How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

[texasbum06]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Season 3

The Mariners

Transfer Business

Transfers Out

N/A

Transfers In

ST, Thomas Olivier Amang, 21 years old, Cameroon, 72 OVR - £2,200,000 from Molde FK

January 2019



Portsmouth FC 1 - 3 Grimsby Town
POR - Lalkovic 33'
GRI - Chambers 35', Morris 68', Bogle 89'
MOTM: Chambers

This was a fairly close match despite the ending scoreline. Portsmouth won the possession battle by a decent margin, and on the other side we had a slight edge in the number of chances we saw. It was Lalkovic that opened it up though with a simple shot off of a tap in and all he had to do was put it on frame since the keeper was still sprawled out from the save before. Chambers answered back almost immediately with Taylor playing him down the left and he just launched a great effort into the top corner to tie it up. The second half brought more action though and it was us that took advantage with Morris launching a shot from outside the box that took a deflection off of a defender and settled into the left side of the goal. With Portsmouth trying hard to pull one back we caught them going the other way and Chambers was able to play Bogle through and he slotted it low around the keeper to seal the win.



Grimsby Town 1 - 1 Sheffield Wednesday
GRI - Reid 45'
SHW - Rodriguez 29'
MOTM: Sinclair

A draw was about what was deserved from this one as neither side really outperformed the other. Wednesday got on the score sheet first when Rodriguez got the ball at the top of the box with space she he fired it into the right side of the goal for the lead. Just before the half though we found the answer with Sinclair cutting the ball back and then picking out Reid for the first time strike into the bottom corner. The second half had chances for both sides, but the score stayed the same.



F.A. Cup
MK Dons 1 - 3 Grimsby Town
MKD - Thomalla 73'
GRI - Al Kuwaykibi 4', Amang 18', 90'
MOTM: Al Kuwaykibi

It was an absolute dream debut for our club record signing Amang. He created our first goal just 4 minutes into his first game by playing Al Kuwaykibi through on the left and he finished back across for the lead. It then only took 18 minutes total for him to bag his first goal with a thunderous shot off of a pass from Chambers that gave the keeper no chance. In the second half the Dons did pull one back with Thomalla taking a shot from distance and curling it perfectly around the defender and into the top corner. Amang then added a second to his tally by flashing to the near post on a corner and flicking the ball across past the keeper and inside the far post.



Middlesbrough 0 - 2 Grimsby Town
GRI - Berrett 32', Chambers 83'
MOTM: Berrett

This was a huge game and the win could make volumes of difference at the end of the season. If we had lost Middlesbrough would have gone 7 points clear of us, but instead we cut their lead to just a single point. Our first goal came off a set piece with Berrett curling a stunning free kick just over the wall and into the top corner. After that we kept trying for the second and it didn't come until late in the game with Al Kuwaykibi playing Chambers through down the right and his shot was partially saved by the keeper, but still ended up in the back of the net.



Grimsby Town 1 - 3 Wolverhampton
GRI - Al Kuwaykibi 30'
WOL - Zyro 40', Bodvarsson 65', Cavaleiro 78' (PEN)
MOTM: Cavaleiro

We were completely unprepared for that beating we just took. Wolverhampton caught us by surprise, especially after we opened the scoring through Al Kuwaykibi sliding the ball past the keeper into the bottom corner. Just 10 minutes later they found the equalizer with Zyro firing a shot past our keeper on the near post that really should never have been allowed in. The momentum was all Wolves after that and Bodvarsson gave them the lead in the second half after he took the ball away from our back line and shot it quickly before our keeper could truly react. Our woes were capped off with the referee awarding a penalty for what appeared to be the worst flop of all time. It didn't matter in the end and Cavaleiro tucked away the undeserved spot kick to cap off the scoring for the away side.



Charlton Athletic 2 - 1 Grimsby Town
CHA - Dorrao 35', Bauer 67'
GRI - Taylor 63'
MOTM: Dorrao

Our second straight lackluster performance. We had a chance to close this month out being on top of the table after beating Middlesbrough, and then we threw it away by losing two games that we know we are capable of winning. Dorrao scored first catching a defender having to choose between two attackers and he kept it himself and fired it past the keeper. We finally got something going in the second half on a counter and Daniel played Taylor through and he slotted it calmly around the keeper for the equalizer. In the most frustrating of fashions that lasted just 4 minutes and Bauer rose up on a corner kick and powered a header into the back of the net for the winner.

League Table



Youth Academy



Board Objectives

Youth
-Within 2 seasons, have at least 1 player from the Youth Academy signed in the first team play at least 50% of the games in the next season. (Remaining seasons: 2)

Brand Exposure
-Within 3 seasons, increase season ticket holders with at least 10% of the stadiums capacity. (Remaining seasons: 1) 100% Complete

Financial
-Finish the season with £2,550,000 unspent allocated funds (transfer budget and wage budget)

Domestic Success
-EFL Championship: Avoid Relegation.
-The Emirates FA Cup: Reach the Round of 32 Stage.
-Within 2 seasons in EFL Championship: Finish Mid Table (Remaining seasons :2)

Continental Success
-Euro League: Reach the Group Stage.

[texasbum06]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Oh ok. Because I like to get injuries really enhances strategy.

