Retirement FC

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 138023

Watford 2-2 Retirement FC
August 10th 2015

It was a tough result to take for the Oldies in their first competitive outing as they couldn't fight through a one man advantage to get the win. It was a good result though for their first game with pressure high and expectations low.

First Half
Cech - Lahm, Jagielka, Terry, Evra - Motta - Gerrard, Pirlo - Robben, Lavezzi - Ibrahimovic

It was a tough start as despite controlling most of the ball Watford managed to get the majority of the chances and it took just 17 minutes for the hosts to convert as captain Troy Deeney headed home fantastically at the back post.

The rest of the first half was just a battle for control. Watford looked to sit on the ball with the lead whilst Retirement looked to control the play and move the ball forward to create chances. Both sides had a few chances before the break but neither could convert.

Half Time: Watford 1-0 Retirement FC

Mario Suarez had picked up a booking in the first half and just 3 minutes into the half he got his marching orders for a stupid tackle on Robben. The Oldies used this to push forward and won a penalty through Gerrard who was tripped in the area as he wound up to shoot. He converted the spot kick to make it 1-1.

64th Minute: Toulalan for Motta; Barry for Gerrard; Quaresma for Lavezzi

After the subs were made it seemed to give Watford control as they attacked the on coming players. This created the chance for them to get the lead again this time through Holebas who struck the ball superbly from the edge of the area to make it 2-1.

Just 3 minutes later though Ibrahimovic made his mark with a fantastic run and shot to equalise. The Oldies pressed for a 3rd late on but couldn't break down a Watford side settling for a draw.

Full Time: 2-2

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 500, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]WFC[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]RFC[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]7[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Shots[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]13[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]3[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]On Target[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]7[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]17[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Fouls[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]21[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]3[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Yellow Cards[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]48%[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Possession[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]52%[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Man Of The Match: Robben; 1 assist, 9.0 rating

Watford Goals: Deeney (17); Holebas (75)
Retirement Goals: Gerrard (50); Ibrahimovic (78)

Watford Cards: Nyom (Y35); Suarez (Y36, R47)
Retirement Cards: Motta (Y64); Lahm (Y69); Terry (Y82); Evra (Y87)​

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 138022

Retirement FC 0-0 Crystal Palace
August 15th 2015

Two draws from two now as the Oldies failed to hit the back of the net thanks to some fantastic keeping from Hennessy in net. Retirement had most of the possession and chances but couldn't break the deadlock to earn their first professional win.

First Half
Cech - Lahm, Jagielka, Terry, Evra - Motta - Pirlo, Gerrard - Robben, Lavezzi - Ibrahimovic

It was an exciting back and forward first half with both teams having a ton of chances in front of goal. Ibra had two chances early which he should've converted before Palace's Zaha missed a sitter at the other end.

Half Time: Retirement 0-0 Palace

Palace struggled to get a grip in the second half as Retirement controlled the early minutes of the half. Gerrard had a shot hit the post in the opening minute before Robben cut inside a slotted his shot just wide of the goal.

49th Minute: Toulalan for Motta; Barry for Pirlo

The hosts continued to dominate play and create chances but the Palace keeper continued to dominate between the sticks denying the Oldies on several occasions.

60th Minute: Defoe for Ibrahimovic

As Ibra made way after some poor finishing in front of goal seeing him have 3 shots all off target Defoe came on and made an immediate impact as he hit the post with his first touch. However the game quietened down soon after and both sides left with a point.

Full Time: Retirement 0-0 Palace

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 500, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]RFC[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]CPA[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]15[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Shots[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]8[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]9[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]On Target[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]18[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Fouls[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]14[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Yellow Cards[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]54%[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Possession[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]46%[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Man Of The Match: Steven Gerrard; 8.7 rating

Retirement Goals: N/A
Palace Goals: N/A

Retirement Cards: N/A
Palace Cards: Cabaye (Y77)​

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 138020

Manchester United 1-1 Retirement FC
August 22nd 2015

Another draw makes it 3 points from 3 games as the Oldies fail to hold on to a well deserved lead. There was a change of tactics as Saddler opted to play a back 5 and 2 strikers in replacement of dropping both wingers. There was a debut in the heart of defence for Dante who has been injured since the club was formed.

First Half
Cech - Jagielka, Dante, Terry - Lahm, Evra - Motta - Gerrard, Pirlo - Ibrahimovic, Van Persie

It was a good started for United who managed to control early goings but failed to get a shot off. The oldies had the first two shots of the game before Van Persie got injured.

