View source for Line-up

{{Interwiki/4-4-2}}__NOTOC__
A '''line-up''' is how you set your 11 [[players]] on field. After season 42, the line-up submission is no more based on 4-4-2 and can handle all [[formation]]s without player's repositioning.

Before [[Next season: Better formation balance|2010 major upgrade of the match engine]], in addition to the formations listed below, more drastic modifications were occasionally used, particularly with [[national team]]s, such as [[2-6-2]] and [[2-7-1]]. However, with prohibition on using more than three central defenders, inner midfielders, or forwards, it is no longer possible to play these formations. 

==4-4-2== 
It was the Hattrick standard line-up before until the season 42 [[match engine]] changes. 

Can be very powerful if used correctly. 
Can be used efficiently by [[winger]], [[goalkeeper]] and secondaries [[Training|trainers]]. Other trainings lose at least one training position per week. It is often used by [[Defending]] trainers in official games when they still try to win the [[midfield]] and lose as little as possible (i.e. only one trainable position). 
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
The [[formation experience]] with 4-4-2 was always "excellent", the highest level of experience that can be attained. 
{{Line-up |
title = Standard 4-4-2 |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = W |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = W |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

In this case they usually line-up a variation of the standard 4-4-2 by intentionally weakening their defence on one wing or in the middle.

{{Line-up |
title = 4-4-2 variant A |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = E.IM |
w_right = WTM |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = E.CD |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

Variant A is used mainly against a strong central [[attack]].

{{Line-up |
title = 4-4-2 variant B |
gk = GK |
wb_right = D.WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = D.WB |
w_right = WTM |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = E.IM |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

Variant B is used mainly against a strong central wing attack.
|}

==4-5-1==
With only one [[forward]], 4-5-1 is a defensive line-up that relies more heavily on wingers for attacks. Consequently, the [[Attack on Wings]] tactic is sometimes employed, with the penalty to [[defence]] offset somewhat by having two [[Central Defender|central defenders]] (compared with only one in typical three-defender line-ups).  This formation may also be used to [[CA|counter-attack]], although most teams that use counter attacks as a frequent tactic prefer to play with fewer [[midfielder]]s.

It can be used to train most of skills aside from [[Scoring]] and Passing. 

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
{{Line-up|
title=Typical 4-5-1|
gk=GK|
wb_right=WB|
cd_right=CD|
cd_left=CD|
wb_left=WB|
w_right=WN|
im_right=IM|
im_left=IM|
w_left=WN|
f_right=FO|
f_left=E.IM
}}

When you play with 1 Forward only, a good option is to maximize the attack on that side, playing the Forward Towards Wing or an Inner Midfielder Towards Wing (or even an Offensive/Normal [[Wing Back|wing back]]).
|}

==3-5-2==
{| class=infobox
| {{Line-up 3-5-2
| right_wingback_io = defensive
| right_winger_io = towards middle
| center_midfielder_io = offensive
| left_wingback_io = defensive
| left_winger_io = towards middle
}}
|- 
| A typical 3-5-2 AIM
|}
It is the most common line-up in Hattrick.
Most people use it because you have a strong midfield and you don't lose too much defence or attack. Since midfield carries a lot of weight in the game, this is considered the best all-around line-up available by many. 

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
In the first seasons of Hattrick, when 3-5-2 was not so much used in RL as later, users go as far as to call it [[evil]], saying it was a too unrealistic formation; and that it was strong enough to unbalance the whole game.
{{Line-up
title = One of Many Variations<br>
on the 3-5-2 Lineup|
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB off|
cd_right = CD|
cd_left = CD|
wb_left = extra IM |
w_right = WTM |
im_right = IM def|
im_left = IM off|
w_left = W off |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}
|}

{{See|Defensive_forward#The_Ercanto_Strategy{{!}}The Ercanto's}}

==3-4-3==
It is generally regarded the second strongest formation in Hattrick, 

It is the preferred formation for Scoring trainers, as it enables them to maximize their midfield, whilst playing a full quota of trainees.
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
{{Line-up|
title = 1CD, 3 IM, 1WTM|
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = E.IM |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = WTM |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = E.FO |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

This is one of the most used line-ups by scoring trainers. It gives a strong midfield by having 3 midfielders and usually a fourth one played as Winger Toward Middle. It also gives a very strong central attack by using 3 forwards. Variations of this formation can be made by playing the wing backs [[defensive]], switching the side from where the Extra Forward is promoted and playing the midfielders [[offensive]] or defensive. Some even play the central defender offensive for the extra bonus in midfield.

