Question about Formations. Strengths/weakness

[Qamle]

I've only played about a half season of HT, so I consider myself a new player. What is the key to exploiting an opponents formations and strategies? I've just stuck with 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, not knowing which is better against what. Also, offensive, normal, and defensive orientation factors into strategy as well. I've just orientated my players based upon what HT Buddy said was their best position. How can I optimize my strategy?

I think this is a good question for Helghallen as well, seeing as how he'll be under the 'hot seat', so to speak.

[Helghallen]

What I mean when I talk about attacking a weakness is this:Look at the old matches for your opponent. Make note of the formations they use and the ratings they get in the various positions.



For instance, if their right defense is the weakest, but your strongest attack on the left. Same applies if you have one weaker side of defense. Figure out which side he usually has the strongest defense and make sure you shore up that location. If your opponent has a really strong central attack, consider putting an assymetrical formation in with two CD’s and leaving one of the wingback slots open (assuming a three man back line).

[AAGunner3]

I've only played about a half season of HT, so I consider myself a new player. What is the key to exploiting an opponents formations and strategies? I've just stuck with 3-5-2 and 3-4-3, not knowing which is better against what. Also, offensive, normal, and defensive orientation factors into strategy as well. I've just orientated my players based upon what HT Buddy said was their best position. How can I optimize my strategy?

I think this is a good question for Helghallen as well, seeing as how he'll be under the 'hot seat', so to speak.

3-4-3
The most offensive formation. Three forwards pack a lot of punch. Typically the abandoned wing in order to run 3 ims weakens the defense on that side and opens up an opportunity for the opponent to attack. Also an opponent may stack two CDs and abandon the defense of the unattended wing to counter the strong central attack of a 3-4-3. Smart 3-4-3 teams will flip their formation to keep their opponents guessing.

Drawback, a weakened side defense and only 3 defenders. You are literally counting on outscoring your opponent in this get up. Typically not a bad bet in HT, especially if possession is close.

Never seen anyone running a 3-4-3 with 2 IMs. You'd need a couple of uber IMs to pull that off. Problem is then, what if one gets injured (with meager backups available) or worse, red carded, half your possession (roughly) is now toast.

If I were a forward trainer, I'd invest long term in a good defensive IM or two to counter the weak defense.


3-5-2
Counting on possession to win the game for you. Lots of flexibility. IMs defensive or offensive, Wingers to middle or offensive.

Drawback, only two forwards. If using 2 offensive IMs (read - decent passing) this is not a big problem. Two offensive wingers will bolster the attack nicely. Defense is weak with just 3 defenders. Might consider longterm investment in a defensive IM for the missing CD assuming you run with 2 wingbacks.

With long term changes coming down the line in regard to possession being everything, upgrading the forwards and defense becomes a must. Possession will only be reduced in importance in the relative long term life of this game. You must round out your team to counter this trend.

[Craig P]

3-5-2
Counting on possession to win the game for you. Lots of flexibility. IMs defensive or offensive, Wingers to middle or offensive.
The appeal of the 3-5-2 for me is, it's a lot harder to shore up wing defense than central defense, so if you can run good wing attacks, you can be hard to stop. I'm generally not counting on possession to win games except to the extent that it's necessary to generate chances for my attack (and keep pressure off my defense, which is paradoxically weak considering I'm a keeper trainer).

[AAGunner3]

The appeal of the 3-5-2 for me is, it's a lot harder to shore up wing defense than central defense, so if you can run good wing attacks, you can be hard to stop. I'm generally not counting on possession to win games except to the extent that it's necessary to generate chances for my attack (and keep pressure off my defense, which is paradoxically weak considering I'm a keeper trainer).

You're right. That's one of the reasons I like the 3-5-2 also. Two wing attacks means a full broadside. But, until I get some uber wingers, I'm running with the 3-4-3 for its offensive prowess and to help me win goal differential. Was key to my keeping second place this year. It's more cost effective for me at the moment.

Currently, I'm alternating between the 3-5-2 and 3-4-3.