It might be to do with the ball too. Some players seem to have improved their deadballs and some, like our players, have not.
We're pretty crap at penalty shoot outs - I think we've lost the last half dozen that we have been involved with.
When I was a youngster playing at centre back, I took the corners because I was the only one that could kick it far enough into the box so I sympathise eith the problems these millionaire proffessionals face![]()
I venture to suggest that the balls were a little heavier in those days, SFTT.The equipment and the level of training professionals have mean that most should be able to whip in a cross surely?
The Neville brothers had the same work ethic, apparently and it's hard to argue with their success, especially when compared to players with far more natural talent.
I think in general the defences nowadays are a lot more organised and professional (yeah, i know they ARE pro, but i can't think of a better word) nowadays even compared to 10 years ago. This improved organisation has resulted in them being better and defending set pieces which they must practice regularly.
This in turn, i believe, has led to the set piece takers trying to do more and more with their delivery. More bend, more pace etc etc which leads to them fluffing it more regularly.
Back in the day any old ball into the box was dangerous, but its bread and butter for defences nowadays.
Thats how i see it anyway![]()

It still doesn't explain why we watch MOTD every week and see every other team score, or get the bastard thing on target! We haven't had an accurate free-kick specialist for a long time imo. VdV and Bale end up with more in the wall, over or wide, rarely is the keeper called upon, nothing special about that is there, VdV scored a decent one pre season thats about it recently isn't it?![]()
Bit of a random fact, but did you know that Phil Neville's twin sister plays netball for England?