The arrival of Johan Plat as the new coach has brought about a significant transformation in Castellón’s playing style. Under Plat’s guidance, the team has adopted a more pragmatic approach, prioritizing defensive solidity over the attacking flair that was a hallmark of their game under former coach Dick Schreuder. This shift in philosophy has yielded positive results, with the team conceding just three goals in the five games since Plat took the helm.
One of the key factors contributing to this defensive improvement has been the reduction in clear scoring opportunities for their opponents. In the last two games, Castellón has managed to keep a clean sheet, earning a 2-0 win against Eibar and a goalless draw against Cádiz. These results have been a testament to the team’s newfound defensive resilience, which has catapulted them to the position of the third-least conceding team in the category.
Plat has been flexible with his formations, alternating between a three-man defense, which was a staple under Schreuder, and a more conventional four-man backline. This tactical adaptability has allowed the team to remain competitive, amassing 7 points from their last 9. However, this newfound focus on defense has come at the cost of their attacking prowess, with the team scoring just five goals in the same number of games.
The free-flowing, attacking football that characterized Castellón’s play under Schreuder has given way to a more measured approach under Plat. While this may not be as thrilling for fans, it has addressed the defensive woes that plagued the team towards the end of the first round and the start of the second. As Plat continues to shape the team in his image, it will be interesting to see how they balance their defensive solidity with the need to create more scoring opportunities.
Adjusting to the New Era
The transition from Schreuder to Plat has undoubtedly been a significant one, with the team’s style of play undergoing a marked transformation. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to observe how Castellón adapts to this new era and whether they can find a balance between defense and attack that yields consistent results.
A Change in Fortunes
For now, though, the signs are encouraging. The team’s defensive record under Plat is a significant improvement on their previous form, and the fact that they have been able to grind out results against tough opponents like Eibar and Cádiz is a testament to their newfound resilience. As they look to build on this momentum, Castellón will be hoping that their offense can start to click into gear, allowing them to push up the table and realize their full potential.
