Futera FC

Red Shields suffer first defeat of the season

2011-10-18T22:24:00.000-07:00

Futera FC, the first EVER team in History to be Managed by an Online Community slipped to forth place in Division 2 after a nauseating defeat at the hands of table rivals Green Man FC.

Futera FC started the encounter brightly as their counterparts spent most of the opening stages within their own half. On the five minute mark, a slick move by Waddams found Ramos who blasted over the bar.

The Red Shields continued their assault on the Green Man FC Defense when Haider found himself beaming down on goal, he slotted the ball neatly into the back of the net only to look up and see the Linesman had flagged for offside.

A debated decision left Haider with his head in his hands and the Virtual Managers sending messages of support to pitch side in order to help Haider regain his focus.

Seconds later a long ball pumped forward found the lively Green Man No.9 who slotted home to give his side the lead.

After the break Futera failed to find any form of inspiration and leaked two poorly defended goals within minutes.

The Virtual Managers replaced Ramos and Hazel with Northwood and Delay but the move didn't pay its dividends as Green Man snatched two more goals before rounding off their tally with a 5th in the 80th minute.

A resurgence was spearheaded by Jason Pennman who snatched back a late goal before Jack Magill converted from the spot.

The defeat leaves Futera FC in 4th place five points behind leafers St Johns FC

Futera FC through against battling Leaside...

2011-10-01T01:18:00.000-07:00

Futera FC, the first EVER team in History to be Managed by an Online Community qualified for the second round of the Division 2 Cup after a thrilling 7-5 win over League rivals Leaside.

Jack Magill was handed the Captains Arm Band before the encounter by the Virtual Managers due to the absence of Renan Ramos.

Goals from Daley, Waddams, Penman and Butler handed Futera FC a passage into the next round.

The 7-5 emphatic victory enabled the Red Shields to register their first ever win in a cup competition.

Next up Futera make the trip to Marston Reds for another tough Cup encounter.

Futera FC 2010/2011 Season Review

2011-09-20T00:24:00.000-07:00

The first season of the Futera FC project (2010/2011) was as exciting and interesting as expected. The Red Shields were steered to a comfortable 9th placed finish by the Virtual Managers in Division 2. Numbers on the Virtual Managers LIVE Platform soared throughout the season as people from across the world heard that they could manage their own REAL LIFE football team at the 'click of a button'.

The season started well for Futera who didn’t record their first defeat until they were beaten by three goals at the Regional Ground in late October. However, it took them three months & the Christmas Break to recover. A convincing 5-1 win over Markyate on January 23rd extinguishing the dark cloud that had been hanging over the Futera FC players & Virtual Managers alike.

Probably the strongest performance of the season from the Virtual Managers came during the Futera FC V Brache Green Man game on the 6th March. With Futera trailing 3-2 a wise decision from the Virtual Managers regarding the formation was made. The change saw Jack Magill get the support he needed within the Brache final third setting up a thrilling finale. Futera scored twice within stoppage time via Magill and Ramos and the Virtual Managers rejoiced!

The next fixture saw Futera edge past Magnum but they would only go on to record one more point during the 2010/11 campaign. An inexcusable performance at the hands of ruthless Offley Moat Reserves saw Futera concede 8 goals, 6 of which came before the interval. General Manager Alkesh lalji labeled the performance “Horrendous” and promised better in the Red Shield’s penultimate encounter against Co-Op Sports. Lalji and the Virtual Managers produced a battling performance earning a hard fought draw in response to the crushing defeat that had occurred 7 days previous.

25 points from 22 games will never win you a Division. You don’t have to have the knowledge of Sir Alex Ferguson or Vicente del Bosque to be aware of that. But in our first season the Virtual Managers, Players, Staff & Fans alike can take a certain amount of pride from that modest 8th place finish in the surroundings of a division that contains a lot of strong team.

Striker Jack Magill earned the prestigious title of ‘Futera FC's top Goal Scorer’ racking up an impressive 12 Goals. To boot the former Luton Town man was handed the player of the season award as voted for by the Virtual Managers.

On the subject of awards, Gooners was named Virtual Manager of the Season by his peers and no one could disagree. The VM from Singapore was nothing short of inspirational to the Futera FC playing staff who can’t more speak highly of his well considered tactics and his words of encouragement.

Lets hope next season we can build on what we have learnt and bring in our first silverware or even promotion. Come on the RED SHIELDS!

We are Futera FC.

Crawley Green Reserves 0 v 3 Futera FC

2011-09-19T04:24:00.000-07:00

Futera FC added to their undefeated start to the season with a convincing win over Crawley Green.

Two goals from debutant Ashley Wadhams and another from Pat Daley handed Futera FC their 3^rd win of the season and kept the Red Shields’ 100% record intact.

During a balanced first half both teams scrambled to get ahead in the final third with Futera causing problems across both flanks. Renan Ramos, who had started the game out of position at right back hurtled forward at every given chance in order to aid Futera FC’s attack.

