What is the most important factor to have success during the playoffs?
PATRICK DIOTTE
“Players should forget what went wrong during the season and focus on the upcoming game. The playoffs are very brief. Players should approach one game at a time and should keep in mind that they are playing to win only, as though it were the last game of the year.”
JOHN LIMNIATIS
“The most important thing is to have a team mentality. Players need to play together. The teams that play well together will have success and obtain good results.”
GRANT NEEDHAM
“The team has to be solid defensively. The whole team, even the forwards, have to think about defense. It’s a team concept. The important thing is to shut the opponent down. You want to allow the least scoring chances possible. On your side, you know that eventually you will get scoring chances and you will have the opportunity to win.”
How should the players approach playoff games? Should they prepare differently?
LLOYD BARKER
“The players have to do their homework. I think they should all watch game tapes to know how to play against certain players. Coaches will do their part, but players have to know what they can improve individually. By doing that, they will learn the habits of other players. These small things contribute to winning during the playoffs.”
PATRICK DIOTTE
“Preparation is an individual aspect of the game. Every player has his own pre-game routine so it’s important to maintain it. The players have to give their 100% so they have to be in good condition. Proper sleep, diet and concentration are all important elements during the week preceding the game. The players are 11 on the field, so if they want to win, the whole team has to be ready.”
GRANT NEEDHAM
“If I were still playing, I would look at myself in the mirror and ask if I gave my 100% during the season and if I will give all I have for the playoffs. Players who cheat will also let their teammates down, but also the club and the fans. In the playoffs, you have the chance to win the cup and players have to realize that they have a great opportunity to win it.”
If you were the Impact head coach, what would you say to players in the locker room before the game?
LLOYD BARKER
“The head coach does not have a lot to say because what he will say will not make a big difference at this stage. Players should know what they have to do to win. If the coaching staff wants to talk, it should only be positive.”
PATRICK DIOTTE
“Team’s veterans and leaders should do the talking. After a great season, a team will often lose during the playoffs Nobody should take anything for granted. In the playoffs, you will face the opponent’s real starting line-up. Injured players are on the field and nobody is resting for the next game. Everyone is equal or almost. Finally, it’s the team that wants to win the most that will take over.”
JOHN LIMNIATIS
“I would make the team understand that it is essential to play as a team and if everyone is doing their job, it will be positive for all. Soccer is played with eleven players on the field and there needs to be unity in the team. All members should strive towards the same goal.”
