FM: There may Come a Time When Norwich Goes Down

[Desnudo]

Originally Posted by FrogMan

If you're reading my dynasty, I've also found some nice regens (at least to my eyes) and this has got me all excited to play, even more, if it's even possible

Glad to hear it's working

FM

I have been reading your dynasty and it's nice to see you're seeing the effects as well. This is an atypical guy, but check him out, before he had great physical and horrible technical stats except for dribbling. He may be joining Norwich soon:





Or not be:

[SirFozzie]

(laughs at the interested tab) Why didn't they just say: Interested: EVERYONE

[Desnudo]

Originally Posted by SirFozzie

(laughs at the interested tab) Why didn't they just say: Interested: EVERYONE

Lol, yes, they could have. Except, interestingly, any major English club.

[SirFozzie]

Probably because of WP rules.

Doubt you'll get him a WP either

[Desnudo]

11/26/06
[OT - Getting up to speed. Matches that were played before the crash, but not updated here]

Sat - 11/04/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 13
Norwich (H) 0 v. Liverpool (A) 0
TV

- Goals -

-MOM-
Chris Kirkland, GK (LIV)


Wed - 11/8/06
League Cup 4th Round
Norwich (H) 1 v. Newcastle (A) 0
TV

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Estoyanoff (47)

-MOM-
M. Hilton, GK (New)


Sat - 11/11/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 14
Manchester United (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -
MU: (16)

-MOM-
Tim Howard, GK (MU)


Wed - 11/22/06
Champions League Round 5
AS Roma (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 0

- Goals -

-MOM-
Mancini, MR (Roma)

[Desnudo]

Norwich City have made offers to 16 year old Brazilian phenom Flavio and Hertha BSC winger Gilberto (not the same as Arsenal's Gilberto).

Breaking news:

Flavio has agreed to a contract with Norwich City. Compensation to MVV is rumored to be in the $2 million range. Work permit decision on 12/13/06

Gilberto has agree to a contract with Norwich City. Compensation to Hertha Berlin rumored to be in the $7 million range.

(OT) This compensation for older players still confuses me. Gilberto was playing on an unprotected contract (not a Bosman), but is 30 years old. I thought compensation was only required if the player was under 25.

I got this message for the first time in one of my games. I wonder if it is a new feature. If so, it's pretty darn cool:




EPL Standings after 15 matches:

[SirFozzie]

Ok.. you ran into the 2nd type of player you can sign: Unprotected Contracts.

Bosman=end of contract time.. Over 23 or 25=no compensation

Long-term contracts:To prevent a team from signing a player to a long term deal and then watching the player make it huge and then refusing to renegotiate, the rule is that two or three years after the contract begins (depending on when the contract was signed), the player becomes "unprotected" meaning that anyone can sign them for a tribunal decided (usually large) fee.

To prevent your players from leaving on this kind of deal, sign them to shorter contracts and if you do go long term, resign them after 2-3 years

[Desnudo]

Right, but the guy I'm signing is 30 and I still have to pay $7 million in compensation.

[SirFozzie]

there's no age thing on the 2nd part Desnudo.

Ah.. here it is.

Contracts signed before a player turns 28=Player can breach his contract and sign elsewhere for a fee after 3 years

Contract signed AFTER a player turns 28=Player can breach his contrac and sign elsewhere for a fee after two years

[Desnudo]

Originally Posted by SirFozzie

there's no age thing on the 2nd part Desnudo.

Ah.. here it is.

Contracts signed before a player turns 28=Player can breach his contract and sign elsewhere for a fee after 3 years

Contract signed AFTER a player turns 28=Player can breach his contrac and sign elsewhere for a fee after two years

Aah, I see. Thanks for the info.

[Desnudo]

(OT) Tactics switch - Norwich will now be running a 4-1-2-1-2 that I had success with in another game with Hertha BSC. One benefit of crashing is that you try a lot of new things and also learn more about player quality.



Credit to Welsh Web Wizard from the SI boards for the basic formation. I've modified most of the instructions, but the structure is his.

Sat - 11/11/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 15
Norwich City (H) 3 v. Sunderland (A) 0

- Goals -
NC: Ariel Ortega (10), Claudio Lopez (38), Lebohang Mokoena (54)

-MOM-
Lebohang Mokoena, FC (NC)

22 shots, 14 on target, for Norwich City as they rolled over newly promoted side Sunderland. Old and new combined as Lopez and Mokoena both tallied to put the game away for Norwich who now sit 5th in the table.

[Desnudo]

Wed - 11//06
League Cup Qtr Finals
Norwich City (H) 2 v. Chelsea (A) 3

-Referee-
Rob Styles

-Red Card-
NC: Erik Fuglestad (54)

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (17,34)
C: Adrian Mutu (14,28,76)

-MOM-
Mutu, FC (C)

5 yellows and 1 red for Norwich to 1 for Chelsea was the most important tally. Mokoena also had a goal disallowed on a very questionable offsides call. Norwich supporters protested outside of FA headquarters yesterday over Rob Styles continual mishandling of any match involving the Canaries. Styles single handedly ruined what had been a fantastic back and forth match.

