Observations on GB-Canada game

GB had the better of play for extended periods had Canada scrambling in the box.  But for shots wide, the goal posts, and mostly outstanding play from the Canadian keeper, the score could have been 5-0.

But as we all know it can be hard to score in soccer and so the game remained 0-0 until the 85th minute.  GB scored its first goal on a free kick from about 40 out. It was a high lofted ball that landed on the box.  The Canadian keeper did not catch it and then mis judged the height of the bounce and it bounced over his head and rolled into the net.

The second goal came from the Canadians getting caught up field and GB counter attacked and scored easily with some tic tac toe passes to beat the final defender and keeper.

Canada was not without opportunities, but like our game most came off of free kicks. And early in the game from direct play from the defenders to forwards.

GB began in a 3-4-3 but in the second half went to a 2-3-4-1. And after that Canada's midfield could not hold the ball. Both halves GB sat in picking up defense at 2/3 or half field. Usually applying defensive pressure just beyond midfield but never as far up as the offensive third.

The right back for Canada #21 is the weakest of the group and made many poor decisions with the ball especially when under pressure.  He tired quickly and has poor touch. We should find some advantage there.

Their left back is stronger and in the first half was the source of the long ball attacks as they played direct from the back line to the forwards.

Canada's talent drops off signifcantly past the second sub.

By the middle of the second half Canada lost all shape in their spacing on the field - a sign that they lacked the fitness to keep up with GB.  While GB stayed strong and thus poured it on until they finally broke through.