Analyzing the influence of playing time and partial score on the tactical behavior in the duel 2 vs 2 in the offensive process in handball, using the polar coordinates technique

Different studies have referred that the playing time and partial score, as well as the interaction between these two influences the behaviors of players and teams. With this study we intended to realize the complex reality of tactical behavior in the attack in Men's European Cup, by detecting behavior patterns and linking them to playing time and partial score. We used the observational methodology and for data analysis we used the polar coordinates. An instrument of observation has been constructed ad hoc and validated. The tool optimization included the quality data control, using the analysis of intra and inter observer reliability by Cohen's Kappa index (range between .85 and 1), beyond the application of generalizability analysis (G indexes are suitable for all models estimated) confirming the instrument reliability. The sample contained all of 2vs2 situations that occurred during the organized offensive process in numerical equality 6vs6, in sixteen games (n = 390). As main results we can refer that the playing time influenced the decisionmaking in relation to the tactical means used, excepting the last ten minutes, where no patterns were found. The results also show that there are fewer behavior patterns when the score is a draw.