Barnes-Homer made the Blue Square Bet Premier Team of the Week for the third time this season. He’s leading the league on average rating, and sits equal third on the goalscoring charts.
We’re favourites to beat last-placed Kettering tomorrow. I’m hoping for a huge confidence-boosting win, with goals galore. But the most important thing is that we walk away with three points, whatever the scoreline or performance. I want to be top at Christmas, and that means we need to win.
Sunday 30 September 2012
Saturday 29 September 2012
Day 168
Christophe’s on the march back to first-team duty, after having resumed full training today from his two-month injury lay-off.
He needs to do more than just get his fitness and sharpness back, though. The central midfielder has dropped down the pecking order while he’s been sidelined. Richardson and Woods are now the first choice pairing in the middle of the park, with Power as cover (for both of them, since Woods can handle a more defensive role if necessary).
For the first time this season, none of my senior players are injured. A couple of the Under 18s are out of action, but every single full-time player is in training rather than the treatment room. If there’s going to be discontent about lack of game time, I expect I’ll be hearing about it soon—because our squad is big enough that several fringe guys will miss out, and a few others will find themselves out of the spotlight more often than they’re willing to accept.
It’s currently a 28-man squad, with one set to leave and one soon to arrive. I’m actively trying to offload five others, which means that we’re likely to have around 25 players for the second half of the season (including loan signings).
He needs to do more than just get his fitness and sharpness back, though. The central midfielder has dropped down the pecking order while he’s been sidelined. Richardson and Woods are now the first choice pairing in the middle of the park, with Power as cover (for both of them, since Woods can handle a more defensive role if necessary).
For the first time this season, none of my senior players are injured. A couple of the Under 18s are out of action, but every single full-time player is in training rather than the treatment room. If there’s going to be discontent about lack of game time, I expect I’ll be hearing about it soon—because our squad is big enough that several fringe guys will miss out, and a few others will find themselves out of the spotlight more often than they’re willing to accept.
It’s currently a 28-man squad, with one set to leave and one soon to arrive. I’m actively trying to offload five others, which means that we’re likely to have around 25 players for the second half of the season (including loan signings).
Friday 28 September 2012
Day 167
Zak Ansah finished his loan spell and returned to Arsenal. The 17 year old did well in his four appearances in a Lincoln shirt, scoring once and grabbing two assists. It’s such a shame that he strained his knee ligaments and twisted his knee during the three months we had him. Unfortunately, Ansah spent more time in the treatment room that he did on the pitch.
I hope to get him back in a Lincoln shirt for the second half of the season, but I doubt that’ll happen. We can only loan a few players for long periods each season, and he happens to play a position that we’ve got well covered (striker, or left wing). It’s probably better to go after someone who could strengthen the team elsewhere.
Ian Gardner’s report on young goalkeeper Sebastian Usai was consistent with Woodhouse’s and Bradshaw’s. The lad has pretty good technical skills, along with strong bravery, decision-making, and concentration, but at 180 centimetres (5’11”) he’s short for a keeper. His positioning, strength, and teamwork are terrible. And he can’t jump very high.
I think I’ll wait until January, then see if we can get him on loan until the end of the season. If he does well, I’ll try to sign him permanently. If not, we let him go—no harm done.
I hope to get him back in a Lincoln shirt for the second half of the season, but I doubt that’ll happen. We can only loan a few players for long periods each season, and he happens to play a position that we’ve got well covered (striker, or left wing). It’s probably better to go after someone who could strengthen the team elsewhere.
Ian Gardner’s report on young goalkeeper Sebastian Usai was consistent with Woodhouse’s and Bradshaw’s. The lad has pretty good technical skills, along with strong bravery, decision-making, and concentration, but at 180 centimetres (5’11”) he’s short for a keeper. His positioning, strength, and teamwork are terrible. And he can’t jump very high.
I think I’ll wait until January, then see if we can get him on loan until the end of the season. If he does well, I’ll try to sign him permanently. If not, we let him go—no harm done.
Thursday 27 September 2012
Day 166
Our Under 18s have slipped to sixth in their division, after a two-all home draw with Southend. It looks as though they suffered from the absence of injured left midfielder Aaron Rice, who’s been a stand-out performer this season.
After 13 games, they sit 13 points behind leaders Watford. Fourth place seems like a possibility, but I’d wager that they’ll finish sixth or seventh. For a team with only two or three players who look to have any future in professional football, that’s not so bad.
Mark Bradshaw agreed with Curtis Woodhouse about Sebastian Usai. I’m still concerned about the young keeper’s weaknesses holding him back, so I’ve asked Ian Gardner to throw his hat in the ring. Then I’ll make a call about whether to go after Usai.
After 13 games, they sit 13 points behind leaders Watford. Fourth place seems like a possibility, but I’d wager that they’ll finish sixth or seventh. For a team with only two or three players who look to have any future in professional football, that’s not so bad.
Mark Bradshaw agreed with Curtis Woodhouse about Sebastian Usai. I’m still concerned about the young keeper’s weaknesses holding him back, so I’ve asked Ian Gardner to throw his hat in the ring. Then I’ll make a call about whether to go after Usai.
Wednesday 26 September 2012
Day 165
The Reserves played Matlock in a friendly match today. The game was all about getting the fringe players fit.
Youngster Robert Taylor looked sharpest early on, and it was his excellent one-two with Pacquette that set out-of-favour striker Nialle Rodney up for the opening goal in the 12th minute.
Matlock answered immediately, however, capitalising on poor defending to score an equaliser from close range just.
I thought we might be in for an exciting—if scrappy—match, and the reckless way in which both sides continued to attack seemed to suggest that I was right.
Taylor again turned provider for Nialle Rodney in the 33rd minute, crossing from the right for an easy tap in. This time, Matlock had no response. We kept pushing, and then a defensive error put Atkinson in possession outside the box.
The midfielder chipped the ball into the penalty area, where it bounced off Pacquette’s back and into the path of Rodney. The young striker converted effortlessly, spinning around with a huge grin on his face. He’d bagged a first-half hat-trick.
Matlock striker Matt Goddard had a point to prove, and he twice turned his man before unleashing a vicious shot towards goal. Thankfully (for us), Adamson was more than up to the task of keeping the ball out of the goal.
The second period was quiet, as my Reserves cruised and Matlock struggled for ideas. Rodney claimed the match ball for his hat-trick, and the only other incident of note was an injury to young left midfielder Aaron Rice.
