As a Villa fan, we laugh at xG, as we clearly broke it. We actually struggle if we have a high xG as it means we are being forced to attack in the box as we getting closed down at range while trying to break down a low block.

This and the increase in success of free kicks is a direct result of the new ball having more panels and thus easier to swerve. Corners also have the rule enforcement of fouls on keepers helping them out this season as well, really not a fan of that change.

We deliberately prioritized shot practice in training because of the new ball enabling us to break down teams low blocking us. Now teams are adapting and closing down quicker, we are going back round full circle to using two strikers and traditional crosses.