A brief update after last posting. We beat Morecambe to continue our battle with Portsmouth. But here is we're my house rules I used is going to make it interesting. Now being in winter transfer period after that match with Morecambe we had to sell my leader striker Forte and my top goal keeper Collin because higher league teams wanted them. I was able to bring in a CM front Scotland, and close to reaching deal with another, but now I need a striker. We also the loan of another striker ended. So now I have to find replacements that are within my house rules. This is going to make the battle for promotion intriguing now we all these changes. But hey that's why I did these rules so it would be challenge to become top flight in England. More coming tomorrow.

Thanks Texasbum06.

Not sure if he fits in your budget or house rules, but take a look at John Akinde from Barnet. Dude is a beast and should score goals for fun for you if you get him. Shouldn't bee too expensive, but not sure how much you have.

[poulka]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Thanks Texasbum06. I will add him to my short list. Sounds like a talent I can shoot for in the future. I will definitely be tracking him.

Now for the January update, this month saw my team lose several key cogs due to transfers and loans ending. But that did not stop The Magpies from their great run. We had two FA Cup matches with Wasall that ended seeing us push through. We ended up drawing against Cambridge United that brought us down closer to Plymouth Argyle. Then we had a draw with Port Vale in the next round of the FA Cup.

So to start February we have a match with Plymouth Argyle then the replay match with Port Vale. This season is like a heavy weight fight. The newcomers are coming together nicely.

[sportsfreak96]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Thanks Texasbum06. I will add him to my short list. Sounds like a talent I can shoot for in the future. I will definitely be tracking him.



Now for the January update, this month saw my team lose several key cogs due to transfers and loans ending. But that did not stop The Magpies from their great run. We had two FA Cup matches with Wasall that ended seeing us push through. We ended up drawing against Cambridge United that brought us down closer to Plymouth Argyle. Then we had a draw with Port Vale in the next round of the FA Cup.



So to start February we have a match with Plymouth Argyle then the replay match with Port Vale. This season is like a heavy weight fight. The newcomers are coming together nicely.

Another guy you may want to keep your eye on is Joel Asoro(I think that's his name) from Sunderland. Starts at 64 so he's under your 70 OVR threshold.

[texasbum06]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Season 3

The Mariners

February 2019



F.A. Cup
Grimsby Town 1 - 0 Ipswich Town
GRI - Al Kuwaykibi 59'
MOTM: Al Kuwaykibi

After two terrible performances there was definitely some nerves heading into this one, but it was all over nothing and we were able to get the job done. Our defense did a fantastic job limiting any chances from Ipswich, and we kept a constant pressure on their goal at the same time. After a first half full of missed chances, we finally got the one we needed when Osadebe played the ball to Al Kuwaykibi and he went on a great solo run through the defense using his pace to get ahead and he finished low across the goal for the deciding goal.



MK Dons 0 - 1 Grimsby Town
GRI - Amang 4'
MOTM: Amang

This was decided almost at the very start with Morris playing Amang down the right and he cut the ball inside to line up his shot and he powered it inside the near post for the lead just minutes after the game started. It was a fairly even affair after that point, but we really should have scored at least one more with the kind of chances we were seeing. Still, we kept them off the scoresheet and that was enough to earn us the win.



Grimsby Town 0 - 1 Brentford FC
BRE - Przybylko 29'
MOTM: Colin

Our second team failed to get it done again and Brentford was definitely the better team all game long. They applied pressure from the start and that paid off in the first half with Pryzbylko getting the ball played to him as he ran in front of goal and he slid down to tap it towards goal and the keeper managed to get a touch on it but it continued on into the goal. We did marginally better in the second half, but none of our chances were really that high of a quality and we languished towards a home loss.



Bolton Wanderers 1 - 0 Grimsby Town
BOL - Spearing 32'
MOTM: Osadebe

How the hell we didn't win this one is beyond me. Bolton only took two shots, and we took 15. 10 of those were on target as well. We won the possession battle by a mile, and yet Bolton is the one that came away with a goal. The fact that a Grimsby player won man of the match despite us losing says it all. Their goal came off of Spearing having a clearance fall right to his feet just outside the box and he launched it past our keeper and into the back of the net. That was enough to win it.



Europa League Round of 32
Besiktas 1 - 1 Grimsby Town
BES - Aydogan 50'
GRI - Otayn 45'
MOTM: Otayn

Unlike the last match, this result was actually deserved. Both teams played evenly in this and you couldn't really say that one side deserved to win more than the other. Our goal came first just before the half when a corner was cleared back to the taker and we worked it around the box to get it to Otayn on the right and he finished it with a well placed shot into the top left corner. It didn't take long after the break for Besiktas to answer though and Aydogan attacked towards our goal and pulled the ball back sending the defender running past him and he fired a shot from distance and it settled into the back of the net just outside of the keeper's reach. We traded misses and saves after that all the way until the final whistle but the scoreline stayed the same.