The first report on goalkeeper Sebastian Usai indicates that he is a talented young player, but—much as I judged yesterday—flawed in many respects. In particular, he is a woeful team player with bad positional sense and little physical presence. I’ll get a second opinion before deciding whether to overlook these shortcomings and go after him.
Youngster Robert Taylor looked sharpest early on, and it was his excellent one-two with Pacquette that set out-of-favour striker Nialle Rodney up for the opening goal in the 12th minute.
Matlock answered immediately, however, capitalising on poor defending to score an equaliser from close range just.
I thought we might be in for an exciting—if scrappy—match, and the reckless way in which both sides continued to attack seemed to suggest that I was right.
Taylor again turned provider for Nialle Rodney in the 33rd minute, crossing from the right for an easy tap in. This time, Matlock had no response. We kept pushing, and then a defensive error put Atkinson in possession outside the box.
The midfielder chipped the ball into the penalty area, where it bounced off Pacquette’s back and into the path of Rodney. The young striker converted effortlessly, spinning around with a huge grin on his face. He’d bagged a first-half hat-trick.
Matlock striker Matt Goddard had a point to prove, and he twice turned his man before unleashing a vicious shot towards goal. Thankfully (for us), Adamson was more than up to the task of keeping the ball out of the goal.
The second period was quiet, as my Reserves cruised and Matlock struggled for ideas. Rodney claimed the match ball for his hat-trick, and the only other incident of note was an injury to young left midfielder Aaron Rice.
The first report on goalkeeper Sebastian Usai indicates that he is a talented young player, but—much as I judged yesterday—flawed in many respects. In particular, he is a woeful team player with bad positional sense and little physical presence. I’ll get a second opinion before deciding whether to overlook these shortcomings and go after him.
Tuesday 25 September 2012
Day 164
I took a look at the statistics from our last match. It’s amazing how similar the two sides were. Our actions across several different areas—including passing, shooting, crossing, heading, set pieces, and shots—mirrored those of Darlington. I’ve never seen this before.
We did a better job of moving the ball around (see below; we’re on the right), but that was the only noticeable difference. It’s easy to see how we could draw the match.
Assistant Manager Curtis Woodhouse suggested I take a look at Sebastian Usai, a young Australian goalkeeper. I have some concerns already, just looking at what we know about the lad (teamwork, stamina, pace, acceleration, jumping, aggression, determination, and height are all less than ideal—and they play off each other to make me more uncertain). I’ll get the scouts to write up a report on him, though.
We did a better job of moving the ball around (see below; we’re on the right), but that was the only noticeable difference. It’s easy to see how we could draw the match.
Assistant Manager Curtis Woodhouse suggested I take a look at Sebastian Usai, a young Australian goalkeeper. I have some concerns already, just looking at what we know about the lad (teamwork, stamina, pace, acceleration, jumping, aggression, determination, and height are all less than ideal—and they play off each other to make me more uncertain). I’ll get the scouts to write up a report on him, though.
Monday 24 September 2012
Sunday 23 September 2012
Day 162
Bore, Gowling, Shuker, and Barnes-Homer all returned to the starting eleven for today’s league fixture against Darlington, after being rested for the weekend cup match.
We got our first chance in the fifth minute, when Koroma’s pressing caused a defensive error on the edge of the box. Barnes-Homer intercepted and strode into the area, but his shot was easily parried away.
The striker didn’t make the same mistake twice. Shuker made it onto the end of Nutter’s lofted through ball on the half hour mark. The winger crossed for Barnes-Homer, who took one touch before firing the ball past the wrong-footed Darlington keeper. It was his first league goal in eight matches.
Barnes-Homer turned provider just after the break. He made an incisive run along the right side, then crossed low from the byline. Koroma got to the ball first, and he never misses from that close. We were two-nil up and in control of a match everyone said we’d lose. Surprise, surprise. Our incredible away form continues.
Darlington pulled one back in the 54th minute, however, keeping things interesting. Fergus Bell made the goal with a great individual effort, dribbling from a central position 30 yards out to cross from the byline on the left wing. Nutter looked like he would get a clearance away, but Foster snuck in and tapped the ball into the back of the net.
The match ebbed and flowed for the next half hour, with both sides creating chances but neither able to convert. Then Darlington pulled level from a set piece with eight minutes to spare. From deep in our half, Brown threw in short to Bell—who crossed low to the edge of the six-yard box. Bridge-Wilkinson broke free from his man to fire home. All square with less than ten minutes to play, and our wingers looking tired, I wondered if we had enough juice left in the tank to retake the lead.
I thought we had it in the 89th minute. A great bit of direct passing led to a chance for substitute Laurent on the edge of the box. But the Frenchman fired his shot over the bar.
Moments later, Barnes-Homer was dragged down inches outside the penalty area. Shuker hit the crossbar with the resultant free kick. Then we ran out of time.
Barnes-Homer took man of the match, despite his failing to carry us to victory in the closing stages. Meanwhile, we move one point clear at the top of the table. But 2nd-placed Mansfield still have a match to play.
Darlington manager Craig Liddle praised me for getting my players to move the ball around. I in turn praised him for the fine job he’s done in charge of the troubled club.
We got our first chance in the fifth minute, when Koroma’s pressing caused a defensive error on the edge of the box. Barnes-Homer intercepted and strode into the area, but his shot was easily parried away.
The striker didn’t make the same mistake twice. Shuker made it onto the end of Nutter’s lofted through ball on the half hour mark. The winger crossed for Barnes-Homer, who took one touch before firing the ball past the wrong-footed Darlington keeper. It was his first league goal in eight matches.
Barnes-Homer turned provider just after the break. He made an incisive run along the right side, then crossed low from the byline. Koroma got to the ball first, and he never misses from that close. We were two-nil up and in control of a match everyone said we’d lose. Surprise, surprise. Our incredible away form continues.
Darlington pulled one back in the 54th minute, however, keeping things interesting. Fergus Bell made the goal with a great individual effort, dribbling from a central position 30 yards out to cross from the byline on the left wing. Nutter looked like he would get a clearance away, but Foster snuck in and tapped the ball into the back of the net.
