[FM21] Return of the Phoe Nix - Rise of the Raven. FC Isle of Man Youth Save.

[Sonic Youth]

20 minutes ago, Punch said:

FEB 2035 - FA Cup 5th Round - At Manchester United

 

Match Report

  Hide contents

In a stunning result we snatched a late victory to eliminate the red devils from the FA Cup.

Looking solely at the stats, we outplayed the hosts, but went to the break 0-0.

They took the lead just after the break, before a two minute brace to Gary Gowdy stunned the home crowd to give us an unlikely lead.

They would hit back again with 10 to go, and just when the game looked to be headed to extra time, up steps Gowdy to break the hosts hearts and complete his hat-trick, and give us our first ever win over Manchester United.

The nearly 60k crowd were stunned into silence as our small contingent celebrated an unlikely victory.

 

Gowdy was the best player on the field, with his hat-trick sending us through to the next round.

 

More impressive was the near £1.2 million we took home for our share of the gate.

 

 

Quarter Final Draw

  Hide contents

We welcome Leeds to The Isle for a massive Quarter Final clash

 

We have a decent record against them so far.

 

 

Up next...a return to League action as we welcome 16th place Brighton to The Isle.

 Nice result there! Good way to shake of those losses. What I want to know is, why didn’t Gordy get that extra 0.10? Seems stingy to me.

Is it also the end of Southampton’s title challenge s as fret that loss?

[Punch]

10 minutes ago, Sonic Youth said:

 Nice result there! Good way to shake of those losses. What I want to know is, why didn’t Gordy get that extra 0.10? Seems stingy to me.

Is it also the end of Southampton’s title challenge s as fret that loss?

Not sure, maybe he missed a sitter somewhere that I missed 

 

The lead has been changing a lot at the top, too early to call. Man U had bolted away, then lost 5 in 6 

[Punch]

FEB 2035 - Match Day 28 - Vs Brighton & Hove Albion

 

Match Report

Spoiler

We made a lot harder work of this then we should have, creating masses of chances, but having to come from behind to take the points.

After going behind early the boys went hard for an equaliser, rewarded by a cracking strike from defender, Kearney, to bring us level at the break.

We really could have been up by 3 or 4 with the number of chances we made.

The same form continued in the second half, with us making most of the running, but not being able to get the winner.

It finally came midway through the second half with sub striker Lewis chipping the Brighton keeper to put us in front.

No wonder the analyst is calling us wasteful, as we couldn't put the game away despite creating so many chances. The execution is still lacking.

 

Young defender Kearney was Player of the Match for his brilliant performance in both attack, and defence.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We still hold 9th, edging further away from the drop zone, but we have reached the magical 40 points, would should, in theory, guarantee us another season in the Premier League.

 

 

Up next...10th place Arsenal travel to The Isle.

[Punch]

FEB 2035

A rough start to the month, losing to then League leading Southampton, who have since lost four on the bounce, before a disappointing lose at Norwich. We shocked everyone by knocking Man U out of the FA Cup, before finishing the month strongly, with a hard fought win over Brighton.

 

The defence is still performing well, the attack, while still wasteful, has moved the needle slowly towards the center.

 

With 10 games to go, Chelsea have bolted from the pack, although a few teams have done that this season, only to go on a losing streak, like Southampton at the moment.

We have made the magical number of 40 points, 18 clear of relegation.

Poor Burnley are still without a win this season, and look like they are certainties to go straight back down.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeepers

Hodgson has been brilliant in goal, keeping 11 clean sheets, and only conceding slightly more than 1 goal a game, while making 5-6 saves per game.

One of, if not, the best keeper in the League, and still only 21.

 

Defence

Kearney and Keogh are tackling machines, Slack gets his head to everything, while Kearney loves to get us going forward out of defence.

The defensive unit keeps putting up impressive numbers for such a young rotation.

 

Midfield

I feel we have missed the steady presence of Millington in the midfield lately, even though he hasn't been in the best form.

Adams is a pest and gets involved in everything, while Swindell has really stepped up in Millington's absence.

 

Fowards

Earl was first to double figures, but Gowdy is close behind.

The goals have been shared around quite a bit, which is pleasing in a way that we don't need to rely on one person to score them all.

Suk-Kuen, who seemed to be in international duty for three months, has finally returned, and making positive plays.