F.A. Cup
Aston Villa 1 - 2 Grimsby Town
ASV - Estupinan 45'
GRI - Osadebe 49', Daniel 90'
MOTM: Berrett

What a stunning way to win it, just when it looked like we were going to a replay, we found a way to dig in and get the winner. We started out as the aggressor and missed a few chances including Al Kuwaykibi hitting the post on one shot. Then it all turned around on us when just before the half Estupinan powered his way through our defense and then fired it low inside the near post. Luckily that didn't last long after the second half started when Osadebe worked his way into space on the right side of the goal and hit the ball first time with a strong shot past the keeper for the equalizer. The rest of the match played out pretty even and it looked like all that was left was for the referee to blow the whistle. Aston Villa earned a corner though and desperate for the win they sent up everyone except the keeper. We cleared the ball away and Daniel took off to chase it down and put pressure on their last man back. Daniel ended up winning the ball away from him and raced through on goal and finished with a low left footed shot around the keeper to win it at the final whistle.



Grimsby Town 3 - 1 Nottingham Forest
GRI - Reid 15', 66', Taylor 63'
NOT - Lansbury 34'
MOTM: King

Now that is more like it. It is nice to see us get back to our scoring ways, even if we did still concede with some poor defense at the back. Missing our top 2 center backs is really taking it's toll on us in that regard. Reid opened the scoring after King played an inch perfect pass to him to get him through and he slid it around the keeper. Then our defense let us down and let Forest back in it by leaving Lansbury wide open in the box for the easy finish. We got the lead back in the second half though with King pulling the strings once again and this time it was Taylor on the receiving end and he beat the keeper for the lead. Reid then struck again just minutes later with Taylor playing the provider this time and his brace all but sealed the win for us.



Europa League Round of 32
Grimsby Town 5 (6) - (3) 2 Besiktas
GRI - Amang 8', 86', Al Kuwaykibi 30', Chambers 70', 90'
BES - Sismanoglu 17', 67'
MOTM: Chambers

What an unbelievable display of football in front of our home fans. This game had it all, and I am thrilled that we got to entertain our fans the way we did. It was looking food for us right away when the referee awarded us an early penalty and Amang tucked it away despite the keeper diving the right direction. Just when we were feeling good Sismanoglu dominated his man in the air and headed the ball into the ground and past our keeper for the equalizer. Before the half was over though Al Kuwaykibi was able to fire us back in the lead after getting the ball from Chambers and keeping it low past the keeper. Then the unthinkable happened and off of a corner the ball was kept out by our man on the post but it was only momentary relief as the ball bounced off of him and straight to Sismanoglu and all he had to do was tap it in to tie it up and more importantly add a second away goal. Luckily our form held up and just minutes later Chambers got the ball and turned his defender to go through and hit it low just barely around the keeper for the lead. Amang then added another after Reid got out ahead on the counter and hit his shot off the post and right to Amang for the quick tap in. Chambers then really capped it off with another goal, this one off of his own rebound and all we had left to do was celebrate our continued dream debut in European football.

League Table



Youth Academy



Board Objectives

Youth
-Within 2 seasons, have at least 1 player from the Youth Academy signed in the first team play at least 50% of the games in the next season. (Remaining seasons: 2)

Brand Exposure
-Within 3 seasons, increase season ticket holders with at least 10% of the stadiums capacity. (Remaining seasons: 1) 100% Complete

Financial
-Finish the season with £2,550,000 unspent allocated funds (transfer budget and wage budget)

Domestic Success
-EFL Championship: Avoid Relegation.
-The Emirates FA Cup: Reach the Round of 32 Stage.
-Within 2 seasons in EFL Championship: Finish Mid Table (Remaining seasons :2)

Continental Success
-Euro League: Reach the Group Stage.

[JHedges2]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Arsenal Football Club | November 2016 Update





Group Stage | Matchday #4
Ajax 0 - 0 Arsenal

A defensive stalemate which saw brilliant goalkeeping and inept attacking from both sides.
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Matchday #11
Spurs 0 - 1 Arsenal
ARS - Oxlade-Chamberlain 90’

The North London Derby did not disappoint, with the Ox hitting the bar 2 minutes into stoppage time, only to find the back of the next a mere 2 minutes later at the death.
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Matchday #12
Arsenal 0 - 2 Manchester United
MUN - Herrera 50’, Pogba 71’

Paul Pogba nets his first PL goal, as a late first half red card for Arsenal Captain Laurent Koscielny held Arsenal scoreless.
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Group Stage | Matchday #5
Arsenal 1 - 0 FC Basel
ARS - Giroud 50’

The Ox found French striker Olivier Giroud for a wicked goal to put the gunners tied atop Group A with 1 to play.
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Matchday #13
Bournemouth 0 - 3 Arsenal
ARS - Sánchez 16’, 29’, Özil 90’

Arsenal too strong for the Cherries. A first half Alexis brace was enough to do them in and secure the 3 points for the Gunners.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Premier League Top Scorers
1. Sanchez (ARS) - 13
2. Defoe (SUN) - 7
3. Hazard (CHE) - 7
4. Arnautovic (STO) - 7
5. Coutinho (LIV) - 7

[poulka]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Thanks Sportsfreak I will put him on my radar too.

Our February 2017 update has us still leading league two despite some gritty play. The scheduling of atches has been brutal too. With my main two lineups doing double duty. Through t all we beatPlymouth Argyle.

Then FA Cup we put away Port Vale at home. That then brought up Sheffield Wednesday and what a thriller we had in both of our matches with them. We advanced barely by winning replay 1-0 at home.

