So, about 21 H2H games played. And it's been a tough trip, playing 90%
First game was a lolworthy 5-5 goalfest, with both of us having NO clue about tactical defending. Then I got to grips with the basic tactical defending and froze out 6 next opponents, with a 3-3-0 record.
After that, shit hit the fan. I guess I started tiring and getting frustrated, and that's when you can start to concede stupid goals. Holding the formation is so much more important and you can really wreak havoc by switching tactics mid-game if you can gain a man advantage over the midfield. When your opponent starts chasing the ball, a through-ball or a strong 4-5 man attack for a cross becomes inevitable.
Of course, I unfortunately was on the receiving side for the next 12 games. The matchmaker started throwing Barcelona, Man City etc. at my Newcastle side, with no respite. The new "money-teams", Malaga (4,5) and Anzhi (4) are a bit underrated considering the star power. But on the other hand I deserved the drubbings I got.
Finally I decided to have a nights sleep over it and played a few games today, with a 0-2-1 record, so a lot better. Managed to lose only 2-1 to Man City (to a ridiculous Tevez goal at the end), Drew 1-1 with Real Madrid and another 1-1 vs Aston Villa. In all games played a conservative defense, herding the opposition to conceding possession rather than rushing and tackling. At the same time that opened up great opportunities for counter-attacking football.
In a way it's good to see that the homing missile approach is now completely gone. I have yet to try Barca and see if you can get Pep's crazy "defend all over the pitch" approach going with the heavy pressure, though. Still, better to see not every team just do this.
I'm thinking: FIFA 12 is just great.
And regarding goalscoring, sure the goalies are brutal good, but at the same time the goals scored seem a lot more varied than previously.