Alex says: «For the last time, hello everybody!
Yep, another writer is leaving :(. It is very unfortunate for Sears and myself to both be leavingwithin a fwe days of eachother but I have lost complete interest in FM. This isn’t unnatural, I usually lose interest around this time, having played FM for many months and trying out nearly every challenge I can think of. My important exams are next week and I have been knuckling down with revision, I have to get good results and Icannot play FM if I don’t enjoy it. Most of what I say you will have read on Sear’s post, we are leaving for similar reasons and I don’t want this post to be very long, but tributes must be paid to those that have helped me along my way. Only 6 months ago I was an unknown blogger on FMCrowd, but now I have had the privelege to have blogged on argubly the best FM site around. Onto those that deserve praise:
Desmo Wenning (Dutch FM God)
Des has been a brilliant follower, he always has something good to say and has provided me with a good few laughs :). Since w both blogged on FMCrowd, he followed mine and I did the same for his, and we still do this. He followed me onto this site, not many people did but he was willing to, showing true friendship. He also introduced himself in the forums with some very kind word about me, which made my day :D. Thanks for following Des, I will still follow you! If I am going to be replaced, I would love Desmo to be the one to replace me, since he is a great blogger and I’m sure he would be a hit here :D
Alexsaras, Vikingmarius, Sibo and Hazza
The other people that followed me to FMS, I thank you 3 for continuously supporting me and for being there for me, I wasn’t sure how I would be received when joining the team and you 3 made me feel better, since I knwe a few of the commentors :D. Alexsaras was one of the first people that I met on FMCrowd, and after a break period he is back and better than ever! His feedback is nice and I missed him when he was gone. Marius is always a great commentor, his writing is brilliant and I looked forward to his comment on every post. Sibo created his blog on the same day as me, but we only interacted a few months later! A very loyal person, he overtook me on most posts in FMCrowd and you can always expect a post from him :). Harry is similar to Marius, but I met him later on. Our chats on FMCrowd Chat were brilliant, I really miss it :(
Ana, Sears, Johnny, Sayam, Lye, Kevin, CsAtlantis and Vaibhavc
Everybody mentioned has been brilliant for me, welcoming me to the community and providing me with constant support. Starting out here was made so much easier by all of you and I couldn’t thank you all enough. Johnny was especially kind for letting me blog here, thank you so much!
Darren
What can I say, you invited me here and also followed my old blog, it has been a great experience. I have loved my time here but without Darren I would be a nobody right now, blogging to myself ;). A real inspiration, anybody that is considering writing a blog can take one good look at Mr Smith and decide, for he is a true role model and is a very talented football manager.
That’s it, I cannot say much more but goodbye, I’m sure you’ll learn to live without me…eventually :P. Maybe I can return, maybe I’ll go to my old blog if I rekindle the FM flame in my belly. or I’ll completely forget about blogging and never blog again. Real lif is more important and FM can only be worked around school work, not the other way round.
Goodbye, I hope I will see all of you again at some point!»
Can you handle the truth?
Hello folks, this is Johnny here. Normally I wouldn’t add a thing to such a nice goodbye post but I’m afraid that this time is different, a lot different. And that is because Alex might not be completely truthful in his words, both me and Darren are quite disappointed with his actions. Now let me explain.
First lie: «Darren invited me to the site». That’s true, but not entirely. It was Alex who asked for the chance by posting a comment on Darren’s old blog and then here and Darren emailed him as a reply to those comments. I’ll leave it to you to judge if that counts as an invitation. But this lie is just an innocent walk in the park compared to what was going to happen.
The Academica story: You remember the «fantastic» Academica story, right? Exceptional players, incredible results. At some point we suspected that there was something wrong there and eventually Alex revealed that he was using a custom database that gave better regens in the game. Since some people emailed us with some serious questions about Alex’ honesty in that story we asked him to go public about that database and also provide us his save game file to be checked since some suspicions were beyond the usage of that database (apparently some of the players’ attributes were altered through a database editor during the game). Alex said that all the strange player attributes were due to that custom database but we received no reply to that request of providing us the save game. Alex pulled the plug on that story, he said that he was intending to do so anyway. We gave him the benefit of doubt and allowed him to start a new story.
The test: But we couldn’t leave it like that, we still had to give a clear answer to those who emailed us and still had strong reasons to be suspicious. I installed the custom database that he used, started a new game with it and went on until the end of the 2013-2014 season to see whether there would be such abnormal attributes in some players. After a whole week of playing that test game I discovered that it wasn’t the case, the players in that test game were all looking normal. I won’t go into details because that might give ideas to some cheaters, I’ll only say that we have undeniable proof that some of the player attributes were rigged in that Academica story.
Another lie: After discovering what happened I asked Darren to email Alex and tell him about my findings. Darren asked him to admit that he did something terribly wrong and promise not to do that ever again. That was all that we wanted from him, I guess we were quite lenient. That email was sent more than a week ago, on a Saturday. Alex’s last post was scheduled to be published the next day and it was published. But suddenly Alex was no longer there to reply any comments, he just disappeared. And, obviously, he just ignored that email again. Now, almost two weeks later, he comes by saying that he was busy. You know what? I really don’t believe you anymore!
This community is great because the people that are part of it are friendly and honest, that’s what I think. And I won’t let all our hard work to be thrashed by a childish liar like that. Normally we wouldn’t have made these things public, both Darren and me are quite patient and kind as you all know. But this guy pushed our patience way beyond any limit. You might see him popping up on some other websites that are not too concerned about honesty, that’s just fine. We just don’t want to see stuff like that here, we don’t lie to people. This story was a big blow for me, I always trust people but I might have to revise that in the future and it might be a lot more difficult to become an author on this website from now on.
Excessive
25 мая, 2011 at 12:25
I’m disappointed in him really, as it’s not winning that constitutes a good story, it’s the entertainment factor and enjoyment of the readers themselves. If what your saying is true mate, then I’m not surprised. I suppose it’s ‘good riddance’ at the end of the day as it could have got worse.