 

This was very hard to turn down, but as I don't want the added time wasting on this save, I did just that.

 

A big month financially from 3 TV games, plus a big gate from the Man U game.

 

A tough start to the month facing Arsenal at home, before away games to Forest and Man U, and we then round out the month with an FA Cup Quarter Final.

[shaunvamos]

1 minute ago, Punch said:

 

 

This was very hard to turn down, but as I don't want the added time wasting on this save, I did just that.

 

 

 

Should've taken the job, we really need a new manager 

[corinthiano]

Congrats on reaching the magic 40 with 10 games left in the season! Really solid first season in the Prem.

[Punch]

9 hours ago, shaunvamos said:

 

Should've taken the job, we really need a new manager 

Yeah, if it wasn't a one team save I probably wouldn't have taken it. The manger being replaced had been in the job for 9 years

[Punch]

4 hours ago, corinthiano said:

Congrats on reaching the magic 40 with 10 games left in the season! Really solid first season in the Prem.

Thank you!

Still a lot of tough games to come, but it has been an exciting season.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - Match Day 29 - Vs Arsenal

 

Match Report

Spoiler

A stunning result where it all clicked as we thrashed The Gunners at The Isle.

An early goal to Andrew Earl gave us a great start, but that was all that we could managed in the first half.

It was a pretty tight affair before we managed to take two chances in 5 minutes towards the end of the second half, with Gary Gowdy reaching double figures, before Kaine Tomlin came off the bench to secure the rout.

It was also another monster defensive effort to shut down the Arsenal attack, and another clean sheet.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

20 points clear of the relegation zone, and we should be safe to start making plans for next season in the Premier League now.

 

 

Up next...we travel to 16th place Forest.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - League Cup Review

Chelsea take out the League Cup over Man U.

We were knocked out in the Quarter Final by the eventual winners.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - Match Day 30 - At Nottingham Forest

 

Match Report

Spoiler

Our stunning run of form continues as we thump Forest, and for the first time, we are being talked about as possible contenders for Euro II qualification. I think that's a bit of a stretch, but it's nice to see our efforts being noticed.

Four different goalscorers got on the board, as we put on one of the most complete performances of our season. These kids are really starting to grow in ability and confidence, and putting us in great standing for the future.

Another clean sheet for Hodgson, part of another great defensive performance.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

Three wins on the bounce has taken us to 8th place, still 4 points behind the top 6, which is not really part of the plan, but nice to be in the discussion, but more importantly, a long way away from the relegation zone.

 

 

Up next...we travel to Old Trafford for a huge match against 2nd place Man U.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - Match Day 31 - At Manchester United

 

Match Report

Spoiler

A strange game as we went down in a close one at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils were at their attacking best, but our boys defended the house down to keep us in it going to the break 0-0.

Man U had the first chance to score after being awarded a penalty, but it was saved brilliantly by Hodgson.

We then conceded an own goal, as Kearney, who had been brilliant, intercepted a cross but only managed to turn it into our own net to give the hosts the lead.

A Wes Heys stunner got us back on level terms, but Man U hit back immediately to retake the lead, and they managed to hang on for a close win, ending our three game winning streak.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We drop back to 9th with 7 games to play.

 

 

Up next...we welcome 19th place Blackburn to The Isle.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - Youth Intake

An interesting mix according to stars, but plenty of apparent potential.

 

This intake has produced two of the highest rated PA's we have ever seen, while also some of the lowest.

 

When looking at them by attributes, Tamara is the highest rated that we've seen, while it's interesting to see our lowest rated by attribute have such a high PA.

 

Top 3

Spoiler

Tamara is a very highly rated midfielder, and if we can get him to that potential, he will be a world class player.

 

Forest is a high potential defender, who looks very good.

 

One of our highest rated goalkeepers, who has the potential to push Hodgson in the future.

 

 

 

Overall some exceptional prospects in this bunch, if we can get them to reach the potential they are showing.

Unfortunately another year with no IoM natives.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - Match Day 32 - Vs Blackburn Rovers FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

After a dour first half, a Blackburn goal finally kicked us into life and we ran over the top of them in the last 20 minutes.

Andrew Earl got us back on level terms, and just when it looked like points would be shared, before Wes Heys scored a two minute brace, both in injury time, to give us the latest of late victories.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We jumped back up to 8th, and while it was pretty much already official, it's now mathematically confirmed that we are safe from relegation this season.

