The performance of the #GarudaSelect defenders at the inaugural match received appreciation from the coaching team.
The third batch of Garuda Select started the season with a 1-1 draw against Port Vale on Tuesday, 22 December 2020 at Loughborough University. The GarudaSelect goal was scored by Putu Dipa in the second half.
The performance of the players at the match receives appreciation from the coaching team. Although they had relatively short preparation, the players were able to keep up with the hard and fast play that has become a hallmark of the English team.
One thing that is appreciated is the way the Garuda Select players stopped their opponent's attacks. During the first half, the duo Ibnul Mubarak and Faqih Maulana were able to provide good protection for the goalkeeper Adre Arido at the last line of defense.
“I think our defense was quite strong and looks solid, in accordance to what we had stressed in the pre-match training. The players were also able to compete physically and often won duels against the opponents, "praised Dennis Wise.
Apart from giving his appreciation, Wise also commented on the Garuda Select ball possession which still has to be improved. According to him, the players must be calmer when holding the ball, so that the attacking scheme can be prepared properly.
“Obviously there are still a lot to improve, especially in terms of ball possession. I think the players still unnecessarily lost the ball too many times.
"If we face a better team, we will be punished if we lose the ball in a vulnerable area," added Wise.
“Apart from that, we also have to maximize the final finish to score goals. There were some good opportunities on the counter-attack, but some passes and crosses weren't optimal. That must be fixed,” said Wise.
However, there are two players, according to Wise, who made difference, namely the two center-backs, Ibnul Mubarak and Faqih Maulana. "They were able to clear the ball at the right time. Both of them seem to be able to apply the training directions well," praised Wise.
"They were able to keep the defensive area well and always returned back to the positions where they should be. The four defenders were also able to coordinate and play in harmony, " he added.
Another note about the defensive line is that they should be calm when they are being attacked by the opponents. According to him, there were still some players who were too hasty and impatient to stop the attacks, made rash tackles and it ended up as fouls that could cost the team.
"Overall, the defenders performed well despite often making dangerous fouls around the penalty box. This is because the players were too eager to take the ball, even in moments that were not really necessary."
"There are times when they can still let the opponent control the ball. But you have to make sure you don't concede and send the opponent back into their area. This is what Daniel Naa has to understand. I like his passion and toughness, but he also has to understand this." close Wise.