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Offensive transition

Offensive transition

The game we are analysing today is the first game of five in the OkLiga final between Barça and Noia. It ended 4-0 for Barça, winning the first game of the series.

As a reminder, follow these steps:

  1. Take a look at the video: 
  2. Read and think about the analysis.
  3. Match the analysis with the video. It starts at 1:51.

As indicated by the title, we are analysing an offensive transition, a 3-on-2 situation with Barça as the attackers. Although the transition didn’t result in a goal, it is fascinating to observe.

Recovery

Although Eloi Cervera (Barça Nº72) is not shown in the clip, we can see how quickly he passes the ball to his teammate in a more advantageous position on the same side.

Positioning

When Cervera passes the ball, Marc Grau (Barça Nº28) is on the same side as Cervera, in an advantageous position, and Llorca (Barça Nº44) is also in a favourable position but in the middle lane. As soon as Grau receives the ball, Llorca skates through the middle lane, providing easy support to Grau, while Cervera moves to the left lane (the opposite side from Grau).

Offensive Triangle

As the Barça players enter Noia’s half, Llorca cuts into the right lane while Grau skates towards the middle lane for a clear shot. The defenders are not positioned high, allowing Grau the chance to move into the middle. Notice how his skating is horizontal, almost parallel to the defenders. We can see that they are always aiming to form a triangle, starting with Llorca's cut, which then gives Grau space to recreate the triangle.

One player move leads to another different player move

Execution

Cervera maintains his position in the right lane, keeping some distance from the defenders and opening up the space. When Grau cuts in, his intention is to execute. He takes an excellent shot, which doesn’t result in a goal but was a clear opportunity.

Highlights

  1. Simplicity: Just one pass was needed for this specific transition. Sometimes, less is more.
  2. Space: Grau had the chance to take a clear shot for two reasons: the defence was very low (possibly expecting something else) and his skating kept him far from the defence.
  3. Triangle: Once Barça transitions, they set up a triangle, and every move aims to reform the triangle.

Grab a stick and keep skating!!