Abstract
Objectives: Previous research has highlighted the frequency of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations in elite football. The influence of these actions on match performance outcomes has not been established. The aim of the present study was to identify the influence of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations on match performance outcomes (i.e., win, draw, lost). Comparisons were also made between team and positional high-intensity accelerations and decelerations recorded within the games. Methods: 26 elite outfield footballers from an elite English Football League (EFL) Two team completed the present study. Global Positioning System (GPS) technology was utilised to quantify high-intensity accelerations and decelerations during 45 games in a competitive season. Magnitude analysis and the effects of results, positions and fixture periods were observed. Results: Significant effects of results, periods and positions were observed (p ≤ 0.05), with the highest outputs observed in games won. Positionally, fullbacks and centre forwards in a 4–3–3 formation exhibited the greatest frequency of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations. Very large differences were observed between the frequency of high-intensity decelerations compared to accelerations in games won (g = 2.37), drawn (g = 2.99) and lost (g = 3.59). The highest team frequencies of high-intensity accelerations (n = 3330) and decelerations (n = 6482) were completed in games won. Conclusions: The frequency of high-intensity accelerations and decelerations has a significant impact on match performance outcomes in an elite English League Two football team. Consideration needs to be given to specific conditioning and recovery strategies to optimise high-intensity acceleration and deceleration performance in games. Caution should be taken as these findings are representative of one team within the EFL.
Highlights
The high-performance sport of football and its demand for optimum levels of physical, technical, tactical and mental ability from players is well established [1,2]
There was a result x game type interaction for accelations compared to decelerations and positional outputs across 45 elite English League erations (F = 3.705, p = 0.01, η2 = 0.292), and no interaction was identified for decelerations
Large differences observed between the frequency of high-intensity accelerations and deSignificant differences were identified between wins and draws
Summary
The high-performance sport of football and its demand for optimum levels of physical, technical, tactical and mental ability from players is well established [1,2]. Contemporary motion-tracking technologies are used to quantify the mechanical impacts and corresponding physiological responses of high-intensity actions and aid to quantify and monitor player performance and fatigue [4]. Available evidence supports the design and implementation of positionspecific training programs, recovery and periodisation strategies to maximise performance, minimise fatigue and reduce injury risk [5,6]. Such factors are considered critical in the management of player match and training load, especially between periods of competitive fixture congestion that could increase injury risk and cause disruption to technical and 4.0/).
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