Andrew Godman was asked to leave the field by the referee mid-way through the first period due to a problem with the players’ undergarments, much to the amusement of the watching crowd. Godman was invited back onto the pitch soon after and went onto to tee up a great opportunity for Attacking Midfielder Dave Moore who couldn’t get the ball under control quick enough.

As half time approached the Futera Virtual Managers opted to adopt the traditional system of Man-to-Man marking, which helped curb Crawley’s enthusiasm when in possession.

On the brink of half time Adam Currington laid in Daley who in turn found Wadhams on the left. The Futera No.11 found space but missed a splendid opportunity to give the Virtual Managers a boost before the interval.

During the break, the Futera FC Virtual Managers made one change as Dave Moore was replaced by commanding Midfielder Jason Penman pushing Ashley into his natural forward role.

The move was to pay it’s dividends in the second period, General Manager Alkesh Lalji was ordered to give instructions in an inspiring manor by the VM’s and Futera FC took to the field for the second half.

As the encounter grew Futera started to look more assured when in possession of the ball. So much so that Crawley decided to make a double substitution during the infancy of the second half to try and stop Futera’s attack.

In reply, the Virtual Managers changed to a 4-4-2 formation, which had an instant impact on the game.

Wadhams wrestled with a Crawley defender and used admirable strength to hold off his man. He produced a shot which took a bizarre deflection and found its way up and over the goalkeeper and into the back of the net, helped along by Crawley’s Centre half. Thank you very much said new boy Wadhams as he walked back to the half way line.

After three wins on the bounce and a fantastic start to the campaign, International Football Pundits Syed Adney of Malaysia and Scott Olenrenshaw of Australia had both predicted wins for Futera FC before the game.

Spurred on by his goal, Wadhams bagged his brace with an outstanding header on the edge of the box, placing Futera firmly in the driving seat. Online the VM’s rejoiced and praise was aimed at Andy Neo for his suggestion of the 4-4-2 formation, which had now produced 2 goals and given the Red Shields’ an emphatic lead.

Futera FC then switched to a more defensive outlook (as requested by it’s Virtual Mangers). With just under ten minutes left on the clock Futera were awarded a free kick in a threatening position just wide of the box. The ball was slotted across goal and a composed Pat Delay rounded things off with his fifth goal of the season.

The Virtual Managers voted for Andy Neo as the days top VM and handed the spectacular Pat Delay the award for Man of the Match.

Futera FC is the FIRST EVER Football Team in the World to be Managed LIVE by an Online Community. You can be a part of this Unique project on Facebook www.facebook.com/futerafc + you can follow all the action LIVE on Sunday at www.futerafc.com

Next up for Futera FC is a gruelling encounter against Leaside in the Cup. Can Futera carry on their rich vain of form?

We are Futera FC!

Futera FC 4 St Johns 1

2011-09-16T21:53:00.000-07:00

After the previous weeks epic 4-1 win against newly promoted USL Red Star, Futera FC hosted yet another of last season's successful League 3 Teams, St Johns.

'Successful' seems an understatement, with St Johns having won not only the League but also 2 Cup Competitions in the previous season. General Manager Alkesh had already earmarked them as the Red Shields' main competition and as they lined up on a cold, windy Sunday in England, both players and Virtual Managers (VMs) showed obvious signs of nerves as kick off approached.

As soon as the whistle went though, pre match nerves were out the window and 5 minutes in, Pat Daley, already with one goal under his belt this season, scored an early contender for Goal of the season. Picking the ball up on edge of the area, Daley hit an unstoppable shot past the St Johns keeper. It was a great start to the game for Futera FC.

As Futera FC won more of the possession their confidence grew with Haider especially excelling at Fullback. St Johns lack of grip on the game was beginning to show and an incident involving their number 7, saw him substituted and pacey winger number 12 coming on as a replacement.

Almost instantly Futera FC took advantage of the disarray in their opponents ranks with Pat Daley scoring the second and taking his tally to 3 for the season. However if his first goal was the beauty then this certainly was the beast. A huge clearance from the excellent Sergio Taylor was misjudged by everyone, except the alert Daley who followed the flight of the ball and somehow bundled it past the St Johns keeper.

The Virtual Managers made the decision to carry on attacking and look for a third goal but it stayed at 2-0 until Half Time. The Red shields walked back into the dressing room, comfortable that they could hold onto this lead, and with Pat Daley, voted as man of the half by the VM's, in this kind of form who could blame them.

The second half started in much the same way as the first half, with Futera FC dominating possession, although St Johns substitute number 12 had become a real handfull for left back Matt Lee Dell. Lee Dell was dealing well with the pressure though and 10 minutes in Pat Daley completed his hatrick when a sizzling shot by last seasons player of the year Jack Magill was spilled by the keeper and Pat nipped in to put the ball in the back of the net. His easiest goal of the day ... but they all count!

