U15 Calcio Select - Forza

Forza 3–1 Calcio

The game started in a disappointing way for us, as a slow first quarter saw us go 3–0 down. The goals came from a few lapses in concentration during transition moments, distances between our midfield and back line becoming too stretched, and moments where we didn’t defend our box aggressively enough. We were sometimes too slow to react, get out to the ball and prevent shots. In possession, we still tried to implement some of the things we had worked on, but our decision-making and execution weren’t quite where they needed to be.

However, from the second quarter onwards, I thought we showed a huge improvement both collectively and individually. Our high press and overall shape looked much better, with players becoming far more aggressive and committed out of possession. Our fullbacks and wingers, in particular, showed great intensity when pressing high, making it much more difficult for Forza to play forwards or create clear chances. We also managed to regain possession on a number of occasions in high attacking areas.

Our work in possession improved significantly too, particularly when playing out from goal kicks against their 4-4-2 press. We recognised where our free player was and how we could use this to create an overload and play around or through their shape. When we executed this well, we were able to expose their structure and create some really good attacking opportunities.

One area we can continue to develop is having players higher up the pitch be braver in finding those central spaces between the opposition’s lines. This can give us more options on the ball, while also allowing teammates to make forward runs beyond them and create more opportunities to attack the back line.

We saw this much more consistently throughout the second, third and fourth quarters, where we created numerous 1v1s and 3v3 situations against their back line. On another day, we could certainly have come away with a more positive result based on the number of opportunities we created and the quality of our performance after the first quarter.

And what a goal to finish the game! 🙌👏 With virtually the last kick, Charlie’s intense pressure allowed us to regain the ball high up the pitch. Harry then produced a brilliant piece of skill before combining really well with Jack down the right-hand side, with Jack finishing brilliantly off the post and in. It was a fantastic team moment and one the lads deserved after the way they reacted and improved throughout the game.

Overall, although the start was disappointing, I was really pleased with the character, mentality and response the boys showed. To go 3–0 down and then produce the intensity, aggression and quality we showed for the remainder of the game is something we should take confidence from.

Looking forward to seeing this group continue to grow and thrive throughout the season. 👍⚽

Jack ⚽️

Harry 🅰️