That said, Alex seemed like a nice guy and was churning updates out like there was no tomorrow. Shame it’s had to end this way for him really..
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:03
It was his choice, we did everything that we could to support him and gave him lots of chances to continue. But we can’t accept being lied to. I spent a lot of time on that test game and my hope was to prove his innocence and not the other way around. Unfortunately it was the other way around and Alex chose to ignore us while hoping to get away with it.
LTN
25 мая, 2011 at 13:01
To be honest I was sure that there were problems with this guy. I also enjoyed his Academica story but I feel a bit annoyed by the fact that he was constantly cheating, this is not the right thing to do when you play one of the best games ever made. And I am not talking about starting a match all over again, because this might happen to anyone if his PC crashes down during the game. When I was writing at a blog, I was not afraid to tell that I got relegated or that I had a bad run of form, this is something normal, it can happen to anyone. People enjoy reading stories made by honest people at first, then they check how he does. We all remember Kevin’s Toronto story right? He had a pretty bad start at the beggining. Have you ever noticed anyone to say something bad about him. Of course not. I cannot imagine how somebody can find enjoyment by cheating.
P.S After the Academica story I felt that I was completely rubbish in FM. I could not believe how could somebody make a striker score 60+ goals in one season when he plays about 30 matches in the league. Now I know. But Johnny, you should not lose patience due to one person. The rest of your writers are great, I always enjoyed the Coruxo/Ultimate Chalenge stories of Ana, the Wreham at first, Cambridge afterwards story of Kevin, the Bury story, the BOIS story, all of them. Your writing team looks very good and you have made excellent choices, you should not feel bad about one unsuccessful writer, you have a good eye, both you and Darren.
Sorry for writing such a big text.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:06
Thanks for the comment mate. That’s the main reason why we were disappointed, because honest players would feel like they’re totally useless in the game after reading about such achievements. First we believed him and thought that it was because of that custom database but unfortunately it wasn’t just that. Anyway, I believe that I will start trusting people again but it might take a while.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 13:31
What a nice post :D
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:34
Indeed… You’ve got some nerve…
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 13:38
Thank you. Not just for the compliment, but for ruining something I loved. I agree though that you and Darren were far too kind to me but the reason I was away and leaving are both true.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:42
Alex, things just don’t pan out regarding your excuses so I’d suggest you not to make things even worse. Fact is I did run that test game and the results are undeniable. I wish I wouldn’t have had to make this public but Darren almost begged you to reply to his emails at some point. And please don’t tell us again that you didn’t receive them, you received all the others bar the important ones.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 13:47
I can only say what I know, and I know that I got the better myself with my Academica game and cracked. The first and second were real, but then I ended up blowing hat could prove to be my shot at FM blogging. Sorry I have to leave like this, every person in this community is brilliant and don’t let this affect your decisions for authors, my previous blog 100% valid.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:54
By first and second you mean first and second season with Academica? I asking because that is what I thought too, that things were clean for two seasons and then you started «pumping» some players from then on. Anyway, I am glad that you are admitting it, you should have done that a while ago but it’s still a good thing even now.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 14:02
What an idiot I am! I could’ve avoided this and I dd mean te first 2 seasons. What’s done is done, I honestly say that I hope this doesn’t happen again, which I severly doubt will happen but you handled it as you should’ve, I can only imagine how frustrated you were by me.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:07
Alright Alex, thanks for confirming it. You should feel bad about it, I feel bad about it too, but you should take this lesson as a tool to make you stronger. I forgive you both for the cheating and for the way you tried to lie to us and I wish you the best of luck in the future. What you should know is that you can’t get away with such things, not on the internet or in real life for that matter. Being honest is extremely important if you want to be a respected individual and I hope that you have realized that now.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 14:12
I’ve definitely learnt my lesson, I just hope his isn’t too damaging to prevent me from ever blogging again :(
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:47
Time will tell…
vaibhavc
25 мая, 2011 at 13:36
Hi
I have no idea what is going on. I am sad that Alex is leaving, but after seeing that bottom part, I have no idea how I feel. Thanks Alex for recognizing my efforts, at least.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:39
I so wish I wouldn’t have had to write that part. I understand your disappointment Vaibhav, it’s a sad thing anyway you look at it.
Sibo
25 мая, 2011 at 13:45
Wow, that was hard to swallow, especially after the mention I got in his farewell post, I feel very disappointed in everything now, I was a great fan of Alex’s stories on FMCrowd and then when he came here and for it to be shattered like this…well, it just makes me doubt everything he did, which is a shame because he did some incredible things on FMCrowd but now I will never be able to look at them with the pride I felt for him, but more with unanswered questions.
This is a really poor show, I thought I had done a few good things with some of my saves, like Aguero’s 21 goals by January in a Barca save, but then this blog seemed to diminish that, even though what I did was hard work and his was rigged attributes.
Alex, if you are looking at these comments I want to say a couple of things, firstly, thanks for supporting my blog and the help you gave me to be the better writer that I am on FMCrowd now, however, secondly, and I am sorry to say this after everything, I find this very disappointing, I don’t expect any answers but I would like you to think about why you did this, as it has just lost you a ton of respect in my books and turned what could have been a happy farewell into a post-mortem of lies, I am sorry for you.
Thanks for revealing all this Johnny, I hope you can get over it sooner rather than later.
Thanks. Bye Alex. I hope life treats you well.
Martin
25 мая, 2011 at 13:49
Hi!
It’s never nice to see people leave this site…especially when its a front page blogger. I loved your Academica story…up to the part when you announced that you’d used a custom database, I then found myself not interested in your posts, shame really because I bet your a really good FM player.
Anyway, all the best for your exams.
Lye
25 мая, 2011 at 13:50
Hi Johnny,
It’s really sad to hear all these. Alex seems to be a guy whom i think has a lot of passion for FM. I never really go and suspect anything wrong even though his player score hell lots of goals. I don’t really understand his mindset. FM is just a game. Why do we like this game is because it reflects the reality of the football world. If cheating can help you to keep winning, what’s the fun of playing?
