TheBetterHalf
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The Better Half - Tactic sets- won EPL with WUFC first season- Patch 9.3...Updated **
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This is thread containing 8 sets, each consisting of 7 versions, Overload – Control – Attack Home – Attack away - Balanced – Counter – Defensive
They are all based on the same approach so the description of each and every version within the set are the same, regardless of playing the 442 Target Man or the 41221 playmaker, the 4231 Target Man or the 442 No Target man, etc, etc
While playing with a set can be very rewarding when getting it right, it can also be disastrous when getting the version picking wrong. The aim with this set is to get the version picking much easier. If you prfere aplug & play tactic then this set is not for you even though some versions could be used in that approach as well.
As you can see there are 7 versions but does this mean that there will be much agony before every single match when trying to choose from so many versions ? No, not at all as most of the times, you will not even consider touching most of them as starting version in the specific match ahead. Most of the time you have a pretty good idea what you are after in the coming match so if playing the undefeated top team away there are maybe 2, max 3 versions you are thinking about. The same goes for facing the team you are fighting against for a place in Europe. Playing at home you probably ant to go for the 3 points and will probably consider the version close to Attack away, whilst playing away against the same opposition you wont consider playing too attacking, neither too defensive so yet again there are 2 version or maybe 3 to choose from. The nest step would be to ask your self if you want to play using counter attack in the coming match or not. After answering that final question the version picking is often down to only 1 or maybe 2 version.
My suggestion is that whilst reading about the specific versions you load them up and look at them one by one. I think this will help you come to a better understanding on how they work.(don’t forget the players mentality, closing down and not just the team as everyone for all you know could be on individual instruction
The Happy Hammer project
Inspired by Cleon and his Sheffield United project:thup:, the second post in this thread will be continuous updated with match reports from a new started save. The point off this the post will be to show my reasoning behind the tactical choices and an evaluation of the decisions made and hopefully this will bring more clarity for users about version picking. In all matches the initial 442 set have been used but sometimes Not using a target man
FINAL TABLE OF THE HAPPY HAMMER PROJECT
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Results Patch 9.3
Wining EPL with West ham, Aston Villa, Promotion( 4:th) with Plymouth, all first season.
New; Winning EPL, first season no signings, with Blackburn, using the 4231 Target man set
Top of the table after half a season with Hannover, 4:th with Betis, 2:nd with Twente, 3:rd with Napoli, Top with derby.
Also having a very, very good season with West ham( have played more than the updated matches in the second post, The happy hammer project), a team that with 9.3 database would probably be destined with relegation with a default tactic or a AI manager, that's with the current squad anyway
Mentality… and Closing Down &D-line
Based on my view on the players optimal positioning, working together with d-line and the closing down slider. Example: - In some formations/versions the Fullbacks have a higher mentality then the AMR/L, to connect better, reducing the gaps between the 2 stratas when attacking. The AMR/L might also have a lowered closing down setting that together with a higher than average d-line reduces the gap in defence as well. So be careful when making tweaks as the mentioned sliders work together and very careful when tempering with the closing down settings for the advancing players as they may not track back properly if raising it etc, etc
The marking system.
In some version, depending on formation, some versions have the whole midfield set to tight man marking. This means that our MR/L or AMR/L will mark their MR/L. If the AI is playing without MR/L then change it to zonal instead. The same goes for our MC. They are marking the AI MC´s but if they play with more or less then 2 central midfielders then use zonal marking instead.
Set Pieces ( Hmm.)
I must admit that this is not my strong side. On the other hand one can argue that this might actually be a good thing, bearing the 08 corner cheat in mind. The setup in these version provides me stability and I have tries to refine them, being a bit afraid that a might stumble over a flaw that makes my DC win the Golden Boot
Training
I do not use any specific for these sets
Team Talks and pre-game press conference
I am by no means an expert on the subject. What I do know is that if your a**-man handles the press, just make sure he does not take an defensive och even cautious approach. Even though the players seems to react well, its very difficult to get them fired up or make them believe in them self. Suggestions on how to do the ht team talk, especially when 2 goals up, often when playing away, are most welcome. As its is for now, I do not say anything to the lads
Playmaker (in one set)
Used in of the published sets, If having a very, very good deep lying in your squad he could be used in 1.Control, and 7. Defensive in all sets/formations
Target man ( Yes)
No box ticked but in some version we are still using one, a Semi-Target man. By this meaning that the player should be placed in the target man list in all versions of the set but that we don’t tick the target man box. See player role and set description further down for player requirements and other information.
In 442 Target Man,the FCL and in 4231, the lone FCL should be put in the Target man list in all versions besides Control.
But no matter what set/formation you are using, remember this
- Always use a Target Man(semi) in Overload and…. Never use one in Control
OI
Recommended OI, (necessary on bold) is included for each version below
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The versions
(This description of the 7 versions goes for all the different sets and formations so if you have mastered the version picking of one set, you could do it with the next one as well)
Have a look at each version before applying them.
Explanation
What it is/does versus What it isn’t/ doesn’t - Can give you a pretty good idea of the tactic as it, when having read everything, gives you further information about the differences versions between
The text – I have tried to explain the best I could, getting into as much detail as I can without using to many words but as English is not my or maybe your native language there are bound to be issues
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold) - Just what it says. Just remember that some - and only some - will stick when changing version. So remember to check this and add/remove if necessary
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1. Overload
What it is/does: Attacking, High pressing, Quick and Pushed up
What it isn’t/ doesn’t Patient, Tight marking, Defensively sound and Starting tactic
- Against very, very defensive teams that sit rather deep with their whole midfield, Just be aware that if they lift up their midfield (by closing down slider) and their defenders (by d-line) they will still play very defensive but will now when recovering the ball be under very little pressure as we will be too far up in the pitch, then change to Control.
