Much have been said about our flank plays or the lack of it.
Before I go into further discussions about this, I would like to
share certain information I've gathered from the net.
Firstly, let's look at how 4-4-2 should be played.The 4-4-2
formations are probably the most common formations next to the
3-5-2. However, even top teams like Brazil have found it hard to
play 3-5-2 as very specific player skills are needed.
As for 4-4-2, the sweeper/stopper version has the sweeper as a
"Last Chance Defender" behind the defensive line. The flatback
formation is for more advanced teams and requires a high level of
fitness which we sadly lack. Below are some details about the
individual positions.
Sweeper (SW): The sweeper should have a good understanding of the
game and be a leader on the field. He controls the defense, always
staying behind the fullbacks. We should not have a problem in this
position as I feel both charles and jeremy are able to handle the
task.
Stopper (ST): The stopper is responsible for marking the
centerforward or centermidfielder of the other team. He also has an
important offensive part of distributing the ball to the
midfielders. He is also responsible for blocking shots from the D.
This has to be a relatively fit guy as he will be part of the
defence and will also have to make up the numbers during attacks.
Alfred would have been my first choice as I've seen him played this
role well over the years. Sadly, he will be out for two months
after last week's injury. Jeremy is a good choice too with his size
and ball skills.
Left/Right Backs (LB/RB): In the flatback formation, they mark the
opponent's forwards and are the only real defenders. These players
have to be dependable and willing to give up any kind of offensive
play. That is why with Ian and maybe patrick who enjoys more
participation in the attacks, the flatback may not be suitable for
us.
Left/Right Defenders (LD/RD): They mark the opponent's forwards. In
the flatback version, or in more advanced teams these players are
used to carry the ball up the outside with the midfielders,
allowing more effective crossing. Since the early 90s, the 4-4-2
system has also evolved. The old 4-4-2 requires the LD/RD to
overlap the midfield and deliver the crosses. However, this creates
defensive weaknesses. Coaches have since refined the 4-4-2 in the
modern game. Now, lateral defenders will bring the ball up till
they have the chance to pass it to the lateral midfielders or
striker to cross the ball in.
Left/Right Midfielders(LM/RM): They are in charge for the crosses
in the offense, and they usually carry the ball up the field, since
they have more room than the centermidfielders. Due to the short
length of our field, early crosses from deep or square crosses from
the touchline may be more effective than the swinging crosses we
often see on EPL.
Left/Right Centermidfielders (LC/RC): Distribute the ball among the
offenders and try to stop or slow down opposing plays before they
get to the defensive line. Good passing, and ballhandling skills
are needed to fill this position. Again, due to the small size of
our field, the early pass is important as any delay in the attack
will only give our opponents more time to pack their defence.
Forwards (F1/F2): In these very basic formations, the forwards do
no special work. Runs to the corners need to be only occasional,
and dropping back to the midfield shouldn't be the primary way of
getting the ball. This position is actually self explanatory.
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Back to our flank play and an apparent lack of crosses. The
following are my humblest opinions and observations.
1. Our team definitely favours the left in attacks, not just for
the last game. Reasons may include Colin's kick which is often to
the left; certain players may feel more comfortable passing to the
left for reasons I'm not certain about and maybe players on the
right are just not good enough. Personally, I've gotten more loose
balls which other players failed to picked up than actual passes to
me in position. Maybe during the next game, try to look for the
free players on the right. Alvin Chia and me were like spectators
during the second half of the last game.
2. The left is too packed with both our players and opponents
during an attack. Furthermore, playing the ball for too long only
draws more defenders at you and will prevent your ability to
deliver a cross in. A winger's role is to chase and cross.
3. Give us more balls and we will give you more crosses. Even if I
am lousy now, more chances to practice on the field can only help
me improve, right?
Lastly, we lost the last game because we failed to adapt to the
conditions. Just remember, as conditions worsens, passes should
become lesser and longer.