It was suggested it may be time to bring on a substitute, but with a lack of options on the bench it was difficult to see where the change could be made.

Before any decision on changes could be made St Johns grabbed a goal back, once again through the creative work of number 12. The look on Alkesh's face as he remonstrated with the rest of the back four told a thousand stories, proving that no matter how well we played, the manager would not put up with a lack on concentration.

The goal pushed the VMs to make a decision and a change to 451, with the wingers dropping back to help the midfield and add support for the full backs, paid instant dividends when Jason Penman, making his full league debut slotted home to make it 4-1.

As legs tired at the regional, Shahbaz got injured and the VM's were forced into making substitutions with Willis replacing the excellent Shahbaz and Dave Moore coming on for goalscorer Penman.

With fresh legs on, Futera FC had no problems holding onto their 4-1 lead and the game finished with a second victory in a row for the Red Shields, to carry on their 100% record this season.

Man of the Match: Pat Daley
Virtual Manager of the Match: Gogo La

Futera FC 4 USL Red Star 1

2011-09-10T02:15:00.000-07:00

With an incredible pre-season under Futera FC's belt, which saw 13 goals scored and 2 conceded, and a few great signings by Manager Alkesh Lalji, you couldn't blame Futera FC's players and Virtual Managers for being slightly optimistic about the coming season.

Rumours had been rife on Facebook all week, that we now possibly have a team that could challenge for honours, and on the back of this performance the RED SHIELDS would not have gained many doubters.

Goals by new signings Ryan Northwood and new fans favourite Pat Daley, saw Futera FC go in at half time 2-0 up, although a heroic display from yellow carded Goalkeeper Sergio Taylor helped keep USL RED STARS quick forward line at bay.

With Futera FC trying to capitalize on their strong showing in the first half, the second half started in disastrous fashion with USL catching the defence napping with a clinical through ball, that put their number 9 through on goal and he easily slotted the ball past Taylor to make the score 2-1.

New Captain Renan Ramos could easily have let his teams heads go down, but words of encouragement from him and the Virtual Managers spurred the RED SHIELDS on and with 20 minutes left a fumbled catch from the USL number 1, saw Ramos nip in and head the ball into an empty net, putting the result beyond doubt.

Ryan Northwood, who had played outstandingly in the centre of defence helped round off the day with an inch perfect pass to Stu Henman, who cheekily chipped the ball over the oncoming defender before calmly slotting the ball into the net.

Man of the Match: Ryan Northwood
Virtual Manager of the Match: Oliver McLarry

Renan Ramos: Futera FC Captain

2011-08-01T01:37:00.000-07:00

With 25 votes, Renan Ramos has been voted Futera FC Captain for the 2011/12 season by the Virtual Managers.

Gifted winger Ramos, 28, will replace Andy Hughes as Captain. We were sad to see Hughes leave the Captain position, and Virtual Managers were asked to choose from three players, Ramos, Adam Currington & Jack Magill for who they wanted to hand the 'Arm Band' to next term.

The difference between Ramos and second placed Currington was a clear 12 votes. Discussion between Virtual Managers had been enthralling throughout the week but most admitted that Ramos would be the ideal candidate, over 10 years of playing experience, a vast pool of big game knowledge & the ability to change games were reasons cited.

When informed about his new Futera FC status, Ramos revealed just how 'proud he was'.

Speaking to the Futera FC Media Team this afternoon he said "It's an honour, it really is. To be voted by Virtual Managers, people I've never met, who think I have the minerals to Captain this unique & exciting Football Team. It's tremendous."

For the Team it didn't really matter if it would have been myself, Adam or Jack. It just didn't matter to us because we are a unit. But the other lads will be made up for me I'm sure. It's a big season for us. We need to stick together but we are a lot more confident knowing that we have the Virtual Managers watching our every move. We've got such an advantage over other teams in the League.

Thanks to everyone that voted for me."

The results of the 2011/12 Captain's Vote are as follows…

R. Ramos (25)
A. Currington (13)
J. Magill (6)

We are FUTERA FC!

Futera FC 2010/2011 Season Review

2011-07-30T20:32:00.000-07:00

The first Season (2010/2011) of the Futera FC project was as exciting and interesting as expected. The Red Shields were steered to a comfortable 8th placed finish by the Virtual Managers in Division 2. Numbers on the Virtual Managers LIVE Platform soared throughout the season as people from across the world heard that they could manage their own REAL LIFE Football Team at the 'click of a button'.

The Season started well for Futera who didn’t record their first defeat until they were beaten by three goals at the Regional Ground in late October. However, it took them three months & the Christmas Break to recover. A convincing 5-1 win over Markyate on January 23rd extinguishing the dark cloud that had been hanging over the Futera FC players & Virtual Managers alike.

