old Yallop and youth Upson. However Aquila like Wanderers may be hoping to tinker with their lineup before the season starts. Like Wanderers they are a scary team in the air and score a large amount of their goals in the air. They need a couple of strong veterans and some discipline to survive, it may be quite a tall order but this will no longer be their first attempt!

Update:

Aquila have added an amazing youth forward and spent a lot on Ferdinand a veteran goal scoring machine to make their side look more formidable up front.

 

 

A good season if: They cause some shocks and keep their goal difference intact, if they can do it they might have an outside chance of staying up.

A bad season if: They sustain injuries that hinder development and come rock bottom in the league.

 

Kippen FC

 

Made great progress the last couple of seasons with back to back promotions this side is now ready for their debut in the top league. Picked up some good wins over sides below them but worryingly failed to beat either of the two other promoted teams. They are a team with a youthful feel as can be seen by their home grown attack with the oldest player at 26. The midfield is the strong point of this team with veteran Fraser alongside playmaker Vogele at the core of the side. Chalmers is a very handy defender who is adept at breaking up plays. This team is an attacking one using 3-5-2 a lot of the time and both scoring and conceding a high number of goals from breakaways. They like to keep the pace of the game fast and score almost 60% of their goals in the first 30 minutes. However how this style will adapt to teams who have top league midfields and defences remains to be seen. They will go in as the rank outsiders of the top league but some teams may pay the price of playing youth against this attacking set up.

 

 

A good season if: They can beat their fellow relegation candidates and play some entertaining football, it will be an incredible achievement quite frankly if they manage to stay up.

A bad season if: If they go down with a solitary win and a couple of draws, a season like that will be a hard psychological blow for this young outfit.

 

 

The Flyers

 

Butterflys

 

Some beautiful football is played by this group they must be careful to match strength with style.

 

 

 

 

DuDs Baggies

 

Baggies again gained 18 points in the top league but this time it was not enough and they found themselves relegated. With 10 points from their first 5 games and beating teams like Inter and Odwinica they had a great start to the season but could not carry the momentum into the later periods of the season. However the manager claimed to be pleased with the way the season went in terms of development and it is not hard to see why. Players like Chan, Izon and Payton are clearly thriving under Baggies youth movement. Baggies midfield is both fast paced and good in the air with Szymanek looking to be a fantastic playmaker. Both youth and veteran goalie are world class and Ryman and Unnarsson give confidence from defence. Baggies lost their best forward who retired at the end of this season and while Shearer is a good and diverse striker he is not truly a top tier player yet. This is the one area where Baggies may find themselves a bit underpowered. However the manager is very creative with formations using 3-5-2 and 5-3-2 amongst others. It is also worth noting that an amazing 50% of Baggies goals come from crosses so the talented headers in midfield may help with the goal tally. Baggies furthermore capped off their pre season with a glorious cup victory which will set them up nicely for this season, look for this team to be instantly promoted.

 

 

A good season if: They win the Middle League title and earn their first ever league title.

A bad season if: They fail to go up and have frustrated players who will be wanting to play top tier football again.

 

 

Winston Gardens

 

After a victory in the Middle League Winston failed to stay up in the top league this season. They had some good victories against other relegated sides but endured a very hard season overall. A good cup run to the semis will help erase some of these memories, a large squad with a whole range of ages and expertise mean fans have a lot to hope for. The attack is young but quick and quite well skilled, Akera is ready to replace Rosebotham a few seasons down the line as the main playmaker and Kahlke is an outstanding defender. Winston are a conventional side playing 4-4-2 and usually being quite balanced in attack. They shipped 51 goals last season and will enjoy using this time in the Middle League to get to shore up their defence. Will be a threat to all Middle League teams and will want to add another title to their collection.

 

A good season if: They can keep their defence tight and introduce new players to this large team in a successful way, oh and challenge for the title!

A bad season if: They finish 4th or below and their defence fails to learn lessons from last season.