[Desnudo]

-News-

Dennis Bergkamp has taken over the reins at Man City.

Norwich City have made an offer for 24 year old left winger Santana of Brazil side Fortaleza.

Norwich City have made an offer for 17 year old sweeper Carlos Henrique of Brazil side Corinthians.

Norwich City have made an offer for 17 year old right back Almir of Spanish side Sporting.

Norwich have been drawn away against Leyton Orient in the FA Cup 3rd round. Match to be played 1/6/07.


Sat - 12/2/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 16
Birmingham (H) 2 v. Norwich City (A) 4

- Goals -
B: Muzzy Izzet (12), Alan Lee (36)
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (43,56,76), Benedict Vilakazi (90)

-MOM-
Lebohang Mokoena, FC (NC)

Birmingham looked the brighter side for 40 minutes as they quickly gained control of the match on a 20-yard strike from Izzet in the 12th minute. Mokoena gained one back for Norwich just before halftime and a second half brace from the young South African carried the Canaries to a strong away win. Vilakazi scored in extra time to seal the victory.

[Desnudo]

Tue - 12/5/06
Champions Cup Group C Round 6
Norwich (H) 1 v. Panathainakos (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Adu (42)
P: Daniel (45), Konstantinou (62)

-MOM-
Daniel de Rossi, ML (P)

-Red Card-
Benedict Vilakazi (second yellow 38)

The game looked like an even affair until Vilakazi was sent off for his second yellow late in the second half. Norwich still managed to take the lead on a nice 1 on 1 effort from Freddy Adu, but they could not hold out for a draw as the Greek side managed to head home the difference in the 62nd. The match meant nothing for Norwich City, having already qualified for the knockout stage.

[Desnudo]

Sat - 12/09/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 17
Norwich (H) 2 v. Fulham (A) 1
TV

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (31), Diego Crosa (76)
F: Zisis Vryzas (64)

-MOM-
Ariel Ortega, AMC (NC)

In a tight affair, both sides created plenty of chances to score, but a Crosa header off a corner made the difference.


News

Norwich City has been drawn against Barcelona in the first knockout phase of the Champions League. First match at Carrow Road, 2/21/07.


Sat - 12/16/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 18
Arsenal (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 2
TV

- Goals -
NC: Erik Fuglestad (10), Mokoena (35),
A: Patrick Viera (40), Nicola Legrotagglie (own goal 46)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

Norwich will be disapointed to only come away with a draw as Legrotagglie deflected in a corner to provide the draw for Arsenal. Fuglestad had gotten the Canaries off to a bright start on a powerful long range effort that curled past the keeper.

Next up: EPL Match home vs. Charlton, Wed - 12/20/06

[Desnudo]

-Transfer News-

Gilberto's $7.7 million move from Hertha to Norwich is on after he was granted a work permit on appeal. Transfer to take place 1/1/07.


Wed - 12/20/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 19
Norwich (H) 3 v. Charlton (A) 1

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (26,47), Mokoena (9)
CA: Kevin Lisbie (64)

-MOM-
Christoffer Andersson, MR (NC)

Norwich scored two early goals and added a third just after the halftime break. Charlton managed to claw one back as Lisbie broke in alone on net, but that was all the could manage.

Ariel Ortega set a team record with his 13th assist (all competitions) of the season.

Next up: EPL Match home vs. Middlesbrough, Sat - 12/23/06


-Transfer News-

The work permit for Dutch side MVV's Flavio has been approved on appeal. The $2.2 million move will take place on 1/12/07.

Valencia have signed Bayern's 23 year old fullback Philipp Lahm for $29.5 million.


Sat - 12/23/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 20
Norwich (H, 4th) 4 v. Middlesbrough (A, 3rd) 0

- Goals -
NC: Freddy Adu (6,9), Benedict Vilakazi (16), Mokoena (57)

-MOM-
Christoffer Andersson, ML (NC)

Freddy Adu scored two early goals and Vilakazi added a third just a few minutes later to put Norwich in the drivers seat. Another goal off the head of Mokoena sealed the victory in an important match that pushed Norwich into 3rd.

Next up: EPL Match away vs. West Brom, Tues - 12/26/06

[Desnudo]

12/26/06
-Wenger Sacked-

Special note for EaglesFan27:

Arsene Wenger was sacked by Arsenal today. Marseille manager Carlos Bianchi is the favorite to take over. Other prominent managers mentioned in connection with the job include Norwich manager Adios Pantalones and Vincenzo Pincolini.

[Desnudo]

Tue - 12/26/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 21
West Brom (H, 15th) 1 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 1

- Goals -
WBA: Kanu (52)
NC: Freddy Guarin (68)

-MOM-
Freddy Guarin, MR (NC)

If Norwich is to remain in contention for the title they must gain 3 points from matches against the bottom half of the table. The Canaries spent a lot of time in the WBA end of the field, but it all added up to a 1-1 draw as they failed to create enough good chances.