Probably the strongest performance of the season from the Virtual Managers came during the Futera FC V Brache Green Man game on the 6th March. With Futera trailing 3-2 a wise decision from the Virtual Managers regarding the formation was made. The change saw Jack Magill get the support he needed within the Brache final third setting up a thrilling finale. Futera scored twice within stoppage time via Magill and Ramos and the Virtual Managers rejoiced!

The next fixture saw Futera edge past Magnum but they would only go on to record one more point during the 2010/11 campaign. An inexcusable performance at the hands of ruthless Offley Moat Reserves saw Futera concede 8 goals, 6 of which came before the interval. General Manager Alkesh Lalji labeled the performance “Horrendous” and promised better in the Red Shield’s penultimate encounter against Co-Op Sports. Lalji and the Virtual Managers produced a battling performance earning a hard fought draw in response to the crushing defeat that had occurred 7 days previous.

25 points from 22 games will never win you a Division. You don’t have to have the knowledge of Sir Alex Ferguson or Vicente del Bosque to be aware of that. But in our first season the Virtual Managers, Players, Staff & Fans alike can take a certain amount of pride from that modest 8th place finish in the surroundings of a division that contains a lot of strong teams.

Striker Jack Magill earned the prestigious title of ‘Futera FC's top Goal Scorer’ racking up an impressive 12 Goals. To boot the former Luton Town man was handed the player of the season award as voted for by the Virtual Managers.

On the subject of awards, Gooners was named Virtual Manager of the Season by his peers and no one could disagree. The VM from Singapore was nothing short of inspirational to the Futera FC playing staff who can’t more speak highly of his well considered tactics and his words of encouragement.

Lets hope next season we can build on what we have learnt and bring in our first silverware or even promotion. Come on the RED SHIELDS!

We are Futera FC.

THE FUTERA FC CUP 2011

2011-06-11T03:27:00.000-07:00

Futera FC Fans...

The Futera FC Media Team is proud to present the 2011 Futera Cup that will showcase possible talent ahead of the new Season's pivotal campaign in
Division 2.

Alkesh Lalji and his Team are hoping to hit the ground running in their second Season 2011/12 guided by the phenomenal Virtual Managers and their fantastic decision making. Within the London area there has been huge excitement as players are hearing about the opportunity to apply their skills in the 2nd Season of Futera FC and be managed by Virtual Managers from the across the globe...

The Futera FC Cup will comprise up to 50 players (some already an inherent part of the Futera FC setup) and others out to impress Lalji, his Management Team and YOU, the Virtual Managers.

Today the Futera Media Team will be trailing some brand new software in preparation for the Red Shields up and coming season. Things may go a little wrong. Please bear with us on that one!

We are happy to announce that today you can sign up to the 'Virtual Manager Online' Platform via Facebook to give your opinion on the players competing.

WE ARE FUTERA FC

Futera FC vs Woodstock Wanderers - League Division 2 - 10th October 2010 - Highlights

2010-10-16T19:24:00.000-07:00

FUTERA FC VS WOODSTOCK WANDERERS from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

Futera FC vs Woodstock Wanderers - League Division 2 - 10th October 2010 - VIRTUAL MANAGER LIVE

2010-10-16T19:20:00.001-07:00

WOODSTOCK WANDERERS vs FUTERA FC - LEAGUE DIVISION 2

Futera FC vs Co-Op Sports - Trophy Cup First Round - 3rd October 2010 - Highlights

2010-10-09T18:48:00.001-07:00

Futera Fc Vs Co-Op Sports 3.10.10 from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

FUTERA FC VS CO-OP SPORTS - VIRTUAL MANAGER LIVE REPLAY

2010-10-09T18:46:00.001-07:00

CO-OP SPORTS VS FUTERA FC - TROPHY CUP

FUTERA FC VS CLUB LEWSEY RESERVES - COUNTY CUP ROUND 1 HIGHLIGHTS

2010-10-02T23:01:00.001-07:00

FFC v Club Lewsey from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

FUTERA FC VS CLUB LEWSEY RESERVES - COUNTY CUP ROUND 1

2010-10-02T23:00:00.001-07:00

FUTERA FC vs CLUB LEWSEY RESERVES - County Cup

FUTERA FC VS CSFC

2010-09-24T23:29:00.001-07:00

FUTERA FC vs CSFC

Futera FC vs CSFC - League Division 2 - 19th September 2010 - Highlights

2010-09-24T23:26:00.000-07:00

FUTERA FC Vs CSFC 19/9/10 from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

Manager on Monday - Alkesh Lalji speaks. 19th Sept 2010

2010-09-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

This week Futera FC welcomed CSFC to their home pitch. CSFC are early front runners with victories over well fancied teams. They had scored plenty of goals in their first 2 games, so we knew that we would have to be at our best in today's game.

The game started with CSFC pressurising the home goal with fast paced counter attacking and good defensive pressure off the ball. I thought that we dealt with most of their efforts but seemed to struggle at set pieces. We are quite a tall team but still managed to allow CSFC players into areas where they could cause danger.

