I’ve seen the term vertical football being bandied about, and in relation to GONs style/system of play. Albeit there does seem to be a concensus that O’Neil’s does flex his tactics and system.
So what is Vertical Football, see below. Essentially WE’RE STAYING UP.
Vertical Football:
Vertical football is a playing philosophy built around progressing the ball forward quickly and purposefully, particularly when space is available behind or between the opposition lines. It is not simply “playing long”; it combines speed, forward intent, positional structure and intelligent movement.
As a strategy, the team aims to attack space and goal quickly after gaining possession, while maintaining enough structure to counter-press or defend immediately if the attack breaks down. The objective is to reduce unnecessary possession and move the opposition backwards or disorganise them.
Tactically, vertical football requires players to recognise when and where to play forward. This involves creating passing lanes, third-man combinations, runs beyond the ball, rotations between lines and quick switches when the direct route is blocked. The team should provide depth and width, with players positioned to receive forward-facing whenever possible. Without an opportunity to progress, the team must retain possession and recycle rather than forcing the ball.
Technically, players need patterns of play and movement drilled into them, excellent first touch and body orientation, particularly when receiving under pressure. They require accurate, firm forward passing, the ability to play through or around opponents, and quality finishing in fewer attacking actions. Players must also be comfortable receiving between lines, turning, carrying the ball at speed and executing passes over different distances.
Physically and cognitively, vertical football demands acceleration, repeated high-intensity actions and the ability to recover quickly. Most importantly, players need scanning, anticipation, decision-making and courage: seeing the forward option before receiving, recognising space early, and executing quickly.
Ultimately, successful vertical football is not about playing faster all the time; it is about recognising the right moment to play forward and having the technical and tactical quality to exploit it.
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