Next up: EPL Match home vs. Bolton, Sat - 12/30/06

12/28/06
-Team News-

AMC Ariel Ortega will miss 4 weeks after straining his back in training

DL Thomas Holm will miss 3 weeks after straining his groin in training

Real Sporting's 18 year old Brazilian right fullback, Almir, has been granted a work permit and will join Norwich on 1/1/07 in a $6 million move.

Corinthians' 17 year old Brazilian sweeper, Carlos Henrique, has been granted a work permit and will join Norwich on 1/1/07 $400 K move.

Fortaleza's 24 year old Brazilian left midfielder, Santana, has been granted a work permit and will join Norwich on 1/1/07 $110 K move.

Manchester United is rumored to be considering a $15 million offer for Norwich's DC Nicola Legrottaglie. A hands off warning was issued by Adios Pantalones.

[Desnudo]

Decisions, decisions,

Fiorentina's Fabrizio Miccoli's contract expires in 6 months. I can sign him for no compenstation and he's willing to come to Norwich. Unfortunately with the new signings coming in, there's a bit of a log jam at all positions. What to do, what to do...

He may be to good to pass up:

[Desnudo]

Sat - 12/30/06
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 22
Norwich (H, 3rd) 2 v. Bolton (A, 16th) 2

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (57), Christoffer Andersson (90)
B: Butler (51), Kenton (90)

-MOM-
Darren Kenton, DC (B)

A depleted Norwich side took the field against relegation battling Bolton on Saturday. The Canaries were without Ortega, Fuglestad and Holm due to injury, while Vilakazi and Mokoena were on African Nations duty with South Africa. Despite the lack of depth, Norwich held on early and looked ready for a miracle win after Andersson slotted home a shot in the 91st minute. Unfortunately Bolton turned right around and put home the equalizer in the 92nd.

Next up: EPL Match away vs. Sheff United, Mon - 1/1/07

1/1/07
-News-
Reinforcements arrive in the nick of time

Five players have joined Norwich City at the start of the Winter transfer window. Jermaine Jenas, Gilberto, Santana, Almir, and Carlos Henrique are all excited to don Norwich green and yellow for the first time.

Commenting on the acquisitions, Coach Pantalones noted, "We felt the squad needed strengthening in several key areas, mainly left midfield and right fullback. The addition of Almir finally gives us a true right fullback so we can move Tieme Klompe back to his natural position of centre-back. I believe these acquisitions coupled with the arrival of Flavio will provide us with the depth and talent required to both win the league and to lift the Champions Cup.

[Desnudo]

Mon - 1/1/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 23
Sheff United (H, 18th) 0 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 2

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (14), Freddy Adu (40)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

The return of Mokoena to the lineup provided a spark and Gilberto set up a goal in his first match with the Canaries as they strolled to a 2-0 victor over relegation favorites Sheffield United. The impact of Norwich's new signings was evident all over the pitch as a new level of creativity and flow was seen.

Next up: FA Cup 3rd Round Match away vs. Leyton Orient, Sat - 1/6/07

Norwich's $26.5 million spent on transfer fees this season is a new team record.

Mokoena's 16 goals in all competitions is a new team record.

[Desnudo]

-Transfer News-

Fabrizio Miccoli has agreed to terms with Norwich City and will leave Fiorentina upon the expiration of his contract - 7/1/07. Rumored salary is $4 million/annum in addition to a $3 million signing bonus.

Asked about the acquisition, Norwich's boss replied that "The signing of Fabrizio signals our ambitions to remain at the top of English and Continental football for a long time. I believe that he will flourish under our brand of attacking football and will continue to produce for Italy at the national level."

Miccoli could not be reached for comment, but his agent issued a press release stating that he was excited to be joining an up and coming team that harbored the same ambition as his own for Europe.

[Desnudo]

Sat - 1/6/07
FA Cup 3rd Round
Leyton Orient (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 2

- Goals -
NC: Benedict Vilakazi (14), Freddy Adu (31)

-MOM-
Benedict Vilakazi, AMC (NC)

An indifferent performance was enough to see off a Leyton Orient side that lacked the talent to seriously threaten an upset. Norwich seemed content to fire long shots from outside the 18-yard box most of the match. A few early moments of creativity were enough to secure the win.

Next up: EPL match, home vs. Southampton, Sat - 1/13/07

[Desnudo]

-News-

Norwich left back Adam Drury has completed a $3 million move to Tottenham.

Norwich has been drawn away against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup 4th Round.

Manchester United have signed AM/F L/C Diomansy Kamara from Portsmouth for a reported $18 million.

AM/F R/C Flavio has joined Norwich City from MVV.

[Desnudo]

Sat - 1/13/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 24
Norwich (H) 0 v. Southampton (A) 0
TV

- Goals -

-MOM-
Antti Niemi, GK (S)

33 shots/12 on goal for Norwich were not enough to gain even a single goal for the Canaries as they were constantly frustrated by keeper Niemi. Southampton managed one measly shot on net, but in the end, both teams walked away with a point.