15th Minute: Lavezzi for Van Persie

In the 32nd minute though Ibrahimovic latched on to a through ball Gerrard as they both continue their impressive form. He slotted low past Sergio Romero to make it 1-0. The rest of the first half was pretty dull as the Oldies sat back to defend the lead and United struggled to create chances.

Half Time: United 0-1 Retirement

The early moments of the second half were dull as both sides settled into the game again. The half really broke up any form of momentum for United as they couldn't string passes together.

57th Minute: Toulalan for Dante; Piszczek for Evra

United came back into the game in the final half an hour and it was Rooney who got the goal in the 65th minute. After his initial shot was blocked he turned on the edge of the box and fired into the bottom corner past a helpless Cech.

Full Time: United 1-1 Retirement

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 500, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]MUN[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]RFC[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]29[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Shots[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]12[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]9[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]On Target[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]10[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Fouls[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]10[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Yellow Cards[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]59%[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Possession[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]41%[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Man Of The Match: Zlatan Ibrahimovic; 1 goal, 7.6 rating

United Goals: Rooney (65)
Retirement Goals: Ibrahimovic (32)

United Cards: Rojo (Y17)
Retirement Cards: Evra (Y57); Piszczek (Y74)​

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 137931

Capital One Cup 2nd Round - Round Up

The league cup 2nd round is over and there have been a number of shocks throughout the tournament. A number of premier league teams have been knocked out the tournament in the round they entered.

Retirement FC's debut in the tournament was short lived as Sheffield Wednesday beat the 1-0 at Retirement Castle. Aston Villa were on a bigger shock though as Sheffield United beat them 2-0 at Villa Park. Bournemouth lost 2-0 away to championship Brighton.

Lower down we saw big losses for Brentford, Cardiff, Derby and Bury who all lost by 4 goals or more. Norwich saw Bury leave the tournament with a 5-0 win whilst the biggest shock of the 4 results was league 1 Wigan beating championship Brentford 4-0.

One game was decided in extra time as Watford managed to score twice in the extra 30 minutes to get a 3-1 win at home to MK Dons.

5 games went to penalties. Shrewsbury won 4-2 on penalties against championship Burnley. Rotherham also won 4-2 from spot kicks after sneaking through to the penalty shoot out through an own goal. There were also penalty wins for Bradford against Nottingham Forest, Millwall against Oxford and QPR against Swindon.

Shock of the round: Retirement FC losing to Sheffield Wednesday has been labelled shock of the round as they started a full first 11 but couldn't get a goal.

Team of the round: Wigan just beat Norwich to the award as they embarrass Brentford with a 4-0 defeat.​

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 137772

Retirement FC 1-1 Aston Villa
August 29th 2015

Another league game and another league draw. It's 4 from 4 now as the Oldies failed to take advantage of a quick start to get their first win. 4 games in they sit in 10th place just 2 points from relegation and 4 points from the top 4.

First Half
Cech - Lahm, Jagielka, Terry, Evra - Motta - Pirlo, Gerrard - Robben, Lavezzi - Ibrahimovic

It took just 3 minutes for the hosts to take the lead as Lavezzi came rushing in at the back post to knock home a Robben cross. But it wasn't to last long as Villa equalised just 6 minutes later with Micah Richards heading home at the back post.

21 minutes in though Zlatan got injured as he jumped for a challenge and came down funny. He claimed to have been stamped on but the referee waved away appeals.

21st Minute: Defoe for Zlatan

The rest of the first half saw an even affair with both sides creating chances but neither making the chance that counted. The Oldies continued to control possession but Villa were a threat on the counter.

Half Time: Retirement 1-1 Villa

The early minutes of the second half saw both sides miss a couple of easy chances. Defoe was first to miss from yards out before Richards headed wide from a corner.

59th Minute: Toulalan for Motta; Barry for Gerrard

The substitutes saw little change in the tempo of the game as the hosts continued to control play. Villa had a couple more chances on the break but struggled to make the most of their creativity whilst the Oldies couldn't find the final ball.

There was a second injury though for Retirement as Robben pulled up late on. Whilst it didn't effect the final 15 minutes of the game it did create worries as two of Retirement's early stand out players were injured.

76th Minute: Robben off injured

Full Time: Retirement 1-1 Villa


​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 500, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]RFC[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]AVL[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]13[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Shots[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]9[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]On Target[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]14[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Fouls[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]13[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Yellow Cards[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]55%[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Possession[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]45%[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Man Of The Match: Lavezzi; 1 goal, 7.5 rating

Retirement Goals: Lavezzi (3)
Villa Goals: Richards (9)

Retirement Cards: Motta (Y48)
Villa Cards: Gueye (Y43)
​

 

[MrWisdoman]

Your team sure likes drawing. Hope you can get a win under your belt

 

[FMSaddler96]

Your team sure likes drawing. Hope you can get a win under your belt

Yup, no matter what tweaks I make to the tactic we still draw. Got a tough run coming up (Liverpool, Spurs, Chelsea) so would take a few draws there before an easier run

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 137706

Liverpool 5-0 Retirement FC
September 13th 2015

FM Saddler admitted he got it all wrong in his post-game conference as the Oldies fell to a embarrassing 5-0 defeat in front of the cameras at Anfield. A tactical switch saw them play without wingers which Liverpool attacked and got a convincing win.

