Retail's refusal to break the official street date of Pro Evolution Soccer 2008 has left Konami UK general manager Pete Stone almost as impressed as the game’s debut at number one in the software chart.

Last year, retailers such as Woolworths and Gamestation started selling the game’s predecessor, Pro Evolution Soccer 6, up to three days before its official release date.

At the time, Stone told MCV: “This is not something we condone. It leads to anarchy in the market and some retailers will be heavily disadvantaged.”

However, Stone has congratulated retailers across the High Street this year for sticking to the game’s official street date of October 26th. “It was certainly better than last year,” he told MCV.

“There were a few smaller indies selling early, but the major retailers stuck to their guns and the launch date. There were a few isolated incidents in response to the indie leaks, but I am very happy with the way retail has supported us.”

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Stone added that Konami was “delighted” with first week sales of the game, which beat out rival FIFA 08 to claim the Number one spot in the ChartTrack All Formats chart.

“We continually promote PES after launch, and will maintain its profile via the hoardings at key matches, TV and press ads, and further editorial coverage,” Stone added.

“PES is a mainstay of the charts after launch, and we anticipate that PES 2008 will hold its position throughout the year as before.”