The Cobbler Confederate

MUFC on Skid Row

2009-02-01T22:00:00.002+08:00

It seems that Marikina United has been performing worse than The Cobbler Confederate have hoped in this new year. Mar Queno confesses that this recent turn of events has left him more than a little baffled and a bit more worried. With 22 league matches left in the season, it is hoped that the team can find a way to regain their former glory.

Whether or not they can manage to lift the cup this season depends on how well the Sublime Supremo can reformulate strategies to steer the club into winning form. This much is obvious and it is quite clearly shown in the manager's overflowing ashtray. His large kamagong desk is strewn with various performance reports and diagrams of various tactics, with the odd doodle or two on the side. A note on one of them clearly says 'bring whip to next match'...

'I can't lie. I'm telling you I don't really understand it. The players are happy, their morale is high, we've been training harder than we ever have, we're just not getting the ball into the net. At this rate, we'll have a bunch of bummed out guys sulking in a dark bar before lunch for a team by the end of the week. We have to get our act together before the board gets any funny ideas. They've already pressed me to fire some good players, I don't want to have to lay off any more.'

The Grey Goose on the table is half empty at the moment, or is it half full? For The Cobbler Confederate, I'm sure a change of perspective is in order, with or without the alcohol.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

FK Socijala

2009-01-12T15:36:00.001+08:00

2 logos for FK Socijala, just the way you wanted them dude. =) sorry i didn't have the font you wanted, though.

post

So Far So Good

2009-01-09T01:04:00.002+08:00

As far as starts go, MUFC has one of the better ones this season.

yeah.

New New New

2009-01-09T00:38:00.003+08:00

New Season! New Kit! New Sponsor!

Mar Queno toys with changing a winning formula.

'Welcome to the new season.' This sober greeting from the Sublime Supremo followed The Dawn's performance at what has since been dubbed MarikinaStock, the 3 day celebration at Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium. 'Forget what we've done so far, it doesn't matter anymore. That's why we had this party, to cap the magic that was the last season. To ensure that we do well in TM Season 14, we have to act like none of this ever happened! We have to be hungrier! We have to be fiercer! We have to be champions!' thunderous applause and approving remarks filled the early morning. In the end that is a beginning, here stands Marikina, United.

After unveiling the new team kit which features the newest sponsor for MUFC, Firollo Tires (Obel remains a dedicated sponsor), the Sublime Supremo, Philippine football's answer to Joey Ramone, handed the microphone to team captain Mata as the squad each thanked fans and supporters profusely. While the players were rightfully giving thanks, MQ confided that the short pep talk was the Board of Trustees' idea. 'I don't want to get to the top division only to get kicked back down. When we get there, and we will, mark my words, I'm the one who's going to be doing the kicking down.' While I tried to get the picture of Edward Norton screaming 'put your mouth on the curb' out of my head, he continued 'The way I see it, it'll be another 2-3 seasons before we're going to be anywhere near ready for that particular challenge.'

Ready or not, I hope that day comes.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Marikina United Finishes First!

2009-01-09T00:00:00.004+08:00

Fireworks over the hallowed Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium marked the end of the last match of Trophy Manager Season 13. Dazzling colored lights in blazing patterns danced across the evening sky as the grounds crew rushed to transform the football pitch into a gigantic party venue. The Shoemakers had delivered, after all, and for the first time in Marikina history, they were champions.

Season long dominance, dotted by injuries and crossed by bans, rewarded with a heavy silver trophy. Mar Queno, enigmatic manager of the club, is content, for now. He meets the players on the sidelines and shakes each of their hands, a special ground and pound for team captain Mata as well as for veteran playmaker Galarza. Everyone's smiling, even Lopez, the young striker, with tears rolling of his cheeks. Fans surround them in seconds, while the Sublime Supremo is literally swept off his feet by the squad, thrown in the air thrice, and dunked into the Rhinorade cooler. No wonder he was wearing a Bumro track suit.

With the stage ready, KJWAN did soundchecks to kick off the festivities even as a MarketMan worthy buffet was laid out at different stations. To make a long story short (since I hardly remember much of it), it was food, drink, and rock and roll! Sex and drugs? I'm not sure if they were invited but they may have gate crashed at one point or another. ;)

When the sun rose, Karl Roy was still in the middle of his set, and Rico Blanco was passed out cold. I caught MQ on the tails of his buzz, sipping a bloody mary and munching on some deviled eggs. Breakfast of champions aside, the man was still unbelievably soaked! Apparently, the party had also continued in the pool. He knew I wouldn't let him get back to partying without at least a comment to print so he said 'Let's talk about tomorrow tomorrow. I'm proud of what we've accomplished this season and we'll do our best to excel after promotion. However, it would also be undoubtedly risky for the club to rush into 1.1 in our current state.'

With that, he lit his MonteCristo.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

TH

2008-12-19T22:56:00.002+08:00

for joao over at th...

this shows draft picks with the same rank priorities:

this is when i assigned new priorities to 2 draft picks:

and this is the result:

hope this helps you out a little. thanks!

Training Excel Sheet

2008-12-17T16:02:00.007+08:00

Now that there's a new training module out, I thought it would be a good idea to share an excel file with you guys to help you keep track of your squad. = )

after a training update, there will be 3 sets of data to consider. set A is the data on the excel sheet field/gk entry, marked previous training. set B is above set A, marked new training. set C is the training update on Trophy Manager (TM).

first you have to copy set A to another location (any other location, for archiving. or you could delete it if you want).

copy:

paste (and/or label):

once that's done, you can proceed to copy set B and paste it to where set A was (yes, set B replaces set A)

copy:

paste:

next, you have to copy set c from TM.

copy:

paste special:

text:

sometimes, when you select more cells than you need to paste to, an error message like this appears. just ignore it and click on OK.

okay, here it is. i hope it helps. =)

trophy manager squad training management excel spreadsheet (virus free!)

