Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

[psymin1]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

This is an awesome start to the season! I love that you picked to play for the Wolves (they have the coolest logo, IMO) and got to spit in your old managers face. Tough miss on that last shot, but still proved you should have been striker at Newcastle. Hopefully as you get more playtime the Wolves can start to turn around their season. Good luck in the coming games! I just realized that this thread is 63 pages long, lol. I thought you started with Newcastle...shows what I know. So now I am going to go back to the start (well, when I have time, so not right now, but soon) and see where i all began. Great job, though, Matt!

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

This is an awesome start to the season! I love that you picked to play for the Wolves (they have the coolest logo, IMO) and got to spit in your old managers face. Tough miss on that last shot, but still proved you should have been striker at Newcastle. Hopefully as you get more playtime the Wolves can start to turn around their season. Good luck in the coming games! I just realized that this thread is 63 pages long, lol. I thought you started with Newcastle...shows what I know. So now I am going to go back to the start (well, when I have time, so not right now, but soon) and see where i all began. Great job, though, Matt!

Thanks man - it's been one heck of a jorney, Bhurst-escque almost.

The move to Wolves has been a dream - I really enjoy the team, and Kevin Doyle is a fantastic player. Hopefully Matteo can continue earning his spot - maybe even as a starter.

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 8
Liverpool v Wolverhampton

1-1
Milijas 35'
Gerrard 58'
-----
Caution: Maierhofer (Wolves) Benayoun (Liverpool)

Favorable result for Wolves at Anfield
Coyle admits fault in late subs

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

Owen Coyle will take the hits as a result of not subbing any players until the 88th minute, when he brought Lam Matteo in the 1-1 draw at Anfield. However, he should not receive as much stick from either party as the Wolves grabbed a highly unlikely point today.




Oddly enough, it was Wolves who scored first, despite a complete all out attack by Liverpool - led by none other than Fernando Torres.

The attacking mindset of Liverpool proved to be their demise, as the Wolves quickly counter attacked. Without Kevin Doyle dressed due to yellow card accumulation, Andy Keogh took reign of the striking position.

Keogh received a perfectly played ball by Nenad Milijas - who continued his run on the opposide of the field. Keogh managed to free himself of Jamie Carragher's challenge, and shot on frame - destined for a goal, but the post was struck. All was not lost as Milijas scraped his way through and beat out Andrea Dossena and blasted the ball into the back of the net.



Of course with all the pressure being sustained - Wolves crumbled as Steven Gerrard found an opening on the left flank when defender Kevin Foley apparently tripped over his own boots.

Gerrard made no mistake and let off a low strike that bounced off keeper Matt Murray's legs and into the net.

The point was good enough for Coyle and his men. The Anfield faithful could be heard applauding the visitor's efforts.

"We escaped a very tough venue. I'm happy with our performance. I have to wonder what it would have been like with some fresher legs towards the end though - for that I apologize."

After this match, the Wolves begin their toughest part of the first half of the season. With a hosting to fourth place Tottenham this coming week, then Manchester United the following week, who currently sit in third behind West Ham and Chelsea. After the United match, Arsenal come into town. Arsenal are still considered a "scary" team despite their position in the table (14th).

Meh....
Not much to take away, had a good jog

Matteo was unsure if he had done something wrong - but the good thing about Coyle is that he admits his mistakes, and we'll just move on.

"No harm. I'm glad I was able to play at Anfield again. It's an incredible atmosphere - even if it was only for a minute."

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 9
Wolverhampton v Tottenham

1-0
Doyle 25'
-----
Caution: None

Shocker at the Molineux
Doyle goal merits all three points for Wolves
Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk
The home side could be none the happier when Kevin Doyle's return was announced in the midweek papers.

They couldn't have been more ridiculously overjoyed when Doyle himself scored the goal that put the Wolves on top of Tottenham in the 25th minute of play.

Granted the goal was not the prettiest - but when you're a Wolves supporter, you will take them however they come.

Doyle managed to find space behind the tight defense of Tottenham, led by of course the likes of Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King. However, the Irishman somehow was able to squeak by and sprinted through, before shooting for Heurelho Gomes' far post.

Unfortunately for Spurs, the ball deflected off of Woodgate and trickled past the outstretched, yet stunned, Gomes.

The all out attack theme that has been prevalent against Wolves was applied by Spurs - and Aaron Lennon had seemed to be the one giving midfielder Michael Kightly the worst trouble.

So on came veteran, and speedster, Lam Matteo. Coyle made good sense of this tactic and the American quickly shut down the elusive Lennon on several occasions.

Tottenham's last shot on goal was a dribbler by Jermaine Jenas in the 82nd minute - after that, it was possession ball by Wolves - and possess they did, resulting in a full three points - their first of the season.
"We've moved away from the dreaded spot that is the bottom two now. With a win under my belt - I am content, but we have a very tough match coming up against United next week."

Well done, sir
Matteo shows he should be starting
He may not be 100% just yet, but he definitely showcased his ability off and on the ball. Who would ever though Matteo would make a decent defender.

