165 Who Is Afraid Of Who Part 1 (1/2)
Chapter 165: Who Is Afraid Of Who Part 1
Translator: Nyoi-Bo Studio Editor: Nyoi-Bo Studio
Because Wood collided into the other party, Tang En stood up from his seat and walked back and forth a few times, before finally returning to his seat. He looked at Walker, but did not say anything before turning back.
Folding his hands by the side of the field, Tang En stood still with his lips tightly puckered. Deep inside, Tang En was somewhat worried. However, he could not say it out, and he could not let others know that he was worrying, hesitating, or wavering.
Downing's breakthrough served as a wakeup call for Tang En. Theoretically, this ”wall defense” of his should not have any problems…however, the most unreliable thing in a football match was ”theory”. When it came to the execution of a strategy, there were many things that were changing by the second.
Like just now, when, before the match, he asked the back defense line to not overextend, and to stay as far back as possible at all times, in order to prevent their opponents from passing the ball over them. But what happened in reality? Didn't they just let their opponents pass the ball over them?
It was impossible for the back defense line to stick to the end line at all times, and that was also not the correct way to defend. There would definitely be gaps, and it was just that Middlesbrough was unable to seize the opportunity in the past. This time, they happened to be able to seize this chance. However, just because it was by accident, it did not mean that Tang En need not take it to heart.
As long as there was a first time, there would definitely be a second time. McClaren himself must have noticed this as well. With Nottingham Forest's left and right backs both being of a relatively young age, each of them had their own weaknesses. The left wing was still alright, but Thompson and Ashley Young on the right wing were under immense pressure, because of Downing's presence. If McClaren made the team focus their offenses here, and had the players take turns to attack here, would Thompson and Ashley Young be able to fend them off?
Very soon, Tang En would know the answer to this question...
As expected, Middlesbrough intentionally strengthened their offense on the right wing. Downing had tried to break past Thompson three consecutive times, and if not for the combined efforts of Thompson and Ashley Young to prevent against it, he would have definitely gotten past.
But they were finally unable to surround him on his fourth attempt. Ashley Young was slightly slow to react, and Downing managed to get in between the two of them, knocking the ball past them!
A sudden loud cheering noise erupted from the Middlesbrough fans. This time, that abominable George Wood was still in the center, and he could not rush over in time!
”What a beautiful breakthrough! Downing's speed has caused Nottingham Forest to have a tough time! In the second half, he is becoming more and more active. The person with the biggest headache should be Manager Twain… A cross!”
The German player Robert Huth immediately rushed in front of Maccarone, kicking the ball out of bounds. It was yet another corner kick. Over the past few minutes, Nottingham Forest had been even more passive than the first half, and that was all because of one person — Downing.
Walker, who was seated at the technical area, stood up and walked towards Tang En. Standing beside Tang En, Walker said worriedly, ”Tony, things are not looking too good.”
Tang En nodded his head and said, ”I know… McClaren made some adjustments, and we also have to do something… Call Bopp over here.”
Walker turned around to call Bopp, while Tang En walked back to the technical area and grabbed a bottle of water to drink. Although he did not say much, Tang En could already feel that his throat was parched. Nervousness... These feelings once again returned to him.
This is the EFL Cup finals…Damn it, how could I let this become your chance to become famous, Downing?
”Boss?” Bopp, who was standing beside Tang En, called out in a slightly bewildered tone. He was standing there, but Tang En had not seen him.
”Ah…Eugen.” After Tang En calmed down his inner feelings, he turned to face this German player, who could only play as a substitute, ever since Wood appeared out of nowhere. ”You will replace Ashley, and tell George to switch positions. Tell him… to mark Downing closely, that number 28.”
”Mhmm.” Bopp nodded his head.
”And you will partner up with Gunnarsson, and become the defensive midfielder. Defend against Juninho, that Brazilian guy. Be more ruthless when you strike, let him know that you, who have just entered, are also not someone to be trifled with!” Tang En said, as he clenched his fists.
”Understood, Boss.”
”Then go!” Tang En patted Bopp's shoulders and encouraged him, ”Don't think too much, just play as you always do during trainings. Just perform to your usual standard, and that will be enough. You can do it.”
After sending off Bopp, Tang En continued to watch the match from the side of the field. Walker also did not return to the technical area, and instead, stayed with Tang En at the side.
”Tony….” Walker said hesitantly.
However, Tang En knew what Walker wanted to say. ”You are worried that we might lose this match, Des.”
Walker did not make any noise, and that was the equivalent to agreeing with Tang En.
”Des, in terms of age, you are older than me. So, I think that saying something like this might not be too appropriate. But, I still want to give you a piece of friendly advice — regardless of whether you're helping Bowyer, or you intend to become the manager of some other team in the future, you have to remember this.” Tang En stared at the field and said, without even turning his head around, ”As a manager, even an assistant one, no matter the occasion, you must never lose hope and confidence. Because these players in front and behind you… they are all looking at you. You understand what I mean? We will win this match.”
Although his heartbeat was no slower than Walker's, Tang En still turned his head around and gave him a confident smile.
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