New Training Module Released!

2008-12-16T16:49:00.004+08:00

It's here! The not-so-long awaited improved training module for Trophy Manager (for Pro and otherwise) has been released!

In the Trophy Manager universe, player development through training is essential for the success of your club. Whether you develop players to trade or to use in your own team is beside the point. Training is winning, plain and simple (if only real life were so simple, eh?).

Basically, instead of having 5 training groups, you now have 6 (although a managers participation in training goalkeepers has been reduced to just getting a good gk training coach). For the 5 remaining training groups (you could use less, if you were so inclined), you select a coach and up to 6 training regimes (at least 1, again, the decision is up to you), and you plop your players into the box (which is a huge leap from the individual drop down dialog box of the previous iteration). Easy isn't it? Well, initially that's how it seems.

The graphics are great, intuitively designed and full of color coded convenience for visual appeal and increased functionality. Coach and player stats are cleverly displayed on mouseover popups (gold and silver stars both displaying well for stats at 19 and 20 respectively). Toggle type button icons denoting the various training regimens are well portrayed and reflect a controlled, almost minimalist, feel. Various color and animation changes also help the user to know where to drag/drop the boxes representing the coaches/players, adding to the ease of use and shaving away some degrees from a learning curve that would have been MUCH steeper.

Peeling away the superficial, the meat of the update to the training module is basically a shift of perspective. Previously, the ideal coach would be good at 2 or maybe 3 stats, providing excellent training (an arguable point to some, in light of the volunteer coach issue) at a relatively cheap salary rate. This has shifted, however, and a necessity for coaches with 3-4 (possibly more) exceptional stats has become evident. More well rounded coaches are needed, with higher salaries, sign on fees (2x weekly salary), and search fees.

Just as the perspective has changed, coaches stats have changed dramatically, too.

The new skills win (winger), tec (technique), and hea (heading) replaced the old skill mid (midfield). With these new stats to consider (and include in your search for coaches, i presume), it's clear that another change in perspective intended (as posted by Nielsen himself on the forums) is a greater degree of control for the managers regarding the development of their players.

What do these coach skills do? Each skill represents a training regimen and how well the coach can administer it, on a scale of 20 (as most stats in Trophy Manager are). The exception (life would be a lot less interesting without exceptions, don't you think?) is the skill mot (motivation), which is usually the most important too (if you consider the old training requirements, whether this still holds true has yet to be elucidated) because it represents the degree to which your coach inspires and pushes the players training under him to excel. Freddie Roach, I think, would have a 20 for mot.

The real debate, though (of which there are many swirling about in the forums as you read this), is what the impact of this new system will be on the actual skills of the players. Various computations and feats of mathematics (large and miniscule) have been postulated but, as of this writing, no exact/official formula (so to speak) has been given, especially regarding the random factor/coefficient. A new manual is forthcoming, at any rate, so an answer (which may or may not be what people are looking for or expecting) is definitely possibly in there. = )

All things considered, I think this is exactly what TM needed, a big development to close the 13th season and the year. The timing may have been a little off but, I think the devs were just trying to stick to their word to get it out inside 2 weeks (and to have 6-7 training updates to evaluate the system before the start of next season). It seems a certain synergism is happening between Trophy Manager and Trophy Hockey and perhaps this will lead both communities to further heights. While cynics wonder how long it will be before they turn this into a Pro-only (paying member) feature, guys like me know that good things never really last and it's best not to ask.

Countdown Initiated

2008-12-08T12:30:00.003+08:00

Only ten games are left to determine the final league standings for TM Season 13. In Divison 3 Group 2, Marikina United FC struggle to maintain their hold on the top spot. Challenges from the top contenders Iligan Templars and Greenland Ville FC repeatedly forced the Sublime Supremo to push his squad over and above any limits they had, or thought they had. This overdrive of sorts has resulted in both injuries and burnouts, ace forward Fidel Lopez being one and star right back Emilio Lavandera another. The two have been sidelined for a majority of the remaining matches but will hopefully spell the difference in the final stretch. We have been granted an exclusive interview with Mar Queno just before the National Cup match tonight.

Surprisingly, I was brought to The Spa, along E.Rodriguez Jr Ave. (aka Libis or C5 extension) where the ShoeMakers were apparently getting one or five knots rubbed out. MQ was having some coffee by the pool, fully dressed and grittily un-spa like in a somber gray Marc Jacobs. 'Board meeting', he half explained, half joked. Irony, it seems, is just another old friend for him.

'I couldn't let Pido and Ems have all the fun, the others worked just as hard. That and I felt kinda bad for getting in their face about the last week's performance. I know that 2 draws and 2 losses would get any manager worked up but, they did their best and this is my conciliatory gesture. Besides, last night's match alone more than made up for any shortcomings, as I'm sure you agree!' He was right. If the squad had only won one game the entire season, last night's game, the Cobbler Confederate would still be proud. Come to think of it, the team hadn't played like that since the end of last season! 'If we keep that pace, like the whole world hung in the balance, win or lose, I'd be satisfied. Of course, I wouldn't mind lifting the cup at season's end, seeing that it's becoming more of a likelihood.' Flashing a grin that reminds you of the noonday sun dancing on the edge of a wakizashi, he sipped his espresso.

