Counter-attacking
Apr 30, 2008

Joël Che recently wrote an article on Arsenal Mania about what the current Arsenal team lacks. He compares the current squad to the ‘Invincibles’ squad of 2004 that went the whole season unbeaten. The main point of the article is that “Counter-attacking is by far the best and most lethal form of attacking.” and that the current squad has lost the speed of counter-attacks that the previous team had.

And I’ve got to agree with him. On both counts. But the one I want to emphasize more is his general point.

Counter-attacking is by far the best and most lethal form of attacking.

This is true in any sport, I think. I’d even go as far as saying it’s true in any venture. You might not be the most skillful, but if you can handle pressure and react quickly, you’ll go far.

How fast are you able to respond from being under pressure?

Keeping calm
Feb 7, 2008

Emmanuel Adebayor is an Arsenal striker who has improved a lot this season.

The biggest area of his game which has improved – in my opinion, at least – is his composure in front of goal. He used to rush his shots. But now, he’s a lot more calm when under pressure.

Another prime example of being calm under pressure is Eduardo (another Arsenal striker). He’s a real natural finisher, and when presented with opportunities, he takes as much time as he needs. He’s never rushed, and keeps calm no matter how many other players are around him.

I could probably list more examples, but I think the point is kind of clear. You can have all the talent in the world, but the  ability to keep calm under pressure is what will allow you to make the most of that talent.

How do you keep your calm when placed under pressure?

And on a side note, you’ve got 3 more days to win a copy of Seth Godin’s latest book – “Meatball Sundae”! Click here for the contest details, and also check out the other entries so far.