Zygalski
Administrator
I'll post the profiles of all the finalists as they appear on the pesleague site. When they are all available, I'll change the order so they appear as groups of 4 from each league.
PRO-FILE: BADE ADE
20 Jul 04 - 15:39
NAME: Bade Ade
AGE: 21
LEAGUE: London E4 [aka London Red I Computing, Chingford]
TEAM: Netherlands
FORM: POS4 P20 W14 D2 L4 F45 A23 GD+22 BP+3 47PTS
Bade has been holding back all season, keeping a lid on any competitive streak until it matters. To have make fourth in the E4 League takes skill, and you can tell Bade knows it. If there's one thing Bade is comfortable with it's his "carefree attitude", and he told PESLeage, "I don't take the game as serious as a lot of other players, therefore I hardly feel pressure when I'm playing a game."
No doubt Bade is hoping experience will take him further than some of the younger players, "I've been playing ISS since the first one came out on the SNES in 1995," but concedes that, "[PES has] evolved a lot since then".
Bade favours the Netherlands over any other team in PES. "It has to be Holland, been using them for the last four [versions] now or more! My first ever team though was Columbia, just loved Valderrama!!" Evidently Bade knows exactly who he has to work with in his teams, so if we were to guess at a way to stop him it would be to rush him off the ball, not allowing him time to find specific targets.
We're asking all the finalists how they most fear/respect in the competition. "I don't fear ne1," Bade advises, "but respect a lot of the London players, especially my bruv (Tim Adegboye) who finished fourth in Harrow. He knows the insides and outs of my game and therefore I would not like to face him in the finals. Others I respect include Osman [Idris], David [Sefah], Fem [Femi Paul], and Zesh [Sadique]."
Well, they're all going to be there waiting for you Bade, so let's see how laid back you are on the 7 August mate
We wish you luck.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================================================
PRO-FILE: DANNY LOUNDES
20 Jul 04 - 16:18
NAME: Danny Loundes
AGE: 21
LEAGUE: Birmingham
TEAM: England
FORM: POS2 P20 W12 D6 L2 GF42 GA30 GD+12 BP+3 45PTS
We admire Danny, if only for his dedication to his favourite League One team: "Walsall, of course We'll be bouncing straight up to 'The Championship' next season. I hate these new names for the Nationwide leagues!!" You wouldn't if you supported Rochdale, mate!
Anyway, like many of our finalists Danny has been playing PES since it was known as ISS on the SNES. "I play the Winning Eleven Japanese series the most though," Danny proudly admits, "I import every version."
Here's food for thought for those obsessed with your formations (Newcastle's Jon Lee, and the whole of the E4 team!). Danny is trusting "the simple-ness" of his play to steady his chances in the finals. "I don't do any of the fancy formations of anything. I simply use the default formation and tactics and play normally..." Then adds, cheekily, "It worked well in the league."
Is Loundes being suicidal with his complete trust in the basic PES set up? Maybe a few of you will know exactly the most effective way to play a default England squad and therefore how to stop it...
Given what can also be seen as a cautious approach, it's no surprise that Danny cites the likes of Osman Idris, and reigning champ David Sefah as the ones to fear. "There's some great players in the finals, " Danny recognises as if just for the record, "but everyone's still go a chance in the finals" he adds with a smile.
Good luck Danny.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
========================================================================
PRO-FILE: DWAINE PARKES
21 Jul 04 - 10:40
NAME: Dwaine Parkes
AGE: 18
LEAGUE: Birmingham
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: POS3 P19 W11 D6 L2 GF47 GA24 GD+23 BP+3 42PTS
You'll notice Dwaine Parkes talks in crazy riddles. If he takes this approach to his game, Dwaine will either dazzle like Garrincha did for Brazil, or look foolish in the way C. Ronaldo sometimes does for Man U. His loyalties to others can be all over the place but confidence in himself is total, as you will see.
"I've been playing [PES] since the ISS Deluxe days on the SNES, but it wasn't until ISS Pro 98 that I fully converted from the enemy - FIFA." Guess we can forgive Dwaine for his long-ago temporary madness, and everyone should recognise that six years playing PES is still a lot of experience.
With Parkes coming from Birmingham, it's fair that he should act surprised when asked which team he follows: "I support Birmingham City of course..." he proclaims. But then he adds "...formally Man U." Eh? Whatever.
"On ISS/Pro Evo its all about Argentina," Dwaine begins anew with certainty, but then spikes us all again by saying, "don't even ask me why I'm Brazil in the league though." We're too scared to ask, don't worry about that. Does everyone talk like this on Mars?
And if you think that's odd, check this out: Dwaine tells us that if he were to identify the one weapon in his arsenal that could win the tournament for him, it would be confidence. "Only I can beat myself," he confides, by way of explanation. And if he were to recognise another person worth fearing and due respect in the finals, who would this be, we wonder?
"That guy Dwaine something, Dwaine Parkes I think his name is."
In case you need it Dwaine, good luck.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: SHUI IP
21 Jul 04 - 12:54
NAME: Shui Ip
AGE: 23
LEAGUE: Liverpool
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W18 D1 L1
Shui only narrowly missed out on a place in the final at the PESLeague North Vs South Derby. This should give you some idea of the threat he represents. Also, topping the Liverpool League is a reason for this methodical player to enter the finals with a spring in his step.
"I have been playing PES/ISS for maybe in excess of 10 years, which includes almost every version which has come out for all the consoles," informs Merseyside's maestro. "The first version I played was Perfect Eleven (Jap version) for the SNES," adds Shui just to make sure we know he's not lying. Or he's good at looking stuff up on the Internet - you decide
Shui has a huge passion for international tournaments, and cites England, Holland, Argentina and Italy as the classic sides of his time. Recently though it's France who most inspire Shui to perform in PES. Although not based on Euro 2004 we're sure.