The first goal against us was disappointing because the same happened against Celtic Reserves. What impresses me as general manager is that we have good belief in our team. We do not roll over and showed good courage in battling in every situation.

This showed when we defended a corner for the opposition really well and this led to Jack scoring a wonder goal. He finished well but created the chance for himself and showed just how good he can be.

I felt sorry for Jack a little, as he had to battle by himself for large parts of the game.

The team was not helped by individual errors which undone so much good work. I have held my hands up for my part in nearly throwing the game away. As General Manager I have to be honest, especially as I play also. I did not play well today and have apologised for my part in the CSFC goals. Especially the penalties. I do not make excuses and will now give other players a chance who have waited patiently. I will work hard and hope to return to the kind of form that I know I can produce.

For the rest of the game we pushed hard and I am glad that Renan has been able to cap another impressive performance with a great goal. He has made an exceptional start to the season.

Overall, I think the virtual managers should be impressed and content with our start. 5 points from 3 games, unbeaten and the constant threat that we pose should make for a good season. Bring on the cup!

Team Rating

Ben Jarvis - 9

Shabaz Haider - 7

Matt Willis - 6

Andy Hughes (Captain) - 9

Alkesh Lalji - 6

Ren Ramos - 8

Callum Roberts - 7

Andy Godman - 7

Sean Morrel - 7

Jack McGill - 9

Stu Henman - 6

Carl Linton (unused)

Ian Morris (unused)

Rich Leigh (on for Callum Roberts) 7

Ray Leigh (on for Stu Henman) 8

CELTIC S C RESERVES vs FUTERA FC - Highlights League Division 2 - 12/09/10

2010-09-17T20:51:00.001-07:00

CELTIC S C RESERVES VS FUTERA FC 12/09/10 from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

SUPER FUTERA GET KNOCKED ABOUT, BUT CELTIC FAR FROM ATROCIOUS!!!

2010-09-15T10:05:00.001-07:00

CELTIC S C RESERVES 2 FUTERA FC 2

A wonder strike from Renan Ramos saw the honours shared on Sunday morning in Futera FC’s second game of their opening campaign.

Ramos picked the ball up during the second half and steamed towards the box gliding home with a beautiful shot that gave ‘The Red Shield’ the lead only for them to be cancelled out by a slick Celtic move.

Celtic started brightly with a strong physical presence dominating the game in midfield and winning challenges in the air. Futera FC looked shaky and nervous.

The poor start was highlighted when a ball into the box from a Celtic Free Kick was dealt with poorly, and Futera Captain Andy Hughes turned the ball into his own net.

The pace of the game was a problem for the Futera players as they struggled to fall into sync with the high tempo play. The Virtual Managers were urging the team to slow the play down.

Battles in the centre of the park continued as Andy Godman picked up his second booking of the season. However it was Godman who scored the cheekiest of free kicks. Celtic players were still arranging their wall when the Referee blew his whistle for the free kick to be taken. Godman was switched on and he placed the ball into the back of the Celtic net much to the despair of the opposition.

This was the first time the Virtual Managers had constant contact with James McGrattan at pitch side and after a short discussion with the Virtual Managers, all concerned parties decided it would be better to continue as Futera were and not to make any changes to personnel.

After the break Futera took the initiative as Ramos picked the ball up and made a darting run towards the box. The Celtic defenders decided to stand off the Filipino and Ramos punished them for their costly mistake hitting a cute shot which smashed against the post and drifted into the back of the net leaving the Celtic goalkeeper hopelessly stranded. It was a fine goal that would not have looked out of place in the domains of Old Trafford, Stamford Bridge or dare I say Wembley Stadium. Futera FC now had that all-important lead.

The momentum was with Futera but they failed to capitalise as Celtic continued to boss the game physically. 15 minutes before the end Celtic managed to claw back an equaliser hitting ‘The Red Shield’ on the break.

Danny Hazel replaced Andy Godman late on but the substitution had little effect. Ben Jarvis received a blow for his troubles in the dying stages but managed to regain is composure in order to make a decent save from a dangerous corner late on.

Neither team found the extra energy to go on and win the game; Futera FC’s fantastic start last week somewhat jittered after this result but four points from 2 games will please the Virtual Managers.

by Adam Partington

Manager on Monday - Alkesh Lalji speaks. 13th Sept 2010

2010-09-12T17:07:00.000-07:00

The second game of the season brought us to the home of Celtic S C Reserves. They have a reputation for being a physical side whilst playing a direct brand of football. As the teams lined up the opposition confirmed what I thought. They lined up with a big centre forward partnership as well as a few other athletic players in key positions.