The match ebbed and flowed for the next half hour, with both sides creating chances but neither able to convert. Then Darlington pulled level from a set piece with eight minutes to spare. From deep in our half, Brown threw in short to Bell—who crossed low to the edge of the six-yard box. Bridge-Wilkinson broke free from his man to fire home. All square with less than ten minutes to play, and our wingers looking tired, I wondered if we had enough juice left in the tank to retake the lead.
I thought we had it in the 89th minute. A great bit of direct passing led to a chance for substitute Laurent on the edge of the box. But the Frenchman fired his shot over the bar.
Moments later, Barnes-Homer was dragged down inches outside the penalty area. Shuker hit the crossbar with the resultant free kick. Then we ran out of time.
Barnes-Homer took man of the match, despite his failing to carry us to victory in the closing stages. Meanwhile, we move one point clear at the top of the table. But 2nd-placed Mansfield still have a match to play.
Darlington manager Craig Liddle praised me for getting my players to move the ball around. I in turn praised him for the fine job he’s done in charge of the troubled club.
Saturday 22 September 2012
Day 161
I declined to comment on the Luton manager’s assertion that Darlington could prove tricky for us. What’s the point? And, really, who cares? It’s not like he—or his team—matters.
We’re actually underdogs according to the bookmakers. Darlington are way down in 18th place, but that’s with a ten-point deduction (for starting the season in administration, I believe). Without the penalty, they’d be seventh. Still, we’re in better form. And we’re unbeaten on the road. I’m frankly surprised that the odds aren’t firmly stacked in our favour.
We drew York in the FA Trophy Second Round. That’s far from ideal, since they’re one of the strongest teams in the competition. I still think we’re a good chance to go all the way to the final, but now we may face a tricky path to get there.
We’re actually underdogs according to the bookmakers. Darlington are way down in 18th place, but that’s with a ten-point deduction (for starting the season in administration, I believe). Without the penalty, they’d be seventh. Still, we’re in better form. And we’re unbeaten on the road. I’m frankly surprised that the odds aren’t firmly stacked in our favour.
We drew York in the FA Trophy Second Round. That’s far from ideal, since they’re one of the strongest teams in the competition. I still think we’re a good chance to go all the way to the final, but now we may face a tricky path to get there.
Friday 21 September 2012
Day 160
All was quiet today; Nothing happened. I guess everyone was taking a lazy Sunday off, after a fine win in the FA Trophy yesterday. Next match is in two days.
Thursday 20 September 2012
Day 159
I made several changes for the FA Trophy clash against Gainsborough. Anyon stepped in to the vacated spot between the sticks. Robson and Kanouté came in to the defence, with Gowling and Bore rested. Russell took Shuker’s regular spot on the right wing, and Laurent got his chance to impress from the start—replacing Barnes-Homer, who was dropped to the bench.
The first goal should have come on 11 minutes, when Woods played Laurent through to a one-on-one. The Frenchman snatched at his shot, however, and the ball sailed harmlessly wide. Up the other end, it took a good save from Anyon to keep the scores level in the 15th minute.
Nutter hit the post a few minutes later, with neither Koroma nor Laurent able to convert the rebound—despite their best efforts. Both teams continued to threaten, with my boys looking the more likely to break the deadlock, but we went into the second half all square.
Olembé put us in front in the 49th minute, creeping into the box for a throw in and being the first to Michael Woods’ cross.
Koroma doubled our lead on the hour mark, slipping through to the far post to meet Olembé’s cross first time. The Gainsborough defenders did nothing to keep track of the striker’s movement.
Laurent finally got his goal with ten minutes to play. Koroma outpaced Cowan and broke into the penalty area on the right, then crossed low towards the Frenchman. The Gainsborough keeper came out, but couldn’t catch the ball, and Laurent had an easy finish.
The players left the pitch to a well-deserved and thunderous standing ovation, 3-0 victors after a superb second-half performance. Olembé took man of the match for his goal and assist, but it could just as easily gone to Woods or Koroma. Laurent, Nutter, Kanouté, and Robson were all excellent, too.
We got £5,000 for advancing to the next round. This is a competition I think we can win, so I hope the fixtures are kind to us.
Olembé’s attracted interest from CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria. I don’t want to lose him, but we may not have a choice if they put a good offer on the table. We’re a small club in the fifth tier of English football; it’s not right to stand in anyone’s way if they get a better deal elsewhere.
The first goal should have come on 11 minutes, when Woods played Laurent through to a one-on-one. The Frenchman snatched at his shot, however, and the ball sailed harmlessly wide. Up the other end, it took a good save from Anyon to keep the scores level in the 15th minute.
Nutter hit the post a few minutes later, with neither Koroma nor Laurent able to convert the rebound—despite their best efforts. Both teams continued to threaten, with my boys looking the more likely to break the deadlock, but we went into the second half all square.
Olembé put us in front in the 49th minute, creeping into the box for a throw in and being the first to Michael Woods’ cross.
Koroma doubled our lead on the hour mark, slipping through to the far post to meet Olembé’s cross first time. The Gainsborough defenders did nothing to keep track of the striker’s movement.
Laurent finally got his goal with ten minutes to play. Koroma outpaced Cowan and broke into the penalty area on the right, then crossed low towards the Frenchman. The Gainsborough keeper came out, but couldn’t catch the ball, and Laurent had an easy finish.
The players left the pitch to a well-deserved and thunderous standing ovation, 3-0 victors after a superb second-half performance. Olembé took man of the match for his goal and assist, but it could just as easily gone to Woods or Koroma. Laurent, Nutter, Kanouté, and Robson were all excellent, too.
We got £5,000 for advancing to the next round. This is a competition I think we can win, so I hope the fixtures are kind to us.
Olembé’s attracted interest from CSKA Sofia in Bulgaria. I don’t want to lose him, but we may not have a choice if they put a good offer on the table. We’re a small club in the fifth tier of English football; it’s not right to stand in anyone’s way if they get a better deal elsewhere.
Wednesday 19 September 2012
Day 158
As expected, we didn’t get any offers for Watson, Pacquette, Rodney, Lloyd-McGoldrick, or Sinclair. I don’t know what I’m going to do with them. They’re such deadweights being in the squad, but it’s better to have them as backups in the event of a horrendous injury crisis than to cop it on the chin and pay out their contracts (i.e., release them).
We’re clear favourites for tomorrow’s FA Trophy First Round clash with Blue Square Bet North side Gainsborough. I’m expecting us to destroy them.
