Boys U17 (2010) Major 1 - Clane United

Match Overview

This was a friendly match at home, played at 40 minutes each way (shortened from 45 minutes to finish before the light faded).

Pre-game focus

Before the game, we focused on three key areas:

• Trusting their abilities, as the lads are good on the ball and good at passing.
• Keeping our shape and positions.
• Starting the game at the right intensity from the whistle.

Key highlights & performance

• Positive communication: Every single piece of talk on and off the pitch was 100% positive. There was zero complaining to each other, no moaning, and no negative talk whatsoever, only encouragement and positive chatter throughout the entire match. This was a massive highlight and set a great standard for team dynamic.
• Excellent passing and movement: This was easily the best game we have seen regarding the lads' passing and moving. Having Xabi helping out at centre back made a huge difference to our stability.
• Great team attitude: Their attitude from start to finish was extremely positive. We rotated subs to ensure everyone got good game time, and not a single player complained or showed negative body language, even if they lost the ball.
• Midfield intensity and composure: The lads fought hard in midfield to win possession. Once we got the ball, we stayed calm instead of panicking and hoofing it up the field like had often happened in the past.
• Controlled build-up play & pace out wide: We looked for smart passes forwards, sideways, and backwards. On several occasions, we recycled the ball back to the centre backs and switched it out to the opposite side. We also had a lot of joy up the flanks where we have so much pace.
• Sideline encouragement & support: There was a good turnout of Major players to cheer on our lads. Some players mentioned that hearing shouts of encouragement when on the ball made a big difference. Moving forward, our subs could be even more vocal in encouraging those on the pitch.

Areas to work on

• Defensive shape when attacking: We can improve our defensive shape when moving forward, as we can get a bit over-exuberant and leave space behind us.
• Pitch width: Left and right mid could hug the touchlines a bit more to give us maximum width when building attacks.
• Increasing vocal volume: While all the chatter was completely positive, the lads on the pitch can still turn up the volume and be even louder with their talk throughout the game.

Result

Won 5-1. Beyond the scoreline, the overall performance and team dynamic were really encouraging.