Premier Playmakers Propel Santos

In the footballing world, the playmaker is an important player for a team. He is the connection between defence and attack, the main cog that dictates the flow of the game. The composition of a playmaker’s instincts, intelligence, movement and desire all affect the quality of his performance. Players like Andrés Iniesta, Andrea Pirlo and Cesc Fabregas have been renowned for their influential ability. For Santos, the playmakers have been the entire midfield.

Santos’ class showed this week, with two more victories against Transmere Rovers and AC Milan to keep their title hopes alive. Frederick Winnerljung and Asmar Golkas have provided inspirational performances, constantly creating confusion amongst the stoutest of defences, using their wizardry on and off the ball to effectively break the opposition. Patricio Bento has also been a great fit for the squad, providing the veteran leadership they need, while also filling in as a creative influence if needed. Marcelo Afonso, the captain of the squad, is also willing to carry the team on his shoulders for a victory. Rogerio Franca is a playmaker apprentice, and will soon be asked to lead the attacks. The midfield is also easily adaptable and can change positions from centre to wing. This creates further confusion, as the defence is unaware of whether Santos attacks come from the wings or through balls.

Manager Sean7 has been delighted with the fluidity of his players, and added that the midfield battle will be a key component to league success.

‘Without a solid midfield, our forwards have no service, and our defence has overwhelming pressure to thwart opposition attacks. Our midfield is one of the strongest areas in our squad, and will definitely be needed to carry on the squad’s title hopes.’

Santos face arguably their toughest week of the season, with two away games to former Division 1 mates AFC Stanley and FC Greatness, two quality teams who are also competing for honours.

Said Manager Sean7, ‘Stanley have Kasinen and Lind as viable weapons, while Greatness have Calluato and Balotelli. We will have to keep a close eye on these players, and I’ll make sure we go over the tactics to keep these players in check, so we may play our game. This should be fun.’