Today, Moles Digest is launching a new series called Tunnel Vision, where we will spend time reviewing clips of funny, educational, and otherwise interesting plays from a recent game. This week we will be covering a couple of clips from our 6-1 win versus our emerging rival Real Ratatouille, which featured goals from Billy (2), Ethan (2), Gaby (2), Dio (1), Griff (1), and Arthur (1, first Moles goal!).
Leading by Example
The Moles desperately needed a goal after a nervy start and conceding a penalty off a breakaway early in the first half. Dio takes matters into their own hands with an absolute heater:
Dio’s magisterial technique aside, this goal was a product of Ethan and Clay’s willingness to go for the right option of moving the ball laterally, Dio’s courage involve themselves in the attack from center back, and all of our forward players’ commitment to pushing the play up and opening space up for an outside of the box shot. Just look at that wicked dip!
Work Smarter, Not Harder
For this next clip we’ll focus on yours truly (Danni), who was caught up field following a turnover in possession.
As the left center back of a back three, he needed to be a bit more defensively responsible here by splitting the difference between slowing down transitions and staying closer to the opposing winger (both circled in red).
He makes the wrong decision in committing to pressure the opponent who had just turned despite Ethan and Clay already being in position to pressure, which leads to a foot race with the opposing winger, who also happens to be the Rats’ fastest player.
If not for his elite athleticism, Danni’s poor defensive positioning and decision making would have led to a clear cut chance. Thankfully, his recovery run stymied his mistake and the play led to a weak attempt right at the keeper. Moral of the story? Just because you can pressure doesn’t mean you should.
The Clip that Has it All
Here we have what was, in my opinion, the best sequence of the game. We conceded yet another bogus penalty that was called by a referee 50 yards from the play.
Folks, this clip has everything. First, whistle taking forever to be blown, followed by Griff attempting to manifest the referee to just get on with it with a hop:
Next, the actual save. How did Ricardo get so much air on that ball while lying on the ground?? When Dio shrieks, you know it was a great play!
Then, everyone reacting to Ricardo’s miraculous save and Aaman getting karate kicked (surprise, no foul called -_-)
And lastly, Gaby (of course) moving exactly where they needed to be to head the ball out of danger, ending the threat without even breaking their stride.
Fantastic performance, folks. Stayed tuned for future Tunnel Visions, where we hope to break down aerial shots and produce higher quality content all around.