Fantasy Premier League (FPL) managers are always on the lookout for ways to maximise their points and achieve success throughout the season. One of the most intriguing aspects of FPL scoring is the bonus points system. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, understanding how bonus points are awarded can make all the difference in your overall performance. In this article, we’ll delve into the mechanics of bonus points for the 2024/2025 FPL season, breaking down everything you need to know to optimise your team strategy and improve your chances of climbing the leaderboard.
What Are Bonus Points in FPL?
Bonus points are awarded to players based on their performances during a match. Unlike the standard points awarded for goals, assists, and clean sheets, bonus points are given to those players who have made the biggest impact in the game as per the Fantasy Premier League’s scoring system. These points can be critical for your team’s overall score, often helping to decide the difference between a good week and a great week.
The bonus points are awarded after every match, and players who perform well in key metrics, such as goal contributions or defensive solidity, receive extra points based on the Bonus Points System (BPS).
How Does the Bonus Points System (BPS) Work?
The Bonus Points System (BPS) used in FPL is designed to reward players who make the most significant contributions to their team’s performance in a match. It takes into account various in-game actions, such as:
Goals Scored: Scoring goals is the most obvious factor, but it’s not just about being the top scorer in a match.
Assists: Assists are just as valuable as goals in the BPS, especially when linked with a key play.
Key Passes: A key pass leads directly to a shot on goal, and it adds to the player’s overall BPS.
Clean Sheets: For defenders and goalkeepers, keeping a clean sheet is rewarded with additional points.
Defensive Actions: Blocks, clearances, interceptions, and tackles made by defenders or midfielders contribute to their BPS score.
Saves: Goalkeepers benefit significantly from making saves, especially in high-stress matches.
Penalties Saved: Goalkeepers who save penalties are rewarded with a significant BPS boost.
The system works by assigning points for these actions during the match. Each player’s BPS is then calculated, and based on the results, the top three players in the match are awarded bonus points, ranging from 3 for the top performer to 1 for the third-best.
How Are Bonus Points Awarded in FPL?
The number of bonus points a player receives is determined by their BPS score, which is calculated after the match. The top three players, based on their BPS, receive the following bonus points:
Top Player: 3 bonus points
Second Player: 2 bonus points
Third Player: 1 bonus point
If multiple players tie for a position, the bonus points are divided. For example, if two players are tied for second place, they will each receive 2 bonus points, and no player will get the 1 point typically awarded to the third player.
It’s important to note that the bonus points are not always awarded to the player who scores the most goals or assists. The BPS formula considers the overall contribution to the game, meaning that a defensive player who puts in a solid, goal-saving performance can earn bonus points even if they didn’t score or assist a goal.
Key Factors Influencing Bonus Points in 2024/2025
With the 2024/2025 FPL season in full swing, several factors have come into play in terms of how bonus points are awarded, and the following trends are becoming increasingly important:
Influence of Defensive Statistics
Defenders are getting more recognition for their all-around contributions. Not only do clean sheets matter, but actions like clearances, blocks, and interceptions are now playing a more significant role in the BPS. The increase in these factors has shifted focus, as defenders are receiving more bonus points due to their defensive work.
Goalkeepers Rising in Bonus Points Rankings
Historically, goalkeepers have been limited in terms of bonus points, but that has been changing. With more attention to save statistics and penalty saves, goalkeepers who perform well in these areas can now earn more points, making them an attractive option in fantasy leagues.
The Role of Key Passes
In the 2024/2025 season, key passes (passes leading directly to a shot on goal) have been increasingly rewarded. Midfielders, who are traditionally the creators in FPL, are seeing higher BPS and bonus points for facilitating attacking opportunities. Players who are adept at controlling the midfield and creating chances are becoming more valuable, even if they don’t always finish with goals or assists.
The Changing Landscape of Attacking Points
While attacking points (goals and assists) have always been a central factor, bonus points for attacking players are now increasingly influenced by a wider range of actions, including their ability to press high, win the ball back, and contribute defensively. With more emphasis on team play, even attacking players who don’t directly score or assist are earning bonus points for their off-the-ball contributions.
