Starting lineup

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As the players settled in, Kay opened the system and began checking the players' stats. 

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Player: Anouar 

Pace: 47 

Shooting: 53 

Passing: 51 

Dribbling: 49 

Defending: 46 

Physical: 48 

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Player: Turner 

Pace: 50 

Shooting: 40 

Passing: 43 

Dribbling: 44 

Defending: 49 

Physical: 49 

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Player: Harper 

Pace: 48 

Shooting: 40 

Passing: 42 

Dribbling: 40 

Defending: 53 

Physical: 50 

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After the check, Kay noticed that Turner was an offensive fullback, while Harper was a defensive fullback, which was perfect for the team's balance. 

Then Kay checked Sam and Antony's stats to see their improvement in these two weeks of training with him. 

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Player: Sam 

Pace: 46 

Shooting: 51 

Passing: 52 

Dribbling: 49 

Defending: 43 

Physical: 46 

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Player: Antony 

Pace: 55 

Shooting: 43 

Passing: 46 

Dribbling: 53 

Defending: 42 

Physical: 45 

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Kay noticed some slight improvements in Sam and Antony's stats. Kay was very satisfied with this improvement in just two weeks. 

After checking the player's stats, Kay noticed that the players were exhausted after having just gone through two intense simulation matches. 

Sensing that they needed both physical and mental recovery, Kay made an announcement. "Tomorrow, there will be no training," 

With just one day left before the crucial match against Ashford Rovers, Kay is aware of the importance of rest. 

"I want you all to take this time to recover fully. We need to be in the best possible shape for the match, both physically and mentally. Use tomorrow to rest, and make sure you're in peak condition." 

"Even though there's no physical training, I still want you all to come to the training ground in the morning. We'll have a brief session to go over the tactics for the match. It's crucial that everyone is clear on the game plan and knows exactly what their role will be on the field." 

Then Kay wrapped up the meeting and released the players, who slowly made their way off the training ground. 

The next day, Kay arrived at the training ground early, as he usually did. His focus today was on ensuring that every player fully understood the tactics they would use against Ashford Rovers. 

He set up a tactical board, carefully drawing out the formations and movements they had practiced over the past week. 

When all the players arrived, Kay gathered them around the board. They formed a semicircle, their faces attentive as Kay began to outline the game plan. 

He started by reviewing the tactics they had been drilling; the fast passing sequences designed to stretch the opponent's defense, the quick switches of play, and, of course, the Crossfield Strike. 

Kay explained that the Crossfield Strike, the tactic they had spent so much time perfecting, would not be used right from the start. 

"We're going to hold off on using the Crossfield Strike until I give the signal," he instructed. 

The players nodded in understanding, knowing that this element of surprise could be crucial. 

Kay emphasized the importance of starting the match with fast, precise passes, moving the ball quickly to disrupt Ashford Rovers' defensive shape. 

 "Our primary objective at the beginning is to stretch their defense, to create gaps that we can exploit," he added, pointing to the formation on the board. 

Kay then turned his attention to the specific role Antony would play in the match. 

He explained that the team would focus much of their early attacks on the left flank, where Antony's speed and dribbling skills could be most effective. 

"We're going to play short passes on the right side," Kay said, marking the path of the ball on the board. "We'll attract their defenders to that area, and then switch the play quickly to the other flank with a long pass. The goal is to get Antony into one-on-one situations with their left-back." 

As Kay spoke, Antony felt a wave of nervousness wash over him. The idea that the team would be relying on him made him lower his head shyly, avoiding the gaze of his teammates. 

But Kay noticed his reaction and quickly moved to reassure him. "Antony, we're counting on you because we believe in your abilities. You've trained hard for this, and I know you're capable of making a big impact tomorrow." 

Kay continued to explain the details of the game plan, ensuring that every player knew their role and responsibilities. 

He mentioned the importance of staying disciplined and sticking to the tactics. 

Kay stood before the team, as he announced the formation they would be using in the upcoming match. 

"We're going to play with a 4-3-2-1 formation," he began, pointing to the diagram he had drawn on the tactical board. 

He could feel the tension in the room as the players eagerly awaited the reveal of the starting lineup. 

Kay took a deep breath and began to call out the names. "In goal, we have Ben." 

A few nods of approval rippled through the group; Ben had been solid in training, and his selection was expected. 

"At the back, our defenders will be Harper, Gary, Stuart, and Turner," Kay continued. The defenders exchanged glances. This was their chance to prove themselves in a crucial match. 

"In midfield, we'll have Desmond, Sam, and Anouar," Kay announced. 

He saw Sam and Anouar exchange a knowing look, they were the key to the Crossfield Strike tactic, and their role would be vital. 

"Our wingers will be Antony and Riley," Kay added, knowing this was a big moment for the young player, and he was eager to see how Antony would handle the pressure. 

Finally, Kay revealed the striker. "Up front, leading the attack will be Dragan." 

Dragan, a tall and powerful forward, gave a slight nod "Yes, sire", ready to take on the responsibility of being the focal point of the attack. 

As Kay finished reading out the lineup, he could sense a mix of emotions in the room. Some players looked excited, thrilled to have been chosen for the starting eleven. 

Others appeared disappointed, their faces betraying the sadness of not being selected. 

Noticing the mood, Kay quickly addressed the team. 

"I want to make something clear. These names are not the principal players permanently, but for this match, because I believe this lineup gives us the best chance against this type of opponent." 

"Each of you has a crucial role to play, whether you're starting or coming off the bench. The decisions were made based on what's best for the team, and I trust every one of you to be ready when called upon." 

Kay then explained the tactical reasoning behind the formation. 

"We're playing with two midfielders behind the striker so that we can use the Crossfield Strike tactic easily if needed. This setup will give us flexibility and allow us to switch our approach during the game." 

The room grew quiet as the players absorbed the information. Kay could see that his words had eased some of the tension. 

The players understood that this match was about the team as a whole, not just the individuals in the starting lineup. 

The session had come to an end, and Kay addressed his team one last time before sending them off. 

"Get some rest tonight. Tomorrow, we meet early. The match will be in the afternoon at Ashford stadium, just a city over. Be prepared, both physically and mentally." 

Once home, Kay informed his parents about the details of the match. 

"We're playing in Ashford stadium tomorrow. The match is in the afternoon, so I'll need to leave early with the team." 

His parents offered their support, reassuring him that they would be there to cheer him on, just as they always had. 

The next morning, Kay arrived at the training ground earlier than usual. To his surprise, he found Mr. Collins already there, waiting near the bus that would take the team to Ashford Stadium. 

"Mr. Collins, why are you here this early," Kay asked, a hint of curiosity in his tone. 

See you in the next chapter...

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