 

AC Elites

 

Elites have gone into a pattern recently, 3rd place in Middle League followed by 10th in the Elite League. The manager has spent a huge amount of money bringing in some excellent players and frankly now have an outstanding side by Middle League standards. Gurdsuk is a tireless defender while Tinkle is an amazing youth prospect. Faketura shows the depth of the midfield, he is the weakest midfielder but is a fantastic multi-talented player. The attack is a bit more bare but still has more than enough depth to impress. The team has a rather high average age and have 7 players over 30 but if the manager can keep them motivated and slowly bring in youths over the next few seasons he will keep this team looking strong. The side have been accused of being boring from other managers and they do usually play 4-4-2 or 4-5-1. However this season they are so far ahead of any other team they should be able to show some more attacking intent.

 

A good season if: They go through the entire season without losing a game.

A bad season if: They fail to win the title, the fans badly want a title and this season will be an incredible opportunity.

 

 

 

 

Honeybees

 

These teams are a collective and organised but do they have the killer edge?

 

 

Roger Federer Crew

 

RFC had another great season looking at one point as if they would be promoted but again coming in 4th. This is a fantastic achievement considering it is only their 3rd season! With a small team but one reaching maturity RFC will be an interesting watch this season. Fosatti is a really dangerous midfielder with pace and striking ability. Pace again features in the attack of RFC which makes them very dangerous on the break, they scored 20% of their goals that way last season. The team favours 3-5-2 and is a very attacking side, they score 2.5 goals per game but also concede 1.6 on average. This style can be seen in their duels against bob, they beat them 6-2 at home and lost 7-2 in the reverse fixture. RFC will be facing some very touch opponents this season and may need to vary his all out attacking style if he wants to break into the top 3.

 

A good season if: They shore up their defensive errors and charge towards a top 3 finish that they have almost got in the past two seasons.

A bad season if: Their all out attack hits a brick wall and they slide down the table this season.

 

Leeds M.O.T

 

After their blockbuster season in the Lower League where they won the title without losing a match Leeds settled right into the Middle League and came a respectable 5th. They have a squad with a large range of ages and styles. Mancebo and Woodlands are the dependable leaders in their team, both are high skilled reliable players. Their attacking youths look tireless, strong and imaginative and will surely be a source of goals for seasons to come. Bartolovic is a very good keeper and keeps the team confident when they go forward. This team loves to play with attacking intent preferring 3-4-3, they did ship 41 goals last season but score 48 making their GD healthy. Like RFC they may have to adapt their style, with many players heading towards their final seasons it may be a time of change for Leeds, keep on eye on this team they could be the dark horse of the division.

 

 

A good season if: They can give all of their players some experience on the pitch but keep on winning games, a promotion would show great progress for this club.

A bad season if: They are blighted by injuries in their midfield and are unable to play their preferred attacking style, they want to move on from the lower league and do not want to go down again.

 

 

Hadens Rangers

 

Finished the season with 4 less points and a goal difference 9 goals worse than last season but finished 6th again. The team made it to the cup final with some amazing results on the way and lost in a good game to DuDs Baggies 3-1, this showed real progress. Rangers have a lot to be grateful for, their midfield is really starting to shine. Astle will retire after this year but Conden and Burlett are ready to take his place along with others below them. Mallett after a good season last time around is training up a new couple of youths who bring different styles with them. Palmer is the only top class defender Rangers have but others will follow soon. They are quite an adaptable team with many players able to play in non normal roles and their midfielders are all quite multi-talented. The team likes to experiment and has been moving towards 3-5-2 and 4-4-2 variations. The real key for them this season will be consistency and being able to beat teams of all different strengths and styles, if they can do that they may finally be able to sneak into the top half of this league or even higher.

 

A good season if: They can carry on brining in youths to games as well as getting results when they need them, finishing in the top 5 will be a good sign of progress.

A bad season if: They are unable to beat strong top league sides or hungry newcomers and find themselves falling down towards the relegation zone.

 

Dragooooo

 

The manager predicted his teams relegation this season and it seemed this was going to happen bar a nail biting last day victory over Rangers that saw bob go down instead. With only 3 players older than 26 it is clear this team is focused on youth development. Looking at players such as Wennergren who will be a fantastic future defender it is paying off. However while the defence of this team is good at shutting play down they remain very vulnerable to an experienced attack. The midfield is a different matter with proven talents such as Wielink and Iacopino providing goals and assists. In attack Forsyth looks to be a great future support attacker and that side of the team is developing very nicely. This side usually like to pack out the midfield and control the game from there. They will need to control games and limit chances to pick up wins against some dangerous looking sides in this league.

