Match Date: 15th February 2025
Ruddington appeared to favour a possession-based style, utilising the wide areas and individual technical flair to create scoring opportunities. The intention was to build play patiently from the back and progress into the final third through intricate passing and movement.
In contrast, Pelican deployed a disciplined, high-pressing system. They maintained compact defensive blocks and were quick to transition from defence to attack. Their ability to press as a unit disrupted Ruddington's rhythm, forcing turnovers at key moments.
Pelican's success can largely be attributed to:
Both offensively and defensively, clearly define roles during set pieces. This can help to prevent confusion and reduce vulnerability during moments of transition.
While Ruddington's technical strengths and attacking intent are commendable, the match revealed key tactical areas that require attention. Pelican's disciplined pressing and quick transitions capitalised on Ruddington's slower recovery and gaps in midfield. By focusing on improving transition speed, communication, and tactical balance, Ruddington can significantly reduce these vulnerabilities and enhance overall performance.
Implementing these adjustments in training should help the team to maintain their attacking strengths while reinforcing their defensive structure. This balanced approach will be crucial in future matches against organised, high-pressing opponents like Pelican.
EN displayed a generally good understanding of his positioning, particularly in organising the defensive line. However, there were instances when his distribution under pressure could have been more incisive, especially during Pelican's quick counter-attacks.
His shot-stopping ability and reflexes were commendable. EN's handling was secure, although his long distribution occasionally lacked the precision needed to bypass the opposition's press.
YN operated effectively in linking defence and attack. However, there were moments where his positioning during transitions left gaps in midfield, contributing to the opposition's counter-attacks.
His passing accuracy and ball control are strong, but under pressure, his first touch can sometimes be hurried, leading to misplaced passes.
AyN looks to exploit spaces between the lines. At times, however, his drift from his designated area meant the team's balance was compromised.
His dribbling and vision in tight spaces are impressive, though he could benefit from quicker decision-making to retain the tempo of play.
RB showed intelligent movement off the ball, often finding pockets of space behind the defence. Nonetheless, his link-up play with the midfield was sometimes lacking, reducing the effectiveness of Ruddington's attacking build-up.
He possesses a keen eye for goal and good finishing technique, although his hold-up play in more congested areas could be improved.
JW contributed significantly to width and creativity. However, he sometimes overcommitted to attack, leaving his defensive responsibilities exposed during counter-attacks.
His crossing and dribbling skills are top-notch. His shot selection, though, could be refined to ensure a higher conversion rate.
AnN was generally solid in his defensive duties, maintaining a disciplined line. His role in initiating attacks from the back was evident, though there were occasions when his distribution under pressure was rushed.
Strong in aerial duels and tackling, his technical ability in ball-playing is promising, yet he needs to work on his passing accuracy under pressure.
AW showed good positioning and was effective in marking opposition forwards. However, similar to his partner, he occasionally struggled with quick decision-making when pressed high up the pitch.
His clearances and tackling are reliable, and he demonstrates a good understanding of when to step out to intercept passes.
JA's off-the-ball movement was a key aspect of Ruddington's attack. However, he sometimes found himself isolated due to a lack of effective link-up play with the midfield.
His finishing and one-on-one skills are strong, but he could improve his hold-up play to bring teammates into play more effectively.
KB contributed creatively by attempting to unlock defences through incisive passes. At times, however, his forward runs left him less available for defensive duties, impacting the team's balance.
His technical skills—especially in dribbling and vision—are excellent. Nonetheless, consistency in execution under pressure remains an area for growth.
QS played a pivotal role in breaking up opposition play and providing a shield for the defence. There were moments, however, when his positioning during the transition was not optimal, leaving gaps for Pelican to exploit.
His tackling and interception skills are solid, though his distribution, especially when initiating a counter, could be more incisive.