 

 

Up next...the FA Cup Quarter Final comes to The Isle as we take on Leeds for a spot in the Semi Final.

[Punch]

MAR 2035 - FA Cup Quarter Final - Vs Leeds United FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

An absolute cracker of a match that went the full distance, both scoring in extra time, and then a penalty shoot out where Hodgson was the hero saving a penalty, while our boys keep their heads to put away all their attempts.

Young Harden got us underway with and early goal, before Leeds hit back to send us to the break level.

 

Hodgson absolutely smashes this penalty in to put us back in front just after half time, before Leeds hit back again just after the hour mark.

No winner could be found in regular time, so it went to extra time.

This time it was Leeds who scored first, in the second half of extra time, and just when it looked like it was going to go against us, another youngster stepped up to score a brilliant equaliser, to send us to penalties.

At 4-4 in penalties, it was a case of who blinked first, and Hodgson was the hero saving their 5th shot, before Suk-Kuen stepped up to bury our 5th and send us into the semi final.

 

And a similar amount from the gate makes for a good financial result.

 

 

Semi Final Draw

Spoiler

Forest will come to The Isle for the Semi Final.

 

We have a good record against them, winning 3 of the last 4 meetings.

 

 

Up next...after an international break, we take on 10th place Leicester at The Isle.

 

Edited March 31, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

MAR 2035

Turned out to be a brilliant month with just the one blemish away to Man U.

 

The Analyst is pretty happy with this month.

 

Our great month confirmed another season in the Premier League.

We were also mentioned as possible Euro II candidates, but I think that will be a step too far.

 

Internationals

Plenty of players on international duty at the end of the month, including a few making senior appearances, including Gary Gowdy scoring a brace.

Suk-Kuen also scored his 8th senior goal.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeepers

Hodgson still performing brilliantly, and also closing in on 200 appearances for the club, not bad for a 21 year old.

 

Defence

Still plenty of good numbers being shown by the defensive unit.

The rotation of these guys has really come together, and continued to grow in confidence through the season.

 

Midfield

We've missed Millington's influence in midfield, but the rotation of Adams, Swindell, and Lewis have performed well enough so that his absence hasn't cost us too much.

 

Forwards

Earl and Gowdy have been the main stays up front while Heys has been a great foil on the left.

The right side has been shared around between Tomlin, Williams, and since his return from international duty, Suk-Kuen has been playing well.

 

Another great month financially, but I feel next year we will be spending a lot more on wages.

Also, even with a stadium upgrade coming at the end of the season, it's only to 18k, and I feel with every game sold out this season, it may not be too long before 18k is not enough either.

 

Three tough League games this month, and an FA Cup semi as well.

[Punch]

APR 2035 - Match Day 33 - Vs Leicester City FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

A brilliant result at The Isle as we secure our first ever win over Leicester.

Goals either side of half time, the first to Andrew Earl who keeps contributing important goals, and the second, an absolute cracker from midfielder Archie Adams, was enough to overcome a late strike from The Foxes and secure the three points.

Another solid performance from the defensive unit as well, and keeper Hodgson picked up another Player of the Match award.

This match also marked the return of our Captain, Pat Millington who came off the bench after a long back injury lay off.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

Our 4th win in 5 games has us in 8th place.

With Chelsea now qualified for the Euro Cup, their Euro II place for winning the League Cup will now go to 7th place in the League, giving an extra incentive as we are now just one place away from that spot.

We do however, need to make up 4 points in just 5 remaining League games, which will be a tough ask with some huge matches coming our way to end the season.

 

 

Up next...a huge clash with Liverpool at Anfield.

Edited March 31, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

APR 2035 - Papa John's Trophy Final - FC IoM U23's

I had forgotten to mention that our U23s had reached the Final of the Pizza Cup, and have added another trophy to our cabinet after beating Forest U23s.

 

 

The second time we have lifted this trophy after senior squad did so three years ago.

[Punch]

APR 2035 - Match Day 34 - At Liverpool FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

We scored the first goal at Anfield, and then got belted by the second place Reds.

A career highlight for young Harden, scoring in front of 54k people, while John Hodgson made a brilliant save of a penalty.

Unfortunately, they scored from the rebound, and from there it all pretty much went down hill for us. 

