If you wanted excitement, goals galore, screamers, shock results and red cards then the 11th Gameweek of Fantasy EFL was the place to be! Here, we’ve got our Scout Notes from the weekend’s Double Gameweek 11 action.
Below, we’ve outlined the most notable actions, points, and (the lack thereof!) served up by the 35 games across the weekend in these Scout Notes.
Finally, a quick reminder that the Gameweek isn’t over. On Tuesday and Wednesday evening, we have more EFL action. Unlike our previous Double Gameweek 8 which saw a few blanks, ALL 72 teams will play across the two nights!
JOIN OUR MINI LEAGUE
We launched a new FFS mini-league starting from Gameweek 5, with c. £500 worth of prizes on offer.
The top manager gets £100, the second receives £75 and third place wins £50.
The next four runners-up will get a free year’s subscription to FFS Premium (worth c.£65 at full price, £39 current discount – if you are already a member we’ll add a free year).
A final two will get a free month of Premium (worth £6.59 at full price).
CHAMPIONSHIP
In the top division of the EFL, there was a split regarding results. We saw four home wins, three draws, and four away wins, with 26 goals scored.
BLUEBIRDS RUN RAMPANT
Cardiff City maintained their unbeaten run with a decent result…a 5-0 demolition over Plymouth Argyle!
Ruben Colwill (M) wrote the headlines in the Welsh capital. He secured his backers a superb 19-point haul, his first giant haul of the season. The attacking midfielder scored (+6), provided two assists (+6), made one interception (+2), five key passes (+2) and two shots on target (+1). Additionally, teammate Alex Robertson (M) was also fantastic. He got on the scoresheet (+6), made three interceptions (+6) and four key passes (+2), but did get booked (-1), securing 15 points.
In just a 24-minute cameo, Chris Willock (M) scored (+6) and provided an assist (+3), securing his first double-digit haul of the campaign.
Up next, the Bluebirds face Portsmouth (H) in DGW11, who secured a strong 1-2 away win at QPR, but have conceded eight goals in three matches.
WONDERLAND FOR THE WHITES
The Friday night thriller did not disappoint, as Leeds United secured a huge 2-0 over promotion rivals Sheffield United at Elland Road.
Pascal Struijk (D) was the standout, nailing 15 points for 2.4% of Fantasy EFL managers. He netted his second goal (+7) of the season from a set piece and made a crucial contribution to the clean sheet (+5) with three tackles (+3), totalling 15 points. Joe Rothwell (M) secured 12 for an assist (+3), three interceptions (+6) and three key passes (+1). After two low scores, Joe Rodon (D) secured double-digits with five clearances (+1), two blocks (+1), two tackles (+1) and a clean sheet (+5).
Up next, the Whites host Watford who were turned over 3-0 by fierce rivals Luton Town. Leeds fans will be hoping for another big victory against the demoralised Hornets.
BRILLIANT BRISTOL CITY
The Robins secured a shock away win at the Riverside Stadium, defeating Middlesbrough 0-2.
Max Bird (M) was the Fantasy EFL standout, securing 14 points for 0.2% of managers – great choice! He secured six interceptions (+12) in just 71 minutes and has occasionally proven to be a bonus points machine.
Elsewhere, Jason Knight (M), Anis Mehmeti (M) and George Tanner (D) secured 11 points each. Knight provided two assists (+6), while Mehmeti opened the scoring (+6). Tanner was involved defensively and nailed seven clearances (+2) to help maintain the clean sheet. Zak Vyner (D) was the only other double-digit scorer for his defensive contributions.
Liam Manning’s side travel to Stoke City up next, and will be hoping their five-match unbeaten run continues.
BLACKBURN BOUNCE BACK
Rovers maintained their winning form at home with a 1-0 over Swansea City, despite only having eight shots [to Swansea’s 14] and 32% possession.
Tyrhys Dolan (M) wrote the headlines at Ewood Park, scoring the only goal (+6) of the match. He also made two interceptions and two key passes (+1), nailing 13 points for 0.3% of managers. Despite a few blanks, Dolan has shown moments of brilliance and is averaging 4.3 points.
Todd Cantwell (M) provided the assist (+3) and made two interceptions and key passes, scoring 10 points. Hayden Carter (D) and Dominic Hyam (D) both contributed defensively and secured 10 for 0.1% of managers – brilliant differentials in such a decisive Gameweek.
Up next, John Eustace’s side entertain WBA at Ewood Park and will be hoping to maintain their superior home record.
SUNDERLAND STAY TOP
The Black Cats have been a joy to watch this season, and are demonstrating why they’re top-of-the-table. They secured a 0-1 away win at Hull City on Sunday, sending them one point clear of Burnley. Dennis Cirkin (D) banked 11 points for 7.9% of Fantasy EFL managers, making three clearances and seven tackles, alongside the clean sheet. Equally, Dan Neil (M) also secured 11 for providing the assist and making three interceptions (+6). However, Sunderland’s most selected player [12.5%] Jobe Bellingham (M) only nailed four points for one interception (+2).