Michael Richardson is reportedly a transfer target for League 2 side Accrington. I sure hope they don’t get him; he’s been a revelation for us on loan from Newcastle, and I’d hate to miss out on the young central midfielder.
In other news, we lost Mark Halstead today. His loan deal from Blackpool expired, so we’re back to playing Anyon in goal—flying by the seat of our pants with no decent second choice keeper.
We’re clear favourites for tomorrow’s FA Trophy First Round clash with Blue Square Bet North side Gainsborough. I’m expecting us to destroy them.
Michael Richardson is reportedly a transfer target for League 2 side Accrington. I sure hope they don’t get him; he’s been a revelation for us on loan from Newcastle, and I’d hate to miss out on the young central midfielder.
In other news, we lost Mark Halstead today. His loan deal from Blackpool expired, so we’re back to playing Anyon in goal—flying by the seat of our pants with no decent second choice keeper.
Tuesday 18 September 2012
Day 157
I went through the list of unwanted players and offered them all to other clubs. The transfer window reopens in under a month, so now seems like a good time to try offloading these guys eating up a sizable chunk of the wage bill…again. I don’t expect anything to happen, but you never know if you don’t try.
Monday 17 September 2012
Day 156
Nothing to see here; move along.
[Today was the first day in which absolutely nothing happened. I’m pleasantly surprised that I managed to last so long with something to say each day. I expected to have a day like today every couple of weeks, so this is a huge turn up for the books. It’s almost as though the game knows I’m going through a busy period, with article deadlines and a little thing called the Freeplay Independent Games Festival (which starts in a couple of days) occupying both my thoughts and my time.]
[Today was the first day in which absolutely nothing happened. I’m pleasantly surprised that I managed to last so long with something to say each day. I expected to have a day like today every couple of weeks, so this is a huge turn up for the books. It’s almost as though the game knows I’m going through a busy period, with article deadlines and a little thing called the Freeplay Independent Games Festival (which starts in a couple of days) occupying both my thoughts and my time.]
Sunday 16 September 2012
Day 155
Koroma and Russell are unhappy with their training workloads. Given that it’s the crazy part of the season, I elected to appease them. I took Koroma off extra passing training, and stopped Russell’s right midfield (as opposed to his preferred right attacking midfield) positional focus.
Another day of little things. [Which is good, because real-world me has stuff to do.]
Another day of little things. [Which is good, because real-world me has stuff to do.]
Saturday 15 September 2012
Day 154
Esteban Casagolda finished his trial and left the club today. I’m still interested in signing him, but we have neither the budget nor room in the squad for the skilful striker. Between Koroma, Barnes-Homer, Laurent, and the new guy arriving in January, we’re full up on high-quality striking options.
Koroma and Shuker pulled up fine after their knocks in yesterday’s win against Grimsby. They’ll be fit to start next week.
Koroma and Shuker pulled up fine after their knocks in yesterday’s win against Grimsby. They’ll be fit to start next week.
Friday 14 September 2012
Day 153
Koroma and Woods returned to the starting lineup for today’s televised match against Grimsby. It was captain Rui Marques’s 200th career league appearance (and his 22nd for Lincoln).
Koroma opened the scoring after just 13 minutes, calmly slotting home Barnes-Homer’s excellent pass. He nearly doubled his tally two minutes later, sliding in to meet Olembé’s cross. But the ball rebounded off the inside of the post and got hacked clear.
We missed Koroma while he was out injured, so it was no surprise to have his influence felt at such an early stage. Our attacks were all Koroma and Olembé during the opening half hour. But Shuker’s the one who next found the back of the net, chipping his free kick over the wall and past the keeper from just outside the box in the 31st minute.
I got worried when Koroma went down injured a short time later, landing awkwardly after a tackle at the end of one of his winding runs. After lengthy treatment on the sidelines, the striker returned to the pitch, but it wasn’t clear that he’d shaken off the knock.
Barnes-Homer hit the bar with a looping header on 62 minutes. We appeared well and truly in control of the match. Still struggling with his knock Koroma made way for Laurent moments later. The Frenchman could have made an immediate impact, first running on to Shuker’s through ball then rising to head Olembé’s cross. But neither of his efforts hit the target.
He didn’t miss in the 74th minute, though, when he volleyed Shuker’s low cross past the keeper from six yards out.
Gowling should have added a fourth ten minutes from the end of the match, with an easy far-post header. But the central defender’s effort sailed high over the bar. It didn’t matter, however, as we held on for a comfortable 3-0 victory. Koroma made the difference on his return, although credit has to be given to Shuker for another brilliant right-wing performance and to the defenders for keeping a tight ship.
Barnes-Homer went another match goalless. He’s playing well, though, so hopefully it won’t affect his confidence.
We’re back on top of the league, but it’s likely to be only temporary. Mansfield still have to play, and their opponents are the woeful Kettering—who are propping up the table with a measly nine points and just two wins.
Koroma opened the scoring after just 13 minutes, calmly slotting home Barnes-Homer’s excellent pass. He nearly doubled his tally two minutes later, sliding in to meet Olembé’s cross. But the ball rebounded off the inside of the post and got hacked clear.
We missed Koroma while he was out injured, so it was no surprise to have his influence felt at such an early stage. Our attacks were all Koroma and Olembé during the opening half hour. But Shuker’s the one who next found the back of the net, chipping his free kick over the wall and past the keeper from just outside the box in the 31st minute.
I got worried when Koroma went down injured a short time later, landing awkwardly after a tackle at the end of one of his winding runs. After lengthy treatment on the sidelines, the striker returned to the pitch, but it wasn’t clear that he’d shaken off the knock.
Barnes-Homer hit the bar with a looping header on 62 minutes. We appeared well and truly in control of the match. Still struggling with his knock Koroma made way for Laurent moments later. The Frenchman could have made an immediate impact, first running on to Shuker’s through ball then rising to head Olembé’s cross. But neither of his efforts hit the target.
He didn’t miss in the 74th minute, though, when he volleyed Shuker’s low cross past the keeper from six yards out.
Gowling should have added a fourth ten minutes from the end of the match, with an easy far-post header. But the central defender’s effort sailed high over the bar. It didn’t matter, however, as we held on for a comfortable 3-0 victory. Koroma made the difference on his return, although credit has to be given to Shuker for another brilliant right-wing performance and to the defenders for keeping a tight ship.