"I felt good today. It was nice that I could keep up with a burner like Lennon - he's very shifty and tricky, not my style."

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 10
Manchester United v Wolverhampton

4-0
Berbatov 13'
Rooney 38'
Rooney 77'
Berbatov 86'
-----
Caution: None

United too much for Wolves
Owen Coyle's men granted no chance by Rooney and Berbatov

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

Fresh off of their first victory of the 2018 campaign, Wolves quickly gave up all points to Manchester United, suffering their worst loss of the season, 4-0 in favor of the home side.

Goals by the strikers Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov was the Wolves demise. The two players seemingly playing their own match, while the Wolves defenders were just a "nuisance".



Once again questions arose when Owen Coyle did not place a sub until the 80th minute, and even more eyebrows were raised that Lam Matteo was not used at all.

"We were not ready for this match. They are just too good of a team, you almost need a month's preparation, rather than a couple of days to face this side."

Mixed signals
Coyle's not even that pretty

Let's hope that OC there can stop the drama and play Matteo - it's no fun reporting when your favorite player isn't in it.

"It's tough being a manager, I can acknowledge that. Heck, I know I want to be one someday - but those decisions need to be adjusted based on team needs. I guess Coyle did not need my services this week - let's see about next week."

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 11
Wolverhampton v Arsenal

0-1
Walcott 57'
-----
Caution: Senderos (Arsenal)

Theo Walcott rescues Gunners from embarrasment
Midfielder's unlikely header proves to be winner

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

Wolves dropped more points, this time against Arsenal in a 1-0 loss thanks to a surprising heading goal by a shorter player, Theo Walcott.

Walcott's goal was not a surprise though, due to the fact the Wolves goalmouth had played host to countless of shots by the Arsenal side. There were 15 shots total, some off target - some well on target - but saved by keeper Wayne Hennessey, who finished the match with 5 saves to show.



Owen Coyle's first sub of the match was Lam Matteo in for Stephen Ward. Coyle had hoped that Matteo would be able to stick with Walcot on the right side, and hopefully put forth effort in scoring a goal.

Matteo did both, and his best effort (and only one) was the agonizing, most talked about, shot the American will ever have documented next to his name.



Striker Andy Keogh made a great effort to get down the touchline, before sending in a low hard cross in the path of partner, Sylvan Ebanks-Blake. However, Ebanks-Blake completely waffled his connection, as the ball scooted under the striker.

Matteo was well positioned on the far post and steadied himself. The ball was met with a half volley that sent the ball directly into the ground and soared well above Fabianski's crossbar.

Matteo could do nothing but stand there stunned - he surely could have done better.

Alas, that was the best chance for Wolves - and unfortunate for Matteo as his stock is steadily decreasing by seeing lack of pitch time.

Owen Coyle, while disheartened about the loss, felt his side did well in containing the Arsenal side fo the most part.

"It's an incredible thing to watch. Their style of play is so fluid and dynamic, it's just a beautiful sight - you can't help but applaud it. This is why I was so proud of the result, yes it's a loss - but also it's still very early in the season. We will come back, we are growing stronger as a result."

Ouch
Top 10 misses of the week, right?

I'm glad Matteo sees the funny side of things.

"Pretty crappy miss that one was. I'd rather go through my car crash than do that again."

[psymin1]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Lol, what a tough miss on that last opportunity! Made me laugh, though, . One question- what does "Caution" mean on the top of your updates? Does that have something to do with the amount of yellow/red cards a player has coming in to a game?

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Lol, what a tough miss on that last opportunity! Made me laugh, though, . One question- what does "Caution" mean on the top of your updates? Does that have something to do with the amount of yellow/red cards a player has coming in to a game?

Lol - terrible miss. At first I thought the shot had been blocked

Caution indicates who got carded (yellow) in the game. If I ever see a red card, I'll note as sent off.

[bhurst99]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

That miss was classic.

It might be time for Matteo to head to the US. He seems to be struggling and under appreciated in the Premiership.

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 12
Blackburn Rovers v Wolverhampton

1-0
Vince Grella 39'
-----
Caution: None

Rovers edge out Wolves
Doyle smacks post twice third consecutive loss

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

After barely losing to Arsenal last weekend, the Wolves were favorites against Blackburn. However, the home side pulled away with a goal by Vince Grella five minutes before the half.



Wolves did manage a couple of chances through captain, Kevin Doyle, but Doyle's shots were on target - but luck would not have it as the striker hit the crossbar twice in the match.

Owen Coyle received some scrutiny after the match for not playing one of the faster players on his squad - Lam Matteo.

"Matteo is a man who can change games, it was bad judgement on my part yet again, but my weakness of having too much passion can also be my strength."

If this run of form continues, Coyle wil not have to worry about differentiating between his weakness or strengths. A trip to Goodison Park next week will be a test for his side. Everton are currently 8th, while Wolves have dropped to 17th.