This is one isolated case and i hope you, Darren and the rest of the readers shouldn’t be affected by this. It’s none of you guys fault. You are actually helping FM lovers in posting their story online so they should be responsible of their own actions. I agree with LTN, you still have Kevin, Ana, Sayam and the rest of the writers whose main satisfaction is enjoying the game regardless of winning or losing.
For Alex, i just want to say i am not angry but sad and disappointed that you have misplace the trust that all of us have for you. In simulated world, you can cheat your way through but i wish you don’t do that in real life as the consequences is far more serious.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:56
Thanks a lot for the wise comment Lye, you really summed it all up brilliantly.
Timmy
25 мая, 2011 at 13:55
There is something wrong with Alex,maybe he use some of that cheat because he want to prove that he is good enough for this site,little bit dissapointed with his attitude,but it’s ‘okayish’.Im not believe that his Pc is broken,because he update his Academia story like very c**zy man,maybe he started to thinking that he have to leaving this site now.Nobody on this site never get bad start,im not believe is somebody said he never get bad start.I will miss his crazy player and his ‘superior’ team.Alex,if you see my post,i wish you well,do the test seriously,and if you find your interest on FM again,maybe re-open your old blog will make your followers happy,and this time no cheating,okay :) wish you well
ps:Johnny,can you post the link to download that amazing database,just want to test the database
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 13:58
Timmy, I won’t post a link to that database because it’s not something I approve of, it tends to make the game unrealistic with some «over the top» regens. However, it doesn’t make players as good as some of Alex’ were, so I guess it’s not that spectacular either.
Timmy
25 мая, 2011 at 14:08
okay,and beside that will you invite new manager?
from somewhere,or just ask some members here post their story here(like Lye,if he want,Sibo,Dezmo)
the last,please stop the argumentation :)
thanks Johnny(please don’t angry with me)
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:09
Some new writers might be joining the team at some point, the door remains open. Okay, maybe not wide open but still open.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:49
Why should I be angry? I’m not :)
Timmy
25 мая, 2011 at 14:00
and Alex,please not arguing,it will make you leaving this site with bad thing
Goodluck,wish you well :)
Stromson
25 мая, 2011 at 13:56
Wow, I guess I can’t say I’m surprised but it’s still a crying shame. Part of me had always wondered if something fishy was going on, but after seeing Excessive obliterate the Swedish League and Darren and Johnny’s constant domination (all three of whom I trust not to cheat), it didn’t seem *that* far fetched for him to own the Portugese league. I guess it was too good to be true in the end.
I’ve always felt that your results in game are secondary to the story telling and passion demonstrated. A tough relegation battle that ultimately sees you sent down is far more entertaining than winning every game 6-0.
Excessive
25 мая, 2011 at 14:10
Haha.. It’s an awful league Stromo. Took me 8 years to get to the top of the leagues, with awful players though. Staying at the top with players that can challenge the best of teams in Europe against those that probably won’t make your Sunday league team isn’t tough ;)
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 13:58
Wow, I have to say with the responses I am getting I could kill myself right now. I didn’t realize that people had such respect, whih goes to show what a douche I am.
I know this probably wont help and I can never be held in the regard as I was before but I am truly sorry. I’m not sure why I cheated now, the first two when I didn’t went so well, but I wants more. I got trophy hungry and seriously, I think Johnny and Darren should’ve booted me out when thy first realized this predicament.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:01
Alex, you know that we wanted to give you a second chance and I think that anybody deserves one. We didn’t have 100% exact proof back then and we don’t accuse people unless we are sure. However, I am happy that you finally admit and that you regret it. I can’t understand why you did it but I can forgive anyone who admits his guilt. You have to learn from this lesson, people treat you with respect but you have to respect them too.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 14:06
Wow, what a person you are! Anybody else would be furious and would be arguing, but your level of understanding is something I cannot acheive. Right now I need to focus on exams, and hopefully find my love for FM again!
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 14:08
Good luck for the exams mate, those are more important than anything right now.
Cruickshanks
25 мая, 2011 at 14:38
Well Alex you are my friend and I’m shocked at this news. You were very stupid to cheat and I think you could have gotten as far as you did if you had played the game fairly. I am upset you leave the blogging community like this. I can only hope this is the only story you done this on.
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 14:51
It is, I swear! I know you probably wont believe me, but its true.
Cruickshanks
25 мая, 2011 at 14:58
Well I do believe you due to you being a great friend but I am still dissappointed in you and if you ever do return whereever it may be I hope you learn your lesson
Alex
25 мая, 2011 at 15:04
Thank you, everything I said in the post is true and I hope we can still be friends.
CsAtlantis
25 мая, 2011 at 15:09
I think everyone has had their say on this matter, but I think that Alex has learned his lesson, just one dishonest case and your entire credibility comes into question, this was a real double-edged post though, was happy with being acknowledged before I read the next half
Anyway, Alex, good luck with your exams, study well!
junior
25 мая, 2011 at 15:20
WOW..i remember saying to myself «i suck at FM» cuz what ALEX achieved wt academica was amazing..but ok its like…things go on!!
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 15:25
My god, this is absolutely astonishing. If I said what I really thought, I’d probably get banned from here for life. I always try to be as nice as I can, but this clown doesn’t deserve any credit or compliments. I hope we won’t see any more guys like Alex posting here, or anywhere else for that matter. I’m OK with people cheating, but I absolutely hate people cheating and showing off their success. This is exactly what Alex did… Yeah he apologized, but I couldn’t care less if he did or not. He’s been named and shamed, that’s the least he deserves.
Now what angered me the most was this:
»Wow, I have to say with the responses I am getting I could kill myself right now.»