Barnes-Homer went another match goalless. He’s playing well, though, so hopefully it won’t affect his confidence.
We’re back on top of the league, but it’s likely to be only temporary. Mansfield still have to play, and their opponents are the woeful Kettering—who are propping up the table with a measly nine points and just two wins.
Thursday 13 September 2012
Day 152
We’re slight favourites for tomorrow’s televised home tie against fifth-placed Grimsby.
I told the press that we’ll be attacking “whilst remaining responsible at the back.” This press conference thing is getting pretty stale. They never ask me interesting questions. [And I’m never allowed to give interesting responses. I hope media dealings get a major overhaul in FM13.]
Our Under 18s lost again. They’re still fifth, but rapidly losing ground on the teams above. Aaron Rice continues to be singled out by Grant Brown as the top performer, but he’s really a small fish in a tiny pond.
I told the press that we’ll be attacking “whilst remaining responsible at the back.” This press conference thing is getting pretty stale. They never ask me interesting questions. [And I’m never allowed to give interesting responses. I hope media dealings get a major overhaul in FM13.]
Our Under 18s lost again. They’re still fifth, but rapidly losing ground on the teams above. Aaron Rice continues to be singled out by Grant Brown as the top performer, but he’s really a small fish in a tiny pond.
Wednesday 12 September 2012
Day 151
The only thing of note that happened today was our own John Nutter getting a mention in the Non-League Paper. He’s leading the league on penalty conversions (with four).
I guess something else of note did happen, if you care about [virtual, simulated] world football. The World Golden Ball shortlist got announced, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, David Villa, and Xavi considered front-runners for the award. Perhaps the most surprising inclusion on the list is Yohan Cabaye of Newcastle—the Frenchman’s having a brilliant debut season at The Magpies.
I guess something else of note did happen, if you care about [virtual, simulated] world football. The World Golden Ball shortlist got announced, with Cristiano Ronaldo, Andrés Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Wayne Rooney, David Villa, and Xavi considered front-runners for the award. Perhaps the most surprising inclusion on the list is Yohan Cabaye of Newcastle—the Frenchman’s having a brilliant debut season at The Magpies.
Tuesday 11 September 2012
Day 150
The club’s finances are sinking into further disrepair. Losses totalled £58,238 last month, leaving us with a current balance of £245,891 in the red. That’s a quarter of a million pounds overdraft. How much more can the club afford before administration comes knocking?
The club’s only worth around a million, so I don’t see how the board could borrow against value. The current wage bill is roughly £1,500 over budget. If we trimmed it down by two grand a week, that might stem the losses to…fifty thousand a month. This is ridiculous. How can they be running such an awful business, which seems incapable of turning a profit.
At the moment it’s their problem, not mine. But how much longer can this last before it trickles down to me and I have to gut my first team? It’s like an axe dangling above my head, with finances rather than performance dictating whether it will fall.
The club’s only worth around a million, so I don’t see how the board could borrow against value. The current wage bill is roughly £1,500 over budget. If we trimmed it down by two grand a week, that might stem the losses to…fifty thousand a month. This is ridiculous. How can they be running such an awful business, which seems incapable of turning a profit.
At the moment it’s their problem, not mine. But how much longer can this last before it trickles down to me and I have to gut my first team? It’s like an axe dangling above my head, with finances rather than performance dictating whether it will fall.
Monday 10 September 2012
Day 149
We’ve been bumped off top spot in the league. Mansfield won their game in hand 2-1 tonight, so they leap frog into first with 49 points—two points ahead.
Karlton Watson had a great month on the training ground in November. Perhaps working with Rui Marques is a good thing for him after all, despite the fuss they both made about it.
Shuker’s tireless efforts on the right wing recently didn’t go unnoticed by the powers that be. He earned second place in the November Player of the Month awards. The big question is whether or not he can keep it up; he’s been one of our best players this season, but’s his form has been nonetheless patchy.
And for the first time, I’m not among the top three managers of the month. Ian Bogie claimed the award for the second month running, as Gateshead continue their charge up the table. That’s them on the red line below, while we’re the green one. Perhaps it’s Gateshead, not Mansfield, that I should be concerned about.
Karlton Watson had a great month on the training ground in November. Perhaps working with Rui Marques is a good thing for him after all, despite the fuss they both made about it.
Shuker’s tireless efforts on the right wing recently didn’t go unnoticed by the powers that be. He earned second place in the November Player of the Month awards. The big question is whether or not he can keep it up; he’s been one of our best players this season, but’s his form has been nonetheless patchy.
And for the first time, I’m not among the top three managers of the month. Ian Bogie claimed the award for the second month running, as Gateshead continue their charge up the table. That’s them on the red line below, while we’re the green one. Perhaps it’s Gateshead, not Mansfield, that I should be concerned about.
Sunday 9 September 2012
Day 148
Koroma’s back in full training after three weeks out with a twisted knee. We’ve missed his pace and direct running; it’ll be great to have him in the side again. Smith’s been disappointing since his return, and Barnes-Homer hasn’t been as effective without a strike partner to do all the fetching.
Gowling pulled up looking exhausted today. I guess playing 90 minutes week in, week out takes its toll. Kanouté’s not ready to step in for a run in the starting lineup, though, so I hope he can survive another few weeks.
Gowling pulled up looking exhausted today. I guess playing 90 minutes week in, week out takes its toll. Kanouté’s not ready to step in for a run in the starting lineup, though, so I hope he can survive another few weeks.
Saturday 8 September 2012
Day 147
We drew Gainsborough in the FA Trophy First Round. The match is scheduled for Saturday the 10th of December—twelve days from now—at The Northolme. That’s another away draw for us. Home or away, it should be an easy match, though—Gainsborough are in the league below us.
Looking at the fixture list, it seems our next match is an important one. It’s against fifth-placed and in-form Grimsby. We should have Koroma and Woods back in the team for it, so I’m feeling pretty confident.
Looking at the fixture list, it seems our next match is an important one. It’s against fifth-placed and in-form Grimsby. We should have Koroma and Woods back in the team for it, so I’m feeling pretty confident.
Friday 7 September 2012
Day 146
After the highs and lows and tension of the past week, today’s complete and utter silence was a welcome change. We’re going through a rough patch at the moment, but I think we’re going to pull through.