We started very slowly and allowed Celtic to build up some pressure. Most of the pressure was in our half and we struggled to maintain possession. This I believe was due to the fact that we did not settle into our brand of football. The Virtual Managers have seen us play with a free flowing style, using all of our players in build ups. However, in the first half we did not do this. This led to an opening goal for Celtic which may have been an own goal from my centre back partner Andy Hughes. After this I think that we settled and started move the ball at our pace. We moved more of our key players in good forward positions and got our deserved goal from a cheeky Andy Godman free kick. From then, I thought we would grow in confidence and this showed in the second half.

We pressed further in their half creating numerous chances to take shots but, frustratingly, did not complete the moves. The Virtual managers called for Rich Leigh to be dropped back into midfield and the extra body in the middle of the park immediately made a difference with a wonder goal from Ramos confirming our dominance. I think that the next 10 minutes were critical and unfortunately we allowed them a very disappointing goal. Disappointing because I thought for most of the game Andy Hughes and myself kept their forwards quiet. However, this shows how a split second lack of concentration can damage a team.

All in all I am happy with our start to the season. 4 points from 2 games and several strong individual performances; Ben Jarvis in goal, midfielders Renan Ramos, Andy Godman and Sean Morrell and the two centre forwards Jack Mgill and Rich Leigh all showed how much creativity and guile we have in our team as well as a desire to battle when needed.

Lets all look forward to CSFC next week!

Team Ratings

1. Ben Jarvis GK - 9
2. Shabaz Haider LB - 7
3. Andy Hughes CB - 7
4. Alkesh Lalji CB - 7 (Booked)
5. Matt Willis RB - 7
6. Ray Leigh RM - 6
7. Sean Morrel CM - 7
8. Andy Godman CM - 8 (Booked) 1 Goal
9. Renan Ramos LM - 7 1 Goal
10. Jack McGill CFR - 9 (Man of the Match)
11. Rich Leigh CFL - 7

12. Danny Hazel sub - 7 on for Andy Godman
13. Calum Roberts sub - 7 on for Sean Morrel
14. Matt Le Dell sub - 8 on for Ray Leigh

Futera FC vs St Josephs Reserves - League Division 2 - 5th September 2010 - Highlights

2010-09-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

FUTERA FC VS ST JOSEPHS HIGHLIGHTS - 5th September 2010 from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

Futera FC vs St Josephs Reserves Post Match Interviews.

2010-09-08T18:01:00.001-07:00

Futera FC 4 – 0 St Josephs Reserves - League Division 2 - 5th September 2010 - VIRTUAL MANAGER REPLAY

2010-09-07T13:56:00.000-07:00

LEAGUE: FUTERA FC VS ST JOSEPHS RESERVES

Futera FC 4 – 0 St Josephs Reserves - League Division 2 - 5th September 2010

2010-09-07T13:34:00.000-07:00

Fantastic Four!

Futera hammer home hopes for the season…

Futera FC opened their account in Division 2 in style on Sunday as they cruised to a 4 – 0 victory over St. Josephs Reserves with goals from James Hughes, Ramos, Henman from the spot & Rich Leigh respectively…

A truly historical occasion was given a fully justified performance by the Red Shield; this was a work like performance straight out of the instruction manual of any successful team. Who would dare to dispute the sheer promise of Futera FC after today’s performance? The Futera Media Team arrived to find the excitement was at fever pitch before kick off in and around the Futera camp. General Manager Alkesh Lalji was urging his players to start the campaign with a flyer and that order was received loud and clear.

Futera were dealt a blow in the early stages of last week with the news that Mitch Pengelli would be absent for five weeks with an injury he picked up against Offley Moat in last weeks preseason friendly; in came Fillipino winger Renan Ramos on the left hand side of Futera’s lively midfield. Many battles will be won & lost in this area of the pitch this season the virtual managers can be sure of that. Andy Hughes was given the Captains Arm Band by the Virtual Managers and he put in a sergeant like at the back.

Futera, sporting their alternative kit due to the orders of league officials started the game brightly with Ray Leigh and Jack McGill linking up well but it was more negative injury news for Futera after a collision between McGill and a St. Joseph player early on left McGill needing treatment. He did not recover and neither did St. Joseph’s after their shaky start. It was James Hughes who fired the ball home leaving the St. Josephs goalkeeper with no hope. Virtual Manager ‘Aldo’ showed his delight and ‘Gooners’ reminded the other managers that attacking was the best form of defence.

The tails of the Futera players were well and truly wagging as they piled on the pressure; Ray Leigh & Ramos combined to cause problems for the rattled St. Josephs defence throughout the early stages. However a rare St. Josephs attack almost gifted them a lifeline when Shabaz Haider headed back across goal almost stumping Ben Jarvis but he was quick to get down and clutch the ball with both hands.

With the Virtual Managers urging the players to keep the ball, they did just that, it was Rich Leigh who then had the ball in the net only to be ruled offside. This only seemed to spur the Red Shield on and they went looking for their second with real purpose and brilliant link up play between the midfield and the front line. Then with 9 minutes to go before the interval it was Ramos who fired home and spun off in celebration. This was the perfect way to round off a near perfect half. Futera FC looked strong and they were now fully placed behind the steering wheel.