Sunderland travel to Luton Town on Wednesday night, hoping to continue their three-match unbeaten run.
LEAGUE ONE
There was a near-even split regarding results, with six wins in front of home faithful, five away wins and only one draw.
THE CHAIRBOYS CAN’T BE STOPPED
After a disappointing start to their League One campaign, losing their opening two matches, Wycombe Wanderers have managed to remain unbeaten since their last defeat in Gameweek 2. The home win and 2+ goals scored provided their backers a seven-point return, bringing their overall total to 62 points in Fantasy EFL.
The standout performer for the home side was Richard Kone (F) who provided a scintillating performance that aided his side’s victory. He secured all three goals (+15), which also provided an additional five points for a hat-trick (+5). The forward was backed by just 0.2% of Fantasy managers, therefore he proved to be the best differential asset so far in the Double Gameweek. His teammate, Josh Scowen (M) also provided a double-digit performance. This was courtesy of one assist (+3), two interceptions (+4), two key passes (+1) and 81 minutes played (+2, contributing to his healthy 10-point haul. However, with ownership at just 0.1%, not many managers were able to reap the rewards of his excellent display!
Matt Bloomfield’s side take on Burton Albion in their next match of the Double Gameweek, in the aim of extending their unbeaten run to an outstanding nine matches!
VICTORIOUS ROYALS
Reading recorded their fifth win of the campaign, hitting four past a struggling Crawley Town side. The standout performer was Lewis Wing (M), who provided a scintillating attacking performance that returned an impressive 18 points to his Fantasy backers. He contributed one goal (+6), one assist (+3), three interceptions (+6) and two key passes (+1). He also featured for the full 90 minutes (+2). Backed by just 0.8% of managers, he could prove to be a promising differential asset for Fantasy EFL. His midfield counterpart, Charlie Savage (M) was not far behind with a healthy 17-point haul for his 0.1% of Fantasy managers. Savage registered two assists (+6), one goal (+6), one interception (+2) and two key passes (+1). He also played the full 90 minutes (+2).
A special mention also has to go to Amadou Salif Mbengue (M), who not only contributed at the top-end-of-the-pitch with a goal (+6), but also made an impact defensively with three interceptions (+6), which contributed towards his 13-point return. Similarly, Andre Garcia (M) returned ten points, with eight of them secured through an impressive four interceptions (+8), as well as featuring the full 90 minutes (+2).
They face Exeter City up next, who have been in excellent form, so it will be a real test for the Royals, who will be aiming for consecutive wins across the Double Gameweek!
BLUES BEAT THE ADDICKS
Birmingham City were back to winning ways after a poor result on the road to Charlton Athletic prior to the international break. Unfortunately for his 2.9% of Fantasy backers, Jay Stansfield (F) did not feature in the squad when the Blues hit three past Lincoln City, with the match ending in a 1-3 win for the visitors.
With Stansfield out, Alfie May (F) was back amongst it at the top-end-of-the-pitch, managing to justify his popularity. He secured nine points for his backers, courtesy of two assists (+6), 66 minutes played (+2) and two key passes (+1). However, the in-demand Fantasy asset was not the best option at the top end for the Blues, with a new standout in Keshi Anderson (F) returning the most points. His solid 13-point haul was thanks to 83 minutes played (+2), two goals (+10), which of course also meant two SoT (+1). Elsewhere for the Blues, midfielder Willum Willumsson (M) managed to secure a double-digit display. He provided one assist (+3), one goal (+6) and two key passes (+1) in his 90-minute appearance (+2). His ownership sat at 0.4%, so a few managers were thankful for his excellent performance in the middle of the park.
The Blues host Bolton next up; we expect Chris Davies’ side to secure another victory to wrap up DGW11.
THE RED DRAGONS DEFEAT THE MILLERS
Wrexham were another side to secure all three points in their first match of the Double Gameweek. They beat Rotherham United 0-1 away from home and there were two standout performers in this one, with both of them registering double-digit performances.
Midfielder Ryan Barnett (M) provided a 12-point haul thanks to one assist (+3), two interceptions (+4) and six key passes (+3). He also lasted the full 90 minutes (+2). Backed by just 0.1% of managers, he proved to be another excellent differential shout! On the other hand, one of the more popular Wrexham assets is their number one, Arthur Okonkwo (G). The goalkeeper provided his 7.3% of backers, a strong 11 points by securing a clean sheet bonus (+5), but this had to be earned with a considerable six saves (+4) made during the match!
With Huddersfield Town up next at the Racecourse Ground, the Welsh side will be in the hunt to extend their unbeaten tally to three matches!
SEASIDERS STAGNATE
Steve Bruce’s Blackpool‘s form has started to dip, following their excellent form under new manager Steve Bross. The Seasiders lost to Barnsley on home soil this weekend, making it three games without a win for them. Despite a poor result, two players still provided double-digit displays.