5-nil. At home. Against the second seeded team in the league. The Sublime Supremo had reason to be proud. After the less than stellar showing of the past odd week, naysayers were doubtful whether the ShoeMakers could pull out of skid row long enough to stay in contention for the cup. Last night's result was redemption, retribution, and restitution rolled into a ni bin tsutsumi furoshiki of blue silk, with Johnny Blue inside. 'I still get excited about it, you know?' MQ quietly said, 'Especially that last goal from Delgado, that was the tabasco in the bloody mary (but Mama Sita's Pure Labuyo Sauce is tons hotter)! The match was put to bed much earlier but the cheeky old fart just had to get one off in stoppage! However, the real star was Cobo, in my eyes. Keeping a clean sheet for the nth time and against such a strong side, I have to give the guy a raise or something. Believe me, catching one of Lira's strikes is a feat of marvel in itself!' Biting into an ube muffin, his humility got the better of him and he kept whatever praise he had left to say about his players to himself.

When I asked him about the large number of new youths he recruited, mostly foreigners, he seemed almost embarrassed. 'I thought I'd hold tryouts. Trying my hand out at scouting and developing a better understanding of youth talent. Come on, you hafta cut me some slack, it's not really my thing. Don't worry, I'll get the hang of it. Those boys aren't really so bad. They may not be a perfect fit for the team I envision Marikina United FC becoming but they'll definitely learn a thing or two with our training system and become productive members of successful sides elsewhere. At the very least, they'll learn how to make adobo.' Ah! That's certainly not a bad skill to learn! Not bad at all!

The interview had to be cut short because of the board meeting MQ was requested to attend but, a continuation will be forthcoming. At The Spa, it seems like chances are good that we're going to get a happy ending.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Team Philippines Holds Out

2008-12-08T11:47:00.004+08:00

With the latest draw against Syria, the Azkals of the Team Philippines hold on to second place in the group. National Coach Taka has expressed some disappointment with the recent result but he still enjoys both the confidence and support of the country's managers. As the remaining matches play out, we hope to see the National Team earn a spot in the next stage of the road to the World Cup, whether as outright group leaders, should Oman falter, or as one of the top second places finishers (after a playoff with similarly placed nations from different groups).

We hope and we toil, that is the best we can do.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Counting Beans

2008-11-29T16:06:00.004+08:00

you know how it's difficult to keep track of your money on Trophy Manager? well, i'm no financial manager or accountant but i think this excel file i've devised (triple checked virus free - Norton, McAfee, AVG) will make it much easier to see how much you make, what you spend on and what your facilities are like. i'll be working on more analytical aspects to help answer profitability questions. until then, see if you like this. intelligent suggestions/comments are always welcome. =)

TM$.xls - trophy manager financial excel spreadsheet (virus free!)

if only i could make this much money in real life... hahaha!

last entry (for this series of logos, at least)

2008-11-27T03:14:00.004+08:00

pimped and blinged! =)

i couldn't let the richest man in springfield step out in such a drab suit. now that he's more dapper, i decided to give him the italian serie a trophy as well. thanks to TM's master teamster, Thomas for the contest! it gave me an excuse to play around with graphics again. dude, if you prefer a different combination of the elements in this series, just post a comment here and i'll upload it asap.

A Minor Setback

2008-11-27T00:50:00.003+08:00

The Cobbler Confederate were utterly stunned tonight at Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium as The ShoeMakers suffered their first defeat in a league match for the season. It was at least a full minute before the flabbergasted fans regained their composure and showed the class of a city peerless in this country. They cheered enthusiastically for the local boys, Marikina United FC, as well as for their worthy opponents, Quikball FC, as the two squads shook hands, exchanged jerseys, and went back to the locker rooms. In a tremendous show of faith, club cheers and songs were performed as if a pitched battle for the World Cup was underway! Raised fists and proud, unbowed heads accompanied the final club hymn, thanksgiving for a fair battle and a guarantee to continue the fight. An outsider commented that it was a pity that the loss had to happen at a home match. A local replied that it was bound to happen, and they wouldn't have wanted it any other way. As the crowds start to leave, the sound system plays the Red Hot Chili Peppers' breakout hit, 'Under The Bridge'...

Which is exactly where I found Mar Queno, in a manner of speaking. The Sublime Supremo was in the conference room, replaying the game over and over and over again. An unlit MonteCristo was the only thing preventing the gnashing of his teeth. Aside from his right thumb which operated the remote, the man sat on the leather wingback virtually motionless, right leg crossed over his left knee, with nary a wrinkle on his three piece zegna. Even his scotch was untouched, the glass still firmly gripped in his left hand, perhaps his version of those little stressballs you're supposed to squeeze when you're agitated.

Being so engrossed, he wasn't aware of my presence, or so I thought. 'Help yourself to some Suntory 18, there's ice in the bucket if you want some.' he said, still unmoving. As I prepared my whiskey and water, the clinking of the ice on the glass and the sloshing of the liquid seemed almost sacrilegous, unwelcome annoyances during a ritual. I've never been witness to the Sublime Supremo's post game analysis then again, I'd never enjoyed such an expensive drink. Fitting then, on this night of firsts.

I was startled when MQ put the remote down and turned to face me. He managed a weary smile, a puzzling mix of understanding and relief. 'You've seen the 'how', I suppose you're wondering about the 'why'... possession wasn't the deciding factor and neither were scoring opportunities. I don't want to say that it was all luck, that would be disrespectful to Quikball FC. Raposo just had the best game of his career tonight, it was unfortunate that he was playing for the other team.' With the last phrase, he slowly sipped the Japanese elixir, clearly savoring the complex play of flavors that were developed since before some of his younger players were conceived. 'We thought we had prepared enough, knowing all there is to know about their squad and how they play. I still think we did everything we could have. It was clearly a hard fought match and, though I'm sure the lads are disappointed, no fingers need be pointed. There is no shame in a loss like this, only lessons to be learned, built upon, and used as fuel to drive us to greater heights!' Pouring another double, he continued, 'It was unrealistic to believe we would finish the season undefeated, despite what everyone else believed. At least, now that the pressure's off, we can more freely move forward and work harder to secure the league trophy. Dreaming is not for the faint hearted and even when dreams are met by a brutal reality, they do have their purposes.'