First Half
Cech - Lahm, Chiellini, Terry, Evra - Motta - Carrick, Gerrard, Pirlo - Lavezzi, Ibrahimovic

It was a tough return for Chiellini who was to blame for the initial 3 goals. Firstly he let Firmino slip through to get the first before losing the Brazilian again from a corner for the second. Then in the 24th minute it just got worse for the Italian as he turned the ball into his own net.

Half Time: Liverpool 3-0 Retirement
45th Minute: Jagielka for Carrick; Quaresma for Lahm; Defoe for Evra

There was a switch to a back 3 and the addition of wingers in the second half as Saddler opted to go more attacking and try to control play but Liverpool continued to dominate possession and press forward causing problems.

It was in the 62nd minute when Lucas was left alone at the back post to tap home to make it 4-0 before a stoppage time goal by Benteke made it 5-0 and sealed the result that saw the Oldies drop into the relegation zone on goal difference.

Full Time: Liverpool 5-0 Retirement

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 500, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]LFC[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]RFC[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]23[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Shots[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]8[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]10[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]On Target[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]7[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Fouls[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]10[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Yellow Cards[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]60%[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Possession[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]40%[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Man Of The Match: Steven Gerrard; 6.8 rating

Liverpool Goals: Firmino (15, 20); Chiellini OG (24); Lucas (62); Benteke (90+1)
Retirement Goals: N/A

Liverpool Cards: Enrique (Y27); Lucas (Y48)
Retirement Cards: N/A​

 

[FMSaddler96]

Thanks for the following and feedback so far. I'm just letting people know I am going to start doing bigger updates. I will do the single game updates for big games but it is taking too long to play through game by game.

Again any more feedback/ideas are appreciated and I hope everyone is enjoying!

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 137201

September Round-Up
September 31st 2015

3 games were played in September and they weren't easy fixtures for the Oldies. After starting the month with a trip to Anfield the club had to host Tottenham before travelling to Stamford Bridge to end the month.

Knowing the needed results to pull away from the relegation zone the experienced squad were expected to use their footballing experience and intelligence to get results. Let's see how they did...

Liverpool 5-0 Retirement

It was an embarrassing trip to Anfield as the Oldies couldn't even stay competitive in a tough game. Klopp employed his high pressing and quick game play and the Oldies couldn't keep up. Especially Chiellini who was at fault for all 3 first half goals including Firmino's brace and an own goal.

A change of tactics didn't improve fortunes though as Liverpool added two more with Lucas and Benteke making it 5-0.

Retirement 1-3 Tottenham

Spurs were next up and they were flying high. With Retirement down after a tough result last time out Spurs got off to a quick start with Kane making it 1-0 early on. Ibrahimovic quickly brought it level again though after Lavezzi crossed the ball fantastically. Ibra who was initially pulled down got straight backup and smashed home.

Momentum was in Retirement's favour going into the half but Chadli scored a second for Spurs heading into the break to ruin any half time plans for Saddler. Looking mentally depleted in the second half the Oldies struggled to win possession from Spurs and in the 91st minute a goal from Quincy Promes made it 3-1.

Chelsea 3-1 Retirement

This made it 8 competitive games without a win as Chelsea dominated in the air. Opting for a back 5 against a high scoring Chelsea side Saddler opted to try hit Chelsea on the break but it failed to work. Initially 2-0 down after Costa and Willian goals Ibra managed to win a penalty which was superbly dispatched by captain Steven Gerrard.

Retirement were the better side in the second half but couldn't find the net. Lavezzi shook the woodwork with a thunderous striker from the edge of the area before Gerrard was denied by Willian who was stood on the line as the midfielder took his free kick. As the Oldies pressed for an equalised Costa managed to break past a poor Jagielka to settle the result, 3-1.

Table

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Position[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Team[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Played[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Won[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Drawn[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Lost[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]GD[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Points[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]17th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Southampton[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]6[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-3[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]18th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Retirement FC
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]7[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]3[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-9[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]19th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Everton[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]6[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]1[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]3[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]20th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Sunderland[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]6[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]0[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-8[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

October Preview

After the Chelsea game Saddler made it clear that he believes his team can still meet mid-table expectations with the quality he has at his disposal but he sees a potential problem in fitness and the gelling of players, many of whom see themselves as bigger than the club.