 

Update:

The manager brought in Ravelli to shore up their defensive issues.

A good season if: Their youth project carries on interrupted and they use their strong midfield to dominate other sides.

A bad season if: They leak goals because of a real lack of defensive backbone and are unable to avoid the drop this season.

 

 

 

Moths

 

Coming in from the dark, attracted to the glowing light above them keep an eye on these three.

 

 

Rossers Rovers

After just missing out on promotion in their first season they won the league this time around much to the delight of their fans. They have a team full of young, intelligent players with stamina to boot. They have 5 forwards all under 25 with four midfielders at 28. This large squad seems unmanageable but Rovers have found a way to do it. Rotating between 4-4-2, 3-5-2 and 4-5-1 Rovers find ways to use all their players. Georgy Przhevalsky is a player to watch, he has the ability both to create and to finish chances. Rovers may lack star players for a Middle League side but have lots of dangerous finishers and racked up a couple of 7-0 routs during last season. They will have to work very hard to survive that will be a large achievement.

 

A good season if: Their large team can continue to function and gain both experience and wins in this next step.

A bad season if: They finish 10th and fail to gain much worthwhile experience for their team, they cannot waste this season.

 

Coloccini FC

 

Were many peoples bet to win the Middle League but were pipped to the post in the end, still they secured an expected return to the Middle League. Like Rovers they are a young large team, no forwards over the age of 24 is worrying but prospects like the teenage Pi Ha make this a club of the future. They are a team full of creators and speedy players who can stretch other teams. Rowley and Haslop give some much needed backbone to the team while Costa is the type of hard working midfielder who can win matches. They are very varied with their formations using around 6 different set ups yet they seem to consistently score goals from headers. The manager is committed to his youth project and has Middle League experience can he make these two things compatible?

 

A good season if: They can scrape 7th place with some well earned draws and surprising wins to cement their place in this league.

A bad season if: Their fans may not be that pleased with another chance to win a Lower League title, those days need to be gone soon.

 

Fedex United

 

At one stage this side seemed a dead cert to make their top league début sooner rather than later with two 4th place finishes but after a relegation to the Lower League they find themselves starting again in the Middle League. Last time we wrote it would be a bad season for Fedex if 'they finish 2nd or 3rd without developing their youth throughout the season.' To be honest they failed to do this, a big purchase Sanroman was only played 4 times last season and has failed to move on as a player. The attacking line up is now looking old and apart from Platt rather untalented. The defence though is a huge strength with Granli being a defender who will keep chasing other players the entire game. It also has good strength in depth but again no players 25 or under. The midfield is more balanced with Mansell looking like a great prospect as a playmaker and attacking midfielder. However you feel Fedex need to start paying more attention to their youths. Looking at the youth orientated philosophy of the other two promoted sides it will be interesting to see how all three of their fortunes have changed in 5 seasons time.

A good season if: They can use their strength to really show they deserve to be in this league and finish 6th or higher while giving their young talent more games.

A bad season if: They are relegated again and several big names decide to retire leaving the club needing a complete overhaul.

 

 

 

The Survivors

 

Woodlice

 

These are some tough teams who may have made slow progress in the past season but are ready to face anyone head on.

 

 

Bob

 

They were only denied Middle League Status in the final game of the season and had a very good début in the Middle League. They scored a fantastic 57 goals but conceded a dire 63 which in the end was their downfall. They are still quite a young side with some fantastic prospects like the fast paced midfielder Leppe and the highly rated Bob Another Cameroonian. At the same time the likes of Kalla and Goufran both good strikers in different ways give them more experienced dependability. The defence is by far the weakest aspect of this side even when backed by a cracking goalie. However with lesser opponents in store expect bob to run rampant and come score even more than 57 this season.

 

A good season if: They can score 65 goals or over and destroy some of the lower league teams to win the title and promotion.

A bad season if: They are outfoxed by teams that know their overly attacking ways and fail to gain promotion.