So as the dream of a clean sweep fades into the dead of night, we all look forward to the rest of the season as it unfolds. A milestone, though not a pleasant one, has been reached and the next one will surely be cause for celebrations! Rest easy, dear reader, Marikina United FC still holds reign over the standings, and will fight unceasingly until they lift the silver trophy at season's end!

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

even more logos for the contest!

2008-11-26T18:42:00.003+08:00

hehe... option paralysis...

more logos for the contest!

2008-11-26T18:31:00.002+08:00

hope i win! yeba! =)

Logo Contest!!! Yeba!

2008-11-23T18:44:00.005+08:00

first idea

second idea

th - okay, second and a quarter idea? haha!

got my fingers crossed! xD

17 Rounds In

2008-11-21T22:26:00.003+08:00

At the season's halfway point, Marikina United Football Club clearly dominates the league.

Despite the well fought draw at Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium against Valencia Daemon, the ShoeMakers were able to take their frustration on the road and where they promptly used the pent up rage as fuel with which they burned gavincheng45. Displaying determination to destroy tempered by sound defensive fundamentals, MUFC put the match to bed midway in the second half, a man up.

Mar Queno, the Sublime Supremo could not be reached for comment. Apparently, he had undergone an orthodontic procedure to remove an impacted left mandibular molar earlier today. Things like that happen when you get long in the tooth, so we've heard. Perhaps an interview will be forthcoming in the coming days. In the meantime, The Cobbler Confederate are content with their hometown heroes' phenomenal performances. In Marikina, football-wise at least, things are as they should be.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

The Road To The World Cup

2008-11-19T00:33:00.004+08:00

Back to back wins for Team Philippines as the World Cup Qualifiers get under way!

Thanks to Taka, manager of Green Archers and current coach of Team Philippines and to Josh, manager of Blue Wave FC and immediate past national coach, The Azkals have gotten off to a great start on our campaign towards the World Cup! Congratulations! We will stand behind you every step of the way (and lend a helping hand when you need it)! Keep up the great work!

A Gauntlet Thrown Down

2008-11-19T00:21:00.003+08:00

Gabriel Isagani reports from the Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium to get Mar Queno's response to the resounding challenge issued by Saturnino Venta of Valencia Daemon.

And picked up.

The recent challenge from Valencia Daemon came as no surprise to The Cobbler Confederate, seeing as how The Shoemakers remain undefeated this season. It was only a matter of time before rival teams expressed their discomfort at the dominance displayed by Marikina United Football Club. I had the chance to discuss this with the Sublime Supremo this afternoon after a long day of training and he had this to say:

'Them's fighting words, eh? I've been looking at the Demon Hunters squad and I'm sure they'll put up a fantastic effort. We look forward to meeting them on the pitch with their new manager Saturnino Venta. If the team performs half as well under him as they did under Kaizer Valencia we're in for a tough match indeed. Perhaps it's time to unleash the new formation we've been playing around with.. even old dogs like me sometimes have new tricks, after all. /wink'

I then pressed him for his reaction regarding how the challenge was worded as some would say it bordered on the disrespectful and Mar Queno replied:

'I don't see anything wrong with what he said. He just feels very strongly about his team, and rightly so! No player would do his best for a manager who's lukewarm. That would be the greatest disrespect to the team, to the fans, to the game. We're not children and a healthy amount of trash talking is acceptable, in my opinion. I appreciate the zeal of Mr. Venta, I even wish other managers would show such bravado! It makes the match more interesting, don't you think?'

Popping a cooler open at the pitch side bench, MQ then handed me an almost too cold Cerveza Negra as he got one for himself. Sitting down and watching the cheerleaders practice, he offered me some Lapid's chicharon (pork crackling). I guess this is the proverbial calm before the storm.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Valencia Promise to Hold Marikina United Scoreless

2008-11-19T00:17:00.003+08:00

The recent press release by Saturnino Venta, manager of mid-table club Valencia Daemon, contains a promise to keep the Shoemakers scoreless at the final whistle! We have reprinted this statement here in full.

Marikina United has got a good game but all good things must come to an end Marikina United with a winning streak and only 3 games that ended in a draw.

The players of Valencia Daemons have been their making the best teams in their respective groups last season grab their starting loss to them, but only to be denied by Lex Taliones the winning cup. Saturnino Venta has this to say "We denied Sweet 5 Star of a winning streak, We kick the ass of As Cebuano only to kick back by Lex Taliones last season. This season is different we have a new Manager a new strategy, this time we will get the cup."

Shoemakers watch out the demon hunter are playing next...

It's Official!

2008-11-08T00:27:00.004+08:00

Congratulations to Taka, manager of Green Archers, our new National Coach!

Good luck on your first match against Georgia! Make us proud!

Up, Up, And Away!

2008-11-08T00:08:00.001+08:00

It's a bird! It's a plane! No, it's Marikina United flying high!

Don't take that to mean flight school lessons with Snoop Dogg, the ShoeMakers have been doing quite well in recent matches and they've set up camp at the top of the leaderboard. After 11 matches, the Sublime Supremo has chalked up a 9/2/0 tally with 29pts to date. No wonder the man's been about as chipper as a 16 year old on the morning after prom night!

A definite need for more clinical finishing is still evident despite the glowing standings but MQ has assured us that this is still being evaluated. Frustrations have forced a player who wasn't so happy about his playing time to request that he be released from his contract. With a handshake and a stiff drink, Ramon Vicioso was allowed to leave the squad (and his Obel Tiger) behind to join NK Alex. 'I hope he finds what he's looking for. Every time I played him, he just never wowed me, you know? Like he wasn't sure which way he was going.. perhaps he'll do better over there.' MQ said.

