The intricacies of point scoring in Fantasy Premier League (FPL) are pivotal to mastering the game. Each player position accrues points differently, reflecting the varied roles and expectations on the pitch. Understanding these nuances allows managers to make informed decisions when selecting their squad and to strategise effectively for each gameweek.
How Goalkeepers Score Points in FPL:
- For playing up to 60 minutes: 1 point
- For playing 60 minutes or more: 2 points
- For a clean sheet: 4 points
- For every 3 shot saves: 1 point
- For each penalty save: 5 points
- Bonus points for the best players in a match: 1-3 points
- For every 2 goals conceded: -1 point
- For each yellow card: -1 point
- For each red card: -3 points
- For each own goal: -2 points
And in rare instances:
- For each goal scored by a goalkeeper: 6 points
- For each goal assist: 3 points
How Midfielders Score Points in FPL:
- For playing up to 60 minutes: 1 point
- For playing 60 minutes or more: 2 points
- For each goal scored by a midfielder: 5 points
- For each goal assist: 3 points
- For a clean sheet by a midfielder: 1 point
- Bonus points for the best players in a match: 1-3 points
- For each yellow card: -1 point
- For each red card: -3 points
- For each own goal: -2 points
How Attacker/Forwards Score Points in FPL:
- For playing up to 60 minutes: 1 point
- For playing 60 minutes or more: 2 points
- For each goal scored by a forward: 4 points
- For each goal assist: 3 points
- Bonus points for the best players in a match: 1-3 points
- For each yellow card: -1 point
- For each red card: -3 points
- For each own goal: -2 points
How do FPL bonus points work?
Bonus points in FPL are allocated through the Bonus Points System (BPS), which uses a range of statistics to calculate a BPS score for every player in a match. The system aims to recognise the overall influence of players beyond goals and assists. For instance, defenders gain points through successful tackles and clearances, while forwards are rewarded for scoring and creating significant chances.
The highest-scoring players receive additional points, with three points for the top performer, two for the second-best, and one for the third. In the event of a tie, the points are distributed evenly among the tied players. This system ensures that impactful plays, which are not necessarily reflected in the main scoring criteria, are acknowledged and rewarded.
FPL point scoring terms glossary
Own Goal:
An own goal occurs when a player inadvertently scores against their own team. In FPL, the scoring player’s team is penalised, and the points are deducted accordingly. However, the opposing player who influenced the own goal, typically through a shot or pass, may be awarded an assist.
Assist:
An assist is credited to a player who makes the final pass leading to a goal. It can be intentional or unintentional, such as when a player’s shot or pass is deflected by an opponent, but still results in a goal. The FPL system considers various scenarios to determine a fair allocation of assists, including rebounds and set-piece inductions.
Clean Sheet:
A clean sheet is awarded to a player who plays at least 60 minutes in a match where their team does not concede any goals. For goalkeepers and defenders, maintaining a clean sheet is a significant point-earning opportunity, reflecting their defensive duties. Midfielders may also earn points for a clean sheet, albeit to a lesser extent.
In conclusion, the FPL scoring system is a complex mechanism designed to mirror real-life football dynamics. It rewards players not just for the goals they score or the clean sheets they keep but also for their overall contribution to the game’s flow and outcome. Managers would do well to familiarise themselves with these details to harness the full potential of their chosen squad.