At what point in a game do you make changes
It's an old theme of mine I know but it remains a question to ask.
Most teams just play to their strengths
They set up to play their game irrespective of the strengths of the opposition.
And that's ok provided your strengths are very good.
But it always amazes me that when a plan is obviously not working Coaches/Managers make changes from the 60th min onward, unless an earlier injury is forced on the team.
What the hell?
Surely if a plan isn't working you make changes either tactically or with your personnel much earlier in the first half.
You can see the way its going quite early on.
Its great when the late changes lead to a late equalizer or winner but generally its more of the same failure--for longer.
No-one employs man for man marking from the start of the game. No retrospective man for man marking even when a player on the opposition is running riot or obviously controlling the game.
No-one seems to employ the old-fashioned sweeper; although it worked very well and clearly prevents the often-seen breakaway goal.
By adopting the 4 Plus 4 defensive model and funneling back to the goal you invite deflective goals and block the goalkeepers vision.
But from this defensive position its very hard to get out of your are and launch attacks.
Result. Camped in your half for far too long and invite wave after wave of attacks until you crack.
It works--but only up to a point.
After that point you are so defensively minded you just are trying to hang on and your attacks are non-existent.
Better to defend high up the field and lock the other team into their defensive zone.
Which means winning the midfield battle--not surrendering it.
But what do I know...