AndersSchm

So I was playing Sheff Wed in the league cup 3rd round playing as Birmingham (2nd season). I dominated possession and had multiple chances, their keeper saved everything and then in the 80th minute they scored against the run of play and won the game.

In a fit of rage I turned off FM without saving and then realised I was 4 games back in my saved game (after it took me a few days to come back and try again).

I played though the Premier League fixtures and got the same results (minor scoreline changes) and found myself this time facing QPR in the League Cup 3rd round.

So I was playing QPR in the league cup 3rd round. I dominated possession and had multiple chances, their keeper saved everything and then in the 80th minute they scored against the run of play and won the game.

Again I have turned off FM without saving but this time I'm not sure I want to come back.

Either my players get into a 1on1 which is well documented as a non scoring chance - or I'll get a cross to my big target man who rises above the defence to head it goal bound for the keeper to pull off a super save.

Had similar woes with previous games with Newcastle and Portsmouth - it is possible to perform well in the league but when you draw Oxford Utd away in the cup you know you are going out.

Jam Man

Its funny, Football is often frustrating in it very nature so its normal that Football Manager will be also.

Theres gameplay issues that cause frustrations (ie one on ones) but theres nothing wrong with getting beaten in the way you say.

Its funny how many people think losing is a bug yet never post about how they unfairly win a game against the run of play

robzilla

I'm not sure I understand the point of this post. Are you asking a question or is there something you'd like to discuss?

MuzGB70

I believe the OP is making a point about the similarities between the two cup games. Even though they are different teams the result is still the same, and the match plays out in almost the same way.

gerry58

He needs a hug.

AndersSchm

Yes that is my point - I know I am away in the cup against a lower team who will counter attack.

I setup to play attacking football at a slow pace to break them down but not make too many mistakes to allow their counter attacks to flourish.

While I can beat their midfield and defence easily the goalkeeper seems to have superhuman abilities in both matches.

Looking at my three games I have played in FM2008 - in the cup I will progress if I meet a side lower than the Championship as the difference in quality is too great. Against a Premier side I have had mixed results.

However each time I have played a Championship side I lose. It makes me think that there is a bonus that underdogs receive in cup games. The smaller sides (even with the bonus) still fail against Premier opponents. However the Championship level teams can be boosted beyond the capabilities of their Premier League opponents.

This would also explain how Coventry were able to win the FA Cup beating Arsenal and Chelsea in my Newcastle game.

So if there is a "bonus" I am assuming it has its roots in the morale/performance bonus given to smaller teams for the big cup games.

If QPR or Sheff Wed were in the Premier I am sure the same tactics would deliver the victory. (as the tactics do when playing Premier league teams like Derby or Fulham who adopt similar counter attacking play)

Drunk Beware

I agree with that, i think it must mean that the game is getting more realistic