Why are my players SPRINTING to the ball, then slowing to a snail 2 meters from it ?!

[Linkoping]

Happens so many times.

1 - CPU Opponent will LOB the ball past my defender or wingback.
2 - My central defender or wingback will SPRINT to the ball, clearly outpacing the other teams winger and will get there first.
3 - Oh wait? What does my defender do? Slows down to a snail pace 2 meters from the ball - AI opponent catches up and then steals possession.

Is there an attribute or something that prevents them from doing this? Concentration?

 

[Spleen]

I've seen it a few times and just file it under 'things the match engine doesn't show very well'. Along with the defensive line turning at the speed of an oil tanker when a pacy striker manages to nip through onto a through ball, or players getting stuck in a tackle animation then suddenly moving at the speed of light in order for the game to bring their model to where it should be.

Perhaps the defender has a poor first touch and lost the ball while trying to bring it down, but I think the first option is more likely.

 

[W4FC B3N]

I'd also like to know this.. XD it's redonkulous!