In March we have a huge Nottingham Forest and Notts County rivalry being renewed in the quarterfinal FA Cup matchup. We also have some anarchy in the team ranks as one of our senior members is highly unhappy. As well as a new comer suddenly bolting back to former club Motherwell in the offseason transfer window. This is one rocky road we are treading. At least as on now we are holding to top place in league two. March update will be later.

[sportsfreak96]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?



This team right here? This is why I've been slacking on Sassuolo. I've been addicted as hell to this CM this team is from. Few changes from last year though. LB goes to YA Graduate from Scotland Arthur MacCutcheon after being forced to sell Ricardo Rodriguez. I did get 50 million for him though. Andros Townsend finally gets removed from his LM duties after 5 stellar seasons. Raheem Sterling takes his place and I hope he does well as Townsend's successor. At CAM Marco Asensio comes in to replace Viktor Kovalenko who left to Sassuolo in the summer. Wilfred Zaha keeps his RM spot after a 16 goal 12 assist campaign in the BPL last year. Iheanacho came into the team last January after I was getting frustrated with Christian Benteke not finding the back of the net in 15 games. As for Steve Mandanda, I have plans for him to retire at the club. He's been instrumental at the back keeping 10+ Clean Sheets each season of this CM. I have his successor in the team already in Polish stopper Dragowski(I can't spell his first name)

[poulka]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

@Sportsfreak what team is that? That is an impressive roster. That is the kind of roster I plan to have Notts after about five seasons. Good work in that CM.

[texasbum06]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Season 3

The Mariners

March 2019



Reading FC 3 - 1 Grimsby Town
REA - Neto 13', Williams 23', Rakels 41'
GRI - Berrett 55'
MOTM: Hurtado

The fixture congestion really killed us. Not only were we playing second choice players, we were playing tired second choice players. Reading dominated from the very first whistle. Neto scored off of a poor pass from our own defender and he intercepted it striking it first time into the top corner. Williams then added another with a great header off of a corner that doubled their lead. Rakels then capped off a perfect first half by sliding in to tap in a rebound. In the second half we did add another with Berrett making great use of his body and shielding his defender until he could turn and launch a shot across the keeper and in.



Grimsby Town 4 - 1 Wigan Athletic
GRI - Al Kuwaykibi 9', 64', Chambers 56', Labadie 80'
WIG - Byrne 33'
MOTM: Labadie

Al Kuwaykibi opened it early with Labadie playing a great ball to send him through and he kept the ball low and placed it into the opposite corner for the lead. Byrne equalized by being in the right place at the right time when a shot was deflected off of a defender and fell right in front of him and all he had to do was tap it in. Labadie again played provider by sending Chambers through up the middle and his shot hit off the keeper and still bounced in to give us the lead back. After that it was just piling on as Al Kuwaykibi added a second, once again hitting the keeper and still rolling in. Labadie put the finishing touches on it by heading home a great cross from Chambers.



Europa League Round of 16
Schalke 1 - 2 Grimsby Town
S04 - Platte 74'
GRI - Al Kuwaykibi 59', Osadebe 90'
MOTM: Al Kuwaykibi

What a stunning win. While we weren't as efficient as we would like to be in front of goal, we managed to grab the win and two precious away goals. It wasn't until the second half when the deadlock was broken by Al Kuwaykibi who got a little lucky to have the ball knocked away but stay in front of him and he picked it back up and placed it past the keeper for the lead. Schalke found an answer through Platte after a nice bit of build up and he fired from distance across the goal and into the top corner. That seemed to wake us up even more and we increased our pressure going at them. In the dying minutes it was Osadebe who got the ball from Al Kuwaykibi and he fired a great shot across the keeper and into the left side of the net to win it for us in dramatic fashion.



F.A. Cup Quarter Final
Southampton FC 2 - 3 Grimsby Town
SOU - Reed 7', Marlos 49'
GRI - Reid 16', Taylor 53', Arhtur 74'
MOTM: Arthur

I look at the stats and I'm still not sure how we won this one. Southampton doubled us in shots taken, and the possession battle favored neither side. It looked like we were in for a long day when Reed latched on to the end of a nice pass and first timed it past our keeper. However, we were able to answer back with Reid finding the space between defenders and waiting for the ball and then finishing it with a well placed shot to the bottom corner. That did wonders for our confidence heading into half, but that was all shattered once again not long after the restart when Marlos turned our defender out of his shoes and then slotted it home for the lead. But once again we found an answer almost immediately with Arthur floating a nice cross into the box and Taylor was able to get above his defender and head it down into the goal. Southampton then looked like they were going to find a third with their pressure on our goal, but it was us in the end that took advantage of a free kick opportunity. While we didn't score directly off of it, we kept possession and some of our defenders stayed forward, including Arthur who got the ball at the top of the box and used his stronger left foot to place it across the goal and into the bottom corner to decide the game.



Grimsby Town 0 - 1 Brighton
BHA - Hemed 74'
MOTM: Hemed

There's no denying it, we were absolutely awful in that. The schedule once again took it's toll on us and we were forced to field a lineup that could hardly be classified as competitive. Still, we hung tough defensively and it took until the second half for Hemed to give Brighton the lead by tapping in a rebound off of a saved shot. I would like to say we did better after that, but I would be lying if I did.



