In a season when Leicester City became unexpected first-time winners of the Premier League, the title for the 2015/16 Fantasy Premier League in association with EA SPORTS was won by a debutant after a close-fought race went to the final day.
After signing up for FPL for the first time, Dimitri Nicolaou, emerged as No 1 from 3.73million managers, a record number, to win by just eight points.
Nicolau edged out a late challenge from Jack Manners' Dankerys, with Marcus Rashford's goal in Manchester United's 3-1 win over AFC Bournemouth on Tuesday, helping him to win a seven-day break in the UK courtesy of VisitBritain with VIP trips for him and a guest to two Premier League matches in the 2016/17 season.
The 25-year-old from Chipping Norton, England, talked about his triumph with premierleague.com.
This was your first time to play Fantasy Premier League. What got you to join?
My friends had created a mini-league and invited me. I had played another fantasy football game but never really enjoyed it. So I signed up to the Premier League one.
What does it feel like now you have won?
I feel incredible. I am still in shock I have managed to come first after all the drama of the season!
What were you doing while the Gameweek 38 matches were taking place?
I watched the Manchester United vs AFC Bournemouth match with the family, waiting for events to unfold.
I was so happy to be ranked in the top 10 and felt that was achievement enough. I was fairly nervous but tried to keep as cool a head as possible.
When did you first think this could be your season?
Coming into Gameweek 33, with the Wildcard and the first double Gameweek, I realised I could finish top 10. I never imagined finishing first!
What was your strategy in such an unpredictable campaign?
Maintaining consistency but being adventurous with transfers.
How early did you capitalise on Leicester’s success?
It was clear after the first few matches they had players that would rack up the points, so I capitalised on that. I do not think anyone expected them to perform at the level they did, so consistently throughout the season.
What other clubs and players were particularly key to your success?
Spurs. Harry Kane was in my team from the early Gameweeks and captaining him against Bournemouth helped tremendously.
Have you got any tips you could pass on to less successful FPL managers?
Go with your gut, rather than your head. It tends to be a better indicator. Think outside the box.
How did the introduction of the chips to FPL this season help you?
They were very helpful. Executing them at the correct time was the main challenge but I did that well.
You did not use the first of two Wildcards available. Why?
I didn't need it. I was happy with the team I had evolved and could see it was strong enough.
Will you defend your FPL title or bow out undefeated?
I will most certainly try my best to defend it. There will be much more pressure second time round!
What is it you like about the game?
I like the way it is set up, the ability to transfer on a weekly basis allows a gradual sculpturing of your team. The boosts you can use creates a more dynamic aspect making the whole season enthralling, competitive and interesting!
How do you plan to use your prize?
I am looking forward to watching some great football next season and relaxing for a few days. I love Manchester United and would like to watch them against the big four or five teams, preferably including Leicester.
Fantasy Premier League 2015/16 Cup
In the FPL Cup, Ayush Agarwal's Coyotes emerged triumphant from more than 2million managers.
Agarwal, who is from India, saw his team beat Tristan Lawrence’s Krul and the Gang 42-40 thanks to Rashford's goal for Manchester United in the final match of the season.
Roll of honour: Fantasy Premier League champions
2015/16 Dimitri Nicolaou, Dimitris gavles (2,458 points)
2014/15 Simon March, Atletico Marchid** (2,470 points).
2013/14 Tom Fenley, Captain Suarez! (2,634 points).
2012/13 Matt Martyniak, Divine Mercy (2,472 points).
2011/12 Sam Pater, SamCity (2,414 points).
2010/11 Chris McGurn, Morons FC (2,372 points)
2009/10 Jon Reeson, Westfield Irons (2,668 points)
2008/09 Sir Moult, MOULTANIC (2,264 points)
2007/08 John Frisina, FRISK UTD (2,466 points)
2006/07 Mike Dolan, Divers & Cheats XI (2,268 points)
2005/06 Tommy Wilson, Blue Bridge Brigade (2,326 points)
2004/05 Andy Tomlins, Palace Excile (2,253 points)
2003/04 Muir O Connor, The lonely 11 (2,151 points)
2002/03 Graeme Haddow, Wee Wullie Winkie FC (1,940 points)
Register your team on fantasy.premierleague.com before 11.30 BST on Saturday 13 August 2016.