A note from your editor
Rowan Kaiser wrote an interesting editorial on Gameranx recently about Football Manager and the Limitations of Fun. He described Football Manager as not being “fun,” but still being worthwhile for its chance to go for “greatness,” and asserted, “There’s no way I can describe Football Manager and make it seem interesting.” I take issue with this quote, but agree with the broader sentiment of the piece. Allow me to explain.
To describe Football Manager—in its current incarnation or the original 1992 release of Championship Manager—as boring is to show either a lack of imagination or a failure to understand the beautiful game (or both). It is football management without the messy bits; reality distilled into a potent video-game concoction with you as the plausible hero. You get to live out the fantasy of leading your team to local, national, and international glory. Most of us don’t stand a chance of playing professional football for Manchester United or Real Madrid or, ahem, England—we lack the necessary athleticism, skill, talent, and panache.
But every football fan likes to think that he could set the tactics, sign the players, and pick the lineup that would lead his or her team to greatness—that’s what we do over a pint at the pub or from our armchair at home. The dream of being a top football manager seems almost attainable, and that is the big draw of Sports Interactive’s series.
Fun is not a good word to describe the feeling I get as I discover a hidden gem—an unknown future star—while poring through dozens of pages of player listings, or when I make a substitution that instantly turns the game. It cannot explain my satisfaction with looking back over five years of building my squad and dragging the club from the lower leagues to European stardom on a nickel-and-dime budget.
Watching my boys take the lead against Mansfield yesterday wasn’t fun, nor was coming back from two goals behind against Forest Green a few days ago; it was exhilarating, thrilling, electrifying. My pulse quickened and my hands shook. When they scored a short time later I felt crushed and broken. I ran my hands through my hair, glanced around nervously, and willed my team to respond.
My heart races just thinking about it. Adrenaline pumped through me as I sought the magical formula that would win us the match. Yesterday’s game was important; it could have changed the course of the season. I was as eager and invested as any super fan, but unlike them my shouts and cries could to some extent be heard. I had just enough power to feel in control, commanding. But not enough that I didn’t feel helpless, too—because I am but one man on the sidelines, rather than an omniscient being capable of bending the forces of reality in my favour (as I would do in a FIFA or Pro Evo game).
These dualities of control and helplessness, plausible fantasies and undeniable realities are where Football Manager transcends “fun” and video games and becomes a dream world of quitting your job to get paid to think and talk about football. We all think we could be great managers; here we have the chance to prove it. Maybe there’s some fun in that, but really it’s about the glory, frustration, accomplishment, failure, control, and feasibility of managing a little slice of football history. Sounds pretty interesting to me.
A note from your editor
Rowan Kaiser wrote an interesting editorial on Gameranx recently about Football Manager and the Limitations of Fun. He described Football Manager as not being “fun,” but still being worthwhile for its chance to go for “greatness,” and asserted, “There’s no way I can describe Football Manager and make it seem interesting.” I take issue with this quote, but agree with the broader sentiment of the piece. Allow me to explain.
To describe Football Manager—in its current incarnation or the original 1992 release of Championship Manager—as boring is to show either a lack of imagination or a failure to understand the beautiful game (or both). It is football management without the messy bits; reality distilled into a potent video-game concoction with you as the plausible hero. You get to live out the fantasy of leading your team to local, national, and international glory. Most of us don’t stand a chance of playing professional football for Manchester United or Real Madrid or, ahem, England—we lack the necessary athleticism, skill, talent, and panache.
But every football fan likes to think that he could set the tactics, sign the players, and pick the lineup that would lead his or her team to greatness—that’s what we do over a pint at the pub or from our armchair at home. The dream of being a top football manager seems almost attainable, and that is the big draw of Sports Interactive’s series.
Fun is not a good word to describe the feeling I get as I discover a hidden gem—an unknown future star—while poring through dozens of pages of player listings, or when I make a substitution that instantly turns the game. It cannot explain my satisfaction with looking back over five years of building my squad and dragging the club from the lower leagues to European stardom on a nickel-and-dime budget.
Watching my boys take the lead against Mansfield yesterday wasn’t fun, nor was coming back from two goals behind against Forest Green a few days ago; it was exhilarating, thrilling, electrifying. My pulse quickened and my hands shook. When they scored a short time later I felt crushed and broken. I ran my hands through my hair, glanced around nervously, and willed my team to respond.
My heart races just thinking about it. Adrenaline pumped through me as I sought the magical formula that would win us the match. Yesterday’s game was important; it could have changed the course of the season. I was as eager and invested as any super fan, but unlike them my shouts and cries could to some extent be heard. I had just enough power to feel in control, commanding. But not enough that I didn’t feel helpless, too—because I am but one man on the sidelines, rather than an omniscient being capable of bending the forces of reality in my favour (as I would do in a FIFA or Pro Evo game).
These dualities of control and helplessness, plausible fantasies and undeniable realities are where Football Manager transcends “fun” and video games and becomes a dream world of quitting your job to get paid to think and talk about football. We all think we could be great managers; here we have the chance to prove it. Maybe there’s some fun in that, but really it’s about the glory, frustration, accomplishment, failure, control, and feasibility of managing a little slice of football history. Sounds pretty interesting to me.
Thursday 6 September 2012
Day 145
Woods didn’t quite make it back in time for today’s big game against Mansfield, so Power kept his spot in central midfield. Nutter replaced Park at left back, but we were otherwise unchanged from the team that lost so dramatically to Forest Green.
It was easy to see how Mansfield could come into the match with the best defensive record in the league. They calmly dealt with every through ball and attacking run, keeping us from making any concerted efforts on goal during the opening half hour.
We struggled to find any way through, and Mansfield held the upper hand for the duration of the first half. We staved off the challenge, however, and went in at the break needing a change of strategy.
I subbed Power out for Atkinson and told the boys to focus on attacking via the flanks.
It seemed to work. We came out strong, with Olembé tearing holes in Mansfield’s defence several times over a ten minute period. Shuker’s running made the first goal, however, as the diminutive forward broke free on the right wing and crossed to the penalty spot—where Olembé popped up to head home.
Barnes-Homer nearly made it two right on the hour mark, shooting just wide after a one-two with Smith on the edge of the area.
Mansfield midfielder Gary Roberts went off injured in the 85th minute, after his side had made all three substitutions. With ten men on the pitch and fatigue setting in, they looked dead and buried. But I still worried about Ross Dyer’s pace on the counter.
