Thread by @Jhdharrison1

After showing us how a GK can maximise their chances of saving a close range 1v1, #Schmeichel has just show how us how a GK can minimise their chances of saving a long range 1v1!

By engaging early he allows Wilson to easily round him with 1 touch!

He needed to wait for longer!

If #Schmeichel waits inside his 6 yard box for #Wilson’s touch, #Wilson then has a decision to make:

1. Shoot from 17yrd knowing defenders are track back.

2. Take a touch knowing he will bring it closer to goal but also closer to the GK.

#FNF #LEINEW

Regardless of what decision #Wilson makes #Schmeichel will have a higher probability of making the save than he would have if he rushes out & engages early like he does.

1. If #Wilson shoots #Schmeichel’s deep position will maximise his reaction time & thus his save probability.

2. If #Wilson dribbles it closer to #Schmeichel this will also increase #Schmeichel’s chance of making the save because he will be able to get closer to the ball & thus cover more of the effective goal area & thus it will be more likely the GK completely smothers the shot!

Here is a thread showing #Pope doing exactly the optimal strategy ie

Waiting deep then engaging once you know you can completely snuff out the shot!

Engaging early on long range 1v1s as #Schmeichel did gives strikers easier finishes.

https://twitter.com/jhdharrison1/status/1354510657912254465

Here is another thread which looks at #Martinez’s save vs #Mane which also shows how waiting deep is a great strategy vs long range 1v1s.

https://twitter.com/jhdharrison1/status/1381174943765954567