‘I was seen as a dinosaur but not many managers moan about set-pieces now’
In his inaugural column for BBC Sport, esteemed football manager Tony Pulis delves into the significant uptick in goals scored from set-pieces this season, emphasizing their crucial role in modern football. Pulis, known for his tactical acumen, argues that set-pieces have always been a vital aspect of the game, often overlooked in favor of open play strategies. He draws on his extensive experience in management to highlight how a well-executed corner or free-kick can be a game-changer, providing teams with a valuable opportunity to capitalize on defensive lapses. This season, statistics reveal a remarkable increase in the percentage of goals derived from set-pieces, underscoring a tactical evolution where teams are increasingly prioritizing this facet of their play.
Pulis reflects on how the importance of set-pieces has been a long-standing tenet of his coaching philosophy. He recalls his time managing teams such as Stoke City, where he implemented rigorous training sessions focused on set-piece scenarios. By analyzing successful teams, Pulis notes that those who excel in set-pieces often possess a competitive edge, as they can convert dead-ball situations into scoring opportunities more effectively than their opponents. He cites examples from the Premier League, where clubs have invested in specialized coaches to refine their set-piece strategies, showcasing the growing recognition of this aspect of the game. Pulis’s insights serve as a reminder that while fluid attacking play garners much of the spotlight, the ability to score from set-pieces remains a critical component of a successful football strategy, one that can make the difference in tightly contested matches.
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In his first BBC Sport column, Tony Pulis looks at the rise in set-piece goals this season and explains why he always thought they were important and how focusing on them is nothing new.