Next up: FA Cup 4th Round match away vs. Nott Forest, Sat - 1/20/07


Sat - 1/20/07
FA Cup 4th Round
Nottingham Forest (H) 0 v. Norwich (A) 4

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (7,45), Lebohang Mokoena (29), Santana (58)

-MOM-
Santana, MR (NC)

A dominant performance from Norwich saw off upset hopefuls Nottingham Forest before 29,496 at The City Ground. Claudio Lopez' brace provided more than enough cushion for the cup hopefuls.

Next up: EPL match, away vs. Newcastle, Sat - 1/27/07

[Desnudo]

-News-

Arsenal signed 27 year old Finnish international DM R/C Teemu Tainio from Auxerre for $19.5 million

Tony Colbert was hired as Arsenal manager on 12/29/06.

Jose Mourinho will double as the Chelsea and Portugal manager after agreeing to coach his nation's side.

Norwich sold MR Xia Fan to German side Cottbus for $5 million

Juventus have paid Man U. $30 million for DMC Kleberson

Norwich is drawn home against Portsmouth in the FA Cup 5th Round

[daedalus]

Originally Posted by Desnudo

Arsenal signed 27 year old Finnish international DM R/C Teemu Tainio from Auxerre for $19.5 million

We will now be known as TEAM TEEMU!!!

[daedalus]

And what's with all these Brazillians with no flair? That's a bug, I tells you! A bug!

I'm SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO going to the SI board with this!

[Desnudo]

-News-

Liverpool has signed 26 year old Colombian AM RC Mauricio Alejandro Molina from Mexican side Morelia for $12.5 million.

Sat - 1/27/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 25
Newcastle United (H, 19th) 2 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 0

- Goals -
NU: Olivier Dacourt (25), Michael Chopra (83)

-MOM-
Chris Shanks, DC (NU)

An uninspired performance from Norwich left them on the losing end to 19th placed Newcastle. Their lack of ability to put shots on target cost them as they created chances on goal.


The winter transfer window has closed


Sat - 2/3/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 25
Chelsea (H, 2nd) 3 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 1

- Goals -
C: Tomas Rosicky (15), Didier Drogba (50), Arjen Robben (87)
N: Yasin Karaca (57)

-MOM-
Petr Cech, GK (C)

Tomas Rosicky blasted home a shot from outside the box and quality of finishing made the difference as Chelsea put their chances home and Norwich once again failed to capitalize on several golden opportunities. Christoffer Andersson missed a golden chance to level the score at two when he hit the side of the net while facing an open goal mouth.

Next: EPL match, home vs. Tottenham - Sat, 2/10/07

[Desnudo]

Sat - 2/10/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 27
Norwich (H, 3rd) 3 v. Tottenham (A, 13th) 0

- Goals -
NC: Benedict Vilakazi (29), Gilberto (72), Flavio (77)

-MOM-
Gilberto, ML (NC)

A return to form for Norwich, and just in time with upcoming matches in the FA Cup and Champions League.


Sat - 2/17/07
FA Cup 5th Round
Norwich (H) 1 v. Portsmouth (A) 1

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (80)
P: Hayden Foxe (60)

-MOM-
Santana, ML (NC)

Perhaps Adios Pantalones underestimated the determination of a plucky Pompey side, currently sitting 6th in the league, but filled with players no one outside of Portsmouth has ever heard of. Starting a lineup of mostly subs, the Canaries were dominated in possession most of the match and were lucky to hold out until the 60th minute before conceding a goal. A hasty substition bringing Claudio Lopez on for Freddy Adu provided a spark and Norwich managed to level the score. The match ended tied and a replay will be played one week from today at Fratton Park.

Next up: CL knockout match 1st leg, home vs. Barcelona - Wed, 2/21/07

FA Cup 5th Round replay, away vs. Portsmouth - Sat, 2/24/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 2/21/07
UEFA Champions League 1st Knockout Round Leg 1
Norwich (H) 4 v. Barcelona (A) 1

-Goals-
NC: Santana (19), Claudio Lopez (21, Pen 42, 85)
B: Albert Luque (76)

-Red Card-
Victor Valdes, GK (B, 41)

-MOM-
Claudio Lopez, FC (NC)

Norwich walked out of Carrow Road full of confidence after a 4-1 pasting of Barcelona. A red card for tripping Claudio Lopez as he broke in alone sent keeper Victor Valdes to an early shower. Lopez converted the subsequent penalty, adding to Barca's misery. Santana and Lopez had already torched their central defense for two goals in quick succession midway through the first half. 10-man Barca fought back with a goal in the 76th, but in the 85th Lopez broke in alone on net to reassert the 3 goal difference and make his hattrick.


Wed - 2/28/07
FA Cup 5th Round Replay
Portsmouth (H) 0 v. Norwich (H) 2

-Red Card-
NC: Nicola Legrottaglie (73)

- Goals -
NC: Claudio Lopez (47,53)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

No underestimating this time, as Norwich came out full strength versus Portsmouth. Claudio Lopez continued his hot streak, making it 5 goals in two matches. Nicola Legrottaglie was sent off for a "last man back" foul inches outside of the Norwich box. He will miss the upcoming EPL match against Crystal Palace.

