Development of an innovative method for evaluating a network of collective defensive interactions in football
Social network analysis (SNA) has been increasingly applied to performance analytics in team sports, seeking to better understand the dynamic properties of competitive interactions. Despite considerable potential to analyze individual (micro) and team (macro) behavioral patterns of play, there are important limitations that can undermine the potential applicability of SNA. One important limitation in existing research is the lack of network analyses of defensive interactions, curtailing understanding of the functionality and adaptability of teams during competitive performance. This study developed an innovative network method for assessing interactions between players in defensive phases of play in football. The networking method was evaluated using a small-sided and conditioned game (SSCG; GK+7v7+GK) of 20 min duration (two halves of 10 min each, interspersed by 5 min intervals of active recovery). The method traced interactions between groups of three players (effective defensive triangulations) as network nodes, weighted according to the number of passes performed by the attacking players. Results showed how this social network analysis method may provide researchers, coaches and performance analysts with relevant information regarding the functional properties of teams in the defensive phase of the game. For instance, coaches and performance analysts can evaluate the geometry of a team’s defense, with players engaged in effective triangular-shaped positioning, that allowed them to provide defensive cover and balance, to protect the goal and recover ball possession.
También te puede interesar
Effects of Developmental Activities and Interventions on Decision-Making Skills in Soccer Players: A Scoping Review
Decision-making is a key determinant of performance in soccer, yet evidence regarding how it develop
The tactical profile of goalkeepers in Football: A scoping review with evidence gap-map
The current football game and its evolution demands a regular participation of the goalkeeper during
Tactical expertise assessment in youth football using representative tasks
Specific football drills improve the development of technical/tactical and physical variables in pla
Publica un comentario