Hello everyone. I don't sense the phrase "thread a pass" here. What does "thread" mean? And also, what does "thread through" mean? 28: Mata tries to thread the ball through to Rooney, but it rolls out for a Palace goal kick. 6' Pastore is again involved, threading a pass down the right-hand channel for Aguero. The striker's run is timed perfectly and he manages to release a shot with his right foot. However, Gimenez tracks him all the way and makes an important block.
To thread a pass means to pass the ball in a very accurate manner when there is not a lot of space - the player needs to measure the pass carefully.
To thread the ball through is another way of saying that the pass was threaded - the ball was squeezed through a small space or gap.
We also use the phrase 'slide rule pass' to describe a very accurate pass.
Thanks a lot for the explanation, Damian. That's very clear now.