Europa League Round of 16
Grimsby Town 3 (5) - (3) 2 Schalke
GRI - Chambers 6', Morris 70', Daniel 82'
S04 - Choupo-Moting 24', Meyer 75'
MOTM: Chambers

And on we march! Our European dream will continue for at least another round after we took care of business at home. The stats in terms of possession, shots, and shots on target were dead even in all three categories, but we managed to convert an extra goal and secure our path to the quarter finals. Chambers started it early with Amang playing him through and he placed it well back across the goal into the bottom corner. Schalke wasn't ready to give up though and Choupa-Moting played a great 1-2 to get the ball back unmarked right in front of goal and finished it easily. Still nursing our aggregate lead it was Morris that extended it even further when Al Kuwaykibi played him down the right and he took his time to place his shot around the keeper. That didn't last long after a failed clearance allowed the ball to be played straight to Meyer on the edge of the box and he powered a shot past the keeper to bring Schalke closer once again. We were finally able to put the nail in the coffin though when Chambers crossed the ball in picking out Daniel in the box and he volleyed it out of the air and it bounced into the ground before settling inside the far post.



Derby County 0 - 2 Grimsby Town
GRI - Labadie 49', Taylor 57'
MOTM: Fenton

It was great to see the second team get a win after some struggles this month, even if the match stats did favor Derby in every category aside from the score. The first half went in Derby's favor, but neither team was able to put a dent in the score. In the second half though it didn't take long for Fenton to send a cross in perfectly to Labadie who used his size to get up and head the ball past the keeper. After that Daniel sparked the next goal for us with an absolutely beautiful ball to Taylor running into the box and he powered his shot with his first touch into the right side of the goal to double the lead. Derby has a couple of chances after that, but failed to put any of their shots on target and we were able to take 3 vital points.

League Table



Youth Academy



Board Objectives

Youth
-Within 2 seasons, have at least 1 player from the Youth Academy signed in the first team play at least 50% of the games in the next season. (Remaining seasons: 2)

Brand Exposure
-Within 3 seasons, increase season ticket holders with at least 10% of the stadiums capacity. (Remaining seasons: 1) 100% Complete

Financial
-Finish the season with £2,550,000 unspent allocated funds (transfer budget and wage budget)

Domestic Success
-EFL Championship: Avoid Relegation.
-The Emirates FA Cup: Reach the Round of 32 Stage.
-Within 2 seasons in EFL Championship: Finish Mid Table (Remaining seasons :2)

Continental Success
-Euro League: Reach the Group Stage.

[sportsfreak96]

How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

@Sportsfreak what team is that? That is an impressive roster. That is the kind of roster I plan to have Notts after about five seasons. Good work in that CM.

Crystal Palace. Also realistically it's gonna take 7-8 season's for you to get this level of a squad with Notts County(I did one last year with them and it took me 7 to get this kind of squad.) The only way I see anyone doing it in less time is if you get really fortunate with your YA early on(Like I did with Bristol Rovers last Fifa)

Speaking of that Bristol Rovers team here's a screenshot of that squad:

[sportsfreak96]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

@poulka if you really want to see how fortunate I got with my Bristol Rovers YA I'll do a roundup of my best YA players from that save(that I still have pictures of)

[poulka]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

@Sportsfreak that's putting in some serious work. Man that going to take a serious effort by me. But I will keep you all informed of the progress. Thanks Sportsfreak

[vrabbit]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Newport County A.F.C.
2020-2021 Roster Review
* Academy Graduate.

Starting XI

GK: Jasper Cillessen (85 OVR) - 46 apps, 17 CS: The 32-year old Dutchman lived up to his billing in his first season in Newport as he took over for Bill Hamid. Cillessen's 13 clean sheets in league play were the best in the BPL, rightfully earning him a spot on the league's Starting XI. His spot in the starting lineup is written in ink for the foreseeable future. 8.5/10

RB: Yasir Al Shahrani (81 OVR) - 47 apps, 2 G, 4 A: The 29-year old speedster from Saudi Arabia bounced back from an injury-ridden first season at the club with a full bill of health in his second season, showing excellent form. Al Shahrani shined on both ends of the pitch, being a key member of one of the best scoring defenses in the league to go with being a handful for opposing defenses on the right wing. He remains an engine on the pitch who rarely needs to be subbed for. All of that added to being recognized on the league's Starting XI. 8.5/10

RCB: Kurt Zouma (86 OVR) - 49 apps, 2 G: The 26-year old from France remained on the league's Starting XI despite switching clubs. He was arguably the nucleus of The Exiles' high-performing defense. Zouma did end the season in a bit of bad form but even that wasn't enough to overshadow his outstanding performances for most of the season. He undoubtedly remains a key member in the starting lineup going forward. 8/10

LCB: Ron Vlaar (78 OVR) - 35 apps, 1 G: The 36-year old from the Netherlands was the only member of the back-four to not receive league honors. The veteran defender, playing his first full season in Newport, exhibited signs of declining skills and has to be a candidate for less playing time next season if The Exiles want to improve. He remains good enough to be a starter in the BPL, though not if your team wants to compete for a league title.7/10

