The weakest link: a novel use of network analysis for the broken passing links in football

Scott McLean; Paul M Salmon

doi:10.1080/24733938.2018.1562277

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The weakest link: a novel use of network analysis for the broken passing links in football

Journal article

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The weakest link: a novel use of network analysis for the broken passing links in football

Scott McLean and Paul M Salmon

Science and Medicine in Football, Vol.3(3), pp.255-258

2019

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/24733938.2018.1562277

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Abstract

performance analysis

football

degree centrality

match tactics

coaching

Background: Understanding passing connectivity in football is a critical component of team performance assessment. Many studies have examined successful passing via network analysis; however, no research has attempted to understand the broken passing connections as a network in football. Method: In a first of its kind study, we assessed a teams' unsuccessful or 'broken' passing links using network analysis. The analysis used the 2018 UEFA Champions League final between Real Madrid and Liverpool. The broken passing links were identified and analysed using network analysis to determine team and individual network characteristics. Results: Eventual winners Real Madrid had fewer players involved in the broken passing links network, compared to Liverpool. The analysis also highlights the individual contributions, in terms of passers and intended recipients within the broken passing links network. Discussion: This short communication study has demonstrated a novel use of network analysis to analyse the broken passing networks in football. This extension to the utility of network analysis in football could be used as a tool for coaches and match analysts to understand team and opposition performance. Further research is recommended to test the method across multiple games, levels of competition, and pitch location, of the broken passing links.

Details

Title: The weakest link: a novel use of network analysis for the broken passing links in football
Authors: Scott McLean (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast - School of Health & Sport Sciences
Paul M Salmon (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast
Publication details: Science and Medicine in Football, Vol.3(3), pp.255-258
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd.
Date published: 2019
DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2018.1562277
ISSN: 2473-3938
Grants: A new complex systems approach to road trauma: Applying systems thinking to the fatal five, FT140100681, Australian Research Council (Australia, Canberra) - ARC
Organisation Unit: Centre for Human Factors and Systems Science; School of Law and Society
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99451102602621
Output Type: Journal article

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