Socceroos’ right-sided rotation

The national team has often been criticised for failing to properly engage the pace of Hertha-bound Mathew Leckie, and it appears as if a potential solution to the problem has been found.

Rogic dropping in between the lines

As a direct consequence of this action, Juric was afforded the opportunity to put Australia in front for the second time, so it can be said that the move proved to be highly effective. When playing out from the back in deep positions, Tom Rogic and Jackson Irvine began virtually all movements from the horizontal line of the Saudi back four. The space between the lines was targeted, and Rogic particularly would often receive the ball facing the opposition’s goal and drove toward the half-space. In doing so, he invited the left-back to press, creating space in behind the back four for Leckie to exploit. This is an example of the value of players who can intelligently run with the ball, wherein the trajectory can alter the shape of the opposition, leading to the creation of space in areas which are usually protected. The half-space also represents an ambiguous area to defend, as it is unclear as to which defender is responsible for pressing the ball carrier. More often than not, the centre-back will prioritise maintaining security in the central zone, with the implication being that the full-back must press – leaving the wider channel open.

Juric’s second goal for Australia after Rogic released Leckie.