Already Shui is meditating on the best mental approach to take for the tournament. "The crucial factors for me winning will be playing calm, being patient, persistent and being able to read my opponents early on" he confided to PESLeague. You might get a good first half against Shui, in other words, but woe betide anyone who mistakes a 1-0 advantage at the break to mean victory in the end. Imagine you're going up against 'Big' Phil Scolari, the successful Brazil coach who came so close to winning glory for Portugal just recently. Unlike Scolari, however, the players' true destinies are at Shui's fingertips.
At PESLeague we're glad to see Shui appreciate that his elevated position isn't so assured. "The player I fear and respect most must be Zahrin from my league," Shui tells us, "I haven't actually seen Osman and David play that much so I can't really fear them but respect them" he adds, sensibly. He isn't done singing Zahrin's praises yet though: "Zahrin is a very clinical type of player meaning he rarely misses an opportunity," Shui trills, "plus it is very difficult to break him down" he booms finally in a rich Baritone.
Good luck to you, Shui.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: KHALID EL-AWEL
21 Jul 04 - 16:37
NAME: Khalid El-Awel
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W19 D0 L1
"Not sure how I've been playing PES/ISS, it seems like my whole life!" We don't think Khalid El-Awel will mind us saying that he is a total PES addict. What's more he's been this way since the first PSOne version "and played more or less every release since then, both Japanese and UK versions."
In our opinion Harrow's 'Special K' is quite the connoisseur, a real fan of the beautiful game, played as the beautiful game. Khalid also follows Arsenal, which he would almost certainly say is all the proof you need.
Khalid just comes right out with it and says, "I've got no fear, I don't mind if I win or lose." There's no hoping for the best, or any specific tactical approach going to win the PESLeague final for Khalid, " I just want to play and am happy to have come this far," he says in all honesty.
Being humble comes with the territory when you're playing in the Harrow league. "I respect all the other guys who qualified from Harrow," mentions Khalid (no surprise there), "I've seen them up close and know how good they are, but I'm sure that everyone who's in the Finals must be very good."
We're sure that they are too Khalid. We know it.
Good luck on the day, mate. We'll be there to wish you well.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================
PRO-FILE: KEITH WHEELER
21 Jul 04 - 14:48
NAME: Keith Wheeler
AGE: 24
LEAGUE: Bath
TEAM: France
FORM: P16 W7 D4 L5
The oldest (wisest?) of Bath Spa's fabulous Wheeler Bros has been playing PES "since Super Nintendo days." He's also humble enough to apologise for the team he supports ("Man United, sorry if that offends anyone"). They should be apologising to you, Keith. Let's see if Chelsea can hold them off for another season eh
Reading between the lines of Keith's answers to our mini Q&A, he cannot do much more to prepare for the finals. " could do with a bit of luck," Keith says, searching for possible ways that the final could run more smoothly for him, "also another camera angle would be good." Really scraping the barrel for any outside forces that might affect his chances.
Only one person Keith pins as a real threat to him on final day, and that's brother Mikey. "My Bro [has] been playing so long he now reads me like a book, but I have my days." We're sure Mikey has had many opportunities to spoil things for Keith back at Camp Wheeler, but Keith has beaten his own flesh and blood in the league (where it matters). In summary though, Keith just lays the truth on the line when he says, "You got to be pretty good to get this far." And on that he rests all hope.
PESLeague wishes you luck, Keith, in case all signs of hope start to vanish.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: MIKEY WHEELER
21 Jul 04 - 15:19
NAME: Mike Wheeler
AGE: 22
LEAGUE: Bath
TEAM: France
FORM: P15 W6 D5 L4
While you and I are chomping Weetos or whatever for breakfast, the Wheeler household feeds on Confidence Flakes. Since the very early days of PES, when it was known as ISS and was so basic you could more attractive goals with a flicker book, the Wheelers have been honing their skills. Brothers, with little else better to do with their leisure time than support Man U and play lots of console footy.
Ten years down the line and the world has gained a couple of wise old PES professionals, empowered by countless (well you probably could count them, but we're not gonna) weekends of fierce sibling rivalry. Sort of like Cane and Able, but instead of slaughtering each other for real they do it on PS2.
There's another, perhaps crucial, dimension to Mikey though which may give him the edge over his older brother Keith, if not over many of the finalists period. He's a proud Bristol Rovers supporter in addition to being associated with Man U, suggesting to PESLeague that he may find other resources to help him win. Honest to goodness, down to earth appreciation of football, so long as it is played in the right spirit ("promotion next year!").
Mikey's philosophy is simple. "If my dribbling is on form, and my crossing is sweet then there's nothing out of reach," Wheeler Jr ventures with his chest glowing just like ET.
Glad to have you at the finals, Mikey. And, good luck!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: ZESH SADIQUE
23 Jul 04 - 13:01
NAME: Zesh Sadique
AGE: 25
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W17 D2 L1
A keen sporting brain could win it for Zesh Sadique, who has enjoyed some outstanding weekends in PESLeague this season.
It's no secret that the Harrow lads are on good terms with the folks across down in E4, and this close nit group features some of the biggest names in the tournament. Which is why Zesh can say with some confidence "I have beaten several of the finalists in the past and hope to do so again."
Zesh was introduced to ISS2 at University by his hockey teammate Nick Allen. "This led to me buying PES1," recalls Zesh, "I've been hooked ever since." No surprises there. "I'm looking forward to playing WE8 and PES4." No surprises there either.
