Defending: 1^st Defender

Who are Defenders?

Even we assign players as “Defender” position. The real definition for “Defender” is any players closer to the ball which controlled by the opposite team. That is the reason some coaches will use “Fullback” or “Back” instead of “Defender” for that position. Every players need to learn how to deny penetration from the attacking team at any positions.

Approach and Deny Penetration for 1^st Defender

For player closest to ball that controlled by opponent is called 1^st Defender, he/she should

• With your eyes on the ball, sprint to the ball in a path that you will in a position to block any direct shot from attacker to your goal. Never leaves your eyes off the ball and never just run toward your goal and try to defend your goal there.

• Slow down your approach when you get into 5-7 yards away from the attacker to avoid being bypassed with a simple cut or feint by the attacker.

• Use split-step for final approach until you reach the 2-4 yards from the attacker

• Keep your body between the ball and your goal, your lead foot should block the attacker from turn to the “Goal Zone” (force the attacker stay in sides of the field)

• Put your weight on your toes and lower your body to form a “boxer” form and apply pressure to the attacker and try to make attacker look at the ball, the moment attacker look at the ball, he/she is no longer a direct threat for scoring goal.

• Focus Your eyes on the ball and mid-section of attacker's body, don't look at his/her shoulders or head.

• Increase your pressure (get closer) if the attacker perform “defensive dribble” (turns on his back).

• Remain patient and don't try to tackle the ball until your teammates to be in supporting defensive positions. Wait for attacker to make mistake instead actively try to tackle the ball. You should only try to tackle the ball when attacker try to make a shot or cross pass.

• Like all defensive moves, follow the instructions from goalie or sweeper

Summary:

The responsibilities for 1^st Defender are:

1. Minimize attacker's scoring chances instead of try to tackling him. (stay with attacker)

2. Prevent “break away” opportunity (slow the attacker down)

3. Limit attacker dribbling field (limit attacker scoring options)

4. Isolate attacker from his/her teammates (avoid a coordinated team attack)

5. Stay with attacker and use your body and leading foot to prevent any dangerous direct shot at goal

6. Only tackle if attacker make a mistake or try to make a dangerous shot or cross pass in front of “Goal Zone”..