One post-game thought I had, the Canada and US games were a harsh reminder as to why fundamentals matter. Trick shots and difficult passes should be the exception, not the norm. While the Thompsons can go all bonkers and do that stuff consistently against DI teams. It simply does not work against the best of the best.
Frequently, the Iroquois:
- Passes are high. Recipients are constantly jumping to receive the ball. Thus, they are not in a good position when the ball hits their net.
- Are attempting a 'dagger' score, as opposed to just a tic, tac, toe, more boring, but effective shot. I recall, against CAN or USA, some double-fake between the legs attempt in front of the goal that resulted in a yard sale and turnover, as opposed to a score
- Are walking into double-teams. Lyle is doing this way too much. He can one hand, no look, underhand pass his way out of double-teams against the likes of a middling DI team. Simply doesn't work against all world defenders. More yard sale.
- The sliding, footwork, and hip position on defense is no bueno. Maybe it is because of the fact they are sliding towards players with all world speed. I don't know.
- I heard some cheering from the crowd last night when one of the Iroquois defenders made a behind the back pass. Who cares? If the Iroquois buy into that, they will continue to be in trouble against the big buys. They shouldn't attempt to be the travelling aboriginal road show.
- I think the Iroquois would be better served by being a little more fundamental, but maintaining offensive aggressiveness where it can be most effective. Stop trying to burn clock, and get to the goal.
At the end of the day, the size and athleticism of the US may just be too much for them to counter. But, against Canada, with better fundamentals, they can make a better showing.