When asked which team does he follow, Zesh avoids the issue for some reason but is full of hope for the national team after Euro 2004. "England will win the world cup in 2006," he predicts with total confidence, but is slightly more cautious when looking ahead to the PESLeague finals. "If I am to be the champ, I'll need my players to play as well as they should and also a bit of luck."
So, who does Zesh rate? "Mr Femi Paul is currently in great form and will be one to watch at the finals," we are warned, "He has won several unofficial tournaments against a good level of opposition and was unbeaten in his 20 matches in the Harrow league. If you hear someone shout "Oh, my days!" in the finals, it'll most likely come from Femi's direction."
Hope it's not you shouting that, Zesh. Good luck
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: TIM ADEGBOYE
23 Jul 04 - 14:58
NAME: Tim Adegboye
AGE: 18
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: Argentina
FORM: P20 W15 D1 L4
Arsenal through and through, Bade Ade's younger bruv has been playing PES since 1995, when it was known as ISS on the SNES. Back then Tim depended on Germany to win the silerware, but switched to Brazil for the first two PES games on PS2. In PES3 Tim's been using Argentina, so read into all that what you like.
"[There's] nothing special about me," offers the straight-talking finalist, "I just think I have a very solid all round game." What's that word Arsene Wenger's fond of using...? 'Consistency'. We guess you could say consistency is one way of interpreting the quality Tim is being so humble about.
The 'nothing special' Adegboye is only willing to admit caution over one other player in the league, "Bade Ade cause that's my bro and we know how we play," shrugs Tim, "except him I have no fear. I look forward for what the UK has to offer but I respect everyone that made it."
Tim's kind of a man of few words in our experience, but the right words. Someone thinking along these lines while playing PES is never going to waste an opportunity, and rarely, if ever, make a mistake. We'll know more from speaking to people on the day, but we'd wager the only players who might rock Tim's steady ship are those who can play a similarly tight game and make everything count. The finals, however, require something of a performance mentality and it remains to be seen how Tim's skills hold up under that kind of scrutiny.
Good luck when it matters, Tim.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
======================================================
PRO-FILE: JON LEE 23
Jul 04 - 15:38
NAME: Jon Lee
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W12 D5 L3
Newcastle's Jon Lee has reason to look so cheerful. He almost missed out on qualifying due to one disastrous weekend in the league earlier this year. He quickly showed resolve in the next meeting, though, and has deserved his place in the finals.
Jon has been playing PES for approximately 10 years, "since the original ISS way back on the SNES." Jon has played every version across all formats - on SNES, N64, PSone "Even the GBA."
It's safe to say Jon's fairly passionate about his football. "Football is immense to sum it up in one word," he says, summing up football in one word. He's a fanatical Newcastle United supporter ("have been since I was born and will till I die"), and is the away supporter's away supporter in that he makes every effort to watch United play, even when it's abroad.
Versus so many talented players in the finals, Jon trusts his sound knowledge of the way PES works as a game, "knowing the limits of passing or shooting from certain areas of the pitch, as well as knowing what the opponent will try to do to stop me." Fall into the first of Jon Lee's traps, and you'll spend the entire rest of the game digging yourself out of deepening hole. Allow Jon to dictate the game and you may as well hang up the controller right then and there.
We get the impression Jon isn't fond of speculating and brushes aside 'what ifs' with this matter of fact statement: "You can't just respect one person. All the other 39 competitors get as much respect as each other. I finished fourth in my group and I am very confident in my own ability. So whether they finished fourth of first, losing one or 10, if they've got to Stamford Bridge they'll be able to give anyone a good game."
Good luck, Jon. Just remember to go careful with the Vimto the night before.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
======================================================
PRO-FILE: TACHAKON HAMTHANON
23 Jul 04 - 16:04
NAME: Tachakon Hamthanon
AGE: 22
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: France
FORM: P19 W16 D3 L0
Unbeaten (unbeatable?) Tachakon 'Tak' Hamthanon is a Man U supporter, and has been playing PES for nearly four years.
Tak says it's his ability to read opponents, and adapt his style of attacking to suit the game that oughta be his killer weapon. It certainly helped him come into the Newcastle league late in the season to play 19 games unbeaten, drawing only three of those too. There might have been more draws, only "my finishing is good also" Tak is proud to make public.
"I don't fear anyone," Newcastle's whirlwind champion says without malice "I just enjoy playing the game." Well, of course you're always going to enjoy PES if you're in the habit of never losing.
What will happen when Tachakon meets fellow unbeaten players Bade Ade, and Oz Idris? Somebody has to lose, but we can easily imagine Tak holding on to his cool longer than the others. When Tak talks about his finishing being good, he's making an understatement - check out his results. Plentiful goals from Tak could seriously rattle even the most confident opponent.
Good luck Tachakon, we're really looking forward to seeing you play.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: OSMAN IDRIS
25 Jul 04 - 10:42
NAME: Osman Idris
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: London E4
TEAM: France
FORM: P17 W14 D3 L0
We always say that Oz Idris needs no introduction, since he likes to handle this all by himself. But since he's not around to write this for us, we'll do the best we can.
Oz is the most openly confident player you'll meet. Whether this is to hide a secret bag of nerves and a stomach full of butterflies doesn't really matter. Oz has laughed and joked his way to the top of the London E4 league and won the inaugural North Vs South Derby this year. We won't be surprised to see him win at the PESLeague finals because we seriously doubt the possibility has been allowed to enter his mind.