 

 

The Comrade Co-op

 

Worrying times for this club as their manager has not been seen for a couple of weeks and the fans are staging protests outside the grounds. The team has to be honest fallen far from their peak of two back to back league wins and entry into the top league. While other sides such as Yellow Submarine and DuDs Baggies have made huge strides in the past 5 seasons Co-op have declined badly. We said a bad season for them would be if 'they go down fighting and face a season in the Lower League without Chmutov leading them.' They now need to look to Kalashnikov in midfield and Guselnikov

up front. They need to be much more ruthless with youths who fail to make the grade and invest time and training in those with potential, the state of their youths in defence is testament to this. This has been a very harsh write up but it is sad to see a once great club fall like this, this season is sure to be a turning point which way will they go?

 

A good season if: They can silence their critics and be promoted with a clear focus on future leaders of their teams.

A bad season if: They fail to gain promotion and fail to find any future youths, the end may then be near for this once high flying football team.

 

The 64s

 

If AC Elites are the team that should win with ease in the Middle League the 64s are the equivalent of the Lower League. They have never been in any Lower League in their 28 seasons in xpert, however after two last place finishes they find themselves here. They had a horrible run at the start of last season but did beat teams like Kippen FC and Hadens Rangers as well. From usually using 4-4-2 they now try other formations most notably 3-5-2. Qadir and Redfearn at the back allow them to try these attacking options, the midfield is developing with Kalaga and Whitaker both look like interesting prospects. The attack is ageing but still looks very strong for this league they have quite a few players who like to strike in long shots if given space. Promotion will be a beat minimum their fans will want them to run rampant in this league to make up for the last two seasons.

 

A good season if: They both develop youths and also win the league unbeaten.

A bad season if: They fail to give their youths ample playing time and by some miracle do not go up this would constitute a disaster.

 

 

 

Grasshoppers

 

Leaping from place to place these teams need to focus and jump up to the next level to avoid being forgotten.

 

 

 

Recall United

 

After recent dark times United had a good season last time around coming 4th and having a good overall season. Recall are clearly trying to build something with a pacey defence complemented by Celbridge who is the teams stand out player. There is not a forward over 22 and most are relativity new transfers into the team. Still Recall do not always emphasise the attacking line up playing with 4-5-1 or 5-4-1 a lot of the time they like to control the midfield and move forward as a team or sometimes hit on the break.

 

A good season if: They carry on their possession based football and pick up from last season with a top 3 finish.

A bad season if: They see they needed maybe another veteran or two and finish 5th or lower meaning another season in this league.

 

AFC Dedede

 

Had a great début season coming in at a respectable 5th place in the Lower League. They also can be seen to have adapted very well to the demands of being an xpert manager. Willoughby in defence is potentially a world class defender who specialises in breaking up plays. Midfield and attack have some strong headers of the ball and Brydon is the clear number one playmaker for the time being. This team enjoys playing 4-3-3 and will score against others in a variety of ways although are vulnerable to conceding headed goals. They famously beat Coloccini 4-0 away from home and will want some more victories like that to keep their momentum going.

 

A good season if: They sneak into 3rd place we could be looking at the next quick success story of xpert there is a very good feeling around this club at the moment.

A bad season if: They fail to tweak problems such as conceding headed goals they could just as easily finish in the lower half.

 

Multiple Scorgasms

 

The fantastically named Multiple Scorgasms enjoyed a good first campaign after a tough start. They won 6 games and drew 4 to come 6th in the league. They have a large team with 19 players and in Heinecke and Friedemann have natural goal scorers who can sense where the goal is in a crowded box. The defence is a young one with Gazilj being a youth with some great potential, however they like Dedede conceded a lot of headed goals and may need a big strong defender to keep a check on crosses. They usually go out with a 4-4-2 formation and score in a number of different ways, Jansen is the pacey dangerman in their midfield and is very god at finding other players. This season will be interesting for them as they try to craft an identity and finish in the top half.

 

A good season if: They can further define their own playing style and start quicker than last time around to finish in the top 5.

A bad season if: They are closed down by other teams around them and are demoralised by a low finish in the league.

