COACH's CORNER

ANOTHER LOSS, BUT A BETTER SHOWING

The Baron Says:
We're here to have a good time. To shoot the ball about, have a run and hopefully win. Two out of three ain't bad.

GAME ANALYSIS

2-0 at the half. It's been a while since we considered this a good effort. But it was.
The first goal was a lapse. It was a good goal that caught us all off guard.
The second goal was an error. The Centre Back should always be the last man. Ready to delay or stop rushes.
The third goal was another error. But at that point, with two minutes left, it really didn't matter.

What mattered was that we took our shots, didn't dilly dally with the ball, and played a good game. There's lots to improve, and each man should look to applying those lessons learned in the game Sunday.

OUR PLAN THIS SUNDAY

3-3-0.

Defense:
The Centre Back must act like the sweeper, the last man, the super defender...he's gotta do it all. Use his gut to bring in the troops and get the ball back out there. The Left and Right Defenders need to roll up with the attack, and cover their man during the opposing team's attack. Simple. Be vigilant. Box your mark with a close cover from behind. No one likes a close cover.

Mid-Fielders:
The Centre Mid-Fielder needs to cover the middle. Be the wall. Be the director of the attack. Chase after the opposing ball holder to shake them from a clear and precise shot. The Left and Right Mid-Fielders need to use common sense in the attack. Pass. Dribble, but don't sacrifice a goal by carrying the ball too long. Look for the shot first. Failing that, the pass. Rebounds should be expected. Be ready for them!

All:
Notice that most players will cough up the ball on a good challenge. We need to get it into our heads that body to body challenges are good. Shoulder to shoulder. Don't wimp out. Don't play dirty...but don't be afraid to use your body to win balls and bring them to a scoring position.

Keep it simple. Don't look for the super star finish. Go for the goal however you can.

Move about. You're not good for a pass if you have a shadow.

Remember: Defenders should take the kicks, unless the Captain says otherwise. I want our attackers to be able to be ready in force! Accept the header, the loose ball, etc. Don't expect the ball to come to you...you move to the ball!

Goal kicks can be short passes, or long balls. The same for any kick. Try the tap and shoot on the indirect kick.

Subbing:
We'll go again with open subbing. Guys...know your position on the list. I want quicker subs. Someone yells defence, I want someone ready on field. Fast subbing is how we'll do it. Don't take a position you can't play, but don't be afraid to assume a position you haven't played. If you can't handle it, sub off. That's good team playing!