My fears proved founded. Mansfield won a corner after a quick attack, and Briscoe converted the set piece from close range. It was a dramatic equaliser in the 92nd minute of the match, but on balance it was fair. Both teams put up a great fight, and neither deserved to win or lose. It still hurts to have the points taken away right at the close of the game, though.
The result means that we both maintain our unbeaten records on this side of the draw—Mansfield at home and us on the road. Wrexham also drew, so there are no changes at the top of the table. And Mansfield can still reclaim first place if they win their game in hand. Today’s match had the potential to swing the tides for or against us; in the end, it changed nothing.
It was easy to see how Mansfield could come into the match with the best defensive record in the league. They calmly dealt with every through ball and attacking run, keeping us from making any concerted efforts on goal during the opening half hour.
We struggled to find any way through, and Mansfield held the upper hand for the duration of the first half. We staved off the challenge, however, and went in at the break needing a change of strategy.
I subbed Power out for Atkinson and told the boys to focus on attacking via the flanks.
It seemed to work. We came out strong, with Olembé tearing holes in Mansfield’s defence several times over a ten minute period. Shuker’s running made the first goal, however, as the diminutive forward broke free on the right wing and crossed to the penalty spot—where Olembé popped up to head home.
Barnes-Homer nearly made it two right on the hour mark, shooting just wide after a one-two with Smith on the edge of the area.
Mansfield midfielder Gary Roberts went off injured in the 85th minute, after his side had made all three substitutions. With ten men on the pitch and fatigue setting in, they looked dead and buried. But I still worried about Ross Dyer’s pace on the counter.
My fears proved founded. Mansfield won a corner after a quick attack, and Briscoe converted the set piece from close range. It was a dramatic equaliser in the 92nd minute of the match, but on balance it was fair. Both teams put up a great fight, and neither deserved to win or lose. It still hurts to have the points taken away right at the close of the game, though.
The result means that we both maintain our unbeaten records on this side of the draw—Mansfield at home and us on the road. Wrexham also drew, so there are no changes at the top of the table. And Mansfield can still reclaim first place if they win their game in hand. Today’s match had the potential to swing the tides for or against us; in the end, it changed nothing.
Wednesday 5 September 2012
Day 144
We’re only slight underdogs for tomorrow’s top of the table clash with Mansfield. It’s shaping up to be a brilliant game—two attacking sides with outstanding goal-scoring records; Mansfield unbeaten at home and us unbeaten away from home.
Former Lincoln star Glenn Cockerill singled out defender Luke O’Neill as Mansfield’s one to watch. He’s certainly been having a strong season, but I have it on good authority that the lad’s struggling with fatigue. Olembé’s energetic running and technical skill could well prove too much for O’Neill to handle.
Tune in tomorrow for what promises to be the most important game of the season—it could make or break our title campaign.
Former Lincoln star Glenn Cockerill singled out defender Luke O’Neill as Mansfield’s one to watch. He’s certainly been having a strong season, but I have it on good authority that the lad’s struggling with fatigue. Olembé’s energetic running and technical skill could well prove too much for O’Neill to handle.
Tune in tomorrow for what promises to be the most important game of the season—it could make or break our title campaign.
Tuesday 4 September 2012
Day 143
I hosted a backroom meeting today.
Coach Grant Brown suggested two potential new scouts, neither of whom impressed me—through reputation or ability. He also indicated that I should drop goalkeeper Mark Halstead and left back Matthew Park from the first team. Halstead can hardly be blamed for the recent downturn in form, when his defence has opened up in front of him.
Park has proven to be the patchiest player in the team, good one week and terrible the next. Nutter will return in his place for the next match, then I’ll play it by ear as to which one gets the spot long-term.
Brown also had the gall to suggest that Shuker shouldn’t be taking corners. We’ve scored six goals from corners in the league — equal third best — and he took half of those. I’m not changing anything; after Olembé, he’s the best option we have.
Coach Grant Brown suggested two potential new scouts, neither of whom impressed me—through reputation or ability. He also indicated that I should drop goalkeeper Mark Halstead and left back Matthew Park from the first team. Halstead can hardly be blamed for the recent downturn in form, when his defence has opened up in front of him.
Park has proven to be the patchiest player in the team, good one week and terrible the next. Nutter will return in his place for the next match, then I’ll play it by ear as to which one gets the spot long-term.
Brown also had the gall to suggest that Shuker shouldn’t be taking corners. We’ve scored six goals from corners in the league — equal third best — and he took half of those. I’m not changing anything; after Olembé, he’s the best option we have.
Monday 3 September 2012
Day 142
Our rivals at the top of the table, Mansfield, just got through a draining FA Cup First Round Replay with Torquay, and we play them in three days. That’s great news for us—we get to face off against a tired Mansfield team.
Star striker Ben Hutchinson looked particularly exhausted. If he plays against us on Saturday, he’ll be below his best. They’ll still have the home ground advantage, though, so the odds won’t be stacked in our favour. Interesting bit of trivia there, actually, in that we’ve yet to lose an away game and they’ve yet to lose a home game this season. More concerning is that they’ve conceded just three goals in ten home matches.
Star striker Ben Hutchinson looked particularly exhausted. If he plays against us on Saturday, he’ll be below his best. They’ll still have the home ground advantage, though, so the odds won’t be stacked in our favour. Interesting bit of trivia there, actually, in that we’ve yet to lose an away game and they’ve yet to lose a home game this season. More concerning is that they’ve conceded just three goals in ten home matches.
Sunday 2 September 2012
Day 141
Josh Gowling made the Team of the Week for the fourth time this season, after a fine performance on the weekend.
Power replaced the injured Woods for today’s game against Forest Green. Otherwise, we were unchanged.
The match could not have got off to a worse start. Leon Redwood broke through and scored after just 33 seconds, stunning our fans into silence.
Marques and Park had shots cleared off the line in the 10th minute, and it looked like we were set for an impending equaliser.
Then Marques played a horrendous pass across his own penalty area. Redwood beat Gowling to the ball, drilling it past our hapless keeper. Two goals down after 17 minutes, we were in all kinds of trouble.
We rallied well. Shuker thrice set up Barnes-Homer, but the striker couldn’t put his shots on target. Then Smith and Bore combined to give Power a chance, but the midfielder’s header was too soft. Olembé set up Smith for another chance soon after, as we took control of the match.