 

Cubic County

 

Since reforming under the name Cubic County this new club has failed to set the world alight, but in an interesting Interview with Nikos the manager had this to say “Our plan is to take it easy and not overstep our bounds. We don't expect to be promoted next season - we'd just be humiliated in the Middle League - but I think we can reach 4th or 5th. In 5 years time, I think we'll be ready to stand our ground in the Middle League.” Every season they have conceded less goals and in defence with Walters and Humphreys you can see some real class emerging. The attack is obviously an ongoing youth project at the moment and it has to be said in midfield some players like Vaughn are very lucky to still be allowed to be playing. However they are turning into a solid counter attacking team who can hit anyone on the break.

 

A good season if: They can now step up and break teams down with this new ambition they have and break into the top 5.

A bad season if: They are demoralised and fail to latch on to this belief the have in themselves.

 

 

Les Balbuzards

 

The new team from the manager that brought you Seahawks FC Les Balbuzards had a quiet first season finishing 8th. They are however looking strong now with Etxabe being a great purchase for attack and Baptise being a future world class talent also up front. Bonjor is an amazing box to box midfielder with pace to lead attacks and get back to defend. The defence itself looks solid without any stand-out players. This team is hard to play against in some ways as they don't really look to specialise, they play 4-4-2 and score in a multitude of different ways. They do have to be careful about conceding so many goals from set pieces, this is something their manager will need to stress this season. Last season they went on an unbeaten run with 4 draws and 1 victory this time around they need to develop a killer edge and they will see themselves flying up the table.

 

A good season if: They turn draws to victories and see themselves move up the table, the ambition and players are now there.

A bad season if: They finish 8th or lower again and show that they are off the pace.

AC Twozzinio

 

Had a disappointing season in truth coming 9th after finishing 6th in their first season. They scored the same amount of goals as last season but conceded 18 more showing a worrying defensive slide. This team is the largest in NE with 21 players. Looking at defence some like Ben Haim show amazing potential but Bond is a player who is lucky to still be collecting a pay cheque. Kalev and new signing Himma shore up the midfield but the forward line again seems to need to lose some players as none of the seven forwards really stands out as a huge star bar Shamli. The team played some wild formations like 4-2-4 on more than one occasions and were the victim of breakaways a lot of the time. This season the manager has to settle on a more modest style and trim the fat in his side if he wants success.

 

A good season if: They can focus their style and selection more and replicate their first rather than 2nd season.

A bad season if: They are exploited by other teams as they reveal vulnerabilities.

Andy All Stars

 

Sadly this side has decided to call it a day, we admired the manager of this team and hope they come back but the team will now just be making up the numbers and will be a good training side for other lower league teams to field youths against.

 

 

 

 

AC Elites - @dan\-likes\-trees

Yellow Submarine - @bob

Dragooooo - @Flink

Hadens Rangers - Haden

Leeds M.O.T - @Lucas

Real Peeps - @The Peeps

The Comerade Co-op - Not on forum

The Sixty-Fourthers - @Gaggle

The Roger Federer Crew - Not on forum

----

AC Twozzinio - @Twozzok

Andys Allstars - Not on forum

Coloccini FC - @MilaGi

Cubic County - @Cube

Fedex United - Not on forum

JD United - @Jon_Dedede

Les Balbuzards - Not on forum

Multiple Scorgasms - @Fish

Recall United - @Jimbob

Rossers Rovers - Not on forum

 

 

Alliances

 

Sign up today! Find 2 other buddies and sign up to show everyone which alliance rules them all. The team with the best collective league positions will finish top and may be entered to win a prize!

 

Spotlight

 

 

Guess results and other variables in matches and win prizes!

Spotlight will come when the season starts.

 

 

 

 

Top League Reporter: The Peeps

Middle League Reporter: Haden

Lower League Reporter: Position Open

Interviewer: Nikos

First game is tommorow 13:30:

 

 

Be the one!

Edited August 19, 2013 by Haden

[Charlie]

@Nikos9

 

Tried to bid on your player but there's no option to?

[Jimbob]

Looking for an alliance, any volunteers from the middle and top leagues?

[Lucas3693]

Looking for an alliance, any volunteers from the middle and top leagues?

 

Ill join you if you want. Just need someone from the top league now

[Charlie]

Ill join you if you want. Just need someone from the top league now

 

Officially the weakest top league team at your service!