He focused on the tough month of fixtures faced and put emphasis on next months easier fixtures which are as follows:

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]October 4th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]A[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]West Ham[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]13th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]October 17th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]H[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Leicester[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]6th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]October 24th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]A[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Swansea[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]10th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]October 31st[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]H[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Bournemouth[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]15th[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

Saddler also placed emphasis on how the international break could help with fitness of many players and give some the chance to rest a bit. He sees the potential to gain at least 9 points in the month with him saying wins at West Ham as well as home victories against Leicester and Bournemouth being his target to pull away from the drop zone.
​

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 137198

Saddler Discusses "Winning Way" Before Hammers Test
October 3rd 2015

FM Saddler has done his pre-game press conference preceding tomorrows West Ham game where new found club Retirement FC will look to get back to winning ways.

The Bradford based club, currently winless in 7 league games (8 in all competitions), have struggled to find their feet despite having a squad boasting some of the biggest names in the footballing world. They have so far drawn 4 of their 7 league games but currently sit on a 3 game losing streak.

Saddler said the following about finding the "winning way" in coming games:

We will be looking to do nothing but win in our upcoming fixtures. We have started off poorly and it is obvious that the tactics that did so well for us in pre-season haven't translated to league success. I've tried giving players time to settle into current tactics but it is clear we need a change of system in order to improve our position.

When asked if this meant we would be seeing changes for the Oldies he went on to say:

Definitely. I want to find some tactics which suit our players. I think so far I've looked at tactics which I believed would work well in the premier league but haven't. Me and the backroom staff aren't currently working on a few things which we are going to test some things out this month.

There were two other big questions which kept being asked by journalists. Firstly was the question of who the number 1 keeper is at Retirement. Cech had played the opening 6 fixtures but has lost his place to Buffon over the last two games:

Buffon was our number 1 from the get go. He is a player I admire and Cech knew the situation he was coming into when we signed him. Cech did well but it was always intended and made known to the keepers that when Buffon returned to full fitness he would be our number 1 choice.

Finally was an injury update. Retirement have had numerous injury issues since the season has began and with age taking part it was wondered how strong the squad actually is:

What I heard this morning is that all players are on track to return by schedule. All four players will return in about 2 months time. We will look to settle Baines in as quickly as possible to let him compete with Evra for the left back role. Robben has been missed the last couple of games so when he and Ribery return it will be fantastic to give us multiple options on both sides. Foster likely won't feature but it will be nice to have the assurance of a 3rd keeper.

​

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 136992

Saddler Announces Further Injury Woes for Retirement
​

October 24th 2015

FM Saddler has today announced further injury woes for the Oldies as they now have 8 of their 25 man squad are currently injured. He explained that as well as long term injuries to Baines, Foster and Ribery who he announced will be returning in around two months time the club has sustained a further 4 injuries in their last 3 games.

His full statement can be seen below...

We currently have 8 players out who will all be out for around 2 weeks. Baines, Robben, Ribery and Foster are still on track to return for December time but over the last few games we've accumulated four additional set backs.

Many of you will have noticed against Swansea we only had 6 on the bench and that's because of injuries prior to that game. Motta was injured against Leicester and is expected to return to training this week but he looks a bit jaded from the injury. Chiellini and Evra both clashed in a challenge in training last week and will miss 2 or 3 weeks. Also Drogba picked up an injury in training yesterday and he will be out around 2 weeks.

We are looking at a possibility of having to bring a few kids into the team to provide cover if it gets any wore. We will look to get these players back to fitness as soon as possible but at the moment it looks like for the next 2 weeks we have 17 players to choose from.

So with a third of their squad out injured for the next fortnight it will be interesting to see how the Oldies cope and whether they can pull away from the drop zone. They face 19th placed Bournemouth in a weeks time in which 3 points is extremely important said FM Saddler.

I expect us to still get all 3 points against Bournemouth. It's a game we can win and I see no reason why these injuries should affect the expected result. We still have a good squad and plenty of attacking power and Bournemouth are a side who struggle in front of goal.

So Saddler has made his intentions of getting all 3 points at Retirement Castle on Saturday and focused on the quality in the squad and how they will attempt to play on Bournemouth's weaknesses.​

 

[dani3w]

This is class, nice to see something new yet so simple to design! Layouts are amazing too, keep it up

 

[FMSaddler96]

This is class, nice to see something new yet so simple to design! Layouts are amazing too, keep it up

Thanks, looking to keep it going long term as well if I can stay in the job. Trying to keep the layout simple to get quicker updates.

