BFC Tokyo 2024 Retrospective
As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it is only natural to reflect on the events that have shaped the past twelve months. For BFC Tokyo and its community of supporters, 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a year of trials and tribulations, a year that tested the resilience and spirit of this beloved football club like never before.
In what can only be described as an annus horribilis, 2024 brought with it a series of challenges that pushed BFC Tokyo and its loyal fans to their limits. From on-field disappointments to the loss of a dear friend, the year was marked by a string of setbacks that seemed to conspire against the club at every turn.
Despite the hardships faced, the dedication and support of the BFC Tokyo community shone brightly throughout the year, serving as a beacon of hope and unity in the face of adversity. As we look back on the events of 2024, it is not just a story of loss and struggle, but also one of resilience, solidarity, and the unbreakable bond that ties together all those who call themselves supporters of BFC Tokyo.
Join us as we take a retrospective journey through the tumultuous year that was 2024, exploring the highs and lows, the triumphs and tribulations, and the enduring spirit that defines BFC Tokyo and its community in the face of adversity.
Remembering Jon
It was with great sadness when the club heard the news that club legend Jon Day passed away on Feb 21, 2024. The funeral was held on Mar 12 in the UK, BFC members who wished to pay respects in Tokyo did so via a weblink hosted at the Footnik.
Farvel Emil
After a lengthy stay in Japan, club stalwart Emil decided to return to Denmark, BFC wish to thank him for the contributions he made to the club over the years. Emil was presented with a club polo shirt by Don as a parting gift.
On Field Matters
BFC First XI Season 21
In the 2023/24 season of the TML (Tokyo Metropolitan League), BFC Tokyo faced a difficult campaign, finishing with a poor record and struggling throughout the season. A record of 4 wins, 2 draws, 12 losses, the team finished bottom of TML Div 3 with a total of 14 points.
Key Trends:
- Difficult Start: The season began with a 12-3 loss to Jetro FC, marking a disastrous start to the year. However, they bounced back somewhat with a 4-2 win over Shane FC in their next match.
- Struggles in Defense: Throughout the season, the team struggled defensively, conceding 57 goals, the highest in their division, which contributed to their negative goal difference of -28.
- Inconsistent Results: After the early win, BFC endured a series of defeats, including some heavy losses. They were unable to find consistent form and faced difficulties against stronger opposition.
- Late Resurgence: In the final two games of the season, BFC managed to secure two victories, providing some hope at the end of a challenging campaign.
Final Position:
- BFC finished the season at the bottom of the league, reflecting their struggles throughout the year. Despite the late wins, the team’s poor overall record left them with only 14 points from 18 matches.
BFC First XI Season 21
As for the current 2024/25 season, BFC has had a challenging start to their League campaign, with a record of 4 wins, 1 draw, and 5 losses and 13 points resulting from their first 9 matches.
Ed: A 2-1 victory at YCAC means we finish on a high for the year. C’mon BFC!
Key Trends:
- Mixed Start: The season began with a sequence of results (LWLW) over the first four games.
- Defensive Struggles: BFC has faced difficulties in defense, conceding a significant 24 goals in their opening 9 games, contributing to a negative goal difference of -12.
- Offensive Performance: Their attacking play has also been inconsistent, with 12 goals scored, but they have struggled to convert chances into more victories.
- Heavy Defeats: The team has suffered some heavy defeats, which have put them under pressure early in the season.
Final Fixture of 2024:
- The team’s last fixture for 2024 will take place on December 21, and they will be aiming to close out the year with a positive result to help shift momentum for the remainder of the season in 2025.
In summary, 2024 has been one of ups and downs for BFC Tokyo, with notable issues in both defense and consistency. We will look to build on their strengths as the season progresses. There continues to be a slight disconnect between the first team and the club and it is a work in progress to bring the two back together.
Addendum: A 2-1 victory at YCAC means we finish on a high for the year. C’mon BFC!
Masters
BFC Tokyo Masters have had a successful year, starting strong with victories in preparation tournaments, though there was a glitch in the matrix at the Samurai Masters tourney in March. In the Kanto International Masters League, they have performed exceptionally, sitting at the top of the standings with a strong record. Hopefully this can continue in the new year and BFC Masters clinch the inaugural KIML title.
Tournament Successes:
- March 10 (Master Prep Tournament at YCAC): BFC Tokyo Masters began the year with a victory at the Master Prep Tournament, showcasing solid early form and preparation.
- Samurai Masters (March): The team participated in the Samurai Masters tournament but had a disappointing showing, not achieving the results they had hoped for.
- July (Nagasawa Tournament): They bounced back with another tournament victory in July at Nagasawa, highlighting their strength and consistency in competitive settings.
Kanto International Masters League (KIML) Season
- The KIML kicked off in September, and BFC Tokyo Masters have performed admirably, currently sitting at the top of the league. P 10, W 6, D 2, L 2: Pts: 20
- They have shown solid performances overall, with only two defeats in the league so far, both of which came against who is turning out to be our nemesis, Footy Japan.
- See below for the Team Roster for the series of games at YC&AC on Dec 14, 2024.
Phuket 7s
The club did not participate this year at the Phuket 7s but had strong representation. Both the Over 45s (skipper: Pabs) and 50s (skipper: Brian) teams made it to the semi-finals. The highlight being the participation of former captain Jon’s brother Rob Day, who scored a wonderful goal in one of the games. Refer to the link to the Phuket write up for footage of the goal.
Futsal continues on a regular basis thanks to the sterling efforts of Charlton Athletic fanatic, Andrew. Next match is on Jan 8th 2025 at Osaki. If you feel like doing something about the festive calorie intake, get you name down via the link above.
Off field Matters
Bonenkai 2024
This was held on Dec 14th after the Masters participated in the latest round of the KIML. A smaller gathering than other years, but a good time was had by all.
AGM
The AGM was held in September at Osaki, refer to this for further information.
Closing
Here’s to a bright and exciting 2025 for our football family! Together, we will continue to build a community of passion, teamwork, and growth. With every match, we strengthen the bonds that make us a team, both on and off the field. Let’s make this year one to remember with hard work, dedication, and, most importantly, fun. Here’s to new challenges, new victories, and a season full of pride. Let’s keep pushing forward, together!
Happy Christmas and New Year to all of the BFC past and present.
BFC
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