14We debated on the most recent Huddle Breakdown (please subscribe) regarding centre-backs and aerial duels and how helpful or not the available data is. This was prompted by the performances of Liam Scales and Stephen Welsh in the Scottish Cup match versus Livingston. The opponents, as is typical in Scotland, had the proverbial “big lad” … [continue reading]
Defending
The Deep End
Last night’s friendly for James Forrest’s testimonial was another useful work out against high calibre opponents. All Celtic’s preseason opponents are of a higher standard than most SPFL clubs as the ELO ratings would indicate. Given the mix of higher-level opponent, multiple lineup changes, integration of new players and injury disruption, it is not surprising … [continue reading]
Defending the Left
You might have hoped for a political polemic in these troubling times. However, it is the left side of Celtic’s defence that exercises me today. Scottish football tends to be more direct that most. Outside the top two, sides average 76 long balls per 90 minutes. Celtic average 42. How to beat Celtic? On limited … [continue reading]
Is Celtic’s Set Play Defending Improving?
On last nights Huddle Breakdown (please subscribe to the channel!), we were asked by Pete Lacey (thank you), “Are (Celtic) getting better at defending set pieces?”. A nice simple question! Let’s look at some basics first. Season Comparison I can share data on this for the last five seasons on this for all competitions. This … [continue reading]
The Second Half Danger Zone
Celtic have the best defensive record in the SPFL both in terms of goals conceded (15 in 26) and in xGA (0.65 per 90m). Despite this Celtic are on track for conceding a goal a game overall (41 in 44) mainly due to early season European profligacy. The Mid Half Blip More specifically, the recent … [continue reading]
Heading for Trouble?
Celtic conceded two goals from set plays against Aberdeen. This triggered the usual dual response from pundits and some supporters alike bemoaning Celtic’s ability to defend crosses and set plays in particular. But, is this fair? Context Firstly, kudos to Aberdeen for two well executed set plays from Ojo. Both were very well delivered. The … [continue reading]
Ralston Not Ready. But Don’t Say Never.
Celtic and the curse of the right back! As the Champions League qualifiers progress, Ralston remains the only recognised right back in the squad. Is he ready to replace Lustig? Firstly, let’s remember that Lustig is a highly experienced internationalist who served Celtic for 7 ½ seasons. The 75-time capped Swede appeared in multiple international … [continue reading]
Measuring Defensive Improvement
The desire is to see continual improvement but how measure it? Using the defensive metrics Defensive Action Success Rate % (DASR%) and Possession Win % and comparing last season to this, we can see how the defenders have improved against those key measures. The analysis is restricted to those who played over 900 minutes AND … [continue reading]
Jullien: The Aerially-Dominant Eagle Has Landed
Christopher Jullien becomes Celtic’s second most expensive transfer, and another where the money heads to France. He brings the first team centre half options up to three with Ajer and Simunovic. Another centre back will likely be needed. Thanks to WhoScored? there is, relatively, a wealth of data. He wore the number 6 short for … [continue reading]
The Defensive Hole Revealed
The rumour mill seems rife with defensive recruitment potential. And my goodness is that the correct priority! If we summarise 2018/19 defensive performances, the extent of the hole in the Celtic rear-guard becomes stark. The chart below maps DASR% and Possession Win %. These are both aggregated metrics. Defensive Action Success Rate % considers all … [continue reading]