How not to defend
Back again, sorry.
Today we are analysing a goal from one of the most hectic games from the Spanish Competition, Barça - Liceo. This time the 3 points went to Liceo. Let’s enjoy
As a reminder, Follow this steps:
- Take a look at the video:
- Read and think about the analysis.
- Match the analysis and the video. Min 4:23
Just first, If you want a masterclass on how to execute, rewind all the Bruno Saavedra’s (Lieco Nº13) goals. From this game and the previous one against Rivas. Just impressive.
But our main topic today is not Bruno, it is a perfect timing from Barça to start a counter attack from nothing.
We start on Liceo’s attack. Just check Barça’s defence. 1 on 1 not single centimetre in between the defender and the attacker. Barça's goal here is to push and make all the attackers as uncomfortable as possible. They don't want the ball, they want a bad decision. And after that a team mate will pick up the ball.
The problem on this defence is not only how physically consuming it is for defenders. The main point here is that if a single defender under performs, everything blows up.
Check it out, Liceo players tried to bring the ball back to 7 to reset. But guess. They made a mistake in the pass, probably due to Barça’s push. Alabrat (Barça Nº3) is the defender that was skating up, he was skating from 7. Alabart is already skating towards the opposite side.
Look at Sergi Fernandez (Barça’s goalie) he is so in that as soon as the ball is unattended he picks it up and passes straight to Alabart. Alabart realises about Sergi’s intention and is starting the counter attack already.
Alabart gets the ball and when defenders realise what is going on. Barça has set up the counter attack. When Alabart has advantage on the defender and Pablo Alvarez (Barça Nº7) is already in position. A few more steps and the counter attack turns into a clear 2 on 1.
Pablo Alvarez crosses to the opposite side opening the space and his defender stays with Alabart. Which means that Pablo Alvarez is free. When both attackers hit the box, Alabart has two defenders on him and Pablo Alvarez is free next to the goalie. Alabart manages to pass and Pablo Alvarez hits the ball on one tap scoring.
Look how important everyone's participation on the defence is. And how clear Barça players have their role in defence. This time Sergi stepped up and started the counter attack. Goalies are not only to stop the ball, give them responsibilities, make them part of defence and they will perform incredibly. We had a similar analysis last year with Guillem Torrens from Igualada, to give it a refresh to understand what else a goalie can do.
Disclaimer for coaches and floor players: If you don't practice the stick skill and to read the game you cannot expect this kind of behaviour.
Grab a stick & keep skating! Or not