Like the majority of PESLeague finalists, Oz and ISS go way back. "First ISS I played was on the Super Nintendo - ISS Delux. I remember being amazed by the detail Roberto Baggio's ponytail and Ravenelli's Silver crown!" An eye for detail, eh? This would help explain a lot. Also why Oz is a bit miffed at how Damian Duff is "so underrated" in PES3 - Oz is a Chelsea fan y'see. Typical of his luck to be a VIP at Stamford Bridge!
Believe Oz when he cries, "I fear no one but respect everyone!" All that counts when you come to play against Oz is your ability to play. He can't be fooled by false modesty; he already takes for granted that you play better than you say.
We asked Oz to give us all a bit more behind-the-scenes on a couple of his closest rivals, and here's what we got back: "Femi Paul is a part time magician," quips Idris, "[he] can pull something special out the hat." As for the reigning champ, "David Sefah is just Mr Consistent - never gives you a easy game."
There won't be any such thing as an easy game come 7 August. Everyone, including Oz, will need the best of luck so here it is, 'Omen', take or leave.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=================================================
PRO-FILE: ROSS FORSYTH
25 Jul 04 - 11:34
NAME: Ross Forsyth
AGE: 14
LEAGUE: Edinburgh
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W16 D1 L3
Ross hasn't stopped playing PES since the first version on PS2. Which, means he started playing young by all accounts, making him one of PESLeague's bright young things.
In real life it's the Scottish Premier League's Motherwell who have the honour of Ross's undying support, but for the sake of PESLeague it's the samba football of Brazil that has attracted him.
Staying power has brought many of the PESLeague finalists through, and this is also true of Ross - great mental stamina, mixed with confidence and a little humour. "I guess its when I'm playing a game I'll never give up even if I'm like 3-0 down," Ross would like us to know, "but that doesn't happen much" he adds with a grin.
Rather than fear anyone else in the finals, Ross absolutely cannot wait to take on the best from the country. "I would like to play the likes of David Sefah and Osman Idris, so if I don't win I can say I probably [met] the two best players in the UK."
We'd like to see you beat them too, Ross. Good luck!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================
PRO-FILE: MATT HOLMES
25 Jul 04 - 10:05
NAME: Matt Holmes
AGE: 17
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W15 D2 L3
Another Season Ticket holder for Newcastle United, Matt fears fellow magpie Jon Lee the most. "I was just thankful that when I played him in Newcastle I had gained enough points to have virtually qualified. He totally outplayed me and slaughtered me 4-0, I hope I don't have to face him again!!"
If Matt seems shocked that a player of Jon's standard should beat him, it's only because he has every reason expect a win. "I have been playing ISS/PES for around five years and have been totally addicted from the first ISS Pro Evolution for the PSOne," Matt tells us, and he counted a lot on his friends' team spirit just to play. "I never owned a PSOne, so I had to scrounge round my mates all of the time." Gosh. Since PS2, however, Matt has made sure he has access to the game whenever he wants "I made sure I bought the console and [PES] is the game I treasure most!!"
Don't try talking to Matt while he's playing, unless you want to be stone walled. He claims his ability to concentrate wholeheartedly on the matter at hand could be his key to victory. "I always give 100% effort in every match," Matt explains, "and I am totally committed to what I am doing. I make sure I put the thoughts of everything else out of my mind for them crucial 10 minutes."
We'll let you all into a little secret here, chaps - there's gonna be a squad of Xbox babes at the finals, so we'll see how good Matt's concentration is when they're pasing by.
Good luck with the steady hands, Holmes boy. Make sure you're ready for anything because Jon Lee is only the start of your worries in these finals!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
==================================================
PRO-FILE: MARK RAFFIEE
25 Jul 04 - 9:47
NAME: Mark Raffiee
AGE: 17
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W14 D2 L4
An old school friend unwittingly set Mark Raffiee on the road to his first PESLeague finals. "I must admit that throughout my childhood I was a FIFA player, but despite my resistance every time I went round his he made me play it. Since then the game has grew on me and there are no FIFA games in sight!" Don't worry, there will be sniffer dogs at the finals to check if Mark is lying. If we can find him, that is.
See, Mark is a huge fan of Sunderland AFC ("have a season ticket and follow them to away games as well"), and as you should know the 7 August is the first day of the new League Championship with Sunderland away to Coventry. This is going to be a huge distraction to Mark, but hopefully he'll a) still turn up to play in his own championship finale, and b) not have one eye on a portable TV. But, hang on, isn't that a Celtic shirt he's wearing? "I'm also a 'follower' of Celtic in the sense that I like to see them win, especially against the Huns!" Fair enough.
Mark is left trusting everything to the gods in order that he might win the tournament. "To be honest; to have a hope in winning I will probably have to go down the same lines as Glen Hoddle and contact Eileen Drewry (does anyone know her number!)," he says with a wry smile, "I would be happy to get through the group stages, but my ability to score goals is my main firepower."
Don't believe a word of this by the way. We get the impression that, deep down, Mark knows he can win - even if struggles to realise this himself. If you know what we mean...
Never mind.
So, who's to fear - as if we can't guess? "I've heard a lot about players from other leagues, and obviously reading about Osman Idris winning the NVS, he has to be the most feared." Thought so. "But I also have respect for Jon Lee, even though I did finish above him! He often turned up with a hangover and threw away games, but when he's on form he's sh*t hot!"
Here's hoping, for Mark's sake, that Mr Lee finds a double-barrel of ale to shoot himself in the foot, and for Oz Idris to remain out of sight until the final game. And for Sunderland to win at Coventry that afternoon and inspire Mark to victory. This list could go on for quite a while.
