A few observations from the stats (Hatters)

[Coolblade]

A few observations from the stats:

- Sydie had most key passes, and most crosses, including 3/4 of all our accurate crosses, despite only being a sub, and all our stats picked up thereafter, with One having most shots, and playing an important role as the game swung in our favour. Burrows also had four successful tackles and the highest pass completion rate showing the value of the subs. Indeed O’Hare also deserves a mention for his assist, and general energy.

- Vini and Choud top the tackle list (five each with Choud also with 3 aerial duels), but passing stats (especially Choud’s) showed their inability to transition through to the forwards, and the change when Peck came on.

- the highest aggregate scores were Anel, and then Robbo, although that might be as we were under so much pressure. But Anel with 2 key passes, a goal, to add to his 9 defensive contributions, and Robbo with a remarkable 10 aerial duels, 6 clearances and 2 shots both deserve praise. (In last years Boxing Day game against Luton, Robbo didn’t win a single header!). Holding also created a more stable defensive structure with 5 clearances and 2 aerial duels. And Clarke contributed with 5 successful tackles

- Cooper had an impeccable game, and although Goalie stats are harder to assess, he was ranked 4th in our positive contributions. His calm assurance was vital again

A Sheffield double, the plane pointers dropped points, and we are top. Party time!!

 

[Barmyblade]

Thanks Cool, as one of your previous posts proved, and todays performances demonstrated, the “gap” between Cooper and (Jeremy) Beadle across town is “massive”.

 

[Blade56]

Love these stats

 

[Sheffsteel]

Was impressed with Peck’s mobility and attitude today.
He gave us much needed energy and attacking intent.

Always running into space making himself available for the pass….pass and move makes the game so much easier.
It’s hard to believe that in early season we were praising him because he looked a bonafide squad player good enough to come on as sub.
Now….when he’s on form….like he is now….he’s one of our main starting players…..too good to be on the subs bench.

 

[Coolblade]

One quick further observation about the balance of our midfield, the importance of Vini, and perhaps surprising stats about Choud.

According to Opta (and stats vary!) in terms of “ground duels”, Vini (58%) , Peck (53%) and Davies (56%) all compete well, with Choud highest with 77%. But in terms of aerial duels (vital with teams like Luton) Vini wins 67%, with Peck and Davies around 35% (so win 1 in 3) and Choud yet to win a single aerial duel, despite looking quite a physical unit. Even Arbie won 45% before his injury.

So Choud has certainly added bite to our midfield on the ground, but Vini is our only strong physical midfielder in all aspects, and our points per game with and without him show his importance to the balance of the side.