I swear to bloody god Alex, if I got my hands on you right now, I’d kick your head in. If you knew me as my friends do, I’m totally against violence, but you deserve a slap. How god damn dare you say something as sick and terrible as that. My friends older brother killed himself about a year and a half ago, and it’s affected him so much. Another young boy in the year behind me killed himself as well not to long ago, and the amount of pain it caused to his friends and in particular his family was and still is frightening. I know you probably didn’t mean to say it, but for f*** sake, you disgust me. You complete and utterly disgust me.
I’ve tried to be as pleasant as I could writing this comment, but I can’t hide my anger any longer. Based on previous comments, this one will probably get deleted but unfortunately I don’t have Alex’s email address. I guess that’s a good thing for him, because this comment would probably be 100 times worse.
You know what else? At least I leave here with my head held high, I’m proud of what I achieved. Johnny + Darren are great guys, but you took full advantage of their good will and generosity.
I really hope that this comment won’t be deleted, as I want everyone to know what I really think. I’m not trying to tarnish the site reputation with nasty words, but it’s about time somebody expressed their honest opinion. And I’ll understand if this comment is deleted. However, I’ve copied and saved it elsewhere so I’ll just delete the nasty words and repost it again. Fair play to Johnny and Darren, although it is disappointing, they did the right thing by exposing Alex for the cheat he really is.
Farewell Alex, this is a victory for the FM community.
Callum
25 мая, 2011 at 16:06
I completely agree with Sears and i am the same i hate violence with a passion.I wouldn’t go as far as Sears but still i think even though Alex admitted he was wrong he did it far to late. Johnny has been a complete inspiration to the fm community and i can imagine how he must feel betrayed. I hope this isn’t deleted its a fair opinion. I don’t often comment often only really read but i feel this has to be said.
Excessive
25 мая, 2011 at 17:12
Post of the year.
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 17:49
HAHAHAHA you’re such a childish, strange, life-less person… Pathetic. Really. How could you get aggressive??? Seriously dude, you should get a life.
Excessive
25 мая, 2011 at 17:53
‘you’re such a childish, strange, life-less person… Pathetic’
You should look closer to home mate..
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:07
Please don’t start such flames here. You can express opinions but don’t hurt people. That’s for both of you, Jake and Desmo. Thanks.
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 21:36
You’re right Johnny, but I get angry when people post these things, he doesn’t know Alex in RL and everyone makes mistakes, Alex, Excessive, me, all of us,
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:46
Agreed, some people made mistakes just by commenting here. I always say that one should put himself in the others’ shoes before expressing an opinion. Some people overreacted, I was expecting that and that was why I was thinking about not writing the post and just letting Alex get away with it. But in the end I think that I have made the right decision, I hope that he can have the strength to learn that lying is bad. It’s not the cheating that bothered me the most, the lying bothered me and the impression that he could get away with it. Alex already had the strength to confess and I honestly believe that he regrets it, that’s a very big step because I don’t think that many people would have confessed even when faced with the evidence.
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 21:58
I agree Johnny and Desmo I understand why you got angry now…I think everyone got a little emotional tonight and hey we all let off steam. As long as we all understand the anger and emotion is misplaced lets move on, forgive and forget some of the bad comments.
Desmo Wenning
26 мая, 2011 at 06:27
Yeah, we all gave comments just after reading this and got a bit ’emotional’ I guess…
I agree completely with you 2, if this would’ve been my site I would’ve been angry too with someone lying to me. You did the right thing!
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:00
Calm down Sears, people make mistakes and I’m sure you made on or two in your life as well. I know I’ve made a few, that’s certain. So I wouldn’t thrash a person for a mistake. The truth is important and it has to be told but I’m not that radical about it. I believe that people can be good and that they can be even better after acknowledging a mistake.
john
25 мая, 2011 at 16:13
good job sears you tell him. its a pity u give out about cheatin becuz u probably did sine the vast difference of success in of your stories is unreal im talking about your queens park 1 compared to your journeyman and bilbao 1. Its a pity it wasnt checked out besides that good job for telling him off :)
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 16:42
Yeah but at least I didn’t cheat.
LTN
25 мая, 2011 at 16:48
Actually he is telling you that you have cheated. I don’t agree with that though, I read your stories since you were playing FM2010 with Juventus and Chelms…something and you were very good. Just because he did not do that extraordinary well in his Bilbao story, that doesn’t mean that he cheated, John.
P.S Journeyman story= Queen Park story
He continued that, he just changed teams.
john
25 мая, 2011 at 18:17
I bet u did but it but it was not checked out.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:22
We don’t randomly accuse people here. So if you have proof, show it. If not, stop posting such comments. Thanks.
Laxeyman
25 мая, 2011 at 16:16
Such a shame that a good writer has had to leave because something which he didn’t need to do, and tbh it made the story quite boring as winning 6-0 every game just isn’t interesting. Hopefully Alex won’t do it again and hopefully will do well in his exams.
Ollie
25 мая, 2011 at 17:11
Hi Alex
I dont see what all the fuss is about its just a game FFS, its not like you killed anyone LOL :D
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 17:47
Totally agree with you Ollie, weird guys around here…
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:06
Desmo, I don’t think there’s anything weird about being honest. Do you?
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:03
You are right, it’s just a game. What he did was wrong though, it’s a matter of principles and education.
Ollie
25 мая, 2011 at 18:43
I suppose your right Johnny, but i think Sears should calm down, its just a game, he doesnt need to be threatening people like that. :(
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:51
I have asked him to calm down and I’m sure he will. I understand his frustration but we need to be calm and civil.
Callum
25 мая, 2011 at 18:46
I totally agree this is a respected site and its is a game with no impact in real life but the people are real and if Alex lacks the morals to play fairly thats bad. The people here are all valued as respected honest people and he tainted the image thats what upset me most, hope he learns from this.
Sayam Khan
25 мая, 2011 at 17:30
Johnny! You are a legend! It’s funny how Alex tried to cover everything up, but in the end he had no way out.
I have to say, I’m very dissapointed, his posts were very time consuming and they were posted every day also… I can’t believe how he would have posted with the thought of ‘cheating’ in his mind. The fact he has made you go through all the trouble of testing the database, constantly checking emails, it’s made me angry even though I’ve had nothing to do with it.