Defender Oliver Casey (D) returned a solid 12 points, providing both attacking and defensive contributions throughout his 90-minute display. The defender scored the equaliser; his first goal (+7) of the season. He also managed nine clearances (+3) and five tackles (+2). His overall tally would have been better had he not picked up a yellow card (-1) and also not conceded two goals (-1). In the middle of the park, Lee Evans (M) also returned a double-digit display with 11 points added to his season’s total, which now sits at a solid 74 points. He provided the assist (+3), two interceptions (+4) and seven key passes (+3) throughout his 90-minute outing. Backed by 0.5% of managers, he was another top differential pick for the Double Gameweek!
With a trip to Peterborough United up next, who have looked strong at home in recent weeks, Bruce will be hoping his side can secure three points in Cambridgeshire following Posh’s 3-1 loss to Wycombe.
LEAGUE TWO
Away sides dominated in League Two, with six victories coming on the road. Elsewhere, we saw four home wins and two draws, with 34 goals scored.
MAGPIES SWOOP TO VICTORY
Notts County followed up their strong 2-2 away draw at Chesterfield with a 1-0 home win over AFC Wimbledon, maintaining the Play-Off place as it stands.
Matthew Platt (D) netted the only goal of the game (+7), marking his second goal of the season He also helped preserve the clean sheet (+5), but was booked (-1), and would’ve ended with 14 points had he not picked up a yellow card. Alex Bass (G) also secured 11 points for the clean sheet and made eight saves (+4) on his way to his fourth clean sheet of the season.
Notts County travel to Holker Street to wrap up DGW11, taking on Barrow. With the Bluebirds on a losing streak, Fantasy EFL managers backing the Magpies will be eager to see the Magpies capitalise on the Bluebirds’ misfortune.
THREE-IN-A-ROW ‘OWD REDS
Accrington Stanley secured another fantastic win, defeating Barrow (H) 1-0, their third consecutive. John Doolan’s side are now comfortably out the relegation spots, with 12 points now on the board.
Shaun Whalley (M) has been the standout for the ‘Owd Reds this season, scoring his third goal of the season (+6) and recording one interception (+2), totalling 10 points. With 72 total points, he has 22 more than second-placed Seamus Conneely (M). However, Farrend Rawson (M) stole the limelight this weekend on Fantasy EFL, nailing 11 points despite having 0% backing. The defender helped preserve the clean sheet and made 14 clearances (+4)!
Up next, Doolan’s side travel to Stadium MK, taking on MK Dons on Tuesday night who beat Morecambe 1-3 last time out, but lost 0-1 to Port Vale in their last home match.
CHESTERFIELD CRUISE TO VICTORY
The Spireites continued their unbeaten run with a strong 0-3 away win against Newport County, their sixth unbeaten match in a row.
EFL legend Will Grigg (F) was sensational, scoring a brace (+10) and taking two SoT (+1) for 3.1% of Fantasy EFL managers in a 20-minute cameo! The 33-year-old has now scored six goals and two assists in 11 appearances this season and is proving to be a force off the bench. Harvey Araujo (D) and Oliver Banks (M) both secured 10 – Araujo provided defensive contributions, while Banks secured two assists in 15 minutes.
Up next, Paul Cook’s side host Colchester United, who lost 1-2 to Cheltenham Town (H) in their first match of DGW11.
DOMINANT DONNY
Doncaster Rovers maintained their four-match unbeaten run, securing a 1-2 away victory at Swindon Town.
The ever-popular Luke Molyneux (M) played a pivotal role, securing 10 points for 19.7% of Fantasy EFL managers. The winger provided an assist (+3), made two interceptions (+4) and three key passes (+1), helping Donny to another away victory. Joseph Olowu (D) opened the scoring (+7) for the visitors and made six clearances.
They host Bromley next who lost 1-2 to Tranmere Rovers (H) on Saturday.
BANTAMS BEAT THE GILLS
Bradford City secured their third win on the spin, beating Gillingham 2-1 in front of their home faithful.
Neill Bryne (D) and Jack Shepard (D) both secured 10 points, getting on the scoresheet in the first half, and would’ve both ended on 11 had they not been booked. The Bantams’ most-selected player, Andy Cook (F), secured three points for 8.2% of managers, taking two SoT in an 80-minute appearance.
The Bantams face Cheltenham Town (A) who beat Colchester United 1-2 on Saturday but lost their last home match 2-3 to Swindon Town.
THE AMMIES HOLD THE RAILWAYMEN
Crewe Alexandra were held to a 1-1 draw at the Mornflake Stadium against Salford City. Ryan Cooney (D) scored (+7) to level the scoring for the hosts, and secured the only double-digit return of the match. Unfortunately for 18.1% of Fantasy EFL managers, and even moreso those who captained him, Mickey Demetriou (D) did not return as expected. The captain secured four points and made eight clearances (+2) but couldn’t keep the Ammies from scoring. With Fleetwood Town (A) next, who have been very inconsistent, Demetriou backers will be hoping for much better things.