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 136952

October Round-Up
October 31st 2015

A big month for both the club but also in particular FM Saddler who's job looked to be in the balance based on results of the month. Having been knocked out of the League Cup early it was important to move forward in the league an improve on their winless start.

Injuries had been piling up throughout the season and would continue to do so throughout October which made it harder to find the best 11 to play.

West Ham 3-1 Retirement

A tough start to the month. They travelled to the Boleyn ground for the first and final time and came away with nothing. Terry was poor as he let Sakho through to give the Hammers a 1-0 lead before Ibra managed to break past and hammer a shot of his own into the middle of the net, 1-1.

A second half hampered by injuries though saw Retirement end with 10 men, luckily nothing was serious but it gave West Ham the chance to control the game with Sakho Obiang adding the hosts 2nd and 3rd goals.

Retirement 0-3 Leicester

With Evra and Chiellini injured during the week it saw Lahm move to LB and a return to the heart of defence for Jagielka. It was the fitness of Piszczek that cost the Oldies though as he couldn't keep up with Vardy out on the left and it caused problems all game.

Vardy made it 1-0 after hopping past Piszczek before putting a dangerous ball into the box which Terry could only head into his own net. With Retirement fighting desperately for a point Leicester made it 3-0 in the 91st minute through Ulloa.

Swansea 2-4 Retirement

A WIN! It was a fantastic performance all round for the Oldies. Ibra wanted to make sure there was a quick start as he took the kick-off and scored within the opening 30 seconds. The lead wouldn't last for long as in the 9th minute Sigurdsson made it 1-1 before Ashley Williams made it 2-1 to the hosts early in the second half.

Retirement then turned it on though knowing they needed a win and Quaresma made one last cross before being taken off which Lavezzi met at the back post to make it 2-2. Ibra then smashed the ball home in the 63rd minute before MOTM Van Persie (2 assists, 1 goal) curled the ball into the corner to seal a 4-2 win.

Retirement 2-1 Bournemouth

From 9 games without a win to 2 on the bounce. A team without Ibra (who had scored more goals, 6, than the rest of the squad combined, 5), Evra, Motta, Robben, Ribery, Baines, Foster, Drogba and Chiellini saw Saddler have to put just 5 on the bench.

However it was a battle of corners. Jagielka was the first to score from a corner as he headed home in the 13th minute, only for Callum Wilson to tap home after a goal line scramble a minute later. In the 28th minute though MOTM Lavezzi met Quaresma's cross at the back post to restore the lead which the Oldies held onto though.

Lavezzi would later get a second yellow though which hands him a 1 game ban after scoring 2 games on the bounce...

Table

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD]Position[/TD]
[TD]Team[/TD]
[TD]Played[/TD]
[TD]Won[/TD]
[TD]Drawn[/TD]
[TD]Lost[/TD]
[TD]GD[/TD]
[TD]Points[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]12th[/TD]
[TD]Stoke[/TD]
[TD]11[/TD]
[TD]2[/TD]
[TD]4[/TD]
[TD]5[/TD]
[TD]-10[/TD]
[TD]10[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]13th
[/TD]
[TD]Retirement FC
[/TD]
[TD]11
[/TD]
[TD]2
[/TD]
[TD]4
[/TD]
[TD]5
[/TD]
[TD]-11
[/TD]
[TD]10
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]14th[/TD]
[TD]Everton[/TD]
[TD]11[/TD]
[TD]2[/TD]
[TD]3[/TD]
[TD]6[/TD]
[TD]-4[/TD]
[TD]9[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]15th[/TD]
[TD]Southampton[/TD]
[TD]11[/TD]
[TD]1[/TD]
[TD]6[/TD]
[TD]4[/TD]
[TD]-4[/TD]
[TD]9[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

November Preview

On the back of 2 wins Saddler's position is suddenly looking a lot more stable. With the team in 13th they are around where they were expected to be but sit just 1 point off of the relegation zone and with West Ham and Swansea set to face eachother Monday the Oldies could be in 14th by tomorrow night.

But Saddler's focus is on what his team does and how they can move forward and continue to push up the table and with 3 games next month they can do that:

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD]November 7th[/TD]
[TD]A[/TD]
[TD]Norwich[/TD]
[TD]8th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]November 21st[/TD]
[TD]H[/TD]
[TD]Manchester City[/TD]
[TD]1st[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]November 28th[/TD]
[TD]A[/TD]
[TD]West Bromwich Albion[/TD]
[TD]10th[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

So 3 top half teams to play and the only home game of the month is against table toppers City who have lost just once all season (1-0 at Old Trafford). Saddler still believes his side can do the business at Norwich and West Brom and believes there is no reason they can't pick up a point at the Castle.