Recommended OI: (necessary on bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on any Players in Strata 2(WB, DMC) that seems/ or you suspect to be holding on to the ball.
Close down/Always on whole Central midfield
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2. Control
What it is/does: Slow and Patient, Wide, Short and accurate passing and Creative
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Straight at goal, easy to apply against better opposition, For the last 15 minutes, against teams playing attacking
- To Systematically break down defensive teams using a patient but very attacking minded build up. Use this against teams that have many men behind the ball but are not sitting ultra deep. The moment they go very deep without even trying to attack change to Overload and when they start to play more attacking, making runs with the ball, then change to another version of choice as there is no need for the slow breakdown anymore is there.
Recommended OI: : (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on left DC and Tight Mark/Always on right DC
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3. Attack Home
What it is/does: Attacking, A bit risky, Supporting Fb´s, and Straight at goal
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Patient, Ultra-attacking,
- Just what it says, the starting tactic when wanting to attack from start. Normally applied when you decide to go for the 3 points at home by playing the kind of football that means “ straight at goal and not beating about the bush. “. Have the majority of possession is not the key with this tactic as long as we are creating chances and the opponents midfielders doesn’t get too much time with the ball before being closed down. The fullbacks are in some sets/formation on HUB to slow the game down a bit and if you feel they are under 1) too much pressure or 2. ) no pressure at all what so ever then consider 1. ) removing the HUB or change version to Counter or 2.) Remove the HUB or change to either Control if they sit deep or Attack away if you think you can lure them up by playing even slower and on the counter
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward [/B]and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on left DC and Tight Mark/Always on right
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4. Attack away/deep (using counter attack)
Formation changes: The MCleft now as Lone MC and the MCright as lone DMC
What it is/does: Attacking, Careful, Lure them up in field, Less Risk
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: - Quick, Puts pressure on the back 4, Chase goals
A much slower attacking version - like a Control based away version – but playing on the counter. Against teams playing cautious with many men behind the ball but that we still consider being a threat that we don’t want to play headless against. By using a high mentality we position our players high up in the field but by playing slow in a patient build up the aim is to try and lure a rather defensive AI on to us and draw their players out of position before we start the attacks. If the opponent should start to attack us more or lift up their team, both with mentality and with d-line then it’s time to change version. Firstly we have to ask if we want to keep using counter attacks and let the AI be in charge. The reason for us doing this prior to the AI changed its tactic was that we wanted them to come on to us, to lure them up as they were sitting too deep for us to attack and expose our selves but now, as they are higher up in the pitch and are starting to create chances swinging in crosses, we either strike back by going “3. Attack Home”, try to gain possession by playing “7. Defensive” or maybe use “5. Balanced” to lift the ball higher up the field on to our attackers and play a more balanced risk/reward
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced or lone forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward
When playing with a set not using MR/L the Tight mark and Close down always on the AI MR/ML
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5. Balanced
What it is/does: tight marking , Slowish build up, Normal Ment
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Press high, Attack with whole team, use much space
Just was it says, a very balanced version with one FC playing on the shoulder of the last defender and one coming deeper to get the ball. Its very clear if this version is dead wrong picked from start and there by also easy to see in what direction one should go. Either we are too deep with our midfield and the weak AI gets all the time in the world, not being closed down and when we attack they have all men behind the ball….or… when the AI attacks us with advancing wingers and Fullbacks making our Wingers sit in the lap of the defence (as they are man marking the AI wingers), In the first scenario, with the defensive AI, I think that enough information has been given about the higher versions to switch to. In the later, with the Bombing Fbs or the advancing there would be the option to simply put out Wingers on Zonal marking instead or Switch to 6.Counter if we feel that there is space enough on the flanks between their stratas to move into.
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced or lone forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward
When playing with a set not using MR/L the Tight mark and Close down always on the AI MR/ML
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6. Counter (using counter attack)
What it is/does: Attacks with pace, down the flanks( in some sets), aggressive in own half, quick
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Holds onto the ball, give the FC´s much support, Ultra defensive
The style are the same as in Balanced but now we play on the break and a little more narrow, a little faster and down the flanks(in some sets) The reason for the combination playing narrower and down flanks? Well as we use this against teams that will play either balanced or attacking against us with advancing M-wingers or even AM-Wingers we don't want to be to wide in defence but at the same time we want to explore the rather big space that our wingers can move into. If we are loosing too much possession whilst not creating anything but you still feel Counter attacks is the right choice then consider playing slower with 4. Attack away or 7. Defensive. If the opponent have far too much time on the ball in midfield then consider abandoning the counter attacks and instead change to 5.Balanced (or even a higher version). The same marking system as in Balanced is applied in this version so if our midfielders sits in the defenders lap and the AI uses advanced Fullbacks, then change to zonal
Recommended OI: (necessary on bold)
Tight marking/ Always on advancing or normal strikers and/or all lone strikers
Close Down/ Always on AI central midfielders UNLESS they are outnumbering us by using 3 MC or 2MC + DMC/AMC.