LB: Jordan Amavi (78 OVR) - 50 apps, 1 G, 3 A: The 27-year old from France had an excellent debut season in Newport, making a difference on both ends of the pitch. Amavi was also the team's iron man, logging in the most appearances. He absolutely earned his spot on the league's Starting XI and should remain a piece of the puzzle in the starting lineup. 8/10

CDM: Paul Pogba (90 OVR) - 45 apps, 12 G, 4 A: The 28-year old from France is one of the world's best and he had no trouble adapting to his new team as well as taking on a leadership role. Pogba owned The Exiles' midfield, covering his defensive midfield duties while also being a threat on offense. At his best he's a different kind of breed as a defensive midfielder and he proved to be just that by being named on the league's Starting XI. He was voted as the team's MVP. 9/10

RM: Jefferson Farfán (78 OVR) - 48 apps, 13 G, 12 A: The 36-year old skipper from Peru followed up his team-MVP debut last season with another strong year, continuing to be a key contributor for the team despite a bit of a decline in his skillset. For a second consecutive season no other player in the BPL had more assists than him despite the fact he played significantly less at CAM, the role that helped him dish out most of his 15 assists last season. He was the 6th and final Exiles' player to be named to the league's Starting XI.8.5/10

LM: Raphaël Guerreiro (81 OVR)* - 40 apps, 5 G, 6 A: The 27-year old from Portugal replicated the offensive contribution Bondz Moore provided last season at this position but added his defensive skillset to become an upgrade for The Exiles this season. Guerreiro's versatility allowed him to slide down on LB late in games which was very useful for Newport County. He should remain a reliable piece of the starting lineup going forward. 8/10

CAM: Clark Gordon (80 OVR)* - 44 apps, 8 G, 10 A: The 21-year old academy product from Scotland had a bit of an underwhelming season, failing to live up to the high expectations of him. Many analysts believe The Exiles' deep struggles this season had a lot to do with the exciting prospect's inability to be a consistent playmaker. Nonetheless, Gordon certainly provided a good number of highlights for Newport County this season, remains a young player with room to grow, and just completed his first full season in the BPL after recovering from an ACL injury. It seems too soon to write him off. 7.5/10

RS: Kjetil Ringdal Støvland (78 OVR)* - 46 apps, 19 G, 15 A: Unlike his academy classmate (Gordon), this 20-year old from Norway continues to be more impressive each season, successfully re-entering the starting lineup to be The Exiles best striker this season. An exciting prospect, The Norwegian Tank was particularly the engine driving Newport County's excellent first half of the season. However, he fell victim to the team's scoring struggles which cost him a shot at the league's scoring title. Even with that RS was a noticeable player for Newport County most of the time, including in UEL play where he led the field with 9 assists. 14 goals in his first season as a starter in the BPL isn't too shabby for a 20-year old either and he'll definitely be a dark horse for the league's scoring title next season. 8/10

LS: Breel Donald Embolo (83 OVR) - 18 apps, 5 G, 2 A: The 24-year old from Switzerland arrived mid-season into a high-pressure situation, trying to help the team bust out of their scoring struggles. Embolo instead fell victim to The Exiles' scoring blues, although he was able to come alive late in the season with some important contributions. Embolo, much like the man he replaced (Thierry Ambrose), is a bonafide scorer and undoubtedly a more polished striker than the upcoming RS so Newport County fans should keep an open mind with him as he could become a nightmare for opponents at any time. 7.5/10

Bench

RB: Moses Odubajo (73 OVR) - 21 apps, 1 G, 1 A: A full season from Al Shahrani meant a significant cut to the number of appearances by the 23-year old from England and as a result his productivity took a hit. What didn't change is the fact Odubajo remains the cut clear choice as the team's backup RB, which means his contract situation is something to watch for as his current deal will expire at the end of the upcoming season and sources suggest a contract extension may not come easily on his end. 7/10

CB: Sebastián Vegas (77 OVR) - 23 apps, 1 G: The 24-year old from Chile took his demotion to the B-squad well, helping solidify the defensive effort of that unit while being the team's top choice at his position off the bench. Vegas filled in well for Vlaar while the veteran dealt with some injuries. The Chilean continues to get better while Vlaar gets closer to retirement so he may regain his starting job sooner than later6.5/10

LB: Elmir Nabiullin (76 OVR) - 35 apps, 2 A: The 26-year old speedster from Russia turned in his first full season with the club by improving on the half season he completed a year ago. Nabiullin was arguably The Exiles' best defender off the bench, clearly being Marccelino's first choice at fullback to spell the starters. He is unlikely to unseat Al Shahrani or Amavi for a spot in the starting lineup but it's hard to imagine he's unhappy with all the playing time he gets. 7/10

CDM: Rohan Ince (77 OVR) - 34 apps, 1 G, 3 A: The 28-year old from England gracefully accepted his demotion to the bench upon Pogba's arrival but didn't let the reduced playing time affect his effectiveness. Ince appeared constantly off the bench and often turned in good performances. He's a better asset in this role and should continue to play extensively in it going forward. 7/10

CM: Joe Allen (80 OVR)* - 32 apps, 5 G, 1 A: The Welsh club was excited to add a caliber Welsh player this summer and the 31-year old did not disappoint, proving leadership off the bench for The Exiles. Allen seems to be very happy in this role although he also joined the club with the hopes of winning some hardware so he can't have been too happy with the inconsistent form of the team. Expect him to be on the pitch often next season again. 7/10