Norwich move on to play away against Manchester United in the FA Cup 6th Round.

Next up: EPL match, away vs. Crystal Palace - Sat, 3/3/07

CL 1st knockout match 2nd leg, away vs. Barcelona - Wed, 3/7/07

FA Cup 6th Round, away vs. Manchester United - Sat, 3/10/07

[Desnudo]

Sat- 3/3/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 28
Crystal Palace (H, 16th) 0 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 3

-Goals-
NC: Claudio Lopez (8, Pen 14), Flavio (80)

-Red Card-
CP: Salomon Kalou, MR (58)

-MOM-
Claudio Lopez, FC (NC)

Claudio Lopez extended his scoring streak to 4 matches. He has scored 8 goals during that period. Opening the scoring in the 8th minute, Lopez capped an excellent team move on a Mokoena pass from the right. Flavio continued to impress, scoring on a jailbreak off a Crystal Palace free kick in the Canaries end. He skinned one defender before bulging the back of the net to finish the scoring. Palace's Kalou was sent off in the 58th minute for a second bookable offense.


Wed - 3/7/07
UEFA Champions League 1st Knockout Round Leg 2
Barcelona (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 3

-Goals-
NC: Ariel Ortega (19), Flavio (78), Fabian Estoyanoff (85)
B: Juan Riquelme (Pen 40), Sebastian Diesler (57)

-MOM-
Ariel Ortega, AMC (NC)

Norwich continued their mastery of Barcelona with an excellent comeback on two goals in the final 15 minutes of regulation. Leading 4-1 on aggregate coming in, Norwich opened the scoring on an excellent 1-2 move from Adu to Ortega in the 19th. On cruise control, things suddenly became interesting after a Diesler goal from a corner brought Barelona to within 2 aggregate goals. The end of the match was all Norwich though. In the 78th, Ortega fed Flavio, who, as is becoming his custom, skinned a defender before bulging the back of the net. Flavio acted as playmaker for the winner, feeding Estoyanoff who beat the keeper 1-on-1 to gain victory for Norwich who advance to face Chelsea in the quarterfinals.


Sat - 3/10/07
FA Cup 6th Round
Man U (H) 0 v. Norwich (H) 2

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (22), Claudio Lopez (38)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

What looked like a great match on paper was not to be. Manchester United was missing too many players to put up much of a fight as Tim Howard, Ryan Giggs, C. Ronaldo, Alan Smith, Louis Saha and Mikael Silvestre were all out. Norwich took control early and never looked threatened after two first half goals. Sir Alex' bunch will have to content themselves with the league crown this season. Lopez has now scored in 5 straight appearances, totalling 9 goals, having sat out last Wednesday's CL match with Barcelona.

Next up: EPL match, away vs. Portsmouth - Sat, 3/17/07

EPL match, home vs. Aston Villa - Wed, 3/28/07

EPL match, home vs. Blackburn (TV) - Sun, 4/1/07

[Desnudo]

-News-
Champions League Quarterfinal Draw Selected



Norwich City will be more than a little disapointed that their tremendous showing gained them nothing more than a chance to deal with powerhouse Chelsea. "Outside of Milan, I can't think of another team in the draw I would like to see less," said Coach Pantalones. "On the plus side, if we manage to get past them, I believe we have a very good chance at winning the whole thing."

[Desnudo]

March 19, 2007
-Injury News-

Claudio Lopez broke his arm in training today and will be out for a month. The injury likely dashes hopes of the European Golden Boot Award. Flavio is expected to start at striker in Lopez' place.

Manchester United's Cristiano Ronaldo will miss five months after breaking a leg in training.

-FA Cup Semifinal News-

Norwich will play Charlton
Aston Villa will play Tottenham

Both matches to be played at Wembley

[Desnudo]

Sat - 3/17/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 29
Portsmouth (H, 6th) 2 v. Norwich (A, 3rd) 2

- Goals -
P: Thomas Broich (9), Lomana LuaLua (21)
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (80, 83)

-MOM-
Andrea Guatelli, GK (P)

A tale of two halves as Portsmouth struck first with two goals inside of 25 minutes. Norwich once again found plenty of chances and nothing to show for it against a Pompey side they've had plenty trouble with this season. In the second half things looked bleak until Mokoena decided to take matters into his own hands, heading in a cross and then slotting home a short pass near the six yard box. After the match, Adios Pantalones saluted Pompey manager George Burley for the excellent job he has done with a medium talent squad.


Wed - 3/28/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 30
Norwich (H, 3rd) 3 v. Aston Villa (A, 8th) 0

- Goals -
NC: Gilberto (6), Flavio (10), Ariel Ortega (pen 21)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

A return home for Norwich saw them see off Aston Villa with three early goals. Gilberto scored on his third try after his first two shots were deflected straight back to him. Flavio intercepted a sloppy goal kick from Sorensen and rounded him to make it 2-0. An Ortega penalty put the cherry on top.


