STYLE OF PLAY
Build from the Back
Our teams are trained to become comfortable with possession in our defensive third in order to try to bait the opponent's pressure and create space higher up the field.
Data shows that teams that play short out of the back and through pressure, rather than avoiding or skipping it, actually have their attacks end higher on the field and more touches in the opposition's box. This provides not only more and better opportunities to score goals, but also an ability control where the game is played to our advantage when we lose the ball.
From a player development standpoint, it also provides a better platform for players to play at the highest possible level.
Press from the Front
Our teams will be aggressive in trying to win the ball back as quickly as possible and as high up the field as possible. Rather than focusing on protecting our own goal, we encourage players to be brave and take the risk of trying to defend on the front foot as the reward can be much higher than the risk.
Vertical Possession
Vertical possession means that we avoid "square" or side ways passes. Whether it be forwards or backwards, we encourage players to always pass on an angle.
The reasoning is simple. If a sideways pass is intercepted, neither the passer or the intended receiver are in a position to delay the opponent's counter-attack. A pass on an angle, forward or backwards, leaves at least one of the two in a position to delay the opponent's progress or regain the ball.
Ball-Oriented
Being ball-oriented simply means that the way that we go about positioning ourselves is always in relation to the ball first rather than the opponents. By being ball-oriented, the spaces can be come uncomfortably small for the opponent while our players consistently train within those constraints.
EVIDENCE