BLOG UP AND RUNNING

Back from my self imposed hiatus, the purpose was for clearing my mind in order to write from a neutral perspective. Let me express my sincerest of gratitude to all those who actually read the blog...it became quite evident to me in your questions as to why you had not seen any post about the Umbro Cup Tournament.

Exert from Mother's Day Gift post, "There were a few obvious errors that I know will be addressed and rectified by the coaching staff". 
Yes!! The boys had won three games on the go and all indications appears that the team is in full swing but in my observation there were little areas of adjustments needed.

An opposing team with a good coach would be able to exploit those small flaws as was done in games at the Umbro Tournament except Woodbridge Strikers only registered one lost.

Firstly, let me address the issue that the boys themselves need to remedy and that is " Lack of Communication". Because there's no meaningful in game talk to say for example, you drop off, or you cover, just to mention a few.  I believe that these boys are now mature enough to take their personal game to the next level by doing the correct form of communicating and not the calling out on a mistakes....it takes the same vocal cord to be productive and positive verbally.

Secondly, this aspect needs the attention of the coaches. In my opinion there's a separation between lines especially the defensive quartet; the stationary positioning at times by the defenders within their own half while Strikers have the ball in the opponent's goal area. That creates a gap between midfield line whilst limiting offensive options by forward players and therefore why at times the pass is only defensive (going back).

Nothing is wrong with playing back defensive passes as strategy, however, when it's done solely as a primary option then that's because of lack of support in the right positions. Highlighting one obvious case,  Jon Michael was taking a throw-in above half and all four defenders stood back with only one attacker in close proximity. Furthermore, decisiveness in making decisions when there is free kicks, corner kicks and throw-ins need to be made fully understood with players on the field in terms of who does what.

Assertiveness is normally demonstrated by a older age group of players when playing against junior. In the game against TFC I believe the home team were the aggressors even though they gave away age and size to our boys. Suffice it to say, I don't know if it's the name or location but Woodbridge Strikers 05 Boys need to start having self belief regardless of whom or where they are playing. They needed to make TFC know that they are not the best team out there and have them swallow their trash talking on the field by coming out with the win.

Furthermore, the boys playing on the field at any given time needs to read the predictability of opponents. The small TFC goalie at no time kicked a ball up field... everything went short either side, from indications Strikers boys were slow at times to anticipate the situations, moving back instead of pressing forward and closing angles.

All that being said, Strikers had a great game against TFC, but  just failed to capitalize on the numerous chances created over the 80 minutes. There were moments in quarters where Strikers showed that they have set plays that can discombobulate opposing team... confusion was truly noticeable on the TFC players faces and action. Their coaches had to be shouting out response tactic quickly.

For the purpose of information the referee was the worst seen in the short season thus far and it appears that not all referees read the same rule book.

In regards to the Umbro Cup Tournament there were actually some magnificent team plays at intermittent intervals. In addition, some individual sensational plays were witnessed by those present reiterating just how good Woodbridge Strikers Boys can be when on their game.

There were goals of the highest standards delivered from the boot laces by Strikers boys in the two games played against Oakville and Durham respectively.

Finally, I want to acknowledge a supporter from our contingent who acknowledge our boys in a position manner. Purposefully seeing where the play got started before reaching inside the opponent's box for a shot thus giving credit all the way back to the starting point.

In conclusion, I want to commend the coaching staff on the job they are doing with the boys but remember even when you win there will be writers like myself who will be honest enough to mention observation. Also, monumental applause to all parents, grandparents, siblings and friends who continues to support the Woodbridge Strikers 05 Boys Team.

⚽🥅