Premier League standings after 30 matches:

[Desnudo]

Sat - 4/1/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 31
Norwich (H, 3rd) 3 v. Blackburn (A, 14th) 0

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (2, 11), Flavio (18, 20)
B: Paul Gallagher (30, 64)

-MOM-
Gilberto, ML (NC)

Norwich fans were experiencing euphoria after 20 minutes when Flavio capped an amazing span with a 4th Norwich goal. Unfortunately the fans had to sit through more than 70 minutes of indifferent football after that, but the first 20 might be the best football Norwich has played all season. The first three goals were scored on headers from set plays and crosses. The last one was a bit of individual brilliance from Flavio who shot past the last defender and fired home the 4th and final tally.

Next up: CL 2nd Stage Knockout 1st leg, away against Chelsea - Wed 4/5/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 4/5/07
UEFA Champions League 2nd Knockout Round Leg 1
Chelsea (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 0

-Goals-
C: Mateja Kezman (4, 50), Ronaldinho (60)

-MOM-
C: Kezman, FC

Bitter tears may be all Norwich have to drink at the end of the season after a 3-0 demolishing at the hands of Chelsea. Despite having a squad many consider near the same talent level as Chelsea, they were unable to create anything substantial that might have resulted in a goal. Kezman laughed at the Norwich backline's feeble attempt at an offside trap to the tune of two goals, both on breakaways. Sebastien Saja played his worst match ever in a Norwich uniform, garnering a 4.

[OT] For some reason Aston Villa has owned Chelsea this season gaining an amazing 5 wins and 2 draws. They are the only team to have beaten them in any competition since 10/22/06! That's over 5 months of unstoppable football! Using computer tactics never works, but I'm definitely going to give Villa's tight diamond 4-4-2 a try at least.


Wed - 4/7/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 31
Liverpool (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 0

-Goals-
C: Kewell (1, 56), Gudjohnsen (11)

-MOM-
L: Kewell, FC

Bitter tears may be all Norwich have to drink at the end of the season after a 3-0 demolishing at the hands of Liverpool. Some might have scratched their heads at this match, wondering if they weren't watching a replay of Norwich's Chelsea debacle. Despite having a squad many consider well above the talent level of Liverpool, they were unable to create anything substantial that might have resulted in a goal. Kewell laughed at the Norwich backline's feeble attempt at an offside trap to the tune of two goals, one on a shot from orbit and another on a breakaway. Gudjohnsen added another shot from somewhere in orbit around Saturn.

"It is clear to me that we have serious trouble facing the type of formation that Benitez and Mourinho favor," said Pantalones. "I am confident that talent is not the factor here. We must find a way to exploit the gap between their defenses and midfields better."


Next up: CL 2nd Knockout Round Leg 2, home against Chelsea - Wed, 4/11/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 4/11/07
UEFA Champions League 2nd Knockout Round Leg 2
Norwich (H) 0 v. Chelsea (A) 2

-Red Card_
NC: Santana (2nd Y, 65)

-Goals-
C: Sebastien Saja (own goal 1), Mateja Kezman (15)

-MOM-
C: Kezman, FC

Bitter tears will be all Norwich have to drink at the end of the season after a 2-0 demolishing at the hands of Chelsea. Some might have scratched their heads at this match, wondering if they weren't watching a replay of Norwich's Liverpool debacle. Despite having a squad many consider near the same talent level as Chelsea, they were unable to capatlize on anything substantial that might have resulted in a goal. Kezman laughed at the Norwich backline's feeble attempt at staying back behind him to the tune of a goal. Sebastien Saja played his worst match ever in a Norwich uniform, garnering a 4 and creating an own goal in the first minute of the game.

After the match, Adios Pantalones was suprisingly sedate, mumbling into his coat pocket, "What? It's talking to me? Sweet, sweet Bourbon, brownest of the brown liquors..." before being hauled away by Norwich PR staff.


Next up: FA Cup Semifinal, neutral against Charlton (TV) - Sun, 4/15/07

[Desnudo]

Sun - 4/15/07
FA Cup Semifinal Round
Charlton (N) 1 v. Norwich (N) 2

- Goals -
NC: Fabian Estoyanoff (21), Fabian Andres Vargas (32)
CA: Paul Konchesky (45)

-MOM-
Sebastien Saja, GK (NC)

Sebastien Saja responded to his manager's public challenge with a statement game and two early goals provided the winning margin as Norwich kept alive hopes of taking home silverware with a 2-1 win over Charlton in front of more than 78,000 at Wembley. Norwich will face Aston Villa, 2-2 PK winners over Tottenham, at Wembley on 5/26.

Next up: EPL matches, away vs. Sunderland - Wed, 4/18/07 and home vs. Birmingham and Manchester United - Sat, 4/21/07 and Wed, 4/25/07

[Desnudo]

Wed - 4/18/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 32
Sunderland (H) 1 v. Norwich (A) 5

-Goals-
S: Jay Boothroyd (56)
NC: Jay Boothroyd (own goal 2), Lebohang Mokoena (16, 22, 49), Freddy Adu (25)

-MOM-
NC: Mokoena, FC

Norwich took out a measure of frustration on the relegation destined Sunderland, Wednesday. Lebohang Mokoena scored a hattrick to lead the Canaries to victory.