Liverpool just ran over the top of us with experience, and were a class above.

A learning experience for the entire squad.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We drop to 9th, although still only 4 points from 7th.

 

 

 

Up next...a monster clash at The Isle as we welcome Forest for the FA Cup Semi Final.

[Punch]

APR 2035 - FA Cup Semi Final - Vs Nottingham Forest

 

Match Report

Spoiler

In a brilliant result at The Isle, we have won our way through to Wembley after an exciting 2-0 over Forest.

It was our two main men up front with Gowdy getting us on the board just after half time after being teed up by Earl, before Earl sealed the game in the final minute after himself being teed up by Marcus Slack who had come off the bench to provide the assist.

With a full house rocking The Isle it was a party atmosphere that celebrated an exciting win, that sees us off to the big dance for the second time in three years.

 

 

 

Final Draw

Spoiler

League leaders Chelsea await in what will be a nearly impossible challenge, where we will be given no chances of winning, but that's just the way we like it.

 

We've lost all three games to Chelsea, and still have another League game against them to go as well this season.

 

 

Up next...not much time to celebrate as we are off to Villa Park to take on 13th place Aston Villa.

 

Edited March 31, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

A second shot at a unique piece of history

 

After having previously won the FA Vase, and the FA Trophy, for which we became only the second team in history to achieve that feat, two years ago, we became the first team in history to have a chance at winning all three FA knockout competitions.

Unfortunately we went down in that final to Manchester United, but we are still the only team to have made the Final of all three FA competitions.

By reaching the FA Cup final, we get a second chance at being the first team to lift all three trophies for the FA competitions, and while a Cup Final against Chelsea is no laughing matter, as they have won pretty much everything this season, that opportunity alone may serve as some extra motivation.

[Punch]

APR 2035 - Under 18s Win Again

Our Under 18s were promoted to Division 2 this season, but it made little difference, as they ploughed through the round games with just the single loss to West Brom.

Almamy Gakou has had a brilliant season with 21 goals, and several of the other youngsters are developing impressively.

The future for the club looks bright if these kids keep developing towards their potential.

 

They still know how to score a goal, slamming in 76 in 16 games, while conceding only 13.

 

A thumping win in the Semi Final over West Ham sent them on the way to the Final.

 

A stunning win in the final rounded off with a Lewis Hoey hat-trick as part of a 6-0 thrashing, that enabled them to lift the Trophy.

[Punch]

APR 2035 - Match Day 35 - At Aston Villa FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

A brilliant performance as we shut Aston Villa down defensively allowing only three shots on goal and none on target.

Ryan Lewis got us on the board just before half time, while Pat Millington scored his first goal of the season and played one of his best games of the season, while getting through his first full match since his return from injury.

Wes Heys completed the scoring on the hour mark, to complete a brilliant all round performance.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We jumped back to 8th, and with a lot of the teams around us losing their way, we find ourselves just one point out of the Euro II places with 3 games to play.

Chelsea have secured the title, and Burnley have been relegated.

 

 

Up next...19th place Swansea come to The Isle.

Edited March 31, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

APR 2035

A decent month as we win 2 of our three League games and made our way to the Final of the FA Cup.

 

The analyst is happy, the defence still performing well, while the attack is still showing as wasteful, they are still performing better.

 

A run of good form, and losses for those around us have amazingly put us in contention for a Euro II slot, although we do have some tough games to finish the season.

 

Stats

 

Goalkeeper

Hodgson still doing what he does, and doing it well.

 

Defence

I've been so impressed with how the defensive unit has come together this season.

All the players in the rotation have stepped up when needed, and done the job that was required.

 

Midfield

Similar to the defence, the midfield has grown into the roles this season, especially in the absence of Millington through injury.

 

Forwards

Earl and Gowdy have been brilliant up front, with Heys and Tomlin our main guys on the wings, but they have been well supported by a cast  of plenty that have stepped up when we needed the rotation.

 

We still had a few players on international duty at the beginning of the month.

 

The finances have been huge this season.

 

We are finally at the top of the tree of something in the Premier League

 

The Board rewarded me with a new contract, tripling my wage.

 

The end of the season is coming up, and we have two tough matches, plus an FA Cup final coming up.

[Sonic Youth]

On 31/03/2022 at 13:16, Punch said:

MAR 2035 - Youth Intake

An interesting mix according to stars, but plenty of apparent potential.