With 9 injuries currently in the squad it will be interesting to see how the Oldies can move forward and whether they will push up the table or be back in the bottom 3 in December.
​

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 136848

November Round-Up
November 30th 2015

As Alan Pardrew became the first manager to get sacked at the end of November the noose became a little bit looser on Saddler's job. They needed to get a least a win to continue to fight against and pull away from the drop zone.

Norwich 3-0 Retirement

Focusing on the same system used to pick up the previous two wins Saddler expected to get at least a point here. But it wasn't to be as Norwich performed a master class. After an even first half they made a few tactical changes to counter Retirement's defensive plan which saw the Oldies have more of the ball than they would've liked.

By hitting on the break 3 times Norwich managed to get 3 second half goals through Brady, Mbokani and Bamford to make it 0 points from a possible 3 to start November.

Retirement 2-0 Manchester City

YES! The Oldies managed to pull of a fantastic performance as they shocked table toppers City. City had most of the ball but couldn't get past a superb Buffon in the first half an hour. Then in the space of 3 minutes Retirement made it 2-0, first through Lavezzi in the 31st minute before Gerrard scored a free kick in the 34th minute.

City continued to control play and in the 60th minute it looked their game to win as Piszczek was sent off for a second yellow. However some tactical switched by Saddler saw the Oldies hold onto the lead and get all 3 points unexpectedly.

West Brom 1-1 Retirement

It took just 3 minutes for Leighton Baines to make an impact on his debut after he tucked away a penalty to give the Oldies a 1-0 lead. West Brom always looked the better team though and it was only a stubborn back 4 of Baines, Chiellini, Jagielka and Lahm which earned the Oldies a point.

It could've been avoided though as the Baggies goal came from Robben who panicked at the back post and swung his foot at the ball when he had time to move out with it. He swiped at the ball and managed to knock it into his own net in the 30th minute to cost the Oldies all 3 points.

Table

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD]Position[/TD]
[TD]Team[/TD]
[TD]Played[/TD]
[TD]Won[/TD]
[TD]Drawn[/TD]
[TD]Lost[/TD]
[TD]GD[/TD]
[TD]Points[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]14th[/TD]
[TD]Swansea[/TD]
[TD]14[/TD]
[TD]4[/TD]
[TD]2[/TD]
[TD]8[/TD]
[TD]-3[/TD]
[TD]14[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]15th
[/TD]
[TD]Retirement
[/TD]
[TD]14
[/TD]
[TD]3[/TD]
[TD]5[/TD]
[TD]6[/TD]
[TD]-12[/TD]
[TD]14[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]16th[/TD]
[TD]Everton[/TD]
[TD]14[/TD]
[TD]3[/TD]
[TD]4[/TD]
[TD]7[/TD]
[TD]-4[/TD]
[TD]13[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]17th[/TD]
[TD]Sunderland[/TD]
[TD]14[/TD]
[TD]3[/TD]
[TD]4[/TD]
[TD]7[/TD]
[TD]-10[/TD]
[TD]13[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

December Preview

As injuries clear up things are looking up for the Oldies. With almost a full squad to choose from Saddler is finally getting to utilise the best of his squad which has been reflected in results over the last 5 games.

As is always though there is a busy premier league schedule coming up with the Oldies having 6 games over the festive month:

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD]December 5th[/TD]
[TD]H[/TD]
[TD]Everton[/TD]
[TD]16th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]December 12th[/TD]
[TD]A[/TD]
[TD]Arsenal[/TD]
[TD]4th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]December 16th[/TD]
[TD]H[/TD]
[TD]Sunderland[/TD]
[TD]17th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]December 19th[/TD]
[TD]A[/TD]
[TD]Southampton[/TD]
[TD]11th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]December 26th[/TD]
[TD]A[/TD]
[TD]Stoke[/TD]
[TD]13th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD]December 28th[/TD]
[TD]H[/TD]
[TD]Southampton[/TD]
[TD]11th[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

So with 5 games against bottom half teams Saddler is looking to pull away from the relegation battle. Key games against Everton and Sunderland will be important and could affect how the season goes as 2 wins could see the Oldies really push up the table.

They also have games against mid-table sides Southampton and Stoke where they will look to get wins if they can but won't be happy with less than a draw. The only game where nothing is expected is against 4th placed Arsenal but after beating table toppers City anything could happen in the festive month.
​

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 136822

Retirement FC Stats
December 1st 2015

As we head into the busy portion of the season we take a look at Retirement FC's stats in the season so far.