Sat - 4/21/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 33
Norwich (H) 2 v. Birmingham (A) 0

-Goals-
NC: Ariel Ortega (21), Freddy Adu (85)

-MOM-
NC: Gilberto, MR

Norwich added another win, turning possession into bookend goals. Ariel Ortega put home a 20 yard free kick and Freddy Adu knocked a rebound to ice the match.


Wed - 4/25/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 35
Norwich (H) 3 v. Manchester United (A) 3

-Goals-
NC: Jermaine Jenas (10, 17), Ariel Ortega (68)
MU: Jerome Rothen (8), Diomansy Kamara (19), Ryan Giggs (60)

-MOM-
NC: Ortega, AMC

A fast and furious start saw four goals, two by each side, within the first twenty minutes. Jerome Rothen opened the scoring off a deflected free kick, but Jermaine Jenas quickly replied twice for Norwich. The match settled into a more predictable affair after Kamara knotted the score at two. Goals by Giggs and Ortega midway through the second half provided the final scoreline.

Next up: EPL matches, away against Fulham - Sat, 4/28/07, home against Arsenal - Sat, 5/6/07 and away against Charlton - Sat, 5/12/07; closing out the season

[Havok]

dammit... i hate good dynasties like this!!! makes me wanna go spend more money i don't have on a game!!

[Desnudo]

Sat - 4/28/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 36
Fulham (H) 3 v. Norwich (A) 2

-Goals-
F: Scott Brown (4, 45), Steed Malbranque (17)
NC: Ariel Ortega (26), Freddy Adu (84)

-MOM-
F: Steed Malbranque, AML

Fulham spent a third of the match in the Norwich end. With a vastly greater amount of chances, they will likely be aggrieved that the scoreline only reflects a close match. Things looked grim for Norwich early on as Brown and Malbranque led Fulham to a 2-0 lead. Against the run of play, Ortega managed to bring Norwich within a goal. A response from Brown just before halftime made the second half academic as there was no fight in the Canaries. A late goal from Freddy Adu gave a glimmer of hope to the Norwich faithful, but Fulham shut the door to close out the match.

With the loss, Norwich can still clinch fourth with a victory over Arsenal, whom they lead by 3 points with two matches to play.

"At this point, I'm really not sure what team is going to show up on matchday," said Pantalones. "The one that makes bad decisions and turns the ball over in its own zone, or the one that shows creativity and aggressiveness moving up the pitch."


Sat - 5/6/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 37
Norwich (H) 0 v. Arsenal (A) 0

-Goals-

-MOM-
A: Simon Jentzsch, GK

Arsenal looked tired and played tired in a match that could have decided who goes to the champions league. The exhausted pair of Thierry Henry and Antonio Cassano started at forward for Arsenal, showing how badly they wanted the match. Despite starting their best eleven, the Gunners only managed a single shot on target. Norwich dominated the game for large stretches and will be frustrated at their inability to come away with three points.


Sat - 5/12/07
The Barclaycard English Premier League Round 38
Chalrton (H) 2 v. Norwich (A) 0

-Goals-
CA: Jason Euell (38), Paul Konchesky (90)

-MOM-
CA: Konchesky, ML

Norwich backed into the Champions League courtesy of an Arsenal tie that left them alone in fourth place, one point clear.

"I am glad the slate of league games is over," stated Adios Pantalones. "I must be honest and say that our performances over the second half of the season were inconsistent at best, and we count ourselves lucky to in fourth at the end of it all."

Norwich City received $18 million for their final position of fourth.

Next up: FA Cup Final v. Aston Villa at Wembley - Sat, 5/26/07

[Desnudo]

-News-
Final Standings, Rankings and Awards

[Desnudo]

5/13/07-5/26/07
-News-

Porto have won the Portuguese Superleague

Inter have won Serie A

Arsenal beat Real Madrid 1-1 on penalties to lift the EURO Cup

Deportivo have won La Liga

Bayern Munich have won the Bundesliga

Monaco have won Ligue Un

Galatasaray have won the Turkish Premier

Milan beat Bayern Munich, 1-0, to win the Champions Cup

Norwich City received $20 million in Champions League TV revenue

[Desnudo]

-News-
Norwich hoist FA Cup for First Time in Team History

Champagne will fill the gutters of Norwich tonight as jubilant crowds celebrate their heroes' undebatable victory over the Villains. A fans spokesperson stated that Pantalones is undoubtedly one of the best coaches around. "I already knew that, but thank you," replied the coach, somewhat graciously.

Norwich City pummeled Aston Villa 4-0 in the FA Cup final before the 89,976 crammed into Wembley Stadium. After a crushing exit from the quarterfinals of the Champions League and a sluggish end to the league campaign, no one would have predicted that the Canaries could dig deep and find the ability that had them as high as second near the halfway point of the season.