 

This intake has produced two of the highest rated PA's we have ever seen, while also some of the lowest.

 

When looking at them by attributes, Tamara is the highest rated that we've seen, while it's interesting to see our lowest rated by attribute have such a high PA.

 

Top 3

  Reveal hidden contents

Tamara is a very highly rated midfielder, and if we can get him to that potential, he will be a world class player.

 

Forest is a high potential defender, who looks very good.

 

One of our highest rated goalkeepers, who has the potential to push Hodgson in the future.

 

 

 

Overall some exceptional prospects in this bunch, if we can get them to reach the potential they are showing.

Unfortunately another year with no IoM natives.

That's a well timed intake.

You get fortunate with all those nice personalities as well

Last four games to go, and will be good to round out the season with a trophy!

[Punch]

2 hours ago, Sonic Youth said:

That's a well timed intake.

You get fortunate with all those nice personalities as well

Last four games to go, and will be good to round out the season with a trophy!

It's a massive mix of potential and abilities thats for sure.

Not sure about that, Chelsea have been awesome this season, so every single player will ahve to play the game of their lives to beat them.

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - FA Youth Cup

After lifting their League Championship a few weeks back, the kids have continued their merry winning ways taking out another FA Youth Cup.

Our senior team could use some inspiration from the as they beat Chelsea U18's, the same club we will face in the main final.

 

Our kids amazingly lifter the FA Youth Cup for the 6th straight time.

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - Match Day 36 - Vs Swansea City AFC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

Another fine defensive performance, and a clean sheet capped of an impressive 2-0 win over struggling Swansea.

Even though we didn't play our best game, two first half goals to Keogh and Heys were enough to secure the points.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

Keeping the pressure on the teams above us for that 7th spot, but with matches to come against Chelsea and then Wolves, it's not going to be an easy task.

 

 

Up next...we travel to Stamford Bridge to take on Champions Chelsea.

 

Edited April 1, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - Match Day 37 - At Chelsea FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

We were blown off the park by a Chelsea team that have just been dominating the League this season.

They were just simply to good for us, and gave us no opportunities to get a stranglehold on the game.

Another learning experience for the kids.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

Incredibly, Norwich lost as well, meaning that if we win in the last round match, we could steal the Euro II place off them.

 

 

Up next...Wembley awaits as we face off against Chelsea for the fourth time this season in a massive challenge for the FA Cup.

Edited April 1, 2022 by Punch

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - FA Cup Final Preview

The bookies rate us no chance in the final, with Chelsea huge favourites to win.

No pressure on our boys then, they can go and play with the freedom of no expectations.

 

Our second trip to Wembley for the Final in our 15 year history, while Chelsea have 10 Cups to their name.

[Punch]

May 2035 - FA Cup Final - Vs Chelsea FC

 

Match Report

Spoiler

So near, yet so far, as we go down in the FA Cup final for the second time in three years.

Chelsea were just too good as they ran over the top of us, simply too classy for us.

While we hit back with a goal, had another ruled out for offside, and hit the woodwork, they also had three goals ruled out, so really, the score could have ended up anything. 1-3 was a fairly accurate result for how the game went though.

Disappointed about the result, but proud of the boys efforts to get us to another Final.

 

We also collected about £1.8 million or so from our share of the gate.

 

 

FA Cup Review

Spoiler

We were the biggest over achievers for our efforts in making it to the Final.

 

 

Up next...The final game of the season as Wolves travel to The Isle, and our chance at a Euro II spot goes on the line.

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - Under 23's Title

After winning the Papa John's Trophy, our Under 23's have lifted another trophy in their first season of competitive matches, winning Division 3.

 

They blazed their way through the group stage, slamming home 96 goals in 28 matches.

 

Before delivering two absolute thumpings in the play off on their way to lifting another Cup.

 

With our 18's and 23's winning every trophy in sight, the future is looking very bright for The Ravens.

[Punch]

MAY 2035 - Match Day 38 - Vs Wolverhamtopn Wanderers

 

Match Report

Spoiler

The final day of the season resulted in mixed emotions as we come from behind to take the lead over Wolves, before ultimately giving up a late goal to share the points.

While the result was better than expected against a higher place team, that late goal would come back to hurt us.

