Reborn in Football to Build Top Clubs from English League Two

121: ”Games” Beyond the Board (Part 2)“Aerial ball defense, on the surface, looks like a contest of height and jumping ability, but in reality, it’s more about positional sense and judgment.” Lin Feng stood in the penalty area and began his explanation.

He first had several tall players stand in different positions within the penalty area, then pointed to an imaginary trajectory in the air.

“Predicting the landing spot of the ball not only requires observing the passer’s technique but also his body posture and running angle.”

Watson diligently took notes. Lin Feng’s explanation indeed had unique insights, especially his analysis of “landing spot prediction.”

“Traditional defensive methods are simple combinations of man-marking or zonal defense, but I believe the most effective method is dynamic zonal defense.”

Lin Feng drew several lines on the ground, “Each defensive player has his own area of responsibility, but this area dynamically adjusts according to the ball’s trajectory.”

He had Shawcross, Smalling, and Nelson take their positions according to his instructions, then Tinkler was responsible for delivering high balls.

The first time, the three defensive players stood in their traditional positions, and the ball landed in the gap between them.

The second time, Lin Feng adjusted their positions, making them move dynamically according to the ball’s flight trajectory. This time, Shawcross accurately judged the landing spot and successfully won the header.

“The timing of the jump is equally important.” Lin Feng continued to explain, “Many players are used to jumping as soon as they see the ball, but this often causes them to start descending before the ball arrives.”

He introduced some biomechanical analysis, explaining the relationship between the optimal timing for a human jump and the hang time.

“The best time to jump is 0.3 seconds before the ball reaches above your head. This ensures sufficient hang time and maximum power output when contacting the ball.”

Such professional analysis once again left Watson in awe. He had seen many coaches, but few could combine tactics and scientific theory so perfectly.

The assessment lasted a full two hours, covering various aspects such as theoretical explanation, practical demonstration, and on-the-spot problem-solving.

Watson closed his notebook. He knew that the conclusion of this assessment report could only be one word: exceptional. What Lin Feng had demonstrated had long exceeded the scope of a Level 2 certificate.

“Mr. Lin.” After the assessment, Watson privately approached Lin Feng, “With your theoretical level, you should be teaching coaches at UEFA.”

Such a remark surprised Lin Feng slightly.

“I will formally recommend to the FA that you be given a fast track to the UEFA B License.” Watson’s tone was very serious.

“This usually requires at least three years of coaching experience, but I believe you are fully capable.”

Lin Feng nodded in thanks, but his mind was more focused on planning for the future. Coaching certificates were important, but his goals went far beyond that.

In the afternoon, Victoria Park Stadium welcomed a grand signing ceremony.

The contract with Puma was laid on the table, the figure of two million pounds signifying that Hartlepool United finally had the commercial capital to challenge the strong teams in League One.

A temporary signing stage was set up in the center of the stadium, surrounded by bouquets with the club’s logo and Puma product displays.

Media reporters were already in position, flashbulbs constantly flickering.

Lin Feng appeared in a dark blue suit at the signing table, accompanied by James Wilson, General Manager of Puma UK.

“This contract represents more than just a commercial partnership.” Lin Feng said at the signing ceremony, “It also represents our shared vision for the future.”

Wilson also expressed great anticipation for this collaboration: “The vitality and potential shown by Hartlepool United are precisely the spirit that the Puma brand pursues.”

Although the contract amount was not disclosed, media estimates placed the value of this three-year equipment sponsorship contract at least at two million pounds.

For a League One team, such a figure was already astonishing.

But what was even more surprising was another decision Lin Feng announced at the signing ceremony.

“Starting this season, the club will set aside a fixed percentage from ticket and merchandise revenue to establish a ‘Community Football Development Fund’.”