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7. Defensive. (Using counter attack)
What it is/does: Keeps possession in own half/midfield, very cautious, no fwruns
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Against 4-2-4, for getting goals in plural, beautiful to watch
Defending by keeping possession. Whilst we are playing with a defensive mentality, we are not sitting deep or using too low closing down. A great tactic to bore the **** out of the opponent as well as finish off already won games with. Just, once again, be aware of that the marking system in midfield is the same as in the just mentioned version
Not a SUS( Shut up Shop) against 4-2-4 as I find that playing Balanced or Attack away is much better.
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Tight marking/ Always on advancing or normal strikers and/or all lone strikers
Close Down/ Always on AI central midfielders UNLESS they are outnumbering us by using 3 MC or 2MC + DMC/AMC.
Tweaks against 4-2-4
Regardless of tactic used remove all forward runs(easiest by giving them a back arrow) on your wide players and at least on central midfielders. Also Tight mark/Always the AI front 4 in OI. Now if playing a superior team then I would use a more defensive version and you will probably already be using that version but if a lesser team are trying to make a late comeback, pushing everyone forward, I would not play a too defensive version against them. Just like said, making your players stay in position will be enough to see the game out and using Attack away or Balanced would be my choice, trying to hold on to the ball in a bit more advanced position. Against these teams I would also advice implementing the OI Close Down/always, hard tackle/Always on the AI Fullbacks and central midfielders, i.e. not giving them any time to advance on their own or time enough on the ball to deliver accurate direct balls to the wide front men
Tweaks of the marking system.
Worth mentioning again...
In some version, depending on formation, some versions have the whole midfield set to tight man marking. This means that our MR/L or AMR/L will mark their MR/L. If the AI is playing without MR/L then change it to zonal instead. The same goes for our MC. They are marking the AI MC´s but if they play with more or less then 2 central midfielders then use zonal marking instead.
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The players in the different Sets. Is this set for me ?:
The Set "Flat 442 using Semi target man"
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the FCL
The DC:
As this is a set you will sometime use a version with a d-line of 18 were pace, positioning and ability to make the correct decision will be important but you will also use version were you sit back and play tight and were anticipation, marking, tackling and aerial ability will be more important. What I am trying to say here is that unless having EPL (or other top leagues) quality just make sure that they are not too slow or lacks completely in either concentration, composure, marking or heading.
The Fullbacks:
In most versions they have HUB (Hold up ball), so it’s important that they can handle this after have been playing for 70 minutes. Make sure they don’t have too many flaws when it comes to Concentration, Composure or Crossing. Even if having 20 in Strength if will not make up for them having bad concentration stats when there is 15 minutes to go and they are beginning to feel tired or are put under a lot of pressure.
The Central Midfielders: We call them MCright and MCleft.
The MCright should be the more creative one and he will act like a deep lying playmaker, even never officially assigned that role. He also plays in DMC in Attack away so it’s good if he is competent it that position as well
The MCleft on the other hand needs to be slightly better in the final third then his companion and in Overload and Control he plays in the AMC position. But as always, if playing in a lower league and not having Brilliant box-to-box players at hand then I would go for Strength and Marking and leave the fancy stuff for the wingers.
The Wingers
I like to combine hard work with flair. I want my wingers to be able to track back and give it all for the team and be successful in doing so. I want them to be able to break the pattern and cut inside and have a go for the far corner instead of making that cross 10 times out of 10.
Do these exist? Yes, at a higher level, especially those WB/AM. In lower Leagues on the other hand they normally don’t so we have to make a choice. Flair or Marking, Passing or Stamina. And when we - like above in MC description – have appointed to hard working MCs since Kevin Nolan and Elano did not want to move a few miles to Bury, the choice is easy: Get wingers that can do the fancy stuff, that possesses the pace, that extra attacking crème to support the attackers. In the end, it’s down to the balance of the team
The Forwards
Let me be clear on this first: They swap position in every tactic…and the FCL should be put in the Target man list in all versions…..so sometimes the target man will go deep to get the ball and sometimes he will play on the shoulder of the last defender… and the Target man supply is different in the versions. Does it sound like we need to have 2 World class “Complete Forwards”? Actually, we don’t. But what is important, apart from the ability to convert chances, is the movement without ball. It does not matter of one is a heading monster with only 11 on pace or of one of them have 4 in both heading and strength. As long as they have some specific competence that combined with higher than average (as always for level played at) smartness and movement without ball you will be fine.
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The Set "Flat 442 NO Target man"
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as in the previous version
The Central Midfielders:
I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
The FCL is your goalscorer, your poacher, and needs not only to be able to put it away when being under pressure. He also needs to be in the right place at the right time.If he is strong and with good arial ability its a advantage and of he is quick its even better. The FCR needs to have great off the ball stats and also be able to use his creativity once in a while. St the top levels, this position will be for your Complete Forward
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The set " 4231 using a semi Target man" - Still writing this...
