The first five minutes

[redandblack]

Before almost every big game, the commentators and reporters invariably say that "the first five minutes" will be all-important.

It rarely is.

"The Premiership Quarter" is much more accurate, as the better team usually starts to dominate well after "the first five minutes".

[Wedgie]

I find every 5 mins of ever game equally important.
Doesn't matter if you kick 10 goals in the first five minutes or last 5 minutes, still adds up the same on the scoreboard.

[Pag]

I think the first five minutes in a GF is a bit more important than a regular game, the nervous energy can do some strange things to some footballers. If guys hang on to their nerves once the ball is bounced they could easily end up 3 or 4 goals down before realising that it's still just a game of football.

[FlyingHigh]

Bays started like old women in the second semi and lost by 5 goals, started much stronger yesterday and lost by 7 goals.

FWIW I believe the period just before half time is often the most important, but often overlooked. Examples, '99, '05 and '06 GF's

[mal]

When I played footy I consider the first 5 minutes the most important from an individual aspect
If I could get early kicks +
handle the ball cleanly it would give me confidence
Those examples could affect my form for the rest of the game [AND HELP THE TEAM]

Im sure that happens in the big leagues as well
BUT
As Wedgie said every 5 minutes are important