English Premier League 🦁

[LFC]

IF I recall right with my sleepy eyes at the time the ref called it straight out, if there wasn't VAR all the discussion would be that was a "soft" call but imo when an attacker is being impeded in a attacking position IN the box there's not much argument.
Having available pics like above pretty much shows its a given.

 

[riquelmes_laces]

What I'm gleaning from week 1 of the round so far is physicality, which comes in many different forms:
1/ Athletic ability (ie speed)
2/ Endurance
3/ Strength, ability to win the second ball

I think the most elite teams have a mixture of both physicality and techncial/tactical prowress. However the newly promoted clubs and lower half teams are going to be looking to press the perceived higher rated/more well resourvced clubs in a way to create second-ball situations where they can win out physically. Hull did it, Sunderland did it very effectively last season, Ipswich & Brentford all showed it as well in their games.

I think teams that have fairly thin squads and are light on the physical side of the game are going to struggle this season.

 

[LFC]

yep tend to agree r l.
Though that has been the game last couple of seasons and more to me.
Winning 2nd balls is huge now when under the press for teams are sitting up high with possession - speed/ability winning back that ball from a headed out cross for eg your on the assertive.