The match-to-match variation of match-running in elite female soccer
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Title
Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport
Publisher
Elsevier Ltd
School
School of Medical and Health Sciences
RAS ID
29484
Abstract
Objectives
The purpose of this study was to examine the match-to-match variation of match-running in elite female soccer players utilising GPS, using full-match and rolling period analyses.
Design
Longitudinal study.
Methods
Elite female soccer players (n = 45) from the same national team were observed during 55 international fixtures across 5 years (2012–2016). Data was analysed using a custom built MS Excel spreadsheet as full-matches and using a rolling 5-min analysis period, for all players who played 90-min matches (files = 172). Variation was examined using co-efficient of variation and 90% confidence limits, calculated following log transformation.
Results
Total distance per minute exhibited the smallest variation when both the full-match and peak 5-min running periods were examined (CV = 6.8–7.2%). Sprint-efforts were the most variable during a full-match (CV = 53%), whilst high-speed running per minute exhibited the greatest variation in the post-peak 5-min period (CV = 143%). Peak running periods were observed as slightly more variable than full-match analyses, with the post-peak period very-highly variable. Variability of accelerations (CV = 17%) and Player Load (CV = 14%) was lower than that of high-speed actions. Positional differences were also present, with centre backs exhibiting the greatest variation in high-speed movements (CV = 41–65%).
Conclusions
Practitioners and researchers should account for within player variability when examining match performances. Identification of peak running periods should be used to assist worst case scenarios. Whilst micro-sensor technology should be further examined as to its viable use within match-analyses.
DOI
10.1016/j.jsams.2017.05.009
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Trewin, J., Meylan, C., Varley, M. C., & Cronin, J. (2018). The match-to-match variation of match-running in elite female soccer. Journal of science and medicine in sport, 21(2), 196-201. doi:10.1016/j.jsams.2017.05.009
Available here.