The man had a San Miguel Cerveza Negra in his left hand, freshly chilled in a cooler of ice and water, which he wiped down with a small towel. Popping the cap, he sat down and told our little band of fans, reporters, and friends what he had been busy with lately. 'I've been researching almost daily, on top of actually managing the club to reach its current status. Luck may have played a huge role as I learned everything I could from mentors from here and abroad. Hopefully, the lessons I've picked up should help us strengthen MUFC to produce superlative results consistently for many seasons to come!' Pausing to pop a piece of tequila marinated grilled chicken into his mouth (bursting with cuervo, calamansi, pangasinan pink salt, sweet basil and labuyo!), he smiled and added, 'I even almost smoked a cigarette once or thrice.. but I didn't. Given the great difficulties I had when I was first starting to quit, I had no desire to repeat the mistakes I made in my youth. It doesn't say very much about us when we repeat mistakes, does it?'

The evening went on with the usual banter, ribbing, and shooting the breeze full of holes. No more shop talk, though. I think he just wanted to touch base and give us a short update. After all, the standings at this point pretty much tell us what we need to know.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Who's It Going To Be?

2008-10-30T21:35:00.002+08:00

With the first official international matches already scheduled for this Saturday, the search for the next National Coach for Team Philippines intensifies!

As of press time, only one nominee has accepted and affirmed his candidacy, Taka of Green Archers. MAAP, Iloilo Hellcats and Iloilo YodePuga FC have also been nominated but have not confirmed yet (reports have stated that Iloilo YodePuga FC is currently in Boracay! ). Binmaley Fisher, former and best performing NC responsible for the 3rd place FITA World Cup finish of the National Team back in Season 6, has also expressed his intention to run for NC.

Things are definitely getting more interesting as whoever takes on the job has a very short time to prepare for the NTQ match against Syria on Sunday (Saturday, Manila Time). Judging from the quality of the nominees (who all come from the First Division, Ang Liga), we have definitely better than good chances this season! We will keep you updated as new reports come in.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

MQ Likes It On Top

2008-10-30T21:14:00.002+08:00

It's been a week of eye opening firsts...

After YUM w/ TLC unexpectedly lost to badmintonclub, Marikina United suddenly find themselves at the top of the 3.2 leaderboard by the slimmest of margins. This marks the first time the club has reached this spot since manager Mar Queno began his semi charmed career. While, the Sublime Supremo was unavailable for an interview (some issues to be dealt with regarding the renovations at Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium, we've been told), he did leave this statement with his personal assistant, Linus, for us:

'We are, of course, happy to be where we are right now. Regardless of outside events, we are at the top because we worked for it. I hope this little taste of success will further inspire the team to battle on to keep the pinnacle until season's end. I apologize for being inaccessible as of late, I'll surely more than make up for it soon. Ingat!'

Well, then. On the up and up and loving every second of it! Can't say I blame him. I, for one, am looking forward to the next press conference. MQ has built up the reputation of being a most gracious host. Perhaps there is truth in the saying that 'You get as good as you give.'? Perhaps.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Trophy Manager PRO!!! The Second Return of the Comeback!!!

2008-10-28T03:45:00.005+08:00

'MORE!?!', you ask! OF COURSE!!

The most useful features of TM PRO have already been covered, I think. These are the runners up, to my mind. =) Last post on this topic (unless PRO DIAMOND has more toys for me to review!).

With TM PRO, you now have the ability to compare players head to head on the same window with the difference of their stats color coded to see who's better. I know, this is pretty neat but I just saw this like a coupla minutes ago so.. better late than never? =)

At your clubhouse, not only do you get the funky golden boot telling the world of your PRO status, you also get a wood paneled trophy case and 3d-ish trophies and plaques. Oh, that and the logo! Yeeeeeaaah!

Friendly leagues let you compete for even more bragging rights and assert yourself among your peers! The great thing about this is you can set how you want the winner to be chosen (see the image for the interesting details)! Invite me anytime and I'll join if I'm free!

Team of the Round forms a squad of eleven from the best performing players of the round and takes a snapshot of them on the pitch. Yup, bragging rights, baby..

What else is there to say? Design and upload your club's crest or logo ASAP! While this is the first outward indication that you've gone PRO, it shouldn't be the last, if you catch my drift..

Sure, it's fun typing in a kilometric epic club history but this is official. You can't type that.. plus, there's another bonus feature, it gives a prediction of your final standings for the current season based on your most recent results. Magic 8ball, anyone?

Christen your fearless goalkeeper with nerves of steel and iron will... 'boobookittyf@%k'. lol. Up to you really but it costs 5 days of pro and you really can't use inappropriate words.. Sorry.

I wore 10 when I was on the varsity team. Hehe.. only I was on the baseball team. Number them any way you like, 2 digits max I suppose...

Why would you change your club name? If you think of a reason, rest assured that this feature actually makes it possible for you to do so for a significant amount of PRO days. Ouch.

Well, that's the round up. Tune in again next time, I'll be around. =)

Trophy Manager PRO!!! The Return of the Comeback!!!

2008-10-28T03:03:00.006+08:00

More reasons to GO PRO!!! Seriously, there are so many, I had such a difficult time choosing which ones I should tell you about first!

Trophy Manager PRO... I wonder what PRO DIAMOND is like..

A totally unlimited shortlist! Keep tabs on developing youth, your rival's best players, or wait and see if you can catch 'the one that got away'...

How much did this player go for the last time he was sold? How many games did he actually play in this season where his average rating is 9? If these are questions you'd like answered, this is going to put a smile on your face for sure!

Keep an eye on who's beefing up their squad with this nifty feature that lists transfers for a selected league! Especially if promotion or relegation is on the line, knowing if your opponent for the last match of the season will suddenly have a superstar striker would be imperative!

Spying (ahem) clandestinely doing research on your opponents has never been easier with league fixtures and results already displayed, ready with a link to the most recent match to watch, dissect, and analyze. =) All the better to see you with, my dear - a quote from a fairy tale that suddenly came to mind...