{{Line-up|
title = 1CD, 2 IM, 2W.O|
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = E.FO |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = W.O |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = W.O |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

This is a rare played 3-4-3 formula. The middle is not so strong unless you use some very skilled midfielders. The attack is very good if you use this formation, especially if the midfielders are played offensive.


;Tactics for Scoring Trainers 

As a scoring trainer, you'll find that your tactics are rather limited, as you need to strengthen your midfield while playing three forwards. The most common formation using 3 forwards is the 3-4-3 with three inner midfielders and a winger, either played offensive or winger towards middle. The most common variations of the 3-4-3 are:

{{Line-up|
title = Formation A |
gk = GK |
wb_right = D.WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = IM |
wb_left = D.WB |
w_right = E.FO |
im_right = IMO |
im_left = IMD |
w_left = WTM or OW |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

The first formation gives you decent wing defence, which is useful against winger trainers, people playing forward toward wing or anybody that has a decent wing attack (unless you're trying to guess the side, you'll opponent will play his wing). It's a good "all round" formation.

{{Line-up|
title = Formation B |
gk = GK |
wb_right = E.FO |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = E.IM |
w_right = E.CD |
im_right = IMO |
im_left = IMO |
w_left = WTM or OW|
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

The second formation works well against most teams who concentrate on central attack (other scoring trainers, notably), but it leaves you relatively weak in wing defense.
If the use of tactics like [[AIM]] and [[AOW]] is worth its drawbacks it's still open for discussion.
|}

==4-3-3==
It is a seldom used formation. Nevertheless, potentially it can be used to provide a strong counter-attack option with decent defence and strong attack.

It provides some defence and some attack, especially in the central sector. However, midfield and side attacks suffer from the lack of IMs.  This formation is one of two available to Scoring trainers that is trainable. 

Because of the lack of midfield and side attack options, most Scoring trainers use [[3-4-3]]. 

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
{{Line-up |
title = 3 IM 4-3-3 |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = EF |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = E.IM |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

This line-up provides as much midfield as possible without using wingers. Often used with AIM, or  counter-attacks.

{{Line-up |
title = Weak Midfield Counterattack 4-3-3 |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = W |
im_right = IM |
im_left = EF |
w_left = W |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

This line-up provides a strong balanced attack, a decent defence, but little midfield.
|}

==5-3-2==
It is generally seen as one of the weakest line-ups, as it is very difficult to achieve good ratings in midfield and attack whilst using this formation. But defending trainers will make use of this formation because it allows them to train 10 defenders in a week (2 matches with 5 defenders each). Because the defence ratings will be good, counter-attacks is a good option with 5-3-2, especially against teams that are equally strong or stronger. 

It is mostly used for training defenders.
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>{{Line-up|
title = Formation A |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBD |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = E.IM |
im_right = IMO |
im_left = IMO |
w_left = E.CD |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

With formation A, a team tries to win at least some of the midfield.

{{Line-up|
title = Formation B |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBD |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = E.CD |
im_right = IMO |
im_left = IMO |
w_left = WO |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

With formation B, a team tries to have a strong attack on one wing while still counting on counter-attacks.

{{Line-up|
title = Formation C |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBD |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = WO |
im_right = E.CD |
im_left = IMO |
w_left = WO |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

With formation C a team doesn't care for the midfield and it's counting on counter-attacks alone. It is also an alternative for lower [[division]]s if the only midfielder has an '''exceptionally high skill''' (e.g. [[Denominations#Player_abilities_etc|titanic]] playmaking for divisions under VI is considered to be "a killer" but some teams that train defenders may afford it).
|}

==5-4-1==
5-4-1 is known as one of the worst line-ups, even Defending trainers agree to that. The advantage of this line-up is that the midfield [[rating]] is acceptable, but the big downside is that one wing attack is neglected and central attack also won't be very strong.  will be very difficult to score with this line-up, so it can be used with [[pressing]] to make sure you don't lose, or with [[play creatively]] and a player with very good Set Pieces so you at least have a chance to score. 

Counter-attacks won't work very well here because only one of your attacks is decent.

It is mostly used for training defenders

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
{{Line-up|
title = Formation A |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBD |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = E.CD |
im_right = IMO |
im_left = IMO |
w_left = WO |
f_right = E.IM |
f_left = FO |
}}
|}

==5-5-0== 
One of the three [[Extreme formations|extreme line-up]]s still allowed. When playing 5-5-0 with all players defensive, all three attack ratings will probably be "disastrous", thus the chance of scoring a goal by a regular chance is negligible.

You need players with a specialty to score and make sure to field player with high Set Pieces to score all the free kicks. A 5-5-0 line-up can also be very useful for a team specialized in [[long shots]] and use long shot chances to score goals despite having a very low attack.
If you decide that in one match pressing tactic is the only option you can do to avoid losing, 5-5-0 can be a good friend. Just line-up your 10 best defenders. If you set your wingers (can use wing backs for this) to play offensive you can even get a chance to win.