Although it was discussed at half time between the Virtual Managers they and the Futera FC management team opted against making any changes. The second period started with the same frantic pace as Futera FC looked to attack on both sides of the pitch. At the back Futera’s defensive line looked strong and dealt with anything thrown at it with general manager Alkesh providing a solid performance. Possession was leaked in the centre of the park with things starting to look extremely scrappy. St. Josephs were looking desperate and their afternoon was made worse with arrival of fans favourite Dave Moore. Futera had added another dimension in attack. As Futera launched a corner into the box Andy Godman was brought down and the referee indicated for a penalty. It was new boy Henman who coolly stepped up and placed the ball nicely into the top right hand corner. Game, Set and Match for Futera Fc.

No one can fault the effort put in by the boys in the Argentina like shirts and no one can in fact fault St. Josephs for their determination from the start right up until the final whistle. However it was Rich Leigh who rounded things off as he found free space to slot the ball home for Futera’s forth goal of the encounter. A fantastic all round performance from both the players and the Virtual Managers saw Futera FC get off to that all important winning start & open the campaign with a bang. General Manager Alkesh Lalji said after the game that he fully believes in this team and so should we all, here’s to a fantastic season ahead…

We are Future FC, are you?

Team Rating

Ben Javis		7
Matt Willis		7
Shabaz Haider		8
Alky Lalji		8
Andy Hughes		8
Andy Godman		8
Sean Morrel		7
Ray Leigh		8
Renan Ramos		9
Jack McGill		6
James Hughes		7

Rich Leigh	(on for McGill)	8
Dave Moore	(on for J Hughes)	7
Stu Henman	(on for Sean Morrel)	8

FUTERA FC VS OFFLEY MOAT 29/08/10 HIGHLIGHTS

2010-09-03T17:40:00.001-07:00

from FuteraTV on Vimeo.

FUTERA FC VS OFFLEY MOAT - VIRTUAL MANAGER LIVE REPLAY

2010-09-01T06:47:00.001-07:00

FUTERA FC VS OFFLEY MOAT

Manager on Monday - Alkesh Lalji speaks.

2010-08-30T12:27:00.000-07:00

Every Monday Alkesh will give his thoughts on the weekend's game.

"Energy was high and there was non stop excitement during this first game for Futera FC, albeit a 'friendly'. There were highs points and lows points during the game. A few mistakes led to a couple of goals for the other Team but the determination of the Futera FC players meant we were able to come back from this even when we were 2 goals down.

This was the first game for several players on trial who all showed high quality footballing skills needed to become a Futera FC player. In particular, trial player Andy Godman played well in centre midfield creating a balance between his tough tackling and calm composure on the ball. Futera player, Mitch Pengelly showed how destructive he can be whilst running at teams with the ball causing problems for the opposing team. However, several players, including myself did not reach their full footballing potential. This will definitely improve as I have every confidence in my own ability as well as the others who did not quite perform. A special acknowledgement should go out to one of our Virtual Managers 'Gooners'!! who made an astute observation during the game, which led to a tactical change that really helped Futera FC. Well done and I hope you enjoy your reward. Futera FC are very excited for the Season to start next week and we'll look forward to seeing you again then."

Alkesh's Player Ratings

1. Ben Jarvis GK - 8
2. Shabaz Haider RB - 7
3. Andy Hughes CB - 8
4. Alkesh Lalji CB - 6.5
5. Matt Willis LB - 6.5
6. Ray Leigh RM - 6
7. Callum Robert (Trialist) CM - 7
8. Andy Godman (Trialist) CM - 8
9. Mitch Pengalli LM - 9
10. Jack McGill (Trialist) CFR - 7.5
11. James Hughes CFL - 7
12. Rich Leigh (Trialist) sub - 7
13. Dave Moore sub - 8
14. Colin Cunningham (Trialist) sub - 7.5
15. Renan Ramos sub - 7

Futera FC vs Offley Moat FC Post Match Interviews.

2010-08-30T12:06:00.001-07:00

Futera FC 2 Offley Moat 3 - August 29th 2010

2010-08-30T11:58:00.000-07:00

Futera FC started out on their unique journey into the unknown yesterday with a pre-season 'friendly' defeat against a determined Offley Moat side that are early favourites to win Division 2 this Season. Futera FC’s Virtual Managers decided that Andy Hughes should be given the armband for today’s Fixture and Captain the side. Hughes performed well with a strong performance partnering General Manager Alkesh Lalji at the back. Speedy Filipino winger Renan Ramous gave Lalji a boost just before kick off after passing a late fitness test that saw him take his place on the bench for the first half.

Offley started the brightest as their number 9 turned and produced an early shot that caused Futera FC’s goalkeeper Ben Jarvis to make an early save. There was more cause for concern as a mix up at the back allowed Offley’s number 10 to squeeze a shot just passed the post as Jarvis was left stranded. The early nerves that the Futera boys showed were understandable as they knew Virtual Managers were watching from across the globe!

