It is impossible for we outsiders to attribute how players execute the gameplan and instructions of their coaches. Often times the manager/head coach takes the blame when things go wrong for a team and tactics are deemed to be wanting.
As pressure continues to mount in what may be a title race for the history books, how individuals and collectives respond under increasing pressure is sure to be interesting.
This past weekend offered some intriguing examples. Whether it was Derek McInnes going to 4 CB’s with a 1-goal lead at home to Aberdeen, Celtic going unusually direct for large stretches of the derby (and at Aberdeen), or Rangers being unusually passive in a “must win” home game, what might happen when the pressure REALLY ramps up?
Looking specifically at the Celtic vs Rangers game, the latter setup in possession as we speculated in last week’s Extra Time preview, with a narrow 4-2-2-2. Selection seemed coherent within that context. They played direct and looked to negate risks from Celtic pressing while they had possession.
Out of possession, Rangers seemed to be trying to target Dane Murray like they had Auston Trusty in the League Cup semifinal, but otherwise were very passive and man marking was inconsistent.
In contrast, Celtic went unusually direct, often under little or no pressure, during the first half.
Our central midfielders were generally able to make passes when under light pressure or none at all.
Keep reading with a 7-day free trial
Subscribe to The Huddle Breakdown to keep reading this post and get 7 days of free access to the full post archives.