It is the only way to maximize [[defensive positions]] or [[through passes]] training.
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
It isn't used very much and can be useful in [[friendlies]].
{{Line-up |
title = 5-5-0, pressing |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WB |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WB |
w_right = DW |
im_right = D.IM |
im_left = D.IM |
w_left = DW |
f_right = E.IM |
f_left = E.CD |
}}
<!--
;Using 5-5-0 to Lose
5-5-0 can also be used to make sure you lose. This can be useful when playing a friendly with [[cup rules]] when you don't want the chance of injuries in extra time. All players that play just for their form can be positioned there where they will play very bad and players that play to receive training can be given an order to make sure the team plays worse. E.g. a defensive trainer orders all his defenders to play offensive, makes sure players without Playmaking and with bad [[stamina]] play as IM and players without wing play as wingers. All midfielders with bad defending can be ordered to play defensive. In this way all ratings are lowered as much as possible without any negative effects for training and player form.
-->
|}

==5-2-3==
One of the three ''extreme line-ups'' still allowed and one of the more eccentric counter-attacks line-ups. 

Used mostly by Defending trainers. 
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
Depending on the number of IM's, there can be three line-ups. Most usually, managers play it with none:

{{Line-up|
title = 5-2-3, 0 IM |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBD |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = CD |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = WO |
im_right = EF |
im_left = E.CD |
w_left = WO |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}

With this line-up, the manager has good attack ratings in all 3 areas, as well as a strong Defending. He or she will, however, probably lose midfield by a massive margin and suffer from [[confusion]].

While it is possible to play this line-up using IMs, given that no more than two can be used and that [[confusion]] is almost certain to occur, it is likely that the team would still lose midfield by a large margin making this a pointless exercise.  This line-up can only be successful when the opponents attack is much lower than the counter-attacking teams defence, as their opponents will inevitably receive all 10 [[regular chances]] in the game and the counter-attacking team will have to rely entirely on 2-3 counter-attacks chances.

It was stated in the Global conference that confusion could possibly affect the scoring probability without affecting the ratings.
|}

==2-5-3==
One of the three ''extreme line-ups'' still allowed. A line-up used occasionally by users training Scoring, Playmaking or Passing.  It allows for very strong attack [[ratings]]. 

Passing trainers use this in friendlies and against teams with no midfield to max-out the training positions.

{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| <h3>Line-up Configuration</h3>
{{Line-up|
title = Example of 2-5-3 |
gk = GK |
wb_right = E.IM |
cd_right = CD |
cd_left = E.FW |
wb_left = WBD |
w_right = WN |
im_right = IM |
im_left = IM |
w_left = WN |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}
|}

===All ahead full===
A rarely used variant of 2-5-3 where the IMs are offensive and wingers are offensive too. It is also used along with [[All-out Attack]] strategy. 

It is a suicidal form of attack maximized regardless of the probably very low ratings in other sectors, with no defence apart from the [[goalkeeper]]. A lot of goals should be scored in official matches, but it has some limited advantages depending upon the situation. 

That's why it is used if the opponent doesn't have midfield at all (i.e. when playing against an opponent that will for sure use some CA formation without any middle, like 5-2-3, but has a very solid defence).
{| class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed wikitable" 
| <small>The following chapter contains information invalid and outdated after the match engine changes and it is preserved only for its historical value. It contains the old-style line-up configuration (1997-2010)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</small>
|-
| 
{{Line-up|
title = All ahead full |
gk = GK |
wb_right = WBO |
cd_right = E.FO |
cd_left = E.IM |
wb_left = WBO |
w_right = W.O |
im_right = IM.O |
im_left = IM.O |
w_left = W.O |
f_right = FO |
f_left = FO |
}}
|}
==Tips==
{{Based on opinion}}
Before a game remember to examine your opponent. Generally speaking, try to find the opponent's weak spot and hit there. 

If you're simply superior to your opponent in something and he can do nothing about it, insist on it and think what your opponent might do to counter your advantage. 
For example, if you have a better midfield than your opponent, consider that he might play counter-attacks, so strengthen either your back-line or your attack. 

and if it has a strong midfield team with weak attacks, consider playing with [[defender]]s with Playmaking or, at the opposite, with [[counter-attacks]] (if you have the proper players, of course - CA can be especially lethal with the 4-3-3 and 5-3-2 line-ups. 

If opponent's attack is strong, play your IMs defensive, and if its defence is strong, play your IMs offensive.

If the opponent has no wing defence, use a FTW or an offensive winger.


[[Category: Tactics]]