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the lone FC
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Almost the same as in the previous version but since he, in the absence of any MR/L, will be covering a bigger part of field he needs more stamina and his dribbling and crossing skills can now make a bigger difference
The Central Midfielders:
I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
When it comes to the AMC I rather consider him as a second forward. If possible, use a complete AMC/FC or FC as he will be dictating the game, with his movements just as much as with his touch
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
Best using a player that can play it simple( no flashy ppms) and that are able to read the game( anticipation etc). He will often come deep to collect the ball and pass it on to another player before runing straight at goal. If he has the ppm " Moving into channels" and combine this with great movement and fininshing skills, he can be lethal
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The set " 41221 using a DMC Playmaker"
Playmaker: Yes, the DMC
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as in 4231, "Almost the same as in the previous version but since he, in the absence of any MR/L, will be covering a bigger part of field he needs more stamina and his dribbling and crossing skills can now make a bigger difference"
The Central Midfielders:
Consists of 2 MC and the DMC Playmaker
The 2 MCs are the same as in the 4231 above, I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
The DMC is the heart of the tactic and really needs to be up for it. He acts like a deep lying playmaker and shall be put in the playmakerslist
The Wingers
In this set these players act more like forwards, going straight at goal rather then hugging the line. I would use wingforwards( ex. AMR/FC) with good finishing skills
The Forwards
Best using a player that can play it simple( no flashy ppms) and that are able to read the game( anticipation etc). He will often come deep to collect the ball and pass it on to another player before runing straight at goal. If he has the ppm " Moving into channels" and combine this with great movement and fininshing skills, he can be lethal whilst playing 2-2´s with the wingers
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The set " 442 Diamond"
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the FCL....EDIT:- The Left is the target man, sorry
The DC:
Same as in the previous version but maybe with more pace
The Fullbacks:
Same as before
The DMC - AMC Combo:
This partnership works to its best if they both have strenght. The AMC will track back as he is set to man-mark. He will automatically do this with one of the MC but if the AI use a DMC then you have to use specific man-marking to make sure he is man-marking the MC( of your choice).
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
THe FCL should be put in the Target man list at all times. We want him to come deep to get the ball and link up with the midfielders and if he is strong in the air its a huge plus( I used Kuyt when playing with Pool). The FCR should have pace and have the ability to score now and then
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The set”442 TOP TEAMS" -
This set is for Top notch teams only. If playing with top 4 in EPL, La Liga, Serie A, this set will most certainly be the best of all the 442s in this thread. If playing as a top teams in Holland, Greece etc, you will have a good results in the league with it but it might be too attacking when playing I CL. Then I would maybe combine it with the set called “4411”
An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
Playmaker: No
Target man[/b]: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
As this is for a top team, they really need to be modern top-notch Fbs without any flaws
The Central Midfielders:
Again, as this is for top tams only, the midfielders need to be complete. In the MCr we use a more attacking one and in the MCleft, strengths are more important. But, as said before, they both need to be almost complete
The Wingers
Pace, Flair, Intelligence, Composure, Stamina etc. To sum it up… World class wingers are, if not needed, then a massive help. In this position the team will not suffer defensively if they are not superstars but if going for the CL trophy, you probably will not get your hands on it if these guys are not up for it, especially when using the more defensive versions like Counter or Defensive
The Forwards
The FCright should be a complete forward and the FCleft should be a quick striker.
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The set” 4411”
This set can be used by most teams but as we play with only one forward, it’s important that he, relatively speaking, is really good. An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as previous, nothing really
The Central Midfielders:
The MCr is a more attacking one and has free roles in some versions so “off the ball” is an important stat for him. The MCleft is more defensive and needs to be strong and have good passing skills.
The Wingers
Just as previous versions. I have used both wingforwards and MCL/R
The AMC
If you are a top team then use a player like Gerard, lampard rather then a Flair full Argentinean with 2 in every stat that relates to any physics. Also have a look at his marking as he is on man marking on one of the AIs MC. I always want him to mark the more defensive ones
The Forward
Needs to be quick and strong. As mentioned above, when playing with only one guy up front, it’s important that he is good. If rotation your squad, use the quick one in the lower versions and the strong one in the higher
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The set” 4231 NO Target Man”
This set can be used by most teams but as we play with only one forward, it’s important that he, relatively speaking, is really good. An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
The difference between this set and the one with a target man, is that in this set , the players can get away with lesser passing skills
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as previous, nothing really
The Central Midfielders:
The MCr is a more attacking one and has free roles in some versions so “off the ball” is an important stat for him. The MCleft is more defensive and needs to be strong and have good passing skills.
The Wingers
Just as previous versions. I have used both wingforwards and MCL/R
The AMC
If you are a top team then use a player like Gerard, lampard rather then a Flair full Argentinean with 2 in every stat that relates to any physics. Also have a look at his marking as he is on man marking on one of the AIs MC. I always want him to mark the more defensive ones
The Forward
Needs to be quick and strong. As mentioned above, when playing with only one guy up front, it’s important that he is good. If rotation your squad, use the quick one in the lower versions and the strong one in the higher.
The better Half
FAQ SECTION
Q - I am playing in the lower leagues and/or woth a team wih average players. I find the instructions for my players, using the 442 NO Target man Set, to be suited for better players, is there any known tweak to suit my team ?
A - I user have done this,
You could also try to give the FCR more of "Target man" instructions .ie. mixed - rarely - mixed - rarely - mixed ( no hub or free role) and the FCL the poachers instructions like in the example above
TACTICAL SETS patch 9.3
By
The Better Half
MSN: [email protected]
By
The Better Half
MSN: [email protected]
- 442 Target man - Final versio -D-link 1 Download Link D-Link 2
. - 442 NO Target Man - Final version - Download Link 1.... Download Link 2
- 442 for Topnotch Teams - Final version - D-Link 1 D-Link 2
- 442 Wide Diamond, Target man - Final version -D-Link 1
- 4411 for strong and physical teams - Final version - D-Link 1 D - Link 2
- 4231 NO Target man - Final version - D-Link 1 D-Link 2
- 4231, semi-Target man - Final version - D-Link 1 ...D - Link 2
** New Attack home version, making the 4231 set the final one. Download and replace D - link - 41221, DMC Playmaker - Final version -D-Link 1 D-Link 2
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This is thread containing 8 sets, each consisting of 7 versions, Overload – Control – Attack Home – Attack away - Balanced – Counter – Defensive
They are all based on the same approach so the description of each and every version within the set are the same, regardless of playing the 442 Target Man or the 41221 playmaker, the 4231 Target Man or the 442 No Target man, etc, etc
While playing with a set can be very rewarding when getting it right, it can also be disastrous when getting the version picking wrong. The aim with this set is to get the version picking much easier. If you prfere aplug & play tactic then this set is not for you even though some versions could be used in that approach as well.
