Scary moments for the fans are par for the course. And their fears shouldn’t be dismissed. Because, while they all clearly understand the logic behind the masterplan, it’s OK that not everyone is convinced – at least not yet – of the wisdom in Hibs modelling their build-up on the sort of high-risk strategy more natural to a Manchester City or Barcelona.
Over two decades on from his senior debut, David Marshall understands why the more jittery elements of the Easter Road support panic when they see him rolling the ball along the six-yard line with the sole of his boot. As the most experienced of veterans in the first-team squad, he’s also prepared to take the flak should things go wrong. As they sometimes do.
But he honestly believes that, in time, Nick Montgomery’s bait-and-switch strategy, with a little help from goalie coach Miguel Miranda, will be so good that no one will even question it. Never mind yelling about getting the ball “up the park” anytime it gets close to the keeper.
Former Scotland No. 1 Marshall admitted, when asked about the technicalities of a ruse based on the premise that you really WANT opponents to put pressure on you within your own penalty box, “There are a few scary moments for fans, and they get a bit frustrated at times.” However, there is a method to the chaos. You saw our first goal against Dundee; it was precisely what we’d been working on in training, so it’s always nice when things come together.
“It’s really just decision making.” Lads are moving, and I have to see them, pick them out, and seek for moves in the opposition to create space.
“You’re almost trying to attract teams so you can get past them.” that press – and it almost creates a transition. It’s like a counterattack for us if we can beat that press.
“I know it looks complicated at times, but it’s worked really well so far.” And I’m confident that the more we do it, the better we’ll become at it, and it will develop and adapt. There is a greater emphasis on the cognitive process, which is a positive thing.”
Marshall, 38, is savouring not only his good fortune in finding a coach who brings out his most adventurous instincts, but also the opportunity to learn. Nothing beats it for preserving a fresh attitude on life.
“You’re just constantly learning,” the former Celtic custodian stated. The back four and custodian have changed dramatically, as has the way we play.
“With Miguel arriving, even minor details are critical.” We were talking about me receiving the ball from my left foot and stepping on it with my studs on my right boot the other day, but I’m not as comfortable doing that with my left foot. So maybe give it a try. Small touches have made a big difference, something I’d never noticed before.”
Expanding on the methodology behind the Xs and Os on the tactics board, Marshall explained: “It’s risk versus reward. And I don’t mind putting myself out there. I’m at an age now where I can take a bit of a battering if I put myself in sticky situations.
“I know the reason we’re doing it. What we’re doing at the back is trying to build some space and some time, and some opportunities for the forward lads in the team, because we want to get our pace and quality at the top end of the pitch on the ball, in as good a position as possible.
“Sometimes the crowd get a bit frustrated with it. But the more we win games, the easier it will be.”
Addressing the remaining scepticism among supporters who have watched their team suffer plenty of self-inflicted hurt previously this season, without willingly putting themselves in peril so close to their own goal, Marshall admitted: “Aye, of course. I had a taste of this when Cardiff played Swansea. In terms of style, we were diametrically opposed to them.
“When Brendan Rodgers was the manager of Swansea, they would just keep the ball off us when we played them.” And because they had so much of the ball, it was almost borderline dull.
“At Cardiff, they simply would not accept that type of football.” But they had their own way of doing things in Swansea.
“It’s a lot of fun, and it’s a good way to control games.” And we’re creating a lot of opportunities. I’m confident that the more we work with the manager and his team, the better we’ll get.
“Yes, you must be brave. However, everyone has bought into it. We’ve made mistakes along the way, but the manager’s expectations are quite high – with little room for error.”
Marshall laughed when he remembered being on an SFA course with Miranda, saying, “He was probably surprised when he showed up here and I was his goalie!” This football style has always appealed to me. But it’s mostly up to chance who your manager is and what kind of play they expect from you. This determines how much you can participate.
“I’ve had this a couple of times in my career, but not very often.” So I’ve really appreciated being more involved in the game all the time.”
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