Power finally pulled one back in the 41st minute from the penalty spot, calming placing his shot past the keeper.
We came out just as strong in the second half. A strong cross from Olembé in the 48th minute bounced off a defender into the woodwork. Shuker responded instantly, and looked likely to reach the ball first, but Jamie Strong tripped the winger. Penalty, said referee Russell Fletcher. Power stepped up again and buried the ball into the bottom left corner.
Barnes-Homer had a goal disallowed for offside in the 63rd minute, as we pressed for the lead. Then Tommy Wright climbed above our defenders to head a corner in and reclaim the lead. I was distraught, but we still had time to turn the game around.
On came Laurent and Nutter for Smith and Park. Fresh legs and a different approach would surely make the difference, I thought. I was right. Shuker set up Laurent for the equaliser in the 70th minute, and the Frenchman made no mistake.
Forest Green lucked out again on 75 minutes when an Assombalonga free kick snuck in beneath the cross bar, restoring their lead once again.
Olembé headed just wide in the 79th minute; we desperately sought another equaliser. But it wasn’t to be, and Forest Green hung on for the 4-3 win. We were shocked and devastated, having come from behind twice—once with a two-goal deficit. We dominated the match and the possession, but the curse of the five-man midfield struck once again.
We failed to adequately handle the few chances the opposition had, and they punished us for it. We were unlucky and they were lucky, but they shouldn’t have been given the chances in the first place. It was our first defeat in the league in 14 matches.
Power replaced the injured Woods for today’s game against Forest Green. Otherwise, we were unchanged.
The match could not have got off to a worse start. Leon Redwood broke through and scored after just 33 seconds, stunning our fans into silence.
Marques and Park had shots cleared off the line in the 10th minute, and it looked like we were set for an impending equaliser.
Then Marques played a horrendous pass across his own penalty area. Redwood beat Gowling to the ball, drilling it past our hapless keeper. Two goals down after 17 minutes, we were in all kinds of trouble.
We rallied well. Shuker thrice set up Barnes-Homer, but the striker couldn’t put his shots on target. Then Smith and Bore combined to give Power a chance, but the midfielder’s header was too soft. Olembé set up Smith for another chance soon after, as we took control of the match.
Power finally pulled one back in the 41st minute from the penalty spot, calming placing his shot past the keeper.
We came out just as strong in the second half. A strong cross from Olembé in the 48th minute bounced off a defender into the woodwork. Shuker responded instantly, and looked likely to reach the ball first, but Jamie Strong tripped the winger. Penalty, said referee Russell Fletcher. Power stepped up again and buried the ball into the bottom left corner.
Barnes-Homer had a goal disallowed for offside in the 63rd minute, as we pressed for the lead. Then Tommy Wright climbed above our defenders to head a corner in and reclaim the lead. I was distraught, but we still had time to turn the game around.
On came Laurent and Nutter for Smith and Park. Fresh legs and a different approach would surely make the difference, I thought. I was right. Shuker set up Laurent for the equaliser in the 70th minute, and the Frenchman made no mistake.
Forest Green lucked out again on 75 minutes when an Assombalonga free kick snuck in beneath the cross bar, restoring their lead once again.
Olembé headed just wide in the 79th minute; we desperately sought another equaliser. But it wasn’t to be, and Forest Green hung on for the 4-3 win. We were shocked and devastated, having come from behind twice—once with a two-goal deficit. We dominated the match and the possession, but the curse of the five-man midfield struck once again.
We failed to adequately handle the few chances the opposition had, and they punished us for it. We were unlucky and they were lucky, but they shouldn’t have been given the chances in the first place. It was our first defeat in the league in 14 matches.
Saturday 1 September 2012
Day 140
We’re favourites for tomorrow’s home game against Forest Green. We should win easily, but we need to be on guard for any surprises. There’s a minor uncertainty over Barnes-Homer’s fitness; he’s pulled up today still looking tired. But I think he’ll be okay.
The Reserves faced off against Tamworth Reserves in a friendly today.
It was a quiet game for the first 25 minutes, then Watson towered above everyone to power a header home from a corner.
With a bit of momentum behind them, my boys carved out a few more chances before half time. But the two sides went into the break with one goal between them.
A calamitous bit of goalkeeping in the 54th minute nearly handed Tamworth Reserves an equaliser. Only a quick reaction from Watson saved Adamson’s blushes, as the defender swept the ball clear.
Lloyd-McGoldrick doubled the lead in the 58th minute with a great bit of skill. The forward ran past three defenders, showing a remarkable change of pace, and slid his shot beneath the keeper.
Casagolda made the third with a fine flick-on header in the 73rd minute. Lloyd-McGoldrick raced onto the ball and looked certain to score, only to be tackled at the last moment by Tamworth Reserves defender Dean Turner. Turner and the rest of his team watched on in despair as the ball rolled over the line for an own goal.
Lloyd-McGoldrick was brilliant in his 45 minutes on the pitch. Casagolda, on the other hand, struggled to make an impact beyond that one moment in the 73rd minute. He’ll have to do a lot better next time if he wants to get me seriously thinking about a contract offer.
The Reserves faced off against Tamworth Reserves in a friendly today.
It was a quiet game for the first 25 minutes, then Watson towered above everyone to power a header home from a corner.
With a bit of momentum behind them, my boys carved out a few more chances before half time. But the two sides went into the break with one goal between them.
A calamitous bit of goalkeeping in the 54th minute nearly handed Tamworth Reserves an equaliser. Only a quick reaction from Watson saved Adamson’s blushes, as the defender swept the ball clear.
Lloyd-McGoldrick doubled the lead in the 58th minute with a great bit of skill. The forward ran past three defenders, showing a remarkable change of pace, and slid his shot beneath the keeper.
Casagolda made the third with a fine flick-on header in the 73rd minute. Lloyd-McGoldrick raced onto the ball and looked certain to score, only to be tackled at the last moment by Tamworth Reserves defender Dean Turner. Turner and the rest of his team watched on in despair as the ball rolled over the line for an own goal.
Lloyd-McGoldrick was brilliant in his 45 minutes on the pitch. Casagolda, on the other hand, struggled to make an impact beyond that one moment in the 73rd minute. He’ll have to do a lot better next time if he wants to get me seriously thinking about a contract offer.
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