Player effectiveness can be characterised by
the combining markers of energy expenditure and
direct engagement in game tactics or ball contact.
Notational analysis used in the present study permitted
analysis of running intensity and overt game
engagement (events per minute). Despite sustained
high intensity running in the second half, overall
opportunities to engage in play decreased. In addition,
the number of effective passes declined in the
second half when compared to the first. Therefore,
decreased player effectiveness was observed during
the second half. This may highlight the importance
of continual player movement to create opportunities
for attacking plays, and add further advantage
to the player who has the ability to prolong both
mental and physical fatigue. For example, in situations
when a team is in possession, attacking players
would be advantaged by creating open space for
team members. In effect, the desire to reduce
‘player density’ is precisely what teams in possession
of the ball want to do. Alternatively, defending
teams want to increase player density by closing
up open spaces for the team in possession. Overall,
the more successful teams may be those who have
the fitness and sustained effort to maintain movement
rates across the whole game and increase the
probability of strategic opportunities. Enhanced
work intensity, increased distance travelled
as well as a greater number of game involvements
have been attributed to greater aerobic
endurance