With the team selection for QBE Fantasy Football well under way, Andrew Holt talked to three players about their team prospects
Tim Mackfall part of the claims team at Towergate and his team, The Charge (see table, right)
What attracted you to enter QBE fantasy football?
The QBE/Insurance Times Fantasy Football was free to enter and became a social point within my section. Also it was Richard Yale, our section leader, who drummed everyone up to get involved – enticing even those with no football knowledge to participate.
What do you like about the game?
In football it is down to what happens on the day, with even the best of the best losing to the unlikeliest opponent; so I enjoy the suspense until the final whistle. I also like the banter between colleagues who support other teams and their views on ‘their’ and ‘our’ players.
Did you enter last year? If so where did you come?
I did not enter last year, but was keen to enter this year as other colleagues who entered last year really enjoyed it.
What criteria did you set in choosing your team?
I chose a few key players and then took a lucky guess on others to round the cost to a straight £55m.
How did you choose your name?
I put down the first name that came into my head.
What are your top tips for others choosing their team?
For novices who have lucky dips, it is best to check out the chosen team to see if they are all fit for play.
What team do you support and does this influence your team selection?
Middlesbrough. Yes, I chose Yakubu.
How long have you been in insurance? Where are you based?
I have been in insurance since I was 16 and I am now based at Towergate Teesside.
Tony Young part of the back office support at Newman Martin & Buchan and his team, The Pirates (see table, right)
What attracted you to enter QBE fantasy football?
Others in the office were doing it.
What do you like about the game?
It gives additional interest to the season.
Did you enter last year? If so where did you come?
No.
What criteria did you set in choosing your team?
Price and name.
How did you choose your name?
I work in marine insurance name and this has a nautical connection.
What are your top tips for others choosing their team?
Price and name.
What team do you support and does this influence your team selection?
Ipswich Town. So, no.
How long have you been a broker?
Seven years.
Stephen Hepburn, managing director from Maestro Insurance Services and his team, Staleyvegas United (see table, right)
What attracted you to enter QBE fantasy football?
Very easy to follow and progress.
What do like about the game?
I love football anyway, and this is easy to set up, and follow your progress.
Did you enter last year? If so where did you come?
Yes, lost track, failing miserably (it was 280ish, I think).
What criteria did you set in choosing your team?
Scorers are the priority and the keeper, then fit the rest around that.
How did you choose your name?
Chairman of Manchester United Supporters Club Stalybridge Branch (known locally as Staleyvegas).
What are your top tips for others choosing their team?
As above: scorers are priority and the keeper then fit the rest around that.
What team do you support and does this influence your team selection?
I support Man United, but no, I tried to be impartial.
How long have you been in insurance? Where are you based?
23 years, Bramhall, south Manchester.