Good luck, eh Mark!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================
PRO-FILE: BADE ADE
20 Jul 04 - 15:39
NAME: Bade Ade
AGE: 21
LEAGUE: London E4 [aka London Red I Computing, Chingford]
TEAM: Netherlands
FORM: POS4 P20 W14 D2 L4 F45 A23 GD+22 BP+3 47PTS
Bade has been holding back all season, keeping a lid on any competitive streak until it matters. To have make fourth in the E4 League takes skill, and you can tell Bade knows it. If there's one thing Bade is comfortable with it's his "carefree attitude", and he told PESLeage, "I don't take the game as serious as a lot of other players, therefore I hardly feel pressure when I'm playing a game."
No doubt Bade is hoping experience will take him further than some of the younger players, "I've been playing ISS since the first one came out on the SNES in 1995," but concedes that, "[PES has] evolved a lot since then".
Bade favours the Netherlands over any other team in PES. "It has to be Holland, been using them for the last four [versions] now or more! My first ever team though was Columbia, just loved Valderrama!!" Evidently Bade knows exactly who he has to work with in his teams, so if we were to guess at a way to stop him it would be to rush him off the ball, not allowing him time to find specific targets.
We're asking all the finalists how they most fear/respect in the competition. "I don't fear ne1," Bade advises, "but respect a lot of the London players, especially my bruv (Tim Adegboye) who finished fourth in Harrow. He knows the insides and outs of my game and therefore I would not like to face him in the finals. Others I respect include Osman [Idris], David [Sefah], Fem [Femi Paul], and Zesh [Sadique]."
Well, they're all going to be there waiting for you Bade, so let's see how laid back you are on the 7 August mate
We wish you luck.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================================================
PRO-FILE: DANNY LOUNDES
20 Jul 04 - 16:18
NAME: Danny Loundes
AGE: 21
LEAGUE: Birmingham
TEAM: England
FORM: POS2 P20 W12 D6 L2 GF42 GA30 GD+12 BP+3 45PTS
We admire Danny, if only for his dedication to his favourite League One team: "Walsall, of course
We'll be bouncing straight up to 'The Championship' next season. I hate these new names for the Nationwide leagues!!" You wouldn't if you supported Rochdale, mate!Anyway, like many of our finalists Danny has been playing PES since it was known as ISS on the SNES. "I play the Winning Eleven Japanese series the most though," Danny proudly admits, "I import every version."
Here's food for thought for those obsessed with your formations (Newcastle's Jon Lee, and the whole of the E4 team!). Danny is trusting "the simple-ness" of his play to steady his chances in the finals. "I don't do any of the fancy formations of anything. I simply use the default formation and tactics and play normally..." Then adds, cheekily, "It worked well in the league."
Is Loundes being suicidal with his complete trust in the basic PES set up? Maybe a few of you will know exactly the most effective way to play a default England squad and therefore how to stop it...
Given what can also be seen as a cautious approach, it's no surprise that Danny cites the likes of Osman Idris, and reigning champ David Sefah as the ones to fear. "There's some great players in the finals, " Danny recognises as if just for the record, "but everyone's still go a chance in the finals" he adds with a smile.
Good luck Danny.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
========================================================================
PRO-FILE: DWAINE PARKES
21 Jul 04 - 10:40
NAME: Dwaine Parkes
AGE: 18
LEAGUE: Birmingham
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: POS3 P19 W11 D6 L2 GF47 GA24 GD+23 BP+3 42PTS
You'll notice Dwaine Parkes talks in crazy riddles. If he takes this approach to his game, Dwaine will either dazzle like Garrincha did for Brazil, or look foolish in the way C. Ronaldo sometimes does for Man U. His loyalties to others can be all over the place but confidence in himself is total, as you will see.
"I've been playing [PES] since the ISS Deluxe days on the SNES, but it wasn't until ISS Pro 98 that I fully converted from the enemy - FIFA." Guess we can forgive Dwaine for his long-ago temporary madness, and everyone should recognise that six years playing PES is still a lot of experience.
With Parkes coming from Birmingham, it's fair that he should act surprised when asked which team he follows: "I support Birmingham City of course..." he proclaims. But then he adds "...formally Man U." Eh? Whatever.
"On ISS/Pro Evo its all about Argentina," Dwaine begins anew with certainty, but then spikes us all again by saying, "don't even ask me why I'm Brazil in the league though." We're too scared to ask, don't worry about that. Does everyone talk like this on Mars?
And if you think that's odd, check this out: Dwaine tells us that if he were to identify the one weapon in his arsenal that could win the tournament for him, it would be confidence. "Only I can beat myself," he confides, by way of explanation. And if he were to recognise another person worth fearing and due respect in the finals, who would this be, we wonder?
"That guy Dwaine something, Dwaine Parkes I think his name is."
In case you need it Dwaine, good luck.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: SHUI IP
21 Jul 04 - 12:54
NAME: Shui Ip
AGE: 23
LEAGUE: Liverpool
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W18 D1 L1
Shui only narrowly missed out on a place in the final at the PESLeague North Vs South Derby. This should give you some idea of the threat he represents. Also, topping the Liverpool League is a reason for this methodical player to enter the finals with a spring in his step.
"I have been playing PES/ISS for maybe in excess of 10 years, which includes almost every version which has come out for all the consoles," informs Merseyside's maestro. "The first version I played was Perfect Eleven (Jap version) for the SNES," adds Shui just to make sure we know he's not lying. Or he's good at looking stuff up on the Internet - you decide
Shui has a huge passion for international tournaments, and cites England, Holland, Argentina and Italy as the classic sides of his time. Recently though it's France who most inspire Shui to perform in PES. Although not based on Euro 2004 we're sure.