Player Stats
Most Appearances: Steven Gerrard & Phillip Lahm - 15

Top Scorer: Zlatan Ibrahimovic - 6

Other Scorers: Ezequiel Lavezzi (4), Steven Gerrard (3), Phil Jagielka (1), Leighton Baines (1), Robin Van Persie (1)

Most Assists: Ezequiel Lavezzi - 4

Other Assists: Zlatan Ibrahimoivc (3), Robin Van Persie (3), John Terry (1), Ricardo Quaresma (1), Steven Gerrard (1), Arjen Robben (1)

Top Rated Player: Steven Gerrard - 7.19

Worst Rated Player: Michael Carrick - 6.45

Average Conceded per 90 minutes: Petr Cech - 1.67; Gianluigi Buffon - 2.11

Clean Sheets: Petr Cech and Gianluigi Buffon - 1

Team Stats
Goals/Shot Attempts: 16/145 (11%)

Pass Success Rate: 67%

Clean Sheets: 2 in 15 games

Conceded: 29 in 15 games
​

 

[FMSaddler96]

View attachment 136586
Potential "Oldies" For Retirement
December 11th 2015

With the January transfer window fast approaching we take a look at some of the potential signing's Retirement FC could make under their transfer rulings set by the FA. With the knowledge that they may only sign players over 30 years old we have narrowed down a top 10 shortlist of potential signings.

1. Wesley Sneijder

The former Ajax, Real Madrid, Inter Milan and current Galatasaray player is 31 years old. He is still highly regarded in the footballing world and has 6 goals in 18 club games this season as well as 2 in 6 international appearances.

With his age taken into account there are rumours the Turkish giants would ask for no more than £5m in what could be a steal. He could provide another attacking option for the Oldies and would definitely be interesting to watch.

2. Marco Parolo

Having played for 8 different sides in Italy Parolo is one who many may not have heard of but is a big name in Italy. Currently at Lazio the central midfielder is enjoying one of his best seasons having played 23 games and tallied 4 goals from a defensive midfield position, despite being 30 years old.

It would be a tough deal to make though as Parolo is happy at Lazio but has always been happy remaining in his home country. If the Oldies could somehow work a deal though it could cost them somewhere in the range of £12m.

3. Steven Davis

The Northern Irishman is currently a favourite at Southampton and will be hard to pry away from the south coast club. At 30 years old though he is still going strong having made 26 appearances the attacking midfielder has notched 4 goals and 10 assists.

He would be a cheaper option than the above two but could still cost in the region of £4m.

4. Samir Handanovic

With reports of Cech wanting to move away for first team football there is the possibility of Handanovic coming in to back up Buffon. Another player to have always been in Italy he is highly regarded, especially by current club Inter Milan.

The only problem is that at just 31 the Slovenian is seen as being in the prime of his career pushing Inter's asking price into the region of £15m.

5. David Limbersky

With questions over the wages of the full backs at the club (over £300k a week between Lahm, Baines, Evra and Piszczek) there are rumours of the Birmingham based club looking for cheaper options. Current Viktoria Plzen left back Limbersky could be a perfect option as he currently sits on just £4k a week.

Another benefit is the low asking price for the 32 year old Czech with Plzen asking only around £200k for the former Modena, Spurs and Sparta player.

6. Samuel Eto'o

Having played for 13 clubs and on the biggest stages Eto'o is one of the biggest names in football. Having featured Real Madrid, Barcelona, Chelsea and Inter Milan he is a big name in football and could be an option for Retirement. Antalyaspor currently highly regard him and the attacker has 4 goals and 3 assists in 15 starts.

The shock is that Eto'o is available for around £650k should Retirement but a bid in for the attacker. Whilst he is physically weaker at 34 years old he still has the technical abilities to be a key player for many sides.

7. Wes Morgan

The current Leicester and former Forest stalwart is a fantastic defender and can still do a job in the premier league despite being 31 years old. Leicester would be reluctant to sell the defender but have admitted a bid of over £2m could force their hands.

8. Jose Sosa

Besiktas midfielder Sosa is versatile and has experience for top clubs such as Napoli, Athletico Madrid and Bayern. As a player who can play anywhere in midfield and even feature as a striker if needed there has always been clubs looking for his signature, even now he is 30.

With 3 goals and assists this season Besiktas would be reluctant to sell but a bid of around £5m could force the club to part ways with the Argentinian.

9. Stewart Downing

Another versatile midfielder who could provide cover across the pitch for the Oldies. At 31 years old the former premier league journeyman is still going strong with Middlesbrough in the championship having notched 2 goals and 7 assists across 19 games.