He also made everyone believe that they were rubbish, for example, I thought I was rubbish at finding regens… I don’t understand how he would have enjoyed his game by winning every game 6-0. I enjoy my game soo much because challenges come up all the time, ie. finishing 5th, but unable to maintain it, then finishing 1st, but now i’m unable to maintain that also.
First i thought, the portugese league must have been damn easy, which did occasionally wipe any concerns I had from him.
This website has grown massively over the last 6 months and I just hope this doesn’t damage it’s reputation.
Regarding the new writers for the website, I believe the current system is good enough, starting in the forums and then getting promoted.. And I don’t have a suggestion on how it could be improved. And Alex was promoted straight to the main page also….
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:05
Alex was promoted straight away because he had proven his writing skills on another blog, that’s why. It wasn’t a favor to him, he deserved the account as I still believe that he is a good writer.
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 17:41
Come on you guys, you’re all furious with Alex but hey, it’s only a game, don’t act like your life depends on a good FM-story or a cheated one.
Alex, thank you for the kind words, really appreciate it and I would love to see you return to FMCrowd one day and I will definitely follow you once again if you do so. The FMCrowd chats have been amazing and I’m not furious with you at all with the cheating thing, we all do things we regret later.
Hope to see you soon Alex :D
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 19:41
Desmo its not about cheating. We have built this community over years and Alex put the whole sites reputation at risk. If he wants to cheat I don’t care, but he lied on our site and this could have seriously damaged the way Football Manager Story is viewed. Why don’t you get that, its been said enough times! If your site have more than 3800 visitors a day I think you’d care about its image…that is what the problem is, not him simply cheating. (Sorry to have repeated this below too.)
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 21:38
I guess you’re right Darren, but some people go to far. Alex also went too far though, especially with the suicide-thing…
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 22:02
You’re right Desmo, some people did take things too far and it all stemmed from a comment that was probably written as an expression but taken the wrong way. My problem is that you generalised and made out like myself and Johnny had no reason to complain when obviously we do as the site could have suffered from Alex’s actions. However, I can see where your comments were angled now…
Tom
25 мая, 2011 at 17:54
Alex
I wish you the best in your exams even though u cheated
How do u become a member of the writing team?
Tom
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:08
Tom, you have to start writing a story in the forum to prove your writing skills and passion for the game (that is if you don’t have a previous blog or website to prove that).
Tom
25 мая, 2011 at 18:15
Thanks dude :D
I got a cardiff story but i’ve done 1 season and dont have any screen shots or stuff.
So I think I should start a new one but who as? :D
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:23
You can always ask in the forums, there is a nice bunch of people there and I’m sure they will be more than willing to suggest teams to manage.
Tom
25 мая, 2011 at 18:27
Ok I will thanks :D
Nice pic btw :D
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:35
Thanks.
Tom
25 мая, 2011 at 20:43
What part of the forums do I ask what team to do?
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 20:55
I guess the FM 2011 General Discussions would be the place.
Kevin
25 мая, 2011 at 18:22
Well this is quite and active post now isn’t it!
Yes this is just a game but publishing something that isn’t true is just not morally correct. People come here to read good stories,be entertained all the while trusting in what has been written is on the level.
Fine if people want to manipulate the game go right ahead and enjoy, just don’t write about it. There that’s my 10 cents worth.
Alex: I wish you well with your exams and good luck for the future.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:24
Thanks for the comment Kevin, I was looking forward to your wise 10 cents :)
Stromson
25 мая, 2011 at 18:36
I don’t think we should be bashing or threatening Alex in anyway. He made a mistake, lied, and was caught. Ultimately however, he confessed that what he did was wrong and he’s shown remorse for his actions. We all screw up from time to time, lord knows I have. Yes there are consequences (such as no long being allowed to write here), but he’s (hopefully) learned a valuable lesson.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 18:41
I totally agree Stromson, we shouldn’t be radical because we all make mistakes. I am very happy that Alex chose to confess even in the 12th hour, as far as I’m concerned he’s 50% forgiven. The other 50% will need some time.
wemblry
25 мая, 2011 at 19:18
wow really shocked here.. thought there was something fishy when i saw your custome database
The Green Army
25 мая, 2011 at 19:21
Sorry but from the bottom part it seems like your just getting worked up about a game which is designed for people to have fun and if alex wants to make a custom database with awesome players thats fine by me because I don’t care that much that he cheated about the game. As long as it allows alex to have more fun playing FM.
BUT, A BIG BUT is that he ruined it for other people who read his blog and that all they were reading about was almost a bunch of lies which just ruins the blog for other people. I mean I don’t mind about using custom database but writing about it to make others and me think he is the most isanely awesome person at FM ever. no.
To sum up Alex can use his own private custom database on his own because it makes the game much easier but writing about to just pretend he’s really good is just a no no.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 19:30
The problem is not the custom database, the problem is that Alex manually boosted the attributes of some players. The custom database issue was all worked out but cheating is a whole different story. At the end of the day it’s all about being honest. And since I built this website from scratch I guess I have the right to have my say about what gets published or not. And my say is that dishonest stories don’t get published, that’s all there is to it. People that write here have the be honest, that’s the very first requirement, and it is about more than just a game. Me and the other writers have worked hard for two and a half years to set a standard here and when that is under threat I guess we have a right to react.
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 19:32
Hmmmm, well I must admit I had a comment in mind but reading through all the other comments has completely thrown me. I cannot believe one person cheating has brought about so many arguments. Let me start with Desmo, this site is well respected and when someone cheats, that brings everyones reputation into question…its not about cheating on FM, hell its only a game, its about coming onto someone elses site and writing lies that could ruin our hard work. You may not pay for your site and haven’t built something over years, that could be why you don’t understand but we do and we have spent ages building this little community into what it is…Alex put all that at risk so YES it is a big deal. This sites success relies on its reputation, so don’t brush it away like its nothing. If you don’t agree then why do you bother blogging yourself?