Norwich was all over Villa from the opening whistle and put three on the board so quickly that the Villains could only hang their heads in despair. A goal in the 65th minute by Claudio Lopez ended any argument there might have been over the final score.


Sat - 5/26/07
FA Cup Final
Aston Villa (N) 0 v. Norwich (N) 4

- Goals -
NC: Lebohang Mokoena (10, 29), Nicola Legrottaglie (21), Claudio Lopez (65)

-MOM-
NC: Mokoena, FC

Norwich received $3.6 million for its victory

[Desnudo]

5/26/07-6/30/07
-News-

Amauri of Chievo Verona has won Europe's Golden Boot with 24 goals in league matches. Ruud van Nistelrooy of Manchester United and Adriano Marzeglia of Lecce tied for second with 21.

6/10/07

Rumors are flying that Adios Pantalones has been offered the job of manager for England's national team. A press conference is scheduled where the announcement is expected to be made.

6/13/07

The English FA announced the appointment of Adios Pantalones as national manager today. The team is expected to qualify for the European Football Championship. The team currently sits in 1st place of Group 9 after 5 matches with 3 left to play.

[Desnudo]

6/20/07
-News-

Claudio Lopez was voted Fan's Player of the Year by Norwich supporters

Norwich's youth academy has produced an astounding amount of youth players this summer. Somewhere in the range of 60-70 players have joined the U18 squad, including 16 goalkeepers and around 20 strikers.

[OT] I'm guessing the amount might be a bug. It'll take a while to sort through them, to say the least.

Norwich has received $24.5 million for Premiership TV rights

Norwich will play Man U in the Community Shield on Sun, 8/5/07

Carrow Road will be expanded by 2191 seats, giving a total capacity near 30,000. Completion is expected within a few months.

Shareholders have been given $29.5 million in a dividend payout

A new 3 year sponsorship deal @$3.6 million/year was announced

The transfer budget for this coming season will be $28 million

The board expects the Canaries to achieve a respectable league position this coming season. The supporters expect the club to challenge for the title (oh boy).

Norwich currently has $80 million in the bank

[Desnudo]

Originally Posted by Havok

dammit... i hate good dynasties like this!!! makes me wanna go spend more money i don't have on a game!!

Thanks Havok, nice to see that you've been reading. When you can swing it, I definitely recommend picking it up. The best sports sim, hands down. Be aware it's also a massive time sink. In case you haven't figured that out by reading these dynasties.

[Desnudo]

7/14/07
-News-

Norwich have come to a contract agreement with Roma central defender Cristian Chivu. Terms of the contract have not been disclosed pending work permit approval for the 26 year old Romanian. The transfer fee is estimated at $28 million. Chivu, widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, is not expected to have difficulties in getting approval to come to England.

Arsenal have signed Czech international DC Tomas Hubschman from Sampdoria for $10.5 million

On July 1, Italian international striker Fabrizio Miccoli joined Norwich on a free from Fiorentina. Still recovering from a fractured skull received in a routine training excercise last November, Miccoli is not expected to be fully fit until the end of July.

GK Robert Green, DMC Alexei Smertin, AMC Ariel Ortega, DC Diego Crosa and ML Erik Fuglestad were released by Norwich after the expiration of their contracts.

7/22/07

Liverpool signed Serbia and Montenegro international AM RLC Dejan Stankovic from Real Madrid for $18 million

The Norwich v. Valencia friendly on 7/29 was chosen for live TV coverage

Norwich signed Hungarian international GK Gabor Kiraly to a backup contract.

7/27/07

Cristian Chivu's initial work permit request was denied (wtf?). Norwich has appealed.

Norwich has been drawn against Parma, who finished 3rd in Serie A, in the final round of Champions League qualifying. Just about the worst draw one could ask for, Parma is stacked.

[Desnudo]

7/31/07
-International Roundup-

Sebastien Saja was selected to the Copa America dream team after leading Argentina to the finals where they lost to Brazil 3-1. DMC Fabrian Andres Vargas also made appearances in every match for Colombia before they were KO'd in the semifinals by Brazil.

-News-

Dutch Chelsea reserve GK Marc Nijhuis has joined Norwich on a season long loan.

Norwich right back Almir will miss two weeks with a knee injury.

League Title Odds

Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea have been co-favorites at 7-4. The rest of the main contenders are Norwich at 33-1 and Newcastle at 40-1.

Adios Pantalones, as is his custom, was blunt and to the point, "The fact that Newcastle, who finished 9 points clear of relegation and have not made substantial improvements to the squad, are included at all in the picture, tells me that it is all for show."

He added, "They base their selections purely on squad reputation, paying next to no attention to the quality of the players. Ridiculous. We will once again be underdogs in nearly every match this season and we will once again have our supporters flush with cash. I have placed a $100,000 bet on us to win it all."


8/1/07
-News-
The Norwich board has allocated an additional $6.4 million in transfer funds. Combined with the $1.8 million sale of youth player Matthew Moss to Leeds, that will leave the Canaries with roughly $8 million, assuming the Chivu appeal goes through.