The Futera FC Virtual Managers were then pondering the question as to whether to apply more attacking tactics. They did, and it almost proved to be costly as the Offley Moat number 7 sprang onto a loose ball and found himself one on one with Jarvis. His composure was lost as the number 7 slotted the ball just wide of the right hand post and Futera FC were happy to hear the half time whistle…

The Virtual Managers decided to freshen things up after the break. It was a good chance for the Managers to scout any players that may make an impact during the Season ahead. Jack McGill, James Hughes and Shabaz Haider made way for Rich Leigh, Ramos and David Moore respectively. The changes proved to make little difference as Offley took advantage when a long ball from the back fell to the feet of Offley’s winger who glided the ball over in front of their number 10. He turned in the box and was given enough space to operate as he poked the ball home and wheeled off in celebration.

Futera FC had hardly had a chance to kick off before Offley, now growing in confidence, went into a two-goal lead. A mix up in the box and a scrambled finish from the Offley Number 10 saw Futera 2 – 0 down.

Virtual Manager 'GOONERS!!' Requested one more player to push up and join the attack and Alkesh agreed, bringing on Colin Cunningham in an Attacking Midfield role for Callum Roberts. The exciting Mitch Pengelli was given a licence to bomb forward and he took full advantage of this causing the Offley Moat Defenders all sorts of problems. Futera FC sprang to life as Dave Moore shot home the first ever goal in this exciting project & Futera FC were very much back in the game!

Pengelli showed exactly why he won the ‘Man of the Match’ award and he again caused problems for Offley. A corner from Willis found Pengelli free on the edge of the box. A fantastic snap shot needed an even more spectacular save from the Offley 'Keeper. Futera could sense the chance of an equaliser and it was all to play for going into the final 1/3rd of the game. Then on the 73^rd minute mark, substitute Ray Leigh placed a ball up and over the Offley Moat Goalkeeper and into the top corner bringing Futera FC level! Pure ecstasy erupted on the Futera Forums as the Virtual Managers celebrated. The party had started and Futera FC were level, the game looked like it could only go one way. The Virtual Managers opted not to rest on the Draw and to go for victory. The players did just that as they continued the pressure on the Offley Moat goal. Pengelli delivered two great balls in towards the Futera Strikers but to no avail.

It was Offley’s troublesome Number 9 and a cruel deflection that gatecrashed Futera FC’s opening ceremony late on. The ball bounced around in the box before a shot from Offley Moat’s Centre Forward took a deflection against a Futera player and cannoned past a desperate Ben Jarvis. The Offley Moat players rejoiced and the Forums fell silent. There was little time for another Futera FC revival and the game ended in defeat. But the spirit was there for everyone to see. After the game, Alkesh told the awaiting Futera Media Team that there were a lot of positives to take from the game and that the Virtual Managers should take heart from a spirited come back. We have a lot to look forward to this Season and together the only way is up. Futera FC 2 -3 Offley Moat was the final score, but Futera FC was victorious in spirit. As the famous Futera saying goes. We are Futera FC … are you?

We are Futera FC - are you?

2010-08-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Futera FC

We are really excited to welcome you to the Futera FC family and to offer you a place in history at the birth of our Football Club 'Futera FC'. As VIRTUAL MANAGERS your decisions will determine if Futera FC stands or falls, wins trophies or faces relegation, becomes Heroes or Zeroes... You will be managing for real. There will be joy and sometimes tears, and our first season may be trial and error, or it may be our finest hour... but we are in this together - WE ARE FUTERA FC.

Our Team is more than capable of achieving victory this season. We have the pace of speedy Winger 'Renan Ramos' (Philippines), the ability of our cool and collected Right Back ‘Matt Willis’ (England), and the impressive experience of General Manager ‘Alkesh Lalji’ (India). We also have the most important part of the equation - we have you - the VIRTUAL MANAGERS - making those all-important decisions. When things go wrong it will be up to YOU to put them right - and when things are going well it will be up to YOU to make them even better! You will choose if we attack or defend, take short corners or float the ball into the box, or if we should play 3 up-front or flood the midfield. YOU ARE FUTERA FC - so YOU decide.

As FUTERA FC VIRTUAL MANAGERS you are given a status like no other. Unlike football fans that have to sit and endure a 3-0 defeat in the stands or at home watching the game on TV without any hope of changing the Manager’s mind, YOU have the opportunity to make a difference! You have the chance to discuss tactics with Alkesh throughout the week, to choose new players to join the Futera FC Squad, and to bring on your favourite player at half time... simply voice your opinions and ideas.

Your first job is to decide which AWAY KIT you want Futera FC to wear this season…. See the home page for more details! http://www.futerafc.com/

How to become a Futera FC Virtual Manager - Subscribe now at http://www.futerafc.com/