Stoke City has been struggling with their responses to setbacks during matches, leading players to approach Narcis Pelach this week with a focus on addressing their game management issues. The recent match against Bristol City highlighted these struggles, as Stoke, having initially taken a 2-0 lead, found themselves fighting for a point after conceding two quick goals in the second half.
This situation isn’t new for Stoke, as they have repeatedly lost control during games this season. In past matches, they have seen teams like Hull and Watford score rapid goals against them, indicating a troubling trend. Pelach recognizes that while a single team meeting won’t solve these issues, it’s essential for the players to improve their reactions to setbacks. He emphasized the importance of learning from experiences in real-time, noting that while it’s easier to analyze mistakes after the fact, the team must actively seek solutions during the current season.
Pelach acknowledged the need for better game management, expressing the desire for his players to maintain control during crucial moments. He highlighted that this problem has persisted for some time at Stoke City and is a concern the players have raised with him. He aims to help them manage their mentality better and expects improvements in future situations, encouraging them to apply what they’ve discussed.
Despite the challenges, Pelach pointed out some positives from the match, including the team’s ability to score two goals. He emphasized the importance of scoring to connect with fans and enhance team morale. While he acknowledged the criticism for his tactical decisions, such as employing a back five at home, he remains committed to making choices that benefit the team. Pelach stressed the significance of each point in the Championship, recognizing that every draw can be valuable in a competitive league.
The fragility of Stoke’s performance when faced with adversity is a recurring theme that past managers have noted. Pelach mentioned that players have expressed their awareness of this ongoing issue, prompting a meeting focused on improving how the team handles challenging situations. They are working on strategies to slow down the game and regain control when things go awry. Pelach is optimistic about implementing changes, understanding that it will be a gradual process involving tactical, managerial, and mental adjustments. His focus remains on fostering a positive approach to overcoming these difficulties as the team prepares for future challenges.
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