How Game Location Affects Soccer Performance: T-Pattern Analysis of Attack Actions in Home and Away Matches

The influence of game location on performance has been widely examined in sport contexts. Concerning soccer, game-location affects positively the secondary and tertiary level of performance; however, there are fewer evidences about its effect on game structure (primary level of performance). This st...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Diana, Barbara, Zurloni, Valentino, Elia, Massimiliano, Cavalera, Cesare M., Jonsson, Gudberg K., Anguera Argilaga, María Teresa
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2017
País:España
Institución:Varias* (Consorci de Biblioteques Universitáries de Catalunya, Centre de Serveis Científics i Acadèmics de Catalunya)
Repositorio:Recercat. Dipósit de la Recerca de Catalunya
OAI Identifier:oai:recercat.cat:2445/121975
Acceso en línea:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/121975
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Observació (Mètode d'ensenyament)
Futbol
Observation (Educational method)
Soccer
Descripción
Sumario:The influence of game location on performance has been widely examined in sport contexts. Concerning soccer, game-location affects positively the secondary and tertiary level of performance; however, there are fewer evidences about its effect on game structure (primary level of performance). This study aimed to detect the effect of game location on a primary level of performance in soccer. In particular, the objective was to reveal the hidden structures underlying the attack actions, in both home and away matches played by a top club (Serie A 2012/2013 - First League). The methodological approach was based on observational design, supported by digital recordings and T-pattern analysis. Data were analyzed with Theme 6.0 software. A quantitative analysis, with nonparametric and descriptive statistics, was carried out to test the hypotheses. A qualitative analysis on complex patterns was performed to get in-depth information on the game structure. This study showed that game tactics were significantly different, with home matches characterized by a more structured and varied game than away matches. Theme software, and the corresponding T-pattern detection algorithm, enhance research opportunities by going further than frequency-based analyses, making this method an effective tool in supporting sport performance analysis and training.