As you can see there are 7 versions but does this mean that there will be much agony before every single match when trying to choose from so many versions ? No, not at all as most of the times, you will not even consider touching most of them as starting version in the specific match ahead. Most of the time you have a pretty good idea what you are after in the coming match so if playing the undefeated top team away there are maybe 2, max 3 versions you are thinking about. The same goes for facing the team you are fighting against for a place in Europe. Playing at home you probably ant to go for the 3 points and will probably consider the version close to Attack away, whilst playing away against the same opposition you wont consider playing too attacking, neither too defensive so yet again there are 2 version or maybe 3 to choose from. The nest step would be to ask your self if you want to play using counter attack in the coming match or not. After answering that final question the version picking is often down to only 1 or maybe 2 version.
My suggestion is that whilst reading about the specific versions you load them up and look at them one by one. I think this will help you come to a better understanding on how they work.(don’t forget the players mentality, closing down and not just the team as everyone for all you know could be on individual instruction
The Happy Hammer project
Inspired by Cleon and his Sheffield United project:thup:, the second post in this thread will be continuous updated with match reports from a new started save. The point off this the post will be to show my reasoning behind the tactical choices and an evaluation of the decisions made and hopefully this will bring more clarity for users about version picking. In all matches the initial 442 set have been used but sometimes Not using a target man
FINAL TABLE OF THE HAPPY HAMMER PROJECT
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Results Patch 9.3
Wining EPL with West ham, Aston Villa, Promotion( 4:th) with Plymouth, all first season.
New; Winning EPL, first season no signings, with Blackburn, using the 4231 Target man set
Top of the table after half a season with Hannover, 4:th with Betis, 2:nd with Twente, 3:rd with Napoli, Top with derby.
Also having a very, very good season with West ham( have played more than the updated matches in the second post, The happy hammer project), a team that with 9.3 database would probably be destined with relegation with a default tactic or a AI manager, that's with the current squad anyway
Mentality… and Closing Down &D-line
Based on my view on the players optimal positioning, working together with d-line and the closing down slider. Example: - In some formations/versions the Fullbacks have a higher mentality then the AMR/L, to connect better, reducing the gaps between the 2 stratas when attacking. The AMR/L might also have a lowered closing down setting that together with a higher than average d-line reduces the gap in defence as well. So be careful when making tweaks as the mentioned sliders work together and very careful when tempering with the closing down settings for the advancing players as they may not track back properly if raising it etc, etc
The marking system.
In some version, depending on formation, some versions have the whole midfield set to tight man marking. This means that our MR/L or AMR/L will mark their MR/L. If the AI is playing without MR/L then change it to zonal instead. The same goes for our MC. They are marking the AI MC´s but if they play with more or less then 2 central midfielders then use zonal marking instead.
Set Pieces ( Hmm.)
I must admit that this is not my strong side. On the other hand one can argue that this might actually be a good thing, bearing the 08 corner cheat in mind. The setup in these version provides me stability and I have tries to refine them, being a bit afraid that a might stumble over a flaw that makes my DC win the Golden Boot
Training
I do not use any specific for these sets
Team Talks and pre-game press conference
I am by no means an expert on the subject. What I do know is that if your a**-man handles the press, just make sure he does not take an defensive och even cautious approach. Even though the players seems to react well, its very difficult to get them fired up or make them believe in them self. Suggestions on how to do the ht team talk, especially when 2 goals up, often when playing away, are most welcome. As its is for now, I do not say anything to the lads
Playmaker (in one set)
Used in of the published sets, If having a very, very good deep lying in your squad he could be used in 1.Control, and 7. Defensive in all sets/formations
Target man ( Yes)
No box ticked but in some version we are still using one, a Semi-Target man. By this meaning that the player should be placed in the target man list in all versions of the set but that we don’t tick the target man box. See player role and set description further down for player requirements and other information.
In 442 Target Man,the FCL and in 4231, the lone FCL should be put in the Target man list in all versions besides Control.
But no matter what set/formation you are using, remember this
- Always use a Target Man(semi) in Overload and…. Never use one in Control
OI
Recommended OI, (necessary on bold) is included for each version below
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The versions
(This description of the 7 versions goes for all the different sets and formations so if you have mastered the version picking of one set, you could do it with the next one as well)
Have a look at each version before applying them.
Explanation
What it is/does versus What it isn’t/ doesn’t - Can give you a pretty good idea of the tactic as it, when having read everything, gives you further information about the differences versions between
The text – I have tried to explain the best I could, getting into as much detail as I can without using to many words but as English is not my or maybe your native language there are bound to be issues
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold) - Just what it says. Just remember that some - and only some - will stick when changing version. So remember to check this and add/remove if necessary
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1. Overload
What it is/does: Attacking, High pressing, Quick and Pushed up
What it isn’t/ doesn’t Patient, Tight marking, Defensively sound and Starting tactic
- Against very, very defensive teams that sit rather deep with their whole midfield, Just be aware that if they lift up their midfield (by closing down slider) and their defenders (by d-line) they will still play very defensive but will now when recovering the ball be under very little pressure as we will be too far up in the pitch, then change to Control.