Now, let me move onto the rest on a whole. Please stop arguing, this post is about Alex’s mistake and making the community aware of whats happened because myself and Johnny believe in trust and honesty. There is no need for such arguments and harsh words.
I manage this site with Johnny because I love FM and find writing about it relaxing. Right now I’m actually stressed and just feel crap after reading you go at it. To be honest I am starting to question why I started blogging in the first place. I loved the community from day one, but this isn’t the community I know. I’ve never seen one scenario turn people against each other this way.
I have already spoken to Alex in private, but will just say you made a mistake and have paid the price. Before Desmo comes out with another smart arse remark, let me reiterate…I am not bothered about you cheating (as its upto you what you do in your own space,) but you can’t come onto someone elses site and risk tarnishing their reputation. That is what upsets me, anyway you have apolagized so we’ll leave it at that and move on.
Everyone is entitled to their opinion, I appreciate that…but please consider what you write before publishing it.
Sibo
25 мая, 2011 at 19:52
I agree, whilst I don’t regret what I said as I think it was balanced and a fair reflection of my views (as well as not being the flashpoint for an argument!) I do think that this is tearing the community apart with everyone arguing, it would probably be best if everyone just stopped. Took a deep breath. And then thought about what they were going to write, I didn’t write my reply instantly as I didn’t want any heightened emotions to ruin anything I was going to say.
Of course it is fine to have an opinion on this, but it doesn’t need to be phrased in an aggressive way, after all, Alex has apologized, even if it has come very late, so I think our main focus here should just be to say goodbye and if you can’t say anything else without getting threatening or aggressive, then just say that.
Anyway, thanks for reading.
Alex: Goodbye mate, I am sure that, at some point, I won’t remember you for this but for the helpful guy who helped me become a bit more established on FMCrowd, always commenting and producing quality posts.
I won’t fully forgive you yet, but maybe one day I can and then I can remember you for the helpful FMCrowd blogger, not this.
Thanks.
vaibhavc
25 мая, 2011 at 19:51
I would just like to say something to everyone: Please think about what you say and please stop swearing or using abusive language. I am sure everyone makes mistakes, and Alex has made a big one, but there is no reason to swear at him. Please appreciate the fact that he has accepted his mistakes. I know many who would have said it was not their fault. Whether you forgive him or not is your choice. Thank You.
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 21:07
Agreed. :)
vikingmarius
25 мая, 2011 at 19:53
http://kaksak.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/wolrd-cup-calm-down.jpg
a bit strange this nothing against custom databases and changing stats if thats what you wanna do, but its not nice to blog it on such a prolific site
oh well its all just got a bit out of hand
thanks for the shout out and I will miss your story
good luck in exams
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 19:56
You don’t understand, it’s about this site’s profile and about what the readers expect to find here. We can’t ban cheating all over the world, you can do what you please with your computer, we just don’t allow lying and cheating on our website. I don’t think that’s too difficult to understand, is it? Alex understood eventually, I don’t see why you wouldn’t.
vikingmarius
25 мая, 2011 at 20:26
I have understood I said it is fine on your own «but its not nice to blog it on such a prolific site» — quote from my post
sorry if you misunderstood
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 20:42
You would be correct my friend, I did misread that…my eyes are blurry from so many comments lol :) Thanks for pointing that out.
vikingmarius
25 мая, 2011 at 21:00
haha no probs mate my language was very neutral thats why
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:16
Sorry, your comment seemed a bit ironic to me. But that might be just because I’ve read and written so many today, my apologies for the misunderstanding.
vikingmarius
25 мая, 2011 at 21:27
I completely understnad as I said it was very neutral but just to reaffirm I do not condone this on this site due to the respect it has and deserves
Desmo Wenning
25 мая, 2011 at 21:41
Brilliant link, viking!
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 20:24
vikingmarius I like the image ;) Everyone should tone it down a notch, but having said that this is a really big deal to myself and Johnny…and all the sites writers for that matter. We have worked soooo hard to build a successful FM site, all this could have gone to waste because of Alex’s mistake. Anyone who cheats, go for it, I honestly don’t mind as its your game and you can do whatever you want…but NO ONE can cheat on this site. We own the site, we make the rules and they are there to make the site successful and a pleasant read. For me this is case closed, I honestly can’t fathom how anyone doesn’t understand why we see this as a big deal…we haven’t poured hours of time into this every night for years to watch it get a bad reputation…and that is what was at risk.
Now, how about we try to forget this little fiasco. I personally read and write to relax and enjoy a fun enviroment….therefore I’m sure everyone else is the same. I personally feel this subject is a little depressing and taking away from what this site is about. So I welcome you all to enjoy Stromson’s latest post here https://www.footballmanagerstory.com/2011/05/jon-seattle-sounders-may-and-june/
Mathias
25 мая, 2011 at 20:28
I also do think, that Alex made a mistake… But he is also the reason, why i read on this site. He has made a mistake, and so have i… You just need to get back on the horse (Thats what you say in Denmark). Before Alex came here, i had never heard of this place, and i thank him to introduce me, to this amazing site! Am in here every date, and always looking forward to new posts! So he also did some good thing for this site! So i think that we all need to thank him. i do myself!
Alex, i’m sorry you cheated but it’s no massive sin… I forgive, beacuse you have given me so much joy through your posts!
I love Footballmanagerstory and only beacuse Alex moved from FMCrowd to here!
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:01
I admit that Alex did bring some new readers to the website, I can’t deny that and both Darren and me appreciated that. Anyway, I hope that you find the other stories here equally interesting.
Mathias
25 мая, 2011 at 21:18
I do! But i would just also put a nice memory of alex in you mind! :D But i also understna your anger or what you will call it! :D Thank you for this site, and i don’t believe that this case, will effect the reputation of this genius site! :)
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 21:23
Thanks for the comment Mathias, myself and Johnny have read so many comments our eyes are red lol :) Like mentioned we aren’t trying to tarnish Alex, just savour the sites reputation and its nice to know it remains in tact with you. :)
Mathias
25 мая, 2011 at 21:40
You properly need to use some eye drops after tonight! ;) Your eyes must burn! Haha! But i will always read on this site, forever and beyond!