Saved teams save us! Just like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System revolutionized role playing games by allowing the option to save (can you imagine playing Final Fantasy III 65 hours straight to finish it?! ahehe.. i did no such thing.. not at all), TM PRO lets you save multiple formations, mentalities, all ready for use in 2 or 3 clicks. Now you can be Mourinho, Wenger, Benitez, Ferguson, or Keane whenever you want to, if you want to. =)

Trophy Manager PRO!!!

2008-10-28T02:33:00.006+08:00

Do you remember playing DooM or QuakE? Do you remember the first time you played in GODMODE? That's how I felt today after signing on for Trophy Manager PRO, like I had finally played the game and all my past playing was just the intro...

Here are some of the best features of TM PRO, imho.

The Assistant Manager will help you crunch those numbers faster than you can say 'That's waaay too much information!'. lol. Used with prudence, this could potentially improve your standings significantly.

Say goodbye to staying up all night locked in a bidding war for your next star player! The Transfer Agent automatically bids (up to a maximum amount you set) so you can catch some zs!

The Expanded Transfer List allows you to set more parameters like multiple player positions (perfect for hunting down the OM C, F of your wildest dreams or simply having a flexible team with multiple D CRs and D CLs or M/DM Cs, depending on your favorite formations) as well as multiple skill criteria for the discerning buyer.

The Transfer Monitor is a great way to keep an eye out for a particular player with that je ne sais quoi who could fill a special niche in your tactics without searching all the time. =) It's like having a team of headhunters at your beck and call 24/7. Sweeeeet!

All you really have to do now is make tons of money (and hold on to it) to actually bring all that fantastic talent into your club!

Building a Better Logo

2008-10-26T01:55:00.004+08:00

Going TM Pro soon so it's probably a good time to work on a logo for MUFC! =)

Going TM Pro soon so it's probably a good time to work on a logo for MUFC! =)

Flux

2008-10-26T01:16:00.001+08:00

Changes big and small seem to be the order of things these days at the Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium, fondly called Kena Kalbo by The Cobbler Confederate, fans of Marikina United Football Club. Since the last press conference, massive expansions have been made to increase the seating capacity of the aging stadium. Upon completion of this enlargement, an equally comprehensive improvement of the interior aspects are also planned. After all, we can't have the bigger without the better, right?
Changes big and small seem to be the order of things these days at the Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium, fondly called Kena Kalbo by The Cobbler Confederate, fans of Marikina United Football Club. Since the last press conference, massive expansions have been made to increase the seating capacity of the aging stadium. Upon completion of this enlargement, an equally comprehensive improvement of the interior aspects are also planned. After all, we can't have the bigger without the better, right?

Sources in the know have informed me that aside from new kevlar lined seating for all terraces and bleachers (in red, of course), a complete refinishing of the veritably antique porcelain and brass comfort room fixtures is in the works, to coincide with plumbing enhancements to improve water pressure and flushing. Apparently, the luxurious improvements to the VIP lounges are being entrusted to a world renowned earthshaker of interior design, possibly Cobonpue or Layug. Very deep pockets being flexed by the Board of Trustees through the Sublime Supremo here but, what about the football!?

The end of last season was rife with injuries for the squad, at which point Mar Queno silently brought in Englishman Rob Shorey from Everton JSY for an undisclosed amount. This last week has seen a fourfold repeat of that incident, sans injuries, as the Sublime Supremo further explores the depths of his squad's abilities. Playing a 3-3-3-1 without a natural dm r led to the hiring of Croat Zoran Ciglenečki from Cachondos with a good physique and core skills. At 25 years old though, one would have expected a little more experience from him and his poor showing in the away league game against Quikball FC. Scotsman Marc Dempsie was also signed along with the Croat as another dm r for evaluation. McDribbly, as The Cobble Confederate have christened him, had a very auspicious start as the 20 year old from Grant FC scored a goal on his first league match for The ShoeMakers courtesy of a signature Roberto Delgado assist. A third dm r was reportedly flown in from Italy but has since disappeared. The 19 year old with male pattern baldness was last reportedly seen walking along Aurora Boulevard. Too bad, Mar said he made a mean Osso Bucco..

Lackluster finishing has clearly been a problem as MUFC have posted 2 draws on the league table and have even lost in friendlies in the last week. With the hamstring injury of striker Fidel Lopez, the Sublime Supremo enlisted Portuguese hotfoot Ildefonso Lopes from Berceni City. The flamboyant forward is a study of surprising inconsistencies, to say the least. He looks like he's 25 but he's 33, again looks like a geek but acts like a rockstar, and while he may not seem capable of it, he's managed to score almost every other game of his entire career. While he has yet to chalk one up in Marikina, Lopes has confidently remarked, 'To make goal in Croatia is the same in Marikina, my heart is the same and I will score one for all of you at next game! Definitely! Now, where is this PGA Cars? I must pick my Christmas bonus, I think..' With that and a clap on the back, Lopes, escorted by 2 daytime tv dancers, strolled out the stadium.

We've tried to get in touch with Mar Queno but Linus, his assistant, has informed us that he's currently deep in meditation, in one asana or another, and could not be disturbed. Seems like the pressure's building up real fast, changes are happening even faster, and the entire club has to work harder together to achieve the results that we all want. There is a nagging question in my head, though: are we missing something?

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Crimson's Tips and Answers

2008-10-24T11:44:00.000+08:00

Mar Queno has been many things during his semi charmed life, one of these is (and always will be) a diligent student. As applied to TrophyManager, his 'lessons' have led him through threads on the local forum, the international forum, and even fora in other countries (check the Links! below for more!).