LM: Ben Potter (75 OVR)* - 29 apps, 2 G, 2 A: The 21-year old academy product from England was unable to followup his outstanding season last year with a similar performance, although in fairness to him his starter minutes were mostly limited to the B-squad this season. Nevertheless, his inability to show significant improvement this season is likely to ultimately hurt him as he has not been able to show he could be ready to take over for Farfán when the Peruvian either calls it quits or is moved to a lesser role. Potter needs to show significant improvement next season even if his minutes are limited. 8/10

LW: Bondz Moore (76 OVR)* - 29 apps, 4 G, 1 A: The 21 year-old from England had been a solid performer in The Exiles' starting lineup but with Guerreiro's arrival his move to the bench wasn't much of a surprise. The academy product showing great potential did not let the diminished playing time affect his form, and while his production was understandably not quite the same he did accomplish a neat little feat: scoring in every competition (BPL, league cup, F.A. Cup, and UEL) Newport County played in this season. 7/10

ST: Nicolas Gersbeck (75 OVR) - 24 apps, 10 G, 5 A: The 23-year old from Germany established himself as our top player at his position off the bench and filled in admirably when called upon whether with the main team or the B-squad. Sooner than later it's going to be awfully hard for The Exiles to hang on to his talent because other BPL teams could surely use Gersbeck as a starter. 7.5/10

ST: Aaron Leya Iseka (72 OVR) - 11 apps, 3 G, 3 A: The-23 year old from Belgium proved his performance last season wasn't an outlier and was once again a scoring threat whenever called upon. However, Marccelino has yet to figure out ways to find the acquisition from Juventus more playing time. Gersbeck probably has a lot to do with that though. 7/10

The Academy
(listed by their ranking in it)

LW - Marcos Andrade (69 OVR, 89-94 POT): This true GEM from Portugal is now 17 checking in at 5'8", 156lbs. Andrade is a physically-gifted player with a balanced game who is entrenched as the top prospect in the academy and one of the best overall prospects on the roster. His curve (81) is far advanced for a teenager and he displays good ball control (74) and agility (72). It's only a matter of time until he's promoted to the senior roster at which point the club will have to figure out a way to get him some minutes.

ST - Billel Cissé (56 OVR, 86-92): This 17-year old striker from France Standing at 5'9" and 147lbs is officially the next top prospect for the club at this position. Cissé's top attribute is his pace (73 acc, 71 spd) which should come in handy for his size. The club is working on developing his striker skills.

RM - Tobias Perez (62 OVR, 82-94): 17-year old from France establishing himself as a prospect to watch for. He possesses outstanding pace (78acc/73spd) for his age to with excellent balance (73) and curve (75) on the ball.

CDM - Pierre Tägtström (57 OVR, 79-93): 16-year old from Sweden who is next in a great lineup of defensive midfielders developed by the club since Marccelino's arrival. Described as physically strong, Tägtström's exciting potential is undeniable and he displays excellent aggressiveness (86) towards the ball. At his age and with the club's depth at the position he should be able to spend time developing in the academy without any rush.

LW - Andre Domingues (55 OVR, 77-83): 16-year old from Portugal who is still raw but exhibits great potential. His top attribute continues to be his pace (75acc/70spd), although his agility (72) and balance (71) are also notable.

CDM - Andy Tandia (50 OVR, 75-83): Yet another defensive midfielder prospect, Tandia currently projects as more of a future backup for the club.
* Recent addition
_____________________________________

Jordan Davies (CF, 58 OVR) was promoted to the senior roster after spending a couple of years in the academy in which he made significant progress.
_____________________________________

In some final notes, the competition for backup GK seems to have sorted out this season with Hayato Matsuki (71 OVR)* becoming the regular starter with the B-squad. Eiichi Suzuki (71 OVR)* is likely to be transfer-listed this summer. Right winger and fan favorite academy-graduate Jack Giles (72 OVR) saw an even bigger reduction in his playing time following Guerreiro's arrival, getting only 5 appearances as a sub with the B-squad. He's been a great story for Newport County since their rise from League 2 but it may be time for both sides to part ways. Defensive midfielders Doke Boëtius (74 OVR) and Cristiano Dall'Oglio (72 OVR) also saw a reduction in their playing time as neither player reached double-digit appearances. Ince could become a transfer target for other teams any day now though so the depth Boëtius and Dall'Oglio provide is crucial. Finally, prized academy graduate Daniele Martella (73 OVR) also struggled to get much playing time (7 apps) and didn't live up to the hype when he was on the field. The 20-year old is the natural candidate to take over for Allen in a couple of years but he needs to have better performances if he wants that job.

[texasbum06]

Re: How's Your FIFA Career Mode Going?

Season 3

The Mariners

April 2019



Grimsby Town 2 - 1 Preston North End
GRI - Chambers 36', Morris 65'
PRE - Pearson 14'
MOTM: Otayn

We could have put in a better performance, but we got the result we needed in the end. The first goal came from Preston by way of Ben Pearson who made a great run into the box to receive the ball and then powered a shot into the top corner in impressive fashion. Before the half was over we found the equalizer with Otayn playing Chambers through on the right and he fired across the goal and it went off the post and in. In the second half we took the lead with some great build up ending with Otayn once again playing the ball to Morris this time and he struck it first time into the bottom right corner and the keeper didn't stand a chance.