Already Shui is meditating on the best mental approach to take for the tournament. "The crucial factors for me winning will be playing calm, being patient, persistent and being able to read my opponents early on" he confided to PESLeague. You might get a good first half against Shui, in other words, but woe betide anyone who mistakes a 1-0 advantage at the break to mean victory in the end. Imagine you're going up against 'Big' Phil Scolari, the successful Brazil coach who came so close to winning glory for Portugal just recently. Unlike Scolari, however, the players' true destinies are at Shui's fingertips.
At PESLeague we're glad to see Shui appreciate that his elevated position isn't so assured. "The player I fear and respect most must be Zahrin from my league," Shui tells us, "I haven't actually seen Osman and David play that much so I can't really fear them but respect them" he adds, sensibly. He isn't done singing Zahrin's praises yet though: "Zahrin is a very clinical type of player meaning he rarely misses an opportunity," Shui trills, "plus it is very difficult to break him down" he booms finally in a rich Baritone.
Good luck to you, Shui.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: KHALID EL-AWEL
21 Jul 04 - 16:37
NAME: Khalid El-Awel
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W19 D0 L1
"Not sure how I've been playing PES/ISS, it seems like my whole life!" We don't think Khalid El-Awel will mind us saying that he is a total PES addict. What's more he's been this way since the first PSOne version "and played more or less every release since then, both Japanese and UK versions."
In our opinion Harrow's 'Special K' is quite the connoisseur, a real fan of the beautiful game, played as the beautiful game. Khalid also follows Arsenal, which he would almost certainly say is all the proof you need.
Khalid just comes right out with it and says, "I've got no fear, I don't mind if I win or lose." There's no hoping for the best, or any specific tactical approach going to win the PESLeague final for Khalid, " I just want to play and am happy to have come this far," he says in all honesty.
Being humble comes with the territory when you're playing in the Harrow league. "I respect all the other guys who qualified from Harrow," mentions Khalid (no surprise there), "I've seen them up close and know how good they are, but I'm sure that everyone who's in the Finals must be very good."
We're sure that they are too Khalid. We know it.
Good luck on the day, mate. We'll be there to wish you well.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================
PRO-FILE: KEITH WHEELER
21 Jul 04 - 14:48
NAME: Keith Wheeler
AGE: 24
LEAGUE: Bath
TEAM: France
FORM: P16 W7 D4 L5
The oldest (wisest?) of Bath Spa's fabulous Wheeler Bros has been playing PES "since Super Nintendo days." He's also humble enough to apologise for the team he supports ("Man United, sorry if that offends anyone"). They should be apologising to you, Keith. Let's see if Chelsea can hold them off for another season eh
Reading between the lines of Keith's answers to our mini Q&A, he cannot do much more to prepare for the finals. " could do with a bit of luck," Keith says, searching for possible ways that the final could run more smoothly for him, "also another camera angle would be good." Really scraping the barrel for any outside forces that might affect his chances.
Only one person Keith pins as a real threat to him on final day, and that's brother Mikey. "My Bro [has] been playing so long he now reads me like a book, but I have my days." We're sure Mikey has had many opportunities to spoil things for Keith back at Camp Wheeler, but Keith has beaten his own flesh and blood in the league (where it matters). In summary though, Keith just lays the truth on the line when he says, "You got to be pretty good to get this far." And on that he rests all hope.
PESLeague wishes you luck, Keith, in case all signs of hope start to vanish.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: MIKEY WHEELER
21 Jul 04 - 15:19
NAME: Mike Wheeler
AGE: 22
LEAGUE: Bath
TEAM: France
FORM: P15 W6 D5 L4
While you and I are chomping Weetos or whatever for breakfast, the Wheeler household feeds on Confidence Flakes. Since the very early days of PES, when it was known as ISS and was so basic you could more attractive goals with a flicker book, the Wheelers have been honing their skills. Brothers, with little else better to do with their leisure time than support Man U and play lots of console footy.
Ten years down the line and the world has gained a couple of wise old PES professionals, empowered by countless (well you probably could count them, but we're not gonna) weekends of fierce sibling rivalry. Sort of like Cane and Able, but instead of slaughtering each other for real they do it on PS2.
There's another, perhaps crucial, dimension to Mikey though which may give him the edge over his older brother Keith, if not over many of the finalists period. He's a proud Bristol Rovers supporter in addition to being associated with Man U, suggesting to PESLeague that he may find other resources to help him win. Honest to goodness, down to earth appreciation of football, so long as it is played in the right spirit ("promotion next year!").
Mikey's philosophy is simple. "If my dribbling is on form, and my crossing is sweet then there's nothing out of reach," Wheeler Jr ventures with his chest glowing just like ET.
Glad to have you at the finals, Mikey. And, good luck!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: ZESH SADIQUE
23 Jul 04 - 13:01
NAME: Zesh Sadique
AGE: 25
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W17 D2 L1
A keen sporting brain could win it for Zesh Sadique, who has enjoyed some outstanding weekends in PESLeague this season.
It's no secret that the Harrow lads are on good terms with the folks across down in E4, and this close nit group features some of the biggest names in the tournament. Which is why Zesh can say with some confidence "I have beaten several of the finalists in the past and hope to do so again."
Zesh was introduced to ISS2 at University by his hockey teammate Nick Allen. "This led to me buying PES1," recalls Zesh, "I've been hooked ever since." No surprises there. "I'm looking forward to playing WE8 and PES4." No surprises there either.
When asked which team does he follow, Zesh avoids the issue for some reason but is full of hope for the national team after Euro 2004. "England will win the world cup in 2006," he predicts with total confidence, but is slightly more cautious when looking ahead to the PESLeague finals. "If I am to be the champ, I'll need my players to play as well as they should and also a bit of luck."
