An evaluation of the methods used in crossing at the 2012 European Championships

Abstract

The present study aims to assess the methods of crossing used at the 2012 European Championships and their outcomes. The sample included all 24 group matches from the tournament using a computerised notation system recording the match, time, team, player position, delivered from area, delivered to area, type and outcome. Inter-operator tests were used to evaluate the reliability of the study, with the produced kappa scores demonstrating a good level of agreement (0.6-0.8). The chi square test of independence was used to test the significance difference of the findings (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference found for player position or the delivered from area, while significant differences occurred in reference to time, team, cross type and delivered to area. The findings of the study suggest that a 'low' type of cross produces the most opportunities at goal, while the side of pitch may not influence the chances of at attempt at goal, but making the crossing distance as short as possible is profitable. It is desirable for the crossing player to possess high quality passing ability, such as a central midfielder, as this also increases the chance of an attempt on goal being made. It was concluded that an accumulation of these attributes will increase the likeliness of goal scoring chances being created from crosses. Further study should investigate the influence of successful and unsuccessful teams and the tactics used when they cross the ball. Research could also evaluate the different methods used throughout the football pyramid and the differences in the women’s game.