No Love
Matteo gets no chance to shine

Knowing Matteo, he won't ask his coach why he wasn't played - so we can speculate. Of course when I asked him, he basically stayed positive - but I can tell there was a hint of frustration. I sure hope he isn't put in the position to change clubs yet again. We just got here!

"There will be those games that you wish you could have played in. Tonight I have to be gracious for what I've been given. I'm on the bench of a Premier League team, that is good for me - but I won't settle for warming it for long."

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 13
Everton v Wolves

3-0
Saha 52'
Fellaini 57'
Saha 70'
-----
Caution: None

Wolves prove unworthy of Everton
Goodison Park witness to fourth loss in a row

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

The season of losses continued for Owen Coyle and Wolverhampton, this time losing to a much stronger Everton side. Everton were not only lead by Louis Saha's two goals, but the excellent keeping of Tim Howard proved frustrating for the Wolves attackers as well.



Goodison Park celebrated when Louis Saha scored his first goal in the 52nd minute, then Steve Pienaar set up Marouane Fellaini for the 2-0 scoreline in favor of the hosts.

After some strong midfield work again by Pienaar, Louis Saha picked up a loose ball and proceeded to dribble past the Wolves defense, before letting off a screaming low shot that crashed into Murray's goal.



Considering last week's loss as well, Owen Coyle injected some much needed speed into the match by replacing Matthew Jarvis with Lam Matteo.

Matteo showcased his speed, but also his tenacity to pick up loose balls. His best chance of the match was a vicious volley from outside the box, and seemed on its way into the back of the net - but fellow American, Tim Howard, made a remarkable save to prevent the midfielder from scoring his first goal for Wolves.

"Lam (Matteo) played excellent into the half - it's made me think of starting the lad. He threatened the goal, and even set up Stefan (Maierhofer) in the box - unfortunately we were unable to convert our chances tonight."

It would be an incredible "start" for Matteo next week, as the Wolves host his old side, the Cottagers of Fulham. Fulham currently sit in 9th place, and have had a good streak of wins as of late. Wolves continue to drop - and are now in 18th.

Key player
Coyle realizes this finally

What an epic storyline. Matteo will start against Fulham - his old club, his beloved team. How incredible - he was more than excited when I talked to him.

"Words can't express how much I have looked forward to next weekend. Even though we will be hosting the side - it will feel like a homecoming for me. To start the match would be icing on the cake."

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Fixture: 14
Wolves v Fulham

2-1
Zamora 46'
Ward 49'
Matteo 92'
-----
Caution: Jarvis (Wolves)

Dreams do come true
Lam Matteo bags winner, first goal for Wolves in stoppage time

Johnson Peoples, wolves.co.uk

It has become a true sense of sportsmanship for footballer's who score against their old clubs to not celebrate.

However, noone could blame Lam Matteo for celebrating the game winner in stoppage time against his old club, Fulham.

Starting in his first match of the season for Owen Coyle's side, Matteo was selected as Man of the Match with a brilliant performance.



After Bobby Zamora had opened up for the visiting Cottagers at the very start of the second half, Stephen Ward would equalise three minutes later after a Wolves corner.

As much as the Wolves pressed forward, the final ball was not there.



Which is what made Matteo's goal such one that will be remembered all season.

After a poorly played high ball intended for Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, veteran keeper Mark Schwarzer collected.

Schwarzer opted for a throw across to the other side intended for Stephen Kelly. However, Schwarzer did not notice the blur that was Lam Matteo in pursuit of the ball.

Before both players knew it, it was too late - Kelly's trap was dreadful, and Matteo's chest trap was pure - on his second touch, Matteo drilled a shot - straight into the back of Schwarzer's net.

Wolves win, 2-1.

Owen Coyle had nothing but praise for his goal-scorer, and key signing of the offseason.

"Brilliant anticipation. Matteo is one of those players who will always have the fundamentals, but also the incredible intangibles that every coach dreams of."

With the victory, Lam Matteo and company now move up from 18th, to 16th.

Next week's match against 3rd place West Ham will be the biggest challenge however, as Avram Grant's men are scoring goals at will - and not conceding too many either, ranking second with least goals conceded at 13 (1 behind Everton).

Made his mark
Try taking him off the lineup now

I am pretty sure Matteo is as speechless as I am. Fantastic play, and man - just when you think he won't make an impact...bam!

"It's about damn time. I just hope this solidified my spot as a starter for the club - even if it is at midfield."

[psymin1]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Wow, that was a DAMN nice goal! Congrats on your first of the season!

[Matt10]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Wow, that was a DAMN nice goal! Congrats on your first of the season!

Thanks man - it was pure hustle and me running around like a madman. I got pretty upset for the bad play by the teammates - so took matters in Matteo's hands

[psymin1]

Re: Something in the Making: Lam Matteo (PES 2009)

Haha, I love when that happens! Actually, it annoys the hell out of me, but you know what I mean. My biggest pet peeve with PES 2010's BaL is the the AI refuses to feed me the ball at the right time- they'll always dribble it ONE or TWO too many times and my open pass disappears. I wish the "Call for Pass" button was more effective, I guess.