Heys and Gowdy scored within five minutes to get us back in front after the break, but we were unable to take any further chances and kill the game off, even striking the woodwork twice.

As fatigue started to set in, some lazy defending 7 minutes from time allowed Wolves to score an equaliser.

 

 

Table

Spoiler

We got the result we wanted with Norwich beaten, we went above them on difference, but Tottenham won, meaning the jumped us both to take the last Euro II place.

We came within two shots against the bar of qualifying for Europe in our first season in the Premier League.

It may seem very disappointing, but the fact that we even got that close is an amazing achievement on it's own.

At the other end of the table, Blackburn survived on the last day by jumping Forest.

 

 

Up next...Reviews of an amazing debut season in the English Premier League.

[Jtomsett11]

Missed the intake,  wow that's two potentially brilliant players plus a smattering of very good ones! Am excellent season and although you miss out on Europe, it may mean you can push on again next season with fewer games? 

[Sonic Youth]

Big games at the end, and great to still be playing for things (technical term) at the end of the season. Chelsea were just too much and Tottenham got draws instead of losses as the difference. Fine margins over a season, and the other is a performance on the day.

I think it’s great that three players reached double figures scored this season. Looking forward to the season breakdown of the season. 

[Punch]

21 minutes ago, Jtomsett11 said:

Missed the intake,  wow that's two potentially brilliant players plus a smattering of very good ones! Am excellent season and although you miss out on Europe, it may mean you can push on again next season with fewer games? 

Yes, potentially a few very good players, and a couple who could become very useful.

I still think we massively over achieved this season, but if some of the players who played this season can keep producing, and some of the kids coming up and reach their potential, then yeah, I think there may be a chance to push again next season.

 

4 minutes ago, Sonic Youth said:

Big games at the end, and great to still be playing for things (technical term) at the end of the season. Chelsea were just too much and Tottenham got draws instead of losses as the difference. Fine margins over a season, and the other is a performance on the day.

I think it’s great that three players reached double figures scored this season. Looking forward to the season breakdown of the season. 

I think some of those teams just showed their skills and experience, and remember this team is still a bunch of kids. They have a lot to learn.

[Punch]

MAY 2035

A monster month financially as we collected a huge payout for 8th place in the League, while also managing to pay off our Stadium debt, and for the expansion, while still making a profit.

 

The prize money alone is more money than we had in the bank at the start of the season.

 

One year in the new stadium and the Premier League, and we have paid off the debt for said stadium, and also paid for the expansion.

 

The Board have nearly doubled the wage budget, and we might need a lot of it, quite a few players a re looking for new deals now we have stayed up.

 

We were one of the few clubs to make a profit on transfers this season.

 

With the lowest wage bill in the League, not surprisingly we have the lowest wage to turnover ratio.

 

The Board found some extra seats to fit in the expansion, pushing us to over 20k.

[Punch]

2034-2035 Season Review

 

Best XI - Season

 

Best XI - All Time

 

Best XI - Class of 2022 - Where are they now?

[Punch]

2034-2035 Season Stats

 

Goalkeepers

In a word for Hodgson, brilliant. his performances in leading the defensive line have been a huge part of the reason we have exceeded all expectations this season.

 

We received only two penalties this season, and Hodgson buried both of them, now 17 career goals.

 

Defence

The defensive unit were brilliant this season. For such a young squad, they out performed many of their more experienced counterparts.

 

Midfield

Adams was good doing the defensive work, Millington was good getting us going forward, Swindell and Lewis filled the holes when needed.

I think this is an area that needs to improve if we want to take to next step.

 

Forwards

Earl and Gowdy grew in to the roles, and performed well, but both could make more of the chances created. It will be interesting to see what they can produce next season now that they've had a years experience.

Wes Heys was excellent on the left, while Tomlin played mostly on the right, but again the wings is somewhere we could use a boost to push us to the next level.

 

Maybe some of the kids coming through will provide that push we need to take us there.

 

Most of the stats were down theis year, which was to be expected our first season in the top flight.

 

Williams extended his all time goals record by one this season.

[Punch]

2034-2035 Season - Attribute Review

 

That time of the season where we get to review the squad and see how they've increased or decreased, has taken a bit longer this season with taking an unexpected road trip for the last few days.

