Team Performance Indicators in Gaelic Football and Opposition Effects

Abstract

A computerised notational analysis system was used to analyse selected performance parameters in Elite Gaelic Football. These parameters were examined to see if there were any significant differences when comparing teams of different standards. Footage from 57 matches were analysed from the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship during the 2011 ‘2012 seasons. Of the 12 performance indicators examined 8 were found to be significant when comparing performances in games containing one Top team and one Bottom team. Three (Attack Efficiency %, Total Shots and % Opposition Kickouts Won) of the performance indicators were found to be significant when comparing Top team’s performances against Top teams and Bottom teams. Only 2 (Fouls Committed and Total Goals) were found to be significant when comparing Bottom team performances against Top teams and Bottom teams. The strength of opposition affected Top and Bottom teams differently. Bottom teams performed better in every performance indicator when playing Bottom teams than playing Top teams, however only 1 performance indicators was found to be significant. Top teams performed better in 9 of the performance indicators measured when playing Bottom teams than playing Top teams. Surprisingly they performed worse in 2 areas.