So, who does Zesh rate? "Mr Femi Paul is currently in great form and will be one to watch at the finals," we are warned, "He has won several unofficial tournaments against a good level of opposition and was unbeaten in his 20 matches in the Harrow league. If you hear someone shout "Oh, my days!" in the finals, it'll most likely come from Femi's direction."
Hope it's not you shouting that, Zesh. Good luck
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: TIM ADEGBOYE
23 Jul 04 - 14:58
NAME: Tim Adegboye
AGE: 18
LEAGUE: Harrow
TEAM: Argentina
FORM: P20 W15 D1 L4
Arsenal through and through, Bade Ade's younger bruv has been playing PES since 1995, when it was known as ISS on the SNES. Back then Tim depended on Germany to win the silerware, but switched to Brazil for the first two PES games on PS2. In PES3 Tim's been using Argentina, so read into all that what you like.
"[There's] nothing special about me," offers the straight-talking finalist, "I just think I have a very solid all round game." What's that word Arsene Wenger's fond of using...? 'Consistency'. We guess you could say consistency is one way of interpreting the quality Tim is being so humble about.
The 'nothing special' Adegboye is only willing to admit caution over one other player in the league, "Bade Ade cause that's my bro and we know how we play," shrugs Tim, "except him I have no fear. I look forward for what the UK has to offer but I respect everyone that made it."
Tim's kind of a man of few words in our experience, but the right words. Someone thinking along these lines while playing PES is never going to waste an opportunity, and rarely, if ever, make a mistake. We'll know more from speaking to people on the day, but we'd wager the only players who might rock Tim's steady ship are those who can play a similarly tight game and make everything count. The finals, however, require something of a performance mentality and it remains to be seen how Tim's skills hold up under that kind of scrutiny.
Good luck when it matters, Tim.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
======================================================
PRO-FILE: JON LEE 23
Jul 04 - 15:38
NAME: Jon Lee
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W12 D5 L3
Newcastle's Jon Lee has reason to look so cheerful. He almost missed out on qualifying due to one disastrous weekend in the league earlier this year. He quickly showed resolve in the next meeting, though, and has deserved his place in the finals.
Jon has been playing PES for approximately 10 years, "since the original ISS way back on the SNES." Jon has played every version across all formats - on SNES, N64, PSone "Even the GBA."
It's safe to say Jon's fairly passionate about his football. "Football is immense to sum it up in one word," he says, summing up football in one word. He's a fanatical Newcastle United supporter ("have been since I was born and will till I die"), and is the away supporter's away supporter in that he makes every effort to watch United play, even when it's abroad.
Versus so many talented players in the finals, Jon trusts his sound knowledge of the way PES works as a game, "knowing the limits of passing or shooting from certain areas of the pitch, as well as knowing what the opponent will try to do to stop me." Fall into the first of Jon Lee's traps, and you'll spend the entire rest of the game digging yourself out of deepening hole. Allow Jon to dictate the game and you may as well hang up the controller right then and there.
We get the impression Jon isn't fond of speculating and brushes aside 'what ifs' with this matter of fact statement: "You can't just respect one person. All the other 39 competitors get as much respect as each other. I finished fourth in my group and I am very confident in my own ability. So whether they finished fourth of first, losing one or 10, if they've got to Stamford Bridge they'll be able to give anyone a good game."
Good luck, Jon. Just remember to go careful with the Vimto the night before.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
======================================================
PRO-FILE: TACHAKON HAMTHANON
23 Jul 04 - 16:04
NAME: Tachakon Hamthanon
AGE: 22
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: France
FORM: P19 W16 D3 L0
Unbeaten (unbeatable?) Tachakon 'Tak' Hamthanon is a Man U supporter, and has been playing PES for nearly four years.
Tak says it's his ability to read opponents, and adapt his style of attacking to suit the game that oughta be his killer weapon. It certainly helped him come into the Newcastle league late in the season to play 19 games unbeaten, drawing only three of those too. There might have been more draws, only "my finishing is good also" Tak is proud to make public.
"I don't fear anyone," Newcastle's whirlwind champion says without malice "I just enjoy playing the game." Well, of course you're always going to enjoy PES if you're in the habit of never losing.
What will happen when Tachakon meets fellow unbeaten players Bade Ade, and Oz Idris? Somebody has to lose, but we can easily imagine Tak holding on to his cool longer than the others. When Tak talks about his finishing being good, he's making an understatement - check out his results. Plentiful goals from Tak could seriously rattle even the most confident opponent.
Good luck Tachakon, we're really looking forward to seeing you play.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=======================================================
PRO-FILE: OSMAN IDRIS
25 Jul 04 - 10:42
NAME: Osman Idris
AGE: 19
LEAGUE: London E4
TEAM: France
FORM: P17 W14 D3 L0
We always say that Oz Idris needs no introduction, since he likes to handle this all by himself. But since he's not around to write this for us, we'll do the best we can.
Oz is the most openly confident player you'll meet. Whether this is to hide a secret bag of nerves and a stomach full of butterflies doesn't really matter. Oz has laughed and joked his way to the top of the London E4 league and won the inaugural North Vs South Derby this year. We won't be surprised to see him win at the PESLeague finals because we seriously doubt the possibility has been allowed to enter his mind.
Like the majority of PESLeague finalists, Oz and ISS go way back. "First ISS I played was on the Super Nintendo - ISS Delux. I remember being amazed by the detail Roberto Baggio's ponytail and Ravenelli's Silver crown!" An eye for detail, eh? This would help explain a lot. Also why Oz is a bit miffed at how Damian Duff is "so underrated" in PES3 - Oz is a Chelsea fan y'see. Typical of his luck to be a VIP at Stamford Bridge!