His latest great find is this awesome thread by the legendary manager, Crimson Kings:

Crimson's Tips and Answers

which features the mentor of world class TM superstars, Noga 'Maestro'Ben-Dor (OM C F), Uzi Silverstein (DR), and Wiktor Siwiak (D LC).

MQ told me to specifically tell you:

'Read and learn, my sons, read and learn.' = )

yup, smiley and all. Uhrm.. I guess I'll go now.

Linus, personal assistant to Mar Queno

New Philippine Team Coach

2008-10-24T04:33:00.001+08:00

With current National Coach (NC), Josh of Blue Wave FC, set on laying down the manager's clipboard for the National Team (NT)this season, the search for the new grand architect for Team Philippines has recently started. It really came as no surprise since Josh had expressed his intentions earlier but the recent season start up may have delayed this much needed process as Philippine managers tweaked stadium facilities to accommodate increased fan bases.
Earlier on, Kimberly Federico of MAAP had suggested that Taka of Green Archers, newcomer to the Philippine League's first division, Ang Liga, might be a potential candidate. No comment was released by Taka, however. A second possible candidate may be RBD of Ang Liga powerhouse Iloilo YodePuga FC, as JC Rosario of Binmaley Fisher mentioned recently. As of press time today, no response from RBD was available yet.

As nobody has concretely stated their plans to run for NC, it seems that the search must continue. It's arguably a difficult role to fulfill but one that represents both national pride and personal achievement for the brave soul willing to take on the challenge. More news as they become available.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Evolutionary Leaps

2008-10-14T23:29:00.001+08:00

Fresh from their holiday in Aman Pulo, a surprise bonus from the Board of Trustees (BT), the entire Marikina United organization, coaches, staff, and players have gathered at dawn today on the training grounds at the Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium to officially start the new season with an address from their manager, Mar Queno. Initially no media coverage was slated but due to this correspondent's bullish insistence, the Philippine Daily Star was granted this exclusive peek into the inner workings of Marikina's most popular football club.

Fresh from their holiday in Aman Pulo, a surprise bonus from the Board of Trustees (BT), the entire Marikina United organization, coaches, staff, and players have gathered at dawn today on the training grounds at the Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium to officially start the new season with an address from their manager, Mar Queno. Initially no media coverage was slated but due to this correspondent's bullish insistence, the Philippine Daily Star was granted this exclusive peek into the inner workings of Marikina's most popular football club.

Mar Queno, who has a personal quest to redefine 'Filipino time' from being an hour (or more) late to being (at least) half an hour early, was predictably already in the covered seating area, subjecting himself to the masochistic pleasure of chewing on an unlit montecristo. The early morning drizzle accentuated the eerie feeling in this ancient, almost sacred stadium, together with the wispy mist swirling between our steps. After we were all seated, the Sublime Supremo, began his address, not unlike the Great Teacher Onizuka of manga, anime, and telenovela fame.

'Well, we're all still here. Good morning. Let me go over some changes with you so you don't get disoriented as we start this new season. First of all, the BT has decided to switch sponsors from Purple to Obel. We tried to sign both on but this was not feasible. More on this later. Secondly, my appeal to the BT has finally been approved, I am pleased to announce that we no longer have to wear pink and green. As countless others have also noted, the hot pink and neon green popularized by local politicos don't really go well with the green of the pitch and, based on market research and actual sales figures, also do not sit well with our fans.' With a nod, MQ signalled Coach Pangandaman and Coach Banegas to join him at the bottom of the stands. 'Thanks, Coach P&B! Don't be shy now!' Chuckling, the two removed their outer garments to show the new club kits they had on. The sighs of relief and succeeding celebrations reflected the club's satisfaction with the uniforms, either that or they were happy their coaches weren't doing a full monty. 'Gentlemen, your new kits! Red for home, blue for away. (to me) Gani, 1500php for a set at the merchandise shop/stall, ha! Write that down before you forget! The squad's old kits will be auctioned off at our annual charity event to be announced later in the season.'

It took a couple of minutes for everyone to settle down after inspecting the snazzy new threads and MQ resumed when they finally did, after an assistant handed him a double espresso. 'You'll all get yours in a while. Moving on, in a surprising turn of events, Marikina United has been promoted to 3.2. Boon or doom, at this point I still haven't decided. What is certain now is that prudent use of the performance bonuses from the BT is essential. After ensuring sound capital investments, I will be looking to streamline the squad as well as to infuse it with new talent to remain competitive at this higher level.' Audible gulps from some of the youngsters at this point were heard, even some of the veterans showed signs of nervousness. 'No need to worry, Dominguez, your mama made sure that you'd stay on.' Raucous laughter ensued. 'Seriously though, everyone should do their best, I don't want to have to say goodbye to any of you.'

The coffee, as promised, arrived with three pieces each of puto and kuntsinta. 'I wish I could say that Aling Remy made the rice cakes but sadly, she has passed away. These are almost as good since they were made by her children.' MQ said, adding 'The buffet table will be ready in a while, we're wrapping up anyway.' With a sip of water, the man continued, 'While we generally continue to improve our stadium, the focus has now been to increase capacity, with the single largest reconstruction of Irineo Cruz Memorial Stadium to date scheduled to start later today. This new expansion covers all the wings of the stadium and represents an increase of about 6,500 seats. Now, please examine the bottom of the saucers under your coffee cups, you'll be happy to discover a little picker upper to start the season.' Wild cheering, especially from the youngsters, erupted as the team retrieved car keys almost simultaneously from their shrewdly designed hiding places. 'Pipe down a bit so we can finish this and start eating! I'm hungry!' boomed MQ, with a little help from an old school megaphone, resplendent in its red and white (well, it's kinda yellow now) plastic. 'Those are the keys to your brand new Obel Tigers, nimble little two door convertibles with just enough power to keep you entertained. All of them are red, with the Marikina United Football Club crest as a badge on the left front fender. But before you rush off, let's have a little breakfast first. If you think you've got it good now, give us some silverware at the end of the season and I'll show you just how fantastic life in Marikina can get! Make us proud, my sons, make us proud!'