Aston Villa 0 - 1 Grimsby Town
GRI - Bogle 90' (PEN)
MOTM: Loach

Once again, it wasn't the prettiest, but we got the 3 points we need. There wasn't a whole lot of chances from either side that really challenged the keepers. Our best chance was at the very beginning when Amang smashed a shot off the cross bar with a thunderous shot. In end end this one didn't get decided until the very last minute when Veretout took down Chambers in the box and Bogle was able to power his shot from the penalty spot into the top left corner when all the keeper could do was watch.



Burnley 1 - 1 Grimsby Town
BUR - Arfield 73'
GRI - Kelly 76'
MOTM: Hendrick

This could have gone a lot different if we had our first choice players available to us, but we decided to rest them for our upcoming Europa League fixture. Burnley really dominated the first half, but our back line held just enough to keep them off the scoresheet heading into the break. In the second half though we finally had a breakdown and Arfield got the ball running in on the back post and he powered his shot past our keeper for the lead. We found the equalizer only 3 minutes later with Kelly cutting across the box with the ball and then pulling it back to his right foot and launching a great shot inside the far post.



Europa League Quarter Final
Grimsby Town 2 - 1 Tottenham
GRI - Browne 35', Otayn 90'
TOT - Alli 16'
MOTM: Otayn

We knew that this was never going to be an easy one for us and Tottenham came right at us with Alli winning the ball away from our defender and dribbling all the way through to beat our keeper on the far post. We managed to equalize with Otayn playing Browne through on the left and he exploited the defense with his pace to get into the box and the finish low across the keeper. After that we did all we could to just weather the storm that they continued to throw at us. In the very last minute Amang was able to play Otayn down the middle and he kept his shot low under the keeper and it was enough to give us a goal advantage heading into the second leg.



Grimsby Town 0 - 0 QPR
MOTM: Mills

It's hard to really write a recap on this since that would require something to have happened. Both sides were completely lackluster and honestly I feel bad for anyone who paid for a ticket to see this game. Forced down to the tired legs of our reserves, the fixture congestion and injury crisis is really taking it's toll on us right now.



Blackburn Rovers 0 - 2 Grimsby Town
GRI - Taylor 53' (PEN), Bennett 89'
MOTM: Taylor

I wasn't too sure about this game being as that it was only two days after our last and our first team still needed rest. But our guys got it done and they did so fairly comfortably. The first half didn't see much action, but in the second half we were awarded a penalty and Taylor stepped to the spot and sent the keeper the wrong way to give us a lead. After that it was mainly just about protecting our lead while still trying to provide some danger at times to keep them honest. With a minute left we had a corner cleared back to the taker and he sent it Bennett at the edge of the box and he fired a stunning shot into the top left corner to secure the win for us.



[u]Europa League Quarter Final[/b]
Tottenham 1 (2) - (3) 1 Grimsby Town
TOT - Mata 89'
GRI - Chambers 5'
MOTM: Browne

Classic smash and grab football. We got forward early and Browne's cross found Chambers for the powerful header past their keeper and not only did we extend our aggregate lead, we equaled their precious away goal. We retreated after that and didn't get many more opportunities, but we held them at bay in the process. It wasn't until the dying minutes that Mata smashed home an equalizer, but it was too late and the final whistle blew to send us through to the semi-final.



F.A. Cup Semi-Final
Chelsea FC 2 - 3 Grimsby Town
CFC - Oscar 62', 85'
GRI - Taylor 6', Osadebe 60', Daniel 82'
MOTM: Berrett

Unbelievable. We started out almost identical to our last game against Tottenham. This time it was Taylor heading home the cross in the opening minutes to give us the surprise lead. We just flat outplayed Chelsea from that point on and they barely even saw time on the ball. In the second half we had a corner cleared out and Osadebe picked it up outside of the box and launched a screamer from distance into the top left corner for an absolute stunning goal. You would think that would have been enough but Chelsea came alive almost immediately and first timed a shot from the edge of the box perfectly into the bottom corner and it was still anyone's game. We were able to then extend our lead back to 2 with Daniel getting the ball on the left and turning his defender to fire a low shot past the keeper. Chelsea wouldn't go away though and Oscar once again answered with another shot from the edge of the box. There just wasn't enough time left for them after that though and we earned ourselves a spot in the final.

League Table



Youth Academy



Board Objectives

Youth
-Within 2 seasons, have at least 1 player from the Youth Academy signed in the first team play at least 50% of the games in the next season. (Remaining seasons: 2)

Brand Exposure
-Within 3 seasons, increase season ticket holders with at least 10% of the stadiums capacity. (Remaining seasons: 1) 100% Complete

Financial
-Finish the season with £2,550,000 unspent allocated funds (transfer budget and wage budget)

Domestic Success
-EFL Championship: Avoid Relegation.
-The Emirates FA Cup: Reach the Round of 32 Stage.
-Within 2 seasons in EFL Championship: Finish Mid Table (Remaining seasons :2)

Continental Success
-Euro League: Reach the Group Stage.