ASU Soccer: To win games, physicality is a must

As ASU soccer pushes into the bulk of Pac-12 play, the Sun Devils must increase their physicality and aggressiveness to win games.

The first full weekend of Pac-12 play came and went for ASU soccer, and the Sun Devils return from their weekend trip to the Bay Area having gotten their first taste of what’s to come the rest of the season: tough games, skilled opponents and uphill battles.

The Sun Devils surprised many when they battled to a draw against No. 11 California last Thursday, but a Sunday afternoon loss to No. 2 Stanford changed the tone. The 6-0 defeat served as a wake-up call.

Despite the positive result against Cal, both games exposed serious weaknesses that must be addressed if they want to compete against equally tough competition in-conference.

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Out-shot 53-12 over the course of the two matches, the Devils have to find a way to put more pressure on their opposition. Their lack of scoring chances originates in a fundamental shortcoming: physicality.

The Sun Devils have appeared physically inferior in nearly every game they’ve played this year. That’s no surprise against top teams like Stanford. However, even Hawai’i came to Tempe and outclassed the Devils with their physicality. Lacking that edge, the Devils will continue to struggle to keep possession and create chances.

Without consistent possession, the Devils limit themselves to direct approaches to goal. This leads to long passes and counter-attacks aiming for a singular target in the box.

Against disciplined defenses in the Pac-12, that simply won’t cut it. The Devils can’t be afraid to get dirty and stand up to these top-tier teams if they want to remain competitive. If they don’t, the Stanford loss may not be the last blowout defeat they suffer this year.

The Sun Devils haven’t been able to ramp up to match the physicality of their opponents. However, one player in particular might lead the way if they are to adjust.

Freshman forward Olive Jones, a local product of Desert Valley, has shown an uncanny ability to hold up play and maintain possession. Some of Arizona State’s cleanest scoring chances have come via Jones.

Jones has been a clear shining light in an otherwise dim beginning to the season. It’s a serious adjustment that may take the rest of the season to fully implement, but the Sun Devils may have to commit to it to win games in the Pac-12.

Increased aggressiveness, intensity and physicality will result in more consistent control of the game. Out of that, scoring chances will surely come.

Next: ASU Soccer: Sun Devils shut out by No. 2 Stanford

Although a freshman, Jones has showed the aptitude and drive to get physical with good teams. Following her lead is the key. If they do that, the Sun Devils can surprise a few teams during the homestretch of the season.