I may not have received a sportscar but I did enjoy a fantastic breakfast of tapang usa (smoked venison made by MQ himself I heard), garlic and saffron fried rice (with some foie gras bits, i believe..), fresh Marikina tomatoes, burong mangga (supposedly another MQ specialty, pickled unripe zambales mangoes with cerveza negra, among other secret ingredients), and perfectly cooked native chicken eggs over easy (malasado!). Actually, I was expecting some news about tactics, formations, training regimes and so on but no information was forthcoming, apparently. Maybe next time, then, if we're lucky. In the meantime, we'll definitely be watching to see if these expensive and lavish 'investments' of the Sublime Supremo pay off.

The sun's first rays have begun to cut through the chilly morning air. Overhead, the sky is radiant with a myriad of colors, a well suited backdrop for numerous birds in flight. Great things are bound to come.

Gabriel Isagani, Philippine Daily Star

Marikina United Announces Season Goals

2008-10-14T18:32:00.000+08:00

Marikina United has announced season goals for the following season.

The goal is to end in the top half of the league. Score at least 30 goals and concede less than 60. Furthermore the club intends to win a mimimum of 10 wins.

The goal in the national cup is to just win 1 match.

An End Is Also A Beginning

2008-08-24T00:07:00.002+08:00

It was a dark and stormy night... somewhere else in the world.

On a pristine white beach in Bohol, Mar Queno carefully prepared his fresh catch of uni, oysters, and crabs. After all, he still somewhat smelled of vinegar from yesterday's uni accident and didn't want to go through that again (he just barely stopped his mate from pissing on his foot).

It was a dark and stormy night... somewhere else in the world.

On a pristine white beach in Bohol, Mar Queno carefully prepared his fresh catch of uni, oysters, and crabs. After all, he still somewhat smelled of vinegar from yesterday's uni accident and didn't want to go through that again (he just barely stopped his mate from pissing on his foot).

He had wanted to build a wood burning oven like the one he had learned to love in Toscana but he was broke so a makeshift double layer of charcoals would have to suffice. After preparing the dough and spreading the special sauce (which isn't what you think), he began to layer the toppings, some mozzarella, a little fontina, some crab fat, some crab meat. There. 'Ten to fifteen minutes, inches away from glowing red charcoal above and below this inihaw pizza should do the trick, don't you think?' he asked his rather disinterested audience. 'Sure, MQ, sounds good.' and 'Smells right to me.' came the replies, with a little feined pep. The third curtly asked 'This really isn't it, is it MQ?'

Mar Queno just kept on shucking oysters, like the fate of the universe depended on it. Five minutes later, each of the four men sitting on old iron chairs around a low round iron table had a small mug of oysters in front of them. 'While we're waiting. Go on.' Mar explained. The third asked again, this time less intent and more curious, 'This is all you're doing? This is what you turned your back on us for?' Mar, like the other two, had already started enjoying his ceviche, coconut vinegar, labuyo chili, roasted red onion and garlic, cilantro, and sesame oil enhancing the oysters without drowning them out. 'Sorry, what was that?' Mar Queno asked after swallowing. 'Nothing.' the third quietly said, resignation beginning to creep into his voice, as he too reached for his own mug.

The edge of the dough was slightly browned, the cheeses had begun to melt.

Passing out chilled bottles of cerveza negra from an industrial size cooler, Mar Queno suddenly said, 'It's not all that bad. Others would definitely call this heaven, you know. Or something a lot like it.' The wind picked up a bit, tickling the branches, fondling the fruit, as if they all agreed with the free spirit who they had once known in a far less amicable state when he first arrived ages ago. 'I know a little about the beautiful game but I was never that good at it, nor that interested in it, unless you count my mad skillz playing video games. You do know this, right?' he quietly added, talking directly to the third since the other two were too caught up in their newly discovered epicurean nirvana.

'We're at 4/7/4 midway into our 12th season. Sponsors are starting to treat us like we have shite on our foreheads. And lest we forget, you owe me for the Galera incident, you owe me big time for more things than I'd like to remember.' the third managed to spit out. He really disliked oysters. This was pretty good, though. He downed all five, took a couple of gulps of the beer, and let out a long low burp.

By this time, the pizza was almost done. Mar Queno transferred it onto an aged wooden plank, scooped the prepared uni onto it and squeezed five whole kalamansi over that with some salt and labuyo flakes for good measure. Sublime.

'Daaaaaaammmmnnnn!' the first and the second said in unison after their respective first bites. 'I'd pay for this, dude, I'd even pay for it with my own money' was the resounding vote of confidence by the second. 'Now I know why you've put on so much weight, pare!' the first chimed in. The third had stopped eating, opting to smoke instead to balance his beer arm. How long had it been since they'd all had a meal together? Seven, eight years? Of course, the fourth, fifth, and sixth weren't here but still..

'I was going to say yes, you didn't have to rub all of that in my face again, especially since I've apologized three billion times already, and you and I both know who was really at fault in Galera.' Mar Queno stated flatly. The equally flat reply from the third was, 'I know.'

The first started to bring out papers and a pen, the second stopped him, 'We won't be needing signatures and suits will we?' The first insisted, 'This isn't 1999 anymore, don't act like nothing's changed.'

Pen tips raced along stretches of paper, tangled lines crossed and dotted in their wake. Hands were shook and bottles were raised as the power of the afternoon siesta swept across the beach.

'I guess it's time to go home. I wonder how the weather in Marikina is these days?' thought Mar Queno as his guests prepared to doze off on the daybeds on his veranda. One thing was crystal clear. He was no longer the seventh.