14 Aug 2017 13:10:02
Just an observation. Im happy for any of the eds/ fellow posters to point out if im missing something.

I know we're focusing on how bad we are are set plays but its seems to me that we're not 'compact' in general. When our forwards and midfield press our defence doesn't seem to move up with them leaving so much space in the middle. I imagine that's why we seem to give away a fair amount of corners and free kicks that lead to goals.

Maybe its because our current defenders don't have the speed to cover if a ball is played over the top and hence they are afraid to push higher during the press. Its something that can be seen on the tactical cameras that are used.

Perhaps that's the thinking behind wanting to sign VVD. He has the speed to recover.

Incaman.


1.) 14 Aug 2017
14 Aug 2017 14:33:54
Balls over the top are difficult for us yes and speed is vital so a fast CB may help. Both Lovren and Matip are not the quickest but not the slowest. Its mainly because our fullbacks are up the pitch when we lose the ball that the counter works so well against us. The goals by Watford all came from sloppy defending though IMO. Matip gave the ball away for the first goal where Lovren made the block that lead to the corner. We did not attack that corner with any conviction nor on the 3rd goal. The way we set up as a team and our mental attitude is more to blame than speed.


2.) 14 Aug 2017
14 Aug 2017 15:56:19
Pompey Red, with the full backs so high, Henderson should be dropping back to fill in so the cb's can cover for the full backs higher up, or that would be my way of play.