Recommended OI: (necessary on bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on any Players in Strata 2(WB, DMC) that seems/ or you suspect to be holding on to the ball.
Close down/Always on whole Central midfield
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2. Control
What it is/does: Slow and Patient, Wide, Short and accurate passing and Creative
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Straight at goal, easy to apply against better opposition, For the last 15 minutes, against teams playing attacking
- To Systematically break down defensive teams using a patient but very attacking minded build up. Use this against teams that have many men behind the ball but are not sitting ultra deep. The moment they go very deep without even trying to attack change to Overload and when they start to play more attacking, making runs with the ball, then change to another version of choice as there is no need for the slow breakdown anymore is there.
Recommended OI: : (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on left DC and Tight Mark/Always on right DC
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3. Attack Home
What it is/does: Attacking, A bit risky, Supporting Fb´s, and Straight at goal
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Patient, Ultra-attacking,
- Just what it says, the starting tactic when wanting to attack from start. Normally applied when you decide to go for the 3 points at home by playing the kind of football that means “ straight at goal and not beating about the bush. “. Have the majority of possession is not the key with this tactic as long as we are creating chances and the opponents midfielders doesn’t get too much time with the ball before being closed down. The fullbacks are in some sets/formation on HUB to slow the game down a bit and if you feel they are under 1) too much pressure or 2. ) no pressure at all what so ever then consider 1. ) removing the HUB or change version to Counter or 2.) Remove the HUB or change to either Control if they sit deep or Attack away if you think you can lure them up by playing even slower and on the counter
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward [/B]and other Strata4 (AMR/L) players
Close down/Always on left DC and Tight Mark/Always on right
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4. Attack away/deep (using counter attack)
Formation changes: The MCleft now as Lone MC and the MCright as lone DMC
What it is/does: Attacking, Careful, Lure them up in field, Less Risk
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: - Quick, Puts pressure on the back 4, Chase goals
A much slower attacking version - like a Control based away version – but playing on the counter. Against teams playing cautious with many men behind the ball but that we still consider being a threat that we don’t want to play headless against. By using a high mentality we position our players high up in the field but by playing slow in a patient build up the aim is to try and lure a rather defensive AI on to us and draw their players out of position before we start the attacks. If the opponent should start to attack us more or lift up their team, both with mentality and with d-line then it’s time to change version. Firstly we have to ask if we want to keep using counter attacks and let the AI be in charge. The reason for us doing this prior to the AI changed its tactic was that we wanted them to come on to us, to lure them up as they were sitting too deep for us to attack and expose our selves but now, as they are higher up in the pitch and are starting to create chances swinging in crosses, we either strike back by going “3. Attack Home”, try to gain possession by playing “7. Defensive” or maybe use “5. Balanced” to lift the ball higher up the field on to our attackers and play a more balanced risk/reward
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced or lone forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward
When playing with a set not using MR/L the Tight mark and Close down always on the AI MR/ML
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5. Balanced
What it is/does: tight marking , Slowish build up, Normal Ment
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Press high, Attack with whole team, use much space
Just was it says, a very balanced version with one FC playing on the shoulder of the last defender and one coming deeper to get the ball. Its very clear if this version is dead wrong picked from start and there by also easy to see in what direction one should go. Either we are too deep with our midfield and the weak AI gets all the time in the world, not being closed down and when we attack they have all men behind the ball….or… when the AI attacks us with advancing wingers and Fullbacks making our Wingers sit in the lap of the defence (as they are man marking the AI wingers), In the first scenario, with the defensive AI, I think that enough information has been given about the higher versions to switch to. In the later, with the Bombing Fbs or the advancing there would be the option to simply put out Wingers on Zonal marking instead or Switch to 6.Counter if we feel that there is space enough on the flanks between their stratas to move into.
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Close down/Always on any advanced or lone forward.
Tight Mark/Always on deep dropping forwards or AMC behind lone forward
When playing with a set not using MR/L the Tight mark and Close down always on the AI MR/ML
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6. Counter (using counter attack)
What it is/does: Attacks with pace, down the flanks( in some sets), aggressive in own half, quick
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Holds onto the ball, give the FC´s much support, Ultra defensive
The style are the same as in Balanced but now we play on the break and a little more narrow, a little faster and down the flanks(in some sets) The reason for the combination playing narrower and down flanks? Well as we use this against teams that will play either balanced or attacking against us with advancing M-wingers or even AM-Wingers we don't want to be to wide in defence but at the same time we want to explore the rather big space that our wingers can move into. If we are loosing too much possession whilst not creating anything but you still feel Counter attacks is the right choice then consider playing slower with 4. Attack away or 7. Defensive. If the opponent have far too much time on the ball in midfield then consider abandoning the counter attacks and instead change to 5.Balanced (or even a higher version). The same marking system as in Balanced is applied in this version so if our midfielders sits in the defenders lap and the AI uses advanced Fullbacks, then change to zonal
Recommended OI: (necessary on bold)
Tight marking/ Always on advancing or normal strikers and/or all lone strikers
Close Down/ Always on AI central midfielders UNLESS they are outnumbering us by using 3 MC or 2MC + DMC/AMC.
