Why Postecoglou's Style Works: Set Pieces Exception
Ange Postecoglou's attacking, high-pressing style has revolutionized the way Celtic play. It's a beautiful, captivating brand of football that has won trophies and hearts alike. But while the philosophy has been successful, there's one area where Postecoglou's methods don't quite translate: set pieces.
The Counter-Attacking Focus
Postecoglou's system revolves around a relentless press that forces opponents into mistakes. The focus is on winning possession high up the pitch and exploiting the space created by forcing turnovers. This leads to quick, dynamic attacking sequences that emphasize creativity and fluid movement.
While this philosophy has delivered countless thrilling goals and moments, it leaves Celtic susceptible in the other phase of the game: defending set pieces.
The Lack of Specificity
The set-piece defending strategy often feels reactive rather than proactive. The lack of a pre-determined system, relying heavily on individual marking and improvisation, leaves gaps and vulnerabilities that opponents can exploit. This has led to conceding goals from set pieces, particularly corners, that have cost Celtic points and, at times, wins.
Looking for Improvement
While Postecoglou's emphasis on proactive football is the defining characteristic of his style, it is crucial for him to address the weakness in set-piece defending. While the team's overall play has been exceptional, the susceptibility from set pieces cannot be ignored. Here's how Celtic can improve:
- Dedicated Set Piece Coaches: Employing specialist coaches to work specifically on set-piece defending strategies can bring a level of organization and structure currently lacking.
- Specific Drill and Training: Integrating targeted drills into training sessions focusing on zonal marking, man-marking, and counter-attacking against set pieces will improve the team's awareness and reaction time.
- Emphasis on Communication: Clear and consistent communication on the pitch is essential for successful set-piece defending. Training players to call out opponents and adjust positions accordingly is vital.
The Path Forward
While Postecoglou's overall style of play is undeniably successful, addressing the shortcomings in set-piece defending is essential for continued progress and dominance. Implementing the strategies mentioned above will create a well-rounded team that can control both phases of the game, making Celtic a force to be reckoned with across all facets of the pitch.
