Analysis of attacking styles and goal-scoring in the 2021/22 Women’s Super League
A summary of the research:
This research looked at how different ways of attacking led to shots on goal in the 2021/22 Women's Super League (WSL). The study analyzed 1179 attacking sequences from all 12 teams, categorizing each attack into styles like combinative organized attacks, fast organized attacks, direct organized attacks, counterattacks, and set plays. The researchers found that most shots on target came from combinative organized attacks (27.23%), which involve longer sequences of passes. However, set plays like free kicks and corners resulted in the most goals overall (27.08%). Interestingly, even though they didn't lead to many shots, fast organized attacks had the best rate of turning shots on target into goals (53.33%).
The study also used statistical tests to see if there was a link between the style of attack and whether the shot resulted in a goal. They found a significant but weak connection between the attacking style and the shot outcome. Specifically, shots from set plays were more likely to result in a goal than expected. The researchers noted that while combinative attacks produced the most shots, their success rate (31.15% resulting in goals) wasn't the highest. The study suggests these findings can help coaches and analysts plan tactics and training, while also highlighting areas for more research in women's football.
Here are three key takeaways from the article's results that are practical and actionable:
Prioritize set-piece training: Since set plays were the most effective at producing goals in the WSL during the 2021/22 season, coaches and administrators should dedicate significant training time to both attacking and defending set-piece situations. This could involve designing specific routines, practicing deliveries and finishes, and analyzing opponents' set-piece strategies.
Consider the efficiency of fast attacks: While fast organized attacks resulted in fewer overall shots and goals, they had the highest goal conversion rate. Coaches might explore incorporating quick, vertical passing sequences into their attacking strategies, particularly in situations where exploiting defensive imbalances is possible. Even if these attacks don't always lead to direct shots, they could potentially create opportunities for set plays
Balance possession with penetration: Combinative organized attacks led to the most shots on target, suggesting their importance in creating scoring opportunities. However, their conversion rate was lower compared to set plays and fast attacks. Coaches should focus on ensuring that possession-based play aims to create clear scoring chances in dangerous areas, like the 'scoring pentagon' mentioned in the discussion. Simply having possession is less valuable than using it to effectively penetrate the opponent's defense and get shots on target with a higher probability of success.
Authors: Lizzie Craven, Patrick Oxenham, Jayamini Ranaweera
You can read the entire article here.
