The expensive optimism of Masanori Murayama

1/ Masanori Murayama is 58. He is Japanese. He manages Llandaff Athletic in the First Division.

2/ His philosophy is listed as idealist. This is a polite way of saying he prefers the ball to move beautifully, even if it does not actually go into the net. He employs a 4-2-3-1. It is a formation designed for creative expression. It is also a formation that often leaves a lot of grass for the opposition to run into.

3/ The results reflect this commitment to the aesthetic. Llandaff have a peculiar affection for the 1-1 draw. They have found that result three times recently, most notably against Wellsford, Pendle, and Mancunia. It is a scoreline that suggests a team which is very keen to play football but lacks the unkindness required to actually win.

4/ There was one victory. A 1-0 result against Kirkby FC. It was a brief moment of efficiency. It was followed by a 2-0 defeat at Sussex Athletic.

5/ Sources say Murayama remains committed to expansive play. He is a man of principles. It is a brave stance to take in the First Division, where most managers prefer the safety of a low block and a prayer.

6/ There is no time for a tactical retreat. Armley Athletic arrive tomorrow for matchday 7.

Developing.