To be fair JD, I was really impressed with the work that Ramon (assistant Coach) and Simon Eaddy did in analysing the opponents - they really did their homework and for me, got the tactics spot-on for every match - although we didn't execute that well against Atlante.
I was involved with Simon doing video analysis during the matches (which he went through with the team at half time) and I was amazed at how detailed and meticulous it was.
Before the Al Ahli game especially, Ramon drew out a plan on the whiteboard in the dressing room outlining exactly how they were going to play - shape, personnel and tactics - and it was almost 100% correct when the game actually got underway.
I don't know what other clubs do this sort of thing, but from talking to the guys City certainly didn't do anything like this before the CWC in Japan - I think a lot of the credit for the success needs to go to these guys (along with Paul Posa and Stipe Sarich) for doing their homework to give the side the best chance of success.
Sounds very much to me, Adam, like the blueprint which the cherubs have been using since John Herdman first introduced it via the Junior Ferns (U20s) in 2006, and fine-tuned it for the Football Ferns' use from 2007 onwards.
Cheers,
JR