 

Goalkeepers

Good growth among all the keepers this season, , Hodgson still far and away the best, but he has also reached his Potential according to the numbers. Will be interesting to see if his attributes continue to change going forward.

Jensen has increased to become our clear number two, and still has some potential growth.

Dan Kearns is a very exciting looking prospect for the future.

 

Defence

 

Center

We now have a good rotation of central defenders, with Dave Keogh at the top of the pile, and still plenty of room for growth.

Neil Forrest, the exciting prospect from our newest intake has gained 12 points of CA/PA in half a season.

 

Right

Kearney has crossed the 80 point barrier and is our clear number one on this side, with still some room for growth.

We have limited options on this side but there are some solid back ups, both here, and from the central players who can fill in to help cover when needed. Kazalac looks the most likely if he can reach his potential.

 

Left

Smith has become our clear number one after Sean Bonner was sent back to Newcastle at the end of this season loan.

Bonner had fallen to third in the pecking order, and I couldn't always justify keeping him on the bench when he could only play one position. So after being sold 5 years ago, and spending them all on loan with us, he goes back.

There are a few good kids coming up that look like they have the potential to push up, if they can reach the potential they show.

 

Midfield

 

Ball Wining Midfielders

 

Adams has lost some points and reached his max PA, but he is still our clear number one in this position.

We are a bit light on in this area, So hopefully we can get some of these kids to step up.

 

Advanced Play Makers

Millington is still our clear number one, but Swindell is pushing up nicely, and there are plenty of options that can fill in with both the central areas.

Obinna Tamara is a really exciting looking prospect, our highest rated potential player ever produced, while Ben Hamilton has great potential as well, and they could make a fine pair running our midfield in a few years time.

 

Attacking Right

Tomlin still our best on the right, Suk-Kuen still his most capable back up.

Hoping some of these kids can step up and provide some further options in this area.

 

Attacking Left

Lea has grown into our best option, will be interesting to see how he handles the pressure of the Premier League.

As many players as we have on this side of the park, we don't have a huge amount of options.

 

 Forwards

Gowdy has grown to be our number one striker, with a few good options now available to support him.

There are plenty of kids with the potential to take the step up and become a scary strike force for any defence to contain.

 

Best XI

 

Overall, I am pretty happy with the way the squad is developing.

While we are a bit skinny in a few areas, we have options to cover, and the advantage of a lot of players who can cover multiple positions when needed.

[Punch]

JUN 2035 - Internationals

 

We had nearly 30 players on international duty over the off season.

 

 

We welcomed two new senior internationals with Swindell and Jensen getting call ups for Wales and Denmark.

Suk-Kuen extended his lead for most senior internationals, while Gowdy's hat-trick made him the leader for IoM academy product senior goals.

Hodgson continues to be impressive as England's national keeper.

 

We welcomed 4 new youth internationals, including two already form the newest class of 35, with Tamara scoring in both his first two internationals.

[Punch]

JUN 2035 - Poached Player

Burnley have poached one of our kids, a defensive midfielder, which I am not too upset about as we don't use them anyway.

Plus we get paid if he turns into a decent player.

 

@Jtomsett11, you previously asked about if I had any players poached. It's happened so rarely, I didn't even realise I had a page on my spreadsheet for it.

 

 

I did remember it was a keeper, and it was 7 years ago.

 

He has gone on to a stellar career playing zero games for two different clubs in 5 seasons.

 

I took a quick look and with a CA in the low 50's, and a PA in the low 80's, it seems we did not miss out on much.

[Punch]

JUN 2035

Sheffield Wednesday, West Ham, and West Brom will join us in the Premier League this season.

 

We kick off our season away to newly promoted West Brom, before our first home game in our temporary stadium against Champions Chelsea.

 

The Board are expecting us to fight against relegation again, while they have advanced the expectations in the Cups by one round each.

 

We've sent one player on their way, he had not featured in the first team, and had already maxed out his potential, so was not likely to push any further.

 

We start the season in our best ever position financially, as the TV revenue, plus last season low wages combined to give us a massive boost.

 

The benefits of staying in the Premier League are just mind boggling.

 

Our sponsorship has increased 10 fold since we made the top flight, but we are still £50 million behind the League average, and £190 million behind the League Leaders.

 

We have a massive transfer budget which will never be used, but the wage budget has been the interesting one.

