Tag: NWSL

Game of Numbers #36 – Role Changes for Dejan Kulusevski & Konrad Laimer

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Central Midfield, Coach Education, Fullback, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Wing-Back, Winger

One thing is for certain. Spurs have not been the same since injury to James Maddison. Spurs were flying high with no signs of slowing down at the start of the season. But injuries across the squad have since stunted their progress and made for a more difficult second half of the first half to this campaign. Micky van de Ven's been a miss at the back, but Maddison's creative influence has been that missing puzzle piece that's made for a lack of a finishing touch to Tottenham's endeavours. Perhaps not anymore, with Dejan Kulusevski showcasing his potential as a 'Creative Ten'. Here is Game of Numbers #36 - featuring role changes for Konrad Laimer and Dejan Kulusevski.

Game of Numbers #35 – Anthony Gordon’s embodiment of the Newcastle way

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Central Midfield, Coach Education, Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Winger

Newcastle United have been defined in the Eddie Howe era by energy and intensity, including an all-out press, and fervid counter attacking immediately upon regaining possession. Anthony Gordon perfectly embodies the Newcastle way under Eddie Howe, and has been one of the surprise stars of the 2023-24 season. Many scoffed at Chelsea's interest in the former Everton youngster at the start of last season, particularly the price tag bestowed upon him. But Gordon is proving to be a priceless acquisition for the Magpies this season, bringing his tireless tenacity to the table every game. Here is Game of Numbers #35.

Game of Numbers #34 – Dribbling lessons from Jérémy Doku

Featured by Rhys Desmond, posted in Game of Numbers, Masterclasses, Masterclasses, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Winger

Gotham FC finished the 2023 NWSL season in sixth place, narrowly scraping into the playoffs on goal differential over the Orlando Pride. They were far from the favourites to make the playoff final, let alone win the whole thing over a star-studded team like OL Reign. Yet thanks to a double-assist from Midge Purce, the NJ/NY team claimed the highest honour the NWSL has to offer. Here is a dribbling masterclass featuring lessons from the electrifying Midge Purce and Manchester City's new kid on the block Jérémy Doku.

Women’s World Cup 2023 Preview – Rose Lavelle & Ashley Sanchez

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Attacking Midfield, Central Midfield, Player Analysis, Women's Football

One of the storylines heading into the Women's World Cup this year for the United States centers around the fitness of one of their prime starlets - Rose Lavelle. Lavelle stole the show with her Bronze Ball back in 2019 as the U.S. lifted the trophy, and has been a key function for both Reign and her nation since. Luckily for the States, they seem to have a carbon copy in the form of Ashley Sanchez of the Washington Spirit. Although Sanchez lacks the same experience and Bronze Ball potential, she just so happens to be a remarkably similar player set to shine at this summer's tournament.

The case for short corners

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Coach Education, Coaching, Masterclasses, NWSL, UEFA Champions League, Women's Football

Among a host of changes to the game and innovations popping up at every turn, short corners remain an understudied facet of the game. While they often frustrate fans in stadiums when they ultimately come to nothing, the right short corner kick routine can bear fruit for any team, creating an overload before whipping the ball into the box.

Kansas City Current – Tactical Analysis – 2022

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Most Recent, NWSL, Team Analysis, Women's Football

Kansas City Current have shocked the NWSL in 2022, going on an incredible run of form at the end of the season to win or draw 17 of their last 20 games, and secure a spot in the playoffs where they now await the Final. Along the way, Matthew Potter has played some of the most tactically flexible football in the division, creating a team of workhorses ready to fight each and every day for the betterment of the team. They've not only played some of the best football this season, but have done so with one of the lowest budgets, and arguably the least amount of star power in their ranks.

Bethany Balcer – Player Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Masterclasses, Most Recent, NWSL, Player Analysis, Striker, Women's Football

Out of all the 'Target Women' around, Bethany Balcer might be one of the very best in the modern game. Frequently used as an outlet for progressive passes, Balcer's back-to-goal incisiveness remains a threatening endeavour for her team, and one that is frequently useful in advancing OL Reign up the pitch. But now, after the arrival of Jordyn Huitema, Balcer's even upped her scoring game, ensuring Huitema has very little room to work with in stealing a spot in the squad at the start of her Reign career. Here is an analysis of Bethany Balcer's exceptional hold-up play, and the vast array of traits that make her one of the best forwards in the NWSL.