Tag: Tactics

Explaining the Sweeper – Player Role Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Centre Backs, Coach Education, Data Analysis, German Bundesliga, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting

The term 'Sweeper' has existed within the game for decades. The traditional usage encourages the contrasting relationship between one centre-back who steps out (the 'Stopper'), and one that sweeps in behind. The modern game has evolved in such a way where centre-backs typically perform both roles simultaneously, and it's rare to find clear-cut examples of 'Sweeper-Stopper' partnerships. In fact, I'd go as far to suggest that they typically exist more in back-threes in the modern game, with one clear-cut 'Stopper' angling higher than an obvious 'Sweeper' cleaning up the messes in behind. This Player Role Analysis is all about the modern day 'Sweepers', as we break down the tasks, functions and over-arching role of a 'Sweeper' in 2022.

Explaining the Stopper – Player Role Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Centre Backs, Coach Education, Data Analysis, German Bundesliga, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Player Education, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting

Over the past few decades, centre-backs have only grown in importance to attacking phases and playing out from the back, becoming some of the preeminent quarterbacks for their clubs. But the 'Stopper' is still alive and well, providing an 'old-school', throwback approach to defending that relishes the physical side of the game. Every team must find the balance in their defensive unit, and sometimes that may mean deploying a rock-solid, proactive defender that can win possession higher up the pitch. It's not the prettiest of roles, but when played correctly, 'Stoppers' can be absolutely imperative to a team's success.

Aribim Pepple – Player Analysis

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Canadian Premier League, Most Recent, Player Analysis, Striker

Cavalry FC started the season without a bang. They went winless in their first three matches, scoring just two goals, as Joe Mason and Myer Bevan failed to fully live up to the hype up front. After a change in system from 3-4-3 to 4-2-3-1, Tommy Wheeldon Jr.’s team started to see more stuttering success, and the team achieved greater fluidity across the board. At exactly the right moment, Wheeldon Jr. introduced Aribim Pepple into the lineup, and soon afterward, Cavarly hit top gear. The 19-year-old has been in incredible form in the past month, scoring 6 goals in 7 matches en route to being named the CPL’s Player of the Month for June. His stuttering form in front of goal has even reportedly earned himself a move to England, the details of which are still being finalized. Here is our analysis of Pepple and his impending move.

UEFA Euro U19 Stars: Martin Adeline – Player Analysis

by Charlie Ellis, posted in Attacking Midfield, Central Midfield, Most Recent, Player Analysis, World Football

Many of England's starlets have been achieving much deserved acclaim after their impressive tournament win, but an underappreciated star of the competition comes in the form of Martin Adeline, France's exceptional midfield destroyer. The 18-year-old left PSG just two years ago to grow his career elsewhere, and after playing 8 games this season in Ligue 1, he looks to have boosted his reputation a step further at the Euros this summer in Slovakia. The dynamic midfielder showed much promise for France at the competition, helping lead his team toward the semi-final stage of the tournament. Here is our analysis of Martin Adeline, and his performances at the Euros.

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.

Why Gabriel Jesus is perfect for Arsenal

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Most Recent, Player Analysis, Premier League, Recruitment & Scouting, Striker, Winger

Gabriel Jesus arrives at Arsenal Football Club as the complete package, capable of fulfilling a number of different roles and tasks. Not only is the Brazilian a competent creator and scorer of great goals, he is also a highly active contributor both in and out of possession. Jesus catches the eye in not only 1v1 situations where he can use his pace and power to explode away from defenders, but in stellar perceptions of space to find pockets to receive and work his way around defensive blocks.

Game Model Example: 3-5-2

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, Coaching, Formations, Masterclasses, Most Recent, Subscriber Exclusives

Struggling to know where to start when it comes to creating your own game model? Well look no further than TheMastermindSite.com, where we're bringing you game model examples in each of the game's most popular formations. These game model examples are exactly as the name suggests - resources for you to rock on and create your own game model. This specific 3-5-2 game model showcases the style of play and key player characteristics that Rhyspect FC would emphasize in each phase of the game. To see a preview of the game model, click the download preview button below. To purchase the game model, click the 'Purchase' button below.

Why the technical, tactical, physical and psychological sides of football are deeply intertwined

by Rhys Desmond, posted in Coach Education, German Bundesliga, Masterclasses, Most Recent, NWSL, Premier League, Sport Psychology

The game is deeply rooted in all five aspects of the common coaching model, and in fact, every decision a player makes boils down to all five elements simultaneously. Here's why the technical, tactical, physical and psychological aspects of football are all deeply intertwined.