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7. Defensive. (Using counter attack)
What it is/does: Keeps possession in own half/midfield, very cautious, no fwruns
What it isn’t/ doesn’t: Against 4-2-4, for getting goals in plural, beautiful to watch
Defending by keeping possession. Whilst we are playing with a defensive mentality, we are not sitting deep or using too low closing down. A great tactic to bore the **** out of the opponent as well as finish off already won games with. Just, once again, be aware of that the marking system in midfield is the same as in the just mentioned version
Not a SUS( Shut up Shop) against 4-2-4 as I find that playing Balanced or Attack away is much better.
Recommended OI: (necessary in bold)
Tight marking/ Always on advancing or normal strikers and/or all lone strikers
Close Down/ Always on AI central midfielders UNLESS they are outnumbering us by using 3 MC or 2MC + DMC/AMC.
Tweaks against 4-2-4
Regardless of tactic used remove all forward runs(easiest by giving them a back arrow) on your wide players and at least on central midfielders. Also Tight mark/Always the AI front 4 in OI. Now if playing a superior team then I would use a more defensive version and you will probably already be using that version but if a lesser team are trying to make a late comeback, pushing everyone forward, I would not play a too defensive version against them. Just like said, making your players stay in position will be enough to see the game out and using Attack away or Balanced would be my choice, trying to hold on to the ball in a bit more advanced position. Against these teams I would also advice implementing the OI Close Down/always, hard tackle/Always on the AI Fullbacks and central midfielders, i.e. not giving them any time to advance on their own or time enough on the ball to deliver accurate direct balls to the wide front men
Tweaks of the marking system.
Worth mentioning again...
In some version, depending on formation, some versions have the whole midfield set to tight man marking. This means that our MR/L or AMR/L will mark their MR/L. If the AI is playing without MR/L then change it to zonal instead. The same goes for our MC. They are marking the AI MC´s but if they play with more or less then 2 central midfielders then use zonal marking instead.
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The players in the different Sets. Is this set for me ?:
The Set "Flat 442 using Semi target man"
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the FCL
The DC:
As this is a set you will sometime use a version with a d-line of 18 were pace, positioning and ability to make the correct decision will be important but you will also use version were you sit back and play tight and were anticipation, marking, tackling and aerial ability will be more important. What I am trying to say here is that unless having EPL (or other top leagues) quality just make sure that they are not too slow or lacks completely in either concentration, composure, marking or heading.
The Fullbacks:
In most versions they have HUB (Hold up ball), so it’s important that they can handle this after have been playing for 70 minutes. Make sure they don’t have too many flaws when it comes to Concentration, Composure or Crossing. Even if having 20 in Strength if will not make up for them having bad concentration stats when there is 15 minutes to go and they are beginning to feel tired or are put under a lot of pressure.
The Central Midfielders: We call them MCright and MCleft.
The MCright should be the more creative one and he will act like a deep lying playmaker, even never officially assigned that role. He also plays in DMC in Attack away so it’s good if he is competent it that position as well
The MCleft on the other hand needs to be slightly better in the final third then his companion and in Overload and Control he plays in the AMC position. But as always, if playing in a lower league and not having Brilliant box-to-box players at hand then I would go for Strength and Marking and leave the fancy stuff for the wingers.
The Wingers
I like to combine hard work with flair. I want my wingers to be able to track back and give it all for the team and be successful in doing so. I want them to be able to break the pattern and cut inside and have a go for the far corner instead of making that cross 10 times out of 10.
Do these exist? Yes, at a higher level, especially those WB/AM. In lower Leagues on the other hand they normally don’t so we have to make a choice. Flair or Marking, Passing or Stamina. And when we - like above in MC description – have appointed to hard working MCs since Kevin Nolan and Elano did not want to move a few miles to Bury, the choice is easy: Get wingers that can do the fancy stuff, that possesses the pace, that extra attacking crème to support the attackers. In the end, it’s down to the balance of the team
The Forwards
Let me be clear on this first: They swap position in every tactic…and the FCL should be put in the Target man list in all versions…..so sometimes the target man will go deep to get the ball and sometimes he will play on the shoulder of the last defender… and the Target man supply is different in the versions. Does it sound like we need to have 2 World class “Complete Forwards”? Actually, we don’t. But what is important, apart from the ability to convert chances, is the movement without ball. It does not matter of one is a heading monster with only 11 on pace or of one of them have 4 in both heading and strength. As long as they have some specific competence that combined with higher than average (as always for level played at) smartness and movement without ball you will be fine.
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The Set "Flat 442 NO Target man"
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as in the previous version
The Central Midfielders:
I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
The FCL is your goalscorer, your poacher, and needs not only to be able to put it away when being under pressure. He also needs to be in the right place at the right time.If he is strong and with good arial ability its a advantage and of he is quick its even better. The FCR needs to have great off the ball stats and also be able to use his creativity once in a while. St the top levels, this position will be for your Complete Forward
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The set " 4231 using a semi Target man" - Still writing this...