Just a tip, but that maybe just me who don’t have a life, but i check this site 5 times a day, so please get some more writters on the main page, so there are more stories to enjoy! :)
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:48
Well, we have a nice surprise for you: I can reveal that we will be having a new author on the main page very soon! ;)
Omer
25 мая, 2011 at 20:39
So with your strict rules of joining now, suppose you can let me join :D
But in all serious I’m sad that Alex had to cheat because I thought he had a great story going at first. In the end this is only a game but I do understand your anger at the issue.
Moving on Johnny bring out another Vauxhall post!
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:02
It wasn’t anger, at least not from me. Just disappointment. Anyway, I will do my best to have a fresh Vauxhall post tomorrow.
Omer
25 мая, 2011 at 21:37
:D
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 20:50
Woah, I loved Alex’s FM Crazy stories on FM crowd and am di
sapointed by this but I think everyone needs to take a deep breath and calm down. I’ve been visiting this site for a year and a half and this is the first time I’ve seen any serious cracks appear in this community.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 20:56
I think that there’s a good part to it: both the community and Alex will be stronger and better after this mishap.
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 20:58
well said ;-)
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 20:58
Sorry for the lack of grammar there
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 21:11
lol, I agree completely Nick. You described the community showing cracks for the first time very well. And it shouldn’t be that way, myself, Johnny and all the writers want to carry on as normal so I hope everyone can forget about this soon. At the end of the day Alex’s actions shouldn’t have an effect on the site and its community…lets hope tonight is a full moon or something. ;)
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 21:25
Thanks for the kind words
Billy
25 мая, 2011 at 21:01
Disapointing as i enjoyed alex’s academica story, hopefully this wont happen again and i have no doubt this incident will effect such a brilliant website.
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 21:05
agree 100% :-)
Richard
25 мая, 2011 at 21:06
I’ve been reading this site for quite some time now, but i’ve never written in (feeling a little like an outsider looking in). I am keenly interested in Kevins, Ana Lucia’s, and Darrens stories. Part of the charm of these stories are the fact that they don’t always win. In fact, some stories I believe are actually more interesting when trying to avoid relegation (Coruxo story springs to mind here).
Anyway, for what it’s worth, my point is that I read these stories for the journey itself, not the results. I like to see how people set up their teams, how they adapt to other teams, how they react to adversity etc etc. In all honesty, I had stopped reading Alex’s story as I personally found it a bit repetitive and boring, but that’s just me.
I would just like to say to Johnny and Darren that I understand your concerns about the reputation and validity of the site. However for me, this incident will not affect my views or reading of the site. I am pleased that in my reading of this site going forward, I will be engaging in real and honest stories from honest writers who have no use of a customised database… Keep up the good work.
Thank you
Darren Smith
25 мая, 2011 at 21:18
Thanks for that Richard, a very nice comment and I appreciate the kind words. The only reason Johnny and I decided to tell the community about Alex is because we feared for the readers that may have been suspicious. We wanted everyone to know our stories are 100% real and we don’t like fake or pampered stories on this site. This reveal seemed like the only way to achieve that although a handful seem to have missed the point. I’m glad you didn’t and it means a lot to know our reputation remains in tact with you.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 21:19
Thanks a lot for the comment Richard, I appreciate that you decided to share your thoughts. By the way, it’s Ana Garcia and not Ana Lucia but I admit that your version sounds pretty nice :)
Richard
25 мая, 2011 at 21:25
I’ve think i’ve been watching too much «Lost» with my Football Manager!! Let’s hope «Ana Lucia» doesn’t notice…
You are both welcome, I can see that you have spent a lot of time and effort on this site, and I know that it is always nice to hear occasionally that someone else can see this and appreciates it.
Ana Garcia
25 мая, 2011 at 23:35
LoL!
I did notice! But thanks for your kind words on my stories so I will forgive you for getting my name wrong! :)
Excessive
25 мая, 2011 at 22:22
Just like to apologise for flaming earlier, that’s not normally what I’m about.
Hope everyone can resolve their differences.
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 22:38
Me neither, I’m normally a calm person but they are some things that really gets my blood boiling and Alex saying that he could kill himself is definitely one of those things… I apologize too for saying I’d physically harm him in any way. I didn’t mean that.
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 22:35
Desmo — Where do you live, Holland? I live in Ireland.. Do I know you? Have I ever seen you before? Have you ever spoken to me before? Your saying I shouldn’t judge Alex since I don’t know him in real life… What have you just done? Oh wait, just in case anyone forgot:
»HAHAHAHA you’re such a childish, strange, life-less person… Pathetic. Really. How could you get aggressive??? Seriously dude, you should get a life.»
I’m 16, so I may still be childish and immature, so I’ll let you off with that one pal. Strange? My sister thinks I’m strange, so maybe your right there too. Life-less person? Am, if I was life-less, wouldn’t I be dead? Pathetic? How on earth could I be pathetic? How could you stand up for someone who cheated and told you sooooo many lies? Please, enlighten me? You read Alex’s posts on FM Crowd… How do you know he didn’t cheat there as well? He did give a player £2,900 wages whilst in the Blue Square Premier, where your budget is normally around that figure.. Anybody could cheat and provide a good story… I’ll even waste some of my extremely valuable time to prove you wrong. You just have to be good at lying. I wasn’t aggressive, actually, I was calm when I posted that comment (although maybe a bit pissed off because of Alex’s continuous lies, and what he said about killing himself)… I don’t regret posting that comment either just because you like to stand up for people who cheat and manipulate you into believing there some sort of god even though there cheating all along..
