The content discusses the residual issues that Norwich City, a football team in the Championship league, faces when they are in possession of the ball. The author, Ben, analyzes the patterns and intentions behind Norwich’s build-up play and explores the importance of manipulating the opponent’s press to progress the ball in a controlled manner. He highlights the difference between intentions and patterns, noting that while Norwich shares similar intentions with tactically elite teams like Brighton, their patterns of progression are inferior.
One significant aspect the author focuses on is Norwich’s use of centre-backs to take goal kicks. He explains that this decision plays a crucial role in the team’s build-up play. By refusing to commit to playing out through one side immediately, Norwich expands the area for possible progression instead of halving it as is typical in pressing strategies. This gives the opponent’s press a decision to make – they can either press the goalkeeper and potentially create a free man behind, or leave him free indefinitely. The author emphasizes the value of provocation and the “sole” gesture, which encourages the opponent to press and creates opportunities for Norwich to initiate their build-up patterns.
Additionally, the author discusses how the opponent’s press determines the optimal route for ball progression. He constructs a hypothetical pressing system and sets it up against Norwich’s 4-2-4 deep build-up shape to demonstrate how players can create space and access free teammates depending on the movements of the opposing players. He suggests adjustments to manipulate the opponent’s press, such as changing the distances between players and creating passing lanes behind the lines of pressure.
The content concludes by highlighting the importance of quality build-up play in determining the quality of chances created. Norwich’s deep build-up structure under their coach Wagner has the potential to be highly effective, but they are too reliant on creating chances from periods of settled possession. The author suggests that their defensive solidity and build-up patterns will be tested in upcoming tough Championship games, and their performance may impact the level of patience that fans have towards Wagner.
Overall, the content provides an analysis of Norwich City’s build-up play, exploring the importance of patterns, the role of the goal kick taker, and the impact of the opponent’s press on ball progression. It emphasizes the need for controlled ball progression and the manipulation of the opponent’s press to create chances and avoid defensive transitions.
