Sunday, February 7, 2016

5 Keys to Defending in Soccer

5 Keys to Defending in Soccer


1. CLOSE THE SPACE
The first key to defending is soccer is to close the space. Use quickness and speed to close the space under control. Remember high to low, fast to slow. You start with high speed but as you close to the ball you slow your pace to be under control. Start with your body in a high position, you will lower your body to the defensive stance as you approach the ball. It is important to close the space quickly and under control, the attacker may take a poor first touch. This will allow you to gain possession of the ball. Closing the space quickly will also limit the options of the attacker which is beneficial in defending in soccer.


2. DEFENSIVE STANCE
It is important to get into your defensive stance while defending in soccer. This will give you balance and increase your mobility. The defensive stance looks like you are standing on a surf board. One foot is in front of the other with the knees slightly bent. This give you full range of motion to limit the options of the attacker. It gives you balance in order to win the ball from the attacker. The defensive stance is necessary to defending in soccer because it keeps your body under control. This will increase your success in gaining possession of the ball.


3. STAY IN FRONT
Do not stab. Staying in front of the attacker is vital to defending in soccer. Remember to be under control while applying pressure. Moving your feet to stay in front of the attacker is important to defending in soccer. Be aware and take away to attacking angles and limit the options. This will allow your teammates to recover and get positive numbers behind the ball and slow the attack. Once the attack is slowed you are more likely to gain possession.  


4. WIN THE BALL
Gaining possession of the ball is the purpose for defending in soccer. While in your defensive stance be patient and under control. Move your feet and keep your balance. Use your front foot to poke tackle and win the ball. The back foot is used to block tackle in order to gain possession. The attacker may attempt to pass, anticipate the direction and take possession. Remember to be aware and take advantage of opportunities to obtain possession.


5. START THE ATTACK
The last step in defending in soccer is to start the attack. Remember that once possession is gained, you are attacking and will need to start the attack. The transition from defending to attacking is sudden and critical to the success of the team strategy. Be able to locate teammates and pass the ball in areas that will continue the attack. Make sure you give support once your team has possession. Stay available by having your body open to the field. Be ready to transition back to defending when needed and start the process all over again.



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