We had such a great season financially that the board more than doubled our wage budget from last season. This off season has taken me a while to get through as I have spent a lot of time pouring over contracts. They were a mess.

As soon as we were confirmed to stay in the Premier League, players started coming to me about wanting upgraded contracts. I was able to placate most of them just by having a conversation, as I wanted to wait until the off season to look into it better.

We had a lot of players still on contracts from our first season in The Championship, and even some that went back to our time in League One.

For example, our keeper, John Hodgson, who was one of the best players in the Premier League last season, and our vice captain, was being paid less than £1k per week. And he wasn't alone. There were at least 5 players who were still on contracts they signed after their youth contracts ran out, that were regular first team players, getting paid less than £1k per week. That's why our wage spend was so minimal last season, compared to our opponents.

So I spent the off season negotiating contracts, arguing with Managers, and working on about 15-20 players that will be the core of the first team this season, and another 5-10, who I think will possibly make some first team appearances, with a view to the future.

Long story short (too late), all of those players wanted to stay, and the core of the team is now signed for the next 4-5 years. I had to give some release clauses, but we will make a fortune off them if they ever get taken up, some have extensions in our favour, but the end result is I have tripled our wage bill, but we are still only spending half the budget, so there is plenty of room to make adjustments if/when needed.

 

Up next...Friendly season.

[Jtomsett11]

10 hours ago, Punch said:

JUN 2035 - Poached Player

Burnley have poached one of our kids, a defensive midfielder, which I am not too upset about as we don't use them anyway.

Plus we get paid if he turns into a decent player.

 

@Jtomsett11, you previously asked about if I had any players poached. It's happened so rarely, I didn't even realise I had a page on my spreadsheet for it.

 

 

I did remember it was a keeper, and it was 7 years ago.

 

He has gone on to a stellar career playing zero games for two different clubs in 5 seasons.

 

I took a quick look and with a CA in the low 50's, and a PA in the low 80's, it seems we did not miss out on much.

3.5 gold star is quite significant PA - are you allowing yourself to sign him back as a former academy player or strictly no buy-backs?

[Punch]

JUN 2035 - Temporary Nest

 

Due to the upgrades going on at FC Isle of Man Stadium, we will be playing from a temporary home this season.

We will be sharing Wigan's DW Stadium.

 

 

The 25k all seater stadium is 182 kilometers from Douglas, but with the ferry ride it's nearly a 5 hour trip from our home.

I was thinking this might be a rough season, as surely our fans are not crazy enough to want to make that 10 hour round trip for "home" games...

 

...apparently our fans are that crazy about the team, because the bean counters expect to sell around 18k season tickets.

 

All of a sudden, I am thinking that 20k seats at The Isle, still might not be enough...

[Punch]

1 minute ago, Jtomsett11 said:

3.5 gold star is quite significant PA - are you allowing yourself to sign him back as a former academy player or strictly no buy-backs?

It's 2.5 gold, but I might keep an eye on him and see what he does if he comes out of their academy. I have been keeping an eye on some former players that have left with a view to maybe one day bringing them back, if they're interested. Although I guess this guy is not technically from our academy...

[Jtomsett11]

30 minutes ago, Punch said:

It's 2.5 gold, but I might keep an eye on him and see what he does if he comes out of their academy. I have been keeping an eye on some former players that have left with a view to maybe one day bringing them back, if they're interested. Although I guess this guy is not technically from our academy...

Sorry, obviously can't read!!

[Punch]

59 minutes ago, Jtomsett11 said:

Sorry, obviously can't read!!

 We all have those moments.

I might see if he turns into anything, and then make that call if that bridge ever needs crossing.

[Sonic Youth]

8 hours ago, Punch said:

It's 2.5 gold, but I might keep an eye on him and see what he does if he comes out of their academy. I have been keeping an eye on some former players that have left with a view to maybe one day bringing them back, if they're interested. Although I guess this guy is not technically from our academy...

He is and was in your junior academy setup before coming through the intake that can be signed to professional contracts. He won’t though be an in your professional youth team though. It will be interesting to see were he was born 

[Punch]

17 minutes ago, Sonic Youth said:

He is and was in your junior academy setup before coming through the intake that can be signed to professional contracts. He won’t though be an in your professional youth team though. It will be interesting to see were he was born 

We've not had any IoM kids for two intakes now, so I am guessing he is not local.