Available for £4m it is possible the midfielder could be looking for one last run out in the premier league and with Middlesbrough currently under performing in 6th place he may not get that chance with Boro.

10. Miroslav Klose

Last but not least is a striker who is one of the biggest names in German football. 37 year old Klose has featured for 5 German clubs including Bayern and Bremen but currently plays his football in Italy with Lazio.

For less than £1m many would love to pounce on the chance to sign the great striker but with the striker considering retirement many question whether the price tag is worth 6 months of football.​

 

[FMSaddler96]

​

View attachment 136548

December Round-Up
December 31st

Here we are on new years eve taking a look back at the final month of 2015. The Oldies had their busiest month over the Christmas period and had hopes of pulling away from the dreaded relegation battle. Let's see what happened...

Retirement 1-1 Everton

In a game they really wanted all 3 points Everton managed to get a draw. In a balanced game both sides created plenty of chances but it was Lavezzi who opened up the scoring with a 51st minute strike. It took just 6 minutes for Lukaku to get the equaliser though after a quick counter attack.

Arsenal 4-1 Retirement

It was all bad news from a game Retirement expected nothing from. The first bit of bad news was Ibrahimovic getting sent off after just 14 minutes for a nasty challenge, the initial 1 match ban was reviewed and the FA extended it to 3. Arsenal couldn't gain control of the game in the first half though and it was level at the half.

In the second half though a tiring 10 man Retirement struggled to keep up with a high attacking Arsenal who saw goals from Sanchez (2), Gibbs and Ramsey in the second half. RVP got a consolation goal in the 92nd minute though on his return to Arsenal.

Retirement 1-0 Sunderland

RVP continued his fine form in front of goal as he scored the only goal of the game in the 22nd minute. Defoe on the other hand continued to struggle as he still searched for that opening competitive goal for the club and he had perfect chances to do so but couldn't convert his chances.

Southampton 1-0 Retirement

The first of 2 games in the month against Southampton. Despite playing fantastically the Oldies couldn't find the final ball and it was clear they missed Ibra who was serving his second match on the touchline of his 3 match ban.

Pelle on the other hand was in fine form as he scored the winner in the 38th minute, converting his only shot of the game. Very different to Defoe who failed to hit the back of the net on any of his 4 chances.

Stoke 0-0 Retirement

A pretty boring game all round as both sides played fantastically defensively and in midfield but the strikers for both sides failed to impact the game. No matter how much either side tried to get the goal they failed to hit the net and claim all 3 points.

Retirement 0-1 Southampton

Another Southampton game and another 1-0 loss. As a busy period caught up with the Oldies they struggled a bit for fitness and failed to keep up with a young, attacking Southampton side. The Oldies created their fair share of chances but Ibra couldn't find his finishing touch on his return from suspension.

There were several close chances though. After earlier being denied a penalty Lavezzi hit the post twice before Gerrard was only denied by a fantastic save.

Table

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]Position[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Team[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Played[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Won[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Drawn[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Lost[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]GD[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Points[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]16th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Bournemouth[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]20[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]7[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]9[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-13[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]19[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]17th
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Retirement FC
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]20
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]7
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]9
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-16
[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]19
[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]18th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Everton[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]20[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]4[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]6[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]10[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-8[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]18[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]19th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Sunderland[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]20[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]3[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]5[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]12[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]-17[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]14[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

January Preview

So after a mixed month where Retirement managed to pick up a couple of draws and a win they drop down to 17th and seem back in a relegation battle. They have 4 fixtures in the new year and will aim to pull away from the drop zone again after dropping back into the battle for it.

​

[TABLE="class: grid, width: 750, align: center"]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]January 1st[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]H[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Watford[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]9th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]January 9th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]H[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Burnley[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]FA Cup 3rd Round[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]January 16th[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]A[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Crystal Palace[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]20th[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="align: center"]January 23rd[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]H[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Manchester United[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]3rd[/TD]
[/TR]
[/TABLE]

The Oldies start with a winnable home tie against Watford which they will aim for all 3 points before looking to advance into the 4th round of the FA Cup past championship Burnley. They then travel for the only time in January as they play bottom side Palace at Selhurst Park where anything less than a win will be disappointing. 3rd place United then visit the Castle with both sides looking to get a win for different reasons.

Saddler believes the side can get 6 points in the month and advance in the cup and has said that players will be rotated. There is questions of transfer news though with Carrick trying to force a move and the possibility of signings. With a high wage deficit though it could be tough to bring players in.
​

 

[Disclaimer89]

Great idea on this story! Enjoying it so far, I'll be following.

Hopefully relegation can be avoided