John — Mate, please stop posting ridiculous acquisitions. If you think I cheated, provide some proof or don’t bother at all.. It’s easy to accuse people of cheating, oh hey Johnny, I think you cheated with Vauxhall because you led them to 5 consecutive promotions… Seriously like? Unlike Alex, I actually have a guilty conscience…. But if you find proof that I did cheat, I’ll personally ask either Johnny or Darren to write a post exposing me for the cheat I am. Until then, I await your apology for making such idiotic acquisition’s through this extremely stressful time I’m enduring.
Ollie — Don’t worry, I am calm. Even after I lost a soccer match a while ago 5-0 :-D, but I understand your concerns and I’m sorry if you, and anyone else thought I crossed the line regarding my comment.
Well I’m finished with this discussing now, unless of course Desmo wants to apologize to me for saying thing’s that aren’t nice, and more importantly, not true about me. I think he should also apologize to the others for saying that there are »weird people here».
Johnny + Darren — I apologize for any wrong doing I have caused. Regarding my statement about kicking in Alex’s head, I obviously didn’t mean that, but what he said about killing himself was absolutely sickening and disgusting.. I’m very passionate about that kind of thing as I’ve seen friends suffer because of people taking there own lives so I wasn’t going to take it kindly, no matter who said it. I acknowledge that I took it to far. However, I did mean everything else I said 100%. Again, I offer my sincere apologizes and I hope you, and everyone else forgives me.
Johnny Karp
25 мая, 2011 at 22:41
Sears, please let’s put an end to this. Thanks.
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 23:12
Sears, please calm down, I’m younger then you so I might be wrong or not mature enough but it clearly seems that Alex has apologised for his regrettable actions. From following your journeyman blog you seemed like a nice and reasonable person, so just please calm down. Personally, I don’t like cheaters either but I can understand why people would want to do it. Alex was clearly feeling pressure from joining such a large community.
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 23:24
Re-read my comment bud, as you clearly havn’t read it. I apologized, admitted I was in the wrong. What else do I have to do? I apologized, but it’s OK for John to call me a cheat, and for Desmo to say that I’m a pathetic person with no life. Yet your still telling me to calm down, unbelievable. How’s that fair?
Nick
25 мая, 2011 at 23:40
I don’t think either of them are right either, I’m just saying that you’re being quite aggressive, I don’t think you cheated at all but some accusations you’re making are (or at least look) a bit aggressive. I might be wrong but I’m almost certain that Alex didn’t cheat on his FM Crowd game. As for Desmo, he was definitely wrong too, some of his accusations were clearly childish and ridiculous. If I’m flaming, I deeply apologise and if somebody tells me I am then I’ll stop but you haven’t really apologised, just defended yourself (which of course you should do) I’m probably making no sense here so if I’m being stupid, please ignore me. thanks
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 23:43
Your not being stupid, just expression your opinion as your rightly to do so. Let’s forget this ever happened alright? Good night.
Ana Garcia
25 мая, 2011 at 23:31
Wow, I wasnt expecting all this.
I guess I cant really add anything I agree with some people disagree with others but I raised my concern with both Darren and Johnny so am glad the right outcome has happened.
We all make mistakes its part of life, its how we react after that makes us who we are.
Alex made a mistake but he accepted it so there is no point having a go at him. Lets hope he learns a lesson and becomes a better person, I have nothing against him so the best of luck in your exams Alex and I hope you get the grades you need.
This is one of the nicest, friendliest FM sites there is so lets keep it that way. This is a one-off incident so lets try to forget it.
I guess thats all I want to say on the matter, I realise Johnny and Darren want to show the facts as they have worked hard to build this site and they dont want it ruined.
Life’s too short as they say, but I think the right conclusion has been reached.
Sears
25 мая, 2011 at 23:40
I agree with Ana… I apologize for what I said, and I wish Alex the best of luck in his exams. I know this may be rich coming from me, but I think we should all put an end to this childish play acting and forget all of this ever happened. I for one won’t be commenting in this post again, so good luck Alex in what ever you chose to do in life.
Mat
26 мая, 2011 at 11:22
I have been a fan of this blogs for around two years now but don’t comment a lot because I enjoy reading the posts of others, but I can stay silent on this occasion What has disappointed me in reading this post is not Alex’s cheating. Yes it was wrong and his lying made this worse but people make mistakes and I can forgive him for this. What has really disappointed me is the disrespect showed my some members towards others. I have always known the FMS community to be one passionate about FM and football in general and the discussion has always been enlightening and although there have been differences in opinion at times, the debate has always been built on mutual respect for one another. I hope the community can move on from this and no matter what your opinion on the issue is I hope we can all learn to recognise what unites us and forget the things that divide us.
I’d like to end by congratulating Jonny and Darren on the way they have handled this issue. Although the short term consequences may not have been what you had expected, in the long term I’m sure everything will work out fine. Know that in my opinion you did the right thing.
Yours in Football.
Mat
26 мая, 2011 at 11:24
make that con’t in the first sentence
Mat
26 мая, 2011 at 11:25
make that can’t in the comment above
Johnny Karp
26 мая, 2011 at 11:33
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, we will continue to do our best to keep thins community nice and friendly.
Darren Smith
26 мая, 2011 at 12:50
I love this community and I really appreciated your comment Mat. Myself and Johnny love a calm and relaxed atmosphere so we’d do anything to keep that in our community. I think everyones said their peace now so we can all move on.
Darren Smith
26 мая, 2011 at 12:53
OK guys, looking through all the comments I think everyone has said their peace, then regretted it and said sorry lol :) At least most of us anyway so lets call it a day. Everyone seems to have kissed and made up now, must admit that pleases me a lot. I enjoy spending time on the net with every single one of you, so its nice to know we can all back down when things get heated. Victory for the FMS community ;)
Daniel
26 мая, 2011 at 19:27
Bit disappointed, if am honest.. but all in all, everyone make mistakes. Forgive and forget. This could of ruined the time and effort of the people who made this website.
Alex — good luck in your exams.
Daniel
dami
30 мая, 2011 at 17:03
so many comments…nothing more to add…Anyway best of luck with your exams…
George Dobson
1 июня, 2011 at 19:02
oh