Defending 1 on 1 [ss004] | Successful Soccer

For this podcast I am going to post an enhanced version of the notes that I develop so I stay focused when I am recording. Let me know what you think.

Jeffrey

Direct download of Defending 1 on 1

Cameron (Austin, Tx) is interested on tips for defending, specifically “what to do when the attacker is coming at you and it’s one on one.”

First make sure you have a good Approach:
Straight line may be shortest, but not best
Curve your run. Get between ball & goal first

Slow & deliberate
The closer you get to attacker, the slower & smaller steps

Lower your center of gravity, get your butt down.

First thing Attackers should do is look at taking a shot.

So the first thing the defender needs to do is take away the shot.
Be between ball and goal and then close down (get closer to attacker)
If you are too far away, you will just act as a screen for your keeper
Make sure you are under control.
Don’t get beat on the dribble. (see below)

Second thing an attacker should do is look to pass.
Take away the passing lanes that are most dangerous
Typically would get the ball closer to the goal then you

Force the attacker where they are less dangerous or where you want.

Typically wide, but could be into your defenders.

Force the attacker by giving more space to go where you want.
If forcing to the sideline, then cut off the lanes to the middle of the field and make it enticing for him to dribble or pass down the line.

If there is no pass, the attacker will dribble.

The important thing to remember is that a defender’s job is not to steal the ball, but keep the attacker from attacking.

Patience is an absolute must.

Most players below the level of skilled college players will end up giving the ball to the patient defender.

By slowing down the attacker and keeping them from getting by, you set up the opportunity for a double team from one of your teammates.

How to do this.

Again, lower your center of gravity, get your butt down.
Don’t face the attacker straight on.

Turn on an angle.

For Cameron who is playing in the left back position & assuming he wants to force attacker