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the lone FC
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Almost the same as in the previous version but since he, in the absence of any MR/L, will be covering a bigger part of field he needs more stamina and his dribbling and crossing skills can now make a bigger difference
The Central Midfielders:
I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
When it comes to the AMC I rather consider him as a second forward. If possible, use a complete AMC/FC or FC as he will be dictating the game, with his movements just as much as with his touch
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
Best using a player that can play it simple( no flashy ppms) and that are able to read the game( anticipation etc). He will often come deep to collect the ball and pass it on to another player before runing straight at goal. If he has the ppm " Moving into channels" and combine this with great movement and fininshing skills, he can be lethal
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The set " 41221 using a DMC Playmaker"
Playmaker: Yes, the DMC
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as in 4231, "Almost the same as in the previous version but since he, in the absence of any MR/L, will be covering a bigger part of field he needs more stamina and his dribbling and crossing skills can now make a bigger difference"
The Central Midfielders:
Consists of 2 MC and the DMC Playmaker
The 2 MCs are the same as in the 4231 above, I prefer using 2 box-to-box midfielders. The most important part, the stas, would be positioning and off the ball. If they can master them both they will have an advantage over most opponents
The DMC is the heart of the tactic and really needs to be up for it. He acts like a deep lying playmaker and shall be put in the playmakerslist
The Wingers
In this set these players act more like forwards, going straight at goal rather then hugging the line. I would use wingforwards( ex. AMR/FC) with good finishing skills
The Forwards
Best using a player that can play it simple( no flashy ppms) and that are able to read the game( anticipation etc). He will often come deep to collect the ball and pass it on to another player before runing straight at goal. If he has the ppm " Moving into channels" and combine this with great movement and fininshing skills, he can be lethal whilst playing 2-2´s with the wingers
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The set " 442 Diamond"
Playmaker: No
Target man: Yes, the FCL....EDIT:- The Left is the target man, sorry
The DC:
Same as in the previous version but maybe with more pace
The Fullbacks:
Same as before
The DMC - AMC Combo:
This partnership works to its best if they both have strenght. The AMC will track back as he is set to man-mark. He will automatically do this with one of the MC but if the AI use a DMC then you have to use specific man-marking to make sure he is man-marking the MC( of your choice).
The Wingers
Same as in previous version but If having to chose between flair and marking, I always go for flair
The Forwards
THe FCL should be put in the Target man list at all times. We want him to come deep to get the ball and link up with the midfielders and if he is strong in the air its a huge plus( I used Kuyt when playing with Pool). The FCR should have pace and have the ability to score now and then
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The set”442 TOP TEAMS" -
This set is for Top notch teams only. If playing with top 4 in EPL, La Liga, Serie A, this set will most certainly be the best of all the 442s in this thread. If playing as a top teams in Holland, Greece etc, you will have a good results in the league with it but it might be too attacking when playing I CL. Then I would maybe combine it with the set called “4411”
An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
Playmaker: No
Target man[/b]: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
As this is for a top team, they really need to be modern top-notch Fbs without any flaws
The Central Midfielders:
Again, as this is for top tams only, the midfielders need to be complete. In the MCr we use a more attacking one and in the MCleft, strengths are more important. But, as said before, they both need to be almost complete
The Wingers
Pace, Flair, Intelligence, Composure, Stamina etc. To sum it up… World class wingers are, if not needed, then a massive help. In this position the team will not suffer defensively if they are not superstars but if going for the CL trophy, you probably will not get your hands on it if these guys are not up for it, especially when using the more defensive versions like Counter or Defensive
The Forwards
The FCright should be a complete forward and the FCleft should be a quick striker.
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The set” 4411”
This set can be used by most teams but as we play with only one forward, it’s important that he, relatively speaking, is really good. An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as previous, nothing really
The Central Midfielders:
The MCr is a more attacking one and has free roles in some versions so “off the ball” is an important stat for him. The MCleft is more defensive and needs to be strong and have good passing skills.
The Wingers
Just as previous versions. I have used both wingforwards and MCL/R
The AMC
If you are a top team then use a player like Gerard, lampard rather then a Flair full Argentinean with 2 in every stat that relates to any physics. Also have a look at his marking as he is on man marking on one of the AIs MC. I always want him to mark the more defensive ones
The Forward
Needs to be quick and strong. As mentioned above, when playing with only one guy up front, it’s important that he is good. If rotation your squad, use the quick one in the lower versions and the strong one in the higher
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The set” 4231 NO Target Man”
This set can be used by most teams but as we play with only one forward, it’s important that he, relatively speaking, is really good. An extra version, called 8-SUS, and is included in this set. It is to be used against very attacking teams, like 4-2-4 and you have to use OI. Close down/always on Fbs and Mc. Tight mark on Wingers and strikers
The difference between this set and the one with a target man, is that in this set , the players can get away with lesser passing skills
Playmaker: No
Target man: No
The DC:
Same as in the previous version
The Fullbacks:
Same as previous, nothing really
The Central Midfielders:
The MCr is a more attacking one and has free roles in some versions so “off the ball” is an important stat for him. The MCleft is more defensive and needs to be strong and have good passing skills.
The Wingers
Just as previous versions. I have used both wingforwards and MCL/R
The AMC
If you are a top team then use a player like Gerard, lampard rather then a Flair full Argentinean with 2 in every stat that relates to any physics. Also have a look at his marking as he is on man marking on one of the AIs MC. I always want him to mark the more defensive ones
The Forward
Needs to be quick and strong. As mentioned above, when playing with only one guy up front, it’s important that he is good. If rotation your squad, use the quick one in the lower versions and the strong one in the higher.
The better Half
FAQ SECTION
Q - I am playing in the lower leagues and/or woth a team wih average players. I find the instructions for my players, using the 442 NO Target man Set, to be suited for better players, is there any known tweak to suit my team ?
A - I user have done this,
You could also try to give the FCR more of "Target man" instructions .ie. mixed - rarely - mixed - rarely - mixed ( no hub or free role) and the FCL the poachers instructions like in the example above
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