A 20 minute presentation at Opta Forum by Colm Mcmullan talks about how cross-field long balls typically called “Hollywood balls” are ineffective although they are mostly praised by commentators and pundits alike.

In the presentation they assume that there is a better option every time available whenever a long diagonal is played. At times,the combined effect of having a chance to counter and also the release of pressure makes the long diagonal a very effective weapon. Especially for teams who sit back and don’t have technical players to carry/pass the ball from the back,long diagonals are effective tactical weapons.