[bob]

I might struggle to set tactics now I'm at work all day, but we'll see how I do anyway.

 

With that in mind, I'm open for an alliance with anyone who enjoys scoring goals, kicking ass, and long, romantic walks in the rain.

[Lucas3693]

Officially the weakest top league team at your service!

 

Welcome to the alliance.Im sure youll do us proud.

[Aqui1a]

I'm also looking for an alliance this season! Anyone from the bottom or middle league fancy joining me?

[The Peeps]

I might struggle to set tactics now I'm at work all day, but we'll see how I do anyway.

 

With that in mind, I'm open for an alliance with anyone who enjoys scoring goals, kicking ass, and long, romantic walks in the rain.

 

I'll join forces with you!

[Jimbob]

Jimbob, @Lucas3693, @Charlie. Officially an alliance, now then what shall we call ourselves?.

[MilaGi]

I'll join forces with you!

 

Since I'm in the same division as @bob?

[Charlie]

Jimbob, @Lucas3693, @Charlie. Officially an alliance, now then what shall we call ourselves?.

 

Team Awesome & Jimbob

[Tales]

I can ally with anyone but Ellmeister.

[bob]

I'll join forces with you!

 

Yes,

 

 

 

 

 

Since I'm in the same division as @bob?

 

And yes.

 

What shall we three be?

[The Peeps]

Team Awesome & Bob

[bob]

Leave out the 'awesome &' and it's a deal.

[Nikos9]

@Nikos9

 

Tried to bid on your player but there's no option to?

 

Ah, maybe it's cos he says he wants to end his career at the club..thought maybe the direct transfer would be a way around it but obviously not, doh!

 

Alliances

 

Sign up today! Find 2 other buddies and sign up to show everyone which alliance rules them all. The team with the best collective league positions will finish top and may be entered to win a prize!

 

Who do you reckon for our third member from the lower league then? ...64s/Balbuzards??

 

P.S...respond to your messages!? :p

[Charlie]

Ah, maybe it's cos he says he wants to end his career at the club..thought maybe the direct transfer would be a way around it but obviously not, doh!

 

Oh so you're trying to flog me a player who is retiring in a season? :p

 

You, sir, are going down.

[Tales]

Ah, maybe it's cos he says he wants to end his career at the club..thought maybe the direct transfer would be a way around it but obviously not, doh!

 

 

 

Who do you reckon for our third member from the lower league then? ...64s/Balbuzards??

 

P.S...respond to your messages!? :p

 

That used to be the loophole, but they blocked it some time ago. The best think now, they say, is to direct transfer players before putting them on the market, as putting them on the market is what triggers them wanting to end the career on the club. I can't confirm this though.

[Fierce_LiNk]

I'm torn. I've set up my team and am relatively "playing it safe" as I want points for the first day.

 

But, I'm also tempted to just go for broke and play something a bit unconventional. I could do him, but it could all go disastrously wrong.

 

Think I'll play it safe for the first game. Maybe. Hmm.

[Nikos9]

Oh so you're trying to flog me a player who is retiring in a season? :p

 

You, sir, are going down.

 

Lol, he hasn't actually said he's retiring, he just wouldn't allow me to sell him when I tried but hey...he clearly knows he's at the best club in the xpert world so I don't blame him!

[Fierce_LiNk]

Gah, I should have gone with my gut and played the formation/tactics I had in mind. Aw well...

[Rowan]

Think I played the correct tactics but we just came up against better players.

[Charlie]

Yes, the unthinkable did just happen. The reigning champions were just beaten by the team who finished 3rd in the Middle League.

 

Judging from last season where 8th went down with 18 points and 7th had 22, I'm going to need a to get a few more wins under my belt to be able to stay up. Will be a big ask.

[dan-likes-trees]

I'm torn. I've set up my team and am relatively "playing it safe" as I want points for the first day.

 

But, I'm also tempted to just go for broke and play something a bit unconventional. I could do him, but it could all go disastrously wrong.

 

Think I'll play it safe for the first game. Maybe. Hmm.

 

Ha!

 

Solid opening day win for the Gardens. Going to be a good season for dvs.

 

I can ally with anyone but Ellmeister.

 

Fancy it? I'll walk this middle league with my eyes closed.