jmancubsfanI suppose this could be an option for my team of players this spring depending on who I have available but I posted this for discussion purposes mostly. I wanna know what all of you think about the common trend of some teams to use asymmetrical formations. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having something different on the left from the right?
25.11.2009
Sweeper5I think most teams "play" asymmetrically, even if the formation the coach uses for the starting line-up begins symmetrically.
The advantages are multiple. It allows players to perform according to their individual inclinations, and allows players to compensate for some of the deficiencies of their team-mates. Further, the unbalanced areas can be targeted at the opposing team to exploit their weaknesses or counter their strengths.
However, I'd caution trying to deliberately create an unbalanced formation at the amateur level. Asymmetric formations have two flavors - asymmetric systems that are individual neutral (think il giocco di al'italia) - and asymmetric formations that are predicated on the attributes of individuals (think Brazil with Gilberto cheating right to help cover for Maicon's advances). In the first case, a system that doesn't care who is on the field, it can be difficult to get the players to understand the shape and would require a lot of repetition and practice. Something that doesn't happen too much with amateur teams. The second kind, where you line-up players in a way that both encourage and compensate for their tendencies is easy to implement, until the substitutions start. And at the amateur levels subs are both more frequent, and more random, with forwards subbing in for defenders and vice-versa.
25.11.2009
jmancubsfanThat comment may prove quite helpful actually. I may try pairing my own Gilberto type with my Maicon type player and see if I can convince the Gilberto type to cover for him. And you're right, I would definitely have to go the latter route but at least I can try to anticipate how my players will MAKE a formation become asymmetrical. That being said, if the subs come in and play a different role in a given position it would likely only bring the formation back in balance and as long as we still keep enough players behind the ball to defend, I'll be happy. Thanks again for the feedback.
27.11.2009
