ERIC NIXON: It’s difficult to shake footballers out of trying to score a goal

Nov 14 2009 by Nick Hilton, Liverpool Echo

LES made an interesting observation this week about Tranmere’s approach to away games.

He reckons Rovers should take a much more cautious and defensive approach on the road.

Les said: “I believe we have got to get into players that we start every game with a point and the number one priority is to defend that point.

“If at the final whistle, that point is all you take away from the game then so be it.”

I understand exactly what Les is saying but I don’t agree with the theory. I don’t think it would work for Tranmere.

It would be going against the mindset and natural instincts of professional players. When they cross that white line onto the pitch they just want to get out there and play, show people their quality.

It’s very difficult to shake footballers out of trying to score a goal.

The idea of taking a more defensive posture into a game is dangerous, in my view, because the team invites pressure on themselves.