Believe Oz when he cries, "I fear no one but respect everyone!" All that counts when you come to play against Oz is your ability to play. He can't be fooled by false modesty; he already takes for granted that you play better than you say.
We asked Oz to give us all a bit more behind-the-scenes on a couple of his closest rivals, and here's what we got back: "Femi Paul is a part time magician," quips Idris, "[he] can pull something special out the hat." As for the reigning champ, "David Sefah is just Mr Consistent - never gives you a easy game."
There won't be any such thing as an easy game come 7 August. Everyone, including Oz, will need the best of luck so here it is, 'Omen', take or leave.
(Click the pic for a larger image)
=================================================
PRO-FILE: ROSS FORSYTH
25 Jul 04 - 11:34
NAME: Ross Forsyth
AGE: 14
LEAGUE: Edinburgh
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W16 D1 L3
Ross hasn't stopped playing PES since the first version on PS2. Which, means he started playing young by all accounts, making him one of PESLeague's bright young things.
In real life it's the Scottish Premier League's Motherwell who have the honour of Ross's undying support, but for the sake of PESLeague it's the samba football of Brazil that has attracted him.
Staying power has brought many of the PESLeague finalists through, and this is also true of Ross - great mental stamina, mixed with confidence and a little humour. "I guess its when I'm playing a game I'll never give up even if I'm like 3-0 down," Ross would like us to know, "but that doesn't happen much" he adds with a grin.
Rather than fear anyone else in the finals, Ross absolutely cannot wait to take on the best from the country. "I would like to play the likes of David Sefah and Osman Idris, so if I don't win I can say I probably [met] the two best players in the UK."
We'd like to see you beat them too, Ross. Good luck!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================
PRO-FILE: MATT HOLMES
25 Jul 04 - 10:05
NAME: Matt Holmes
AGE: 17
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: Brazil
FORM: P20 W15 D2 L3
Another Season Ticket holder for Newcastle United, Matt fears fellow magpie Jon Lee the most. "I was just thankful that when I played him in Newcastle I had gained enough points to have virtually qualified. He totally outplayed me and slaughtered me 4-0, I hope I don't have to face him again!!"
If Matt seems shocked that a player of Jon's standard should beat him, it's only because he has every reason expect a win. "I have been playing ISS/PES for around five years and have been totally addicted from the first ISS Pro Evolution for the PSOne," Matt tells us, and he counted a lot on his friends' team spirit just to play. "I never owned a PSOne, so I had to scrounge round my mates all of the time." Gosh. Since PS2, however, Matt has made sure he has access to the game whenever he wants "I made sure I bought the console and [PES] is the game I treasure most!!"
Don't try talking to Matt while he's playing, unless you want to be stone walled. He claims his ability to concentrate wholeheartedly on the matter at hand could be his key to victory. "I always give 100% effort in every match," Matt explains, "and I am totally committed to what I am doing. I make sure I put the thoughts of everything else out of my mind for them crucial 10 minutes."
We'll let you all into a little secret here, chaps - there's gonna be a squad of Xbox babes at the finals, so we'll see how good Matt's concentration is when they're pasing by.
Good luck with the steady hands, Holmes boy. Make sure you're ready for anything because Jon Lee is only the start of your worries in these finals!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
==================================================
PRO-FILE: MARK RAFFIEE
25 Jul 04 - 9:47
NAME: Mark Raffiee
AGE: 17
LEAGUE: Newcastle
TEAM: France
FORM: P20 W14 D2 L4
An old school friend unwittingly set Mark Raffiee on the road to his first PESLeague finals. "I must admit that throughout my childhood I was a FIFA player, but despite my resistance every time I went round his he made me play it. Since then the game has grew on me and there are no FIFA games in sight!" Don't worry, there will be sniffer dogs at the finals to check if Mark is lying. If we can find him, that is.
See, Mark is a huge fan of Sunderland AFC ("have a season ticket and follow them to away games as well"), and as you should know the 7 August is the first day of the new League Championship with Sunderland away to Coventry. This is going to be a huge distraction to Mark, but hopefully he'll a) still turn up to play in his own championship finale, and b) not have one eye on a portable TV. But, hang on, isn't that a Celtic shirt he's wearing? "I'm also a 'follower' of Celtic in the sense that I like to see them win, especially against the Huns!" Fair enough.
Mark is left trusting everything to the gods in order that he might win the tournament. "To be honest; to have a hope in winning I will probably have to go down the same lines as Glen Hoddle and contact Eileen Drewry (does anyone know her number!)," he says with a wry smile, "I would be happy to get through the group stages, but my ability to score goals is my main firepower."
Don't believe a word of this by the way. We get the impression that, deep down, Mark knows he can win - even if struggles to realise this himself. If you know what we mean...
Never mind.
So, who's to fear - as if we can't guess? "I've heard a lot about players from other leagues, and obviously reading about Osman Idris winning the NVS, he has to be the most feared." Thought so. "But I also have respect for Jon Lee, even though I did finish above him! He often turned up with a hangover and threw away games, but when he's on form he's sh*t hot!"
Here's hoping, for Mark's sake, that Mr Lee finds a double-barrel of ale to shoot himself in the foot, and for Oz Idris to remain out of sight until the final game. And for Sunderland to win at Coventry that afternoon and inspire Mark to victory. This list could go on for quite a while.
Good luck, eh Mark!
(Click the pic for a larger image)
===================================================
