Leszek (Shek) Borkowski

I have received flak from readers of this blog for stating in THIS INTERVIEW that “Right now despite the fact that WPS is based on athleticism and exciting disorganization, there still is plenty of individual talent… and I give WPS the edge.”
One reader wrote “Shek, i think it’s a case of envy when you say that WPS teams are disorganized.”
First of all my statement that WPS style of play is based on muscular, fast paced action, ball-surrendering, often tactically naive style is not criticism.
Just as there are differences between the Premier League and La Liga, there are differences between the WPS and the Bundesliga. The Frauen Bundesliga is about finishing and intelligence, and the WPS game is based on speed and instinct. Not better or worse; different.
Now to specifics. I will answer with help of the latest 2 MINUTE HIGHLIGHT VIDEO available from the WPS website. I will use just 2 examples.
First, look at Atlanta’s goal. The moment Atlanta’s goalkeeper comes out to deal with the cross, her left back should drop off and cover the goal. That’s fundamentals, yet only Katie Chapman appears to be aware.
Second, look at Chicago’s goal. A corner is played away from Atlanta’s goal to a player 25 yards away from goal. At this level all players and teams should recognize and respond by pushing out to top of the box thus forcing Chicago players away from goal or be left in an offside position. Notice on the video the reaction of Atlanta’s players positioned on top of the box.
These are two very naive goals to concede and in a low scoring game like football a team that gives away silly goals will not win trophies. And these are just two examples, there are others in a 3 minute video.
Everyone wants to play good attacking football but that can only be achieved when everyone knows their job defensively.