How to Maximise Bonus Points for Your FPL Team
As an FPL manager, understanding how to maximise bonus points can be crucial to gaining an edge over your competitors. Here are some strategies to optimise bonus point potential in your squad:
Invest in All-Around Players
Look for players who contribute to both offensive and defensive play. Midfielders who are involved in creating chances, tracking back, and helping defend, as well as attackers who press high up the pitch, are more likely to receive bonus points.
Focus on Key Statistical Areas
Players who make key passes, blocks, clearances, and interceptions are often in line to earn bonus points. When selecting defenders, consider those who not only keep clean sheets but also rack up defensive actions. For goalkeepers, ensure they have good shot-stopping statistics, particularly with saves and penalty saves.
Choose Goal Scorers and Providers Wisely
While it’s important to have players who can score goals and provide assists, consider how involved they are in the build-up play. Players who are active in creating chances, even if they aren’t always finishing them, have a higher chance of earning bonus points.
Stay Informed About Match Trends
Some players perform better under specific match conditions. For example, a player who excels in the final stages of a game, contributing key tackles or goals, may be awarded bonus points. Keep track of how teams are playing and whether certain players are more likely to be involved in key moments that lead to bonus points.
Meta Trends: Bonus Points in FPL 2024/2025
The Meta in FPL is constantly evolving, with managers adjusting their strategies to maximise the potential for bonus points. In 2024/2025, certain trends have emerged in the Meta:
High Press and Counter-Attacks: Teams that press high and counter quickly are yielding bonus points for their attacking and defensive players. Players in such systems can rack up points for winning the ball back and setting up fast transitions.
Defensive Solidity: There is a growing trend towards valuing defensive players who put in hard work and contribute to more than just clean sheets. Defenders who block shots, make clearances, and stop key passes are earning more bonus points, which has led to a shift in how managers view their backlines.
All-Around Midfielders: Managers are now prioritising midfielders who contribute across multiple facets of the game. This has led to a rise in the popularity of box-to-box midfielders who are capable of chipping in with key passes, tackles, and shots on goal.
FAQs
What are bonus points in the Fantasy Premier League (Fantasy Premier League)?
Bonus points are additional points awarded to players based on their performance in a match. The top three performing players in each game receive bonus points: three points to the highest-scoring player, two to the second, and one to the third.
How is the Bonus Points System (BPS) calculated in Fantasy Premier League?
The BPS is determined by a range of on-field actions, including goals, assists, clean sheets, successful dribbles, tackles, and pass completion rates. Each action contributes a specific number of points to a player’s BPS score. The players with the top three BPS scores in a given match receive bonus points.
How can I track bonus points for my Fantasy Premier League players?
FPL provides live updates on bonus points during matches. After each game, the official FPL website and app display the bonus points awarded to each player. Additionally, third-party websites and apps offer detailed analyses and projections of bonus points.
What changes have been made to the Bonus Points System for the 2024/2025 season?
Several adjustments have been implemented:
Goalkeeper Saving a Penalty: Reduced from 15 to 9 BPS.
Goalkeepers/Defenders Conceding a Goal: Introduced a deduction of 4 BPS.
Goalline Clearance: Introduced a reward of 3 BPS.
Foul Won: Introduced a reward of 1 BPS.
Shot on Target: Introduced a reward of 2 BPS.
Final Thought
Bonus points are a pivotal aspect of Fantasy Premier League, often determining who finishes in the top spots and who lags. Understanding the Bonus Points System, staying informed on the key metrics, and making tactical decisions on which players to invest in can dramatically affect your performance. By keeping an eye on emerging trends, such as the growing importance of defensive actions and key passes, you can stay ahead of the competition and make the most of every match. Keep analysing and refining your strategy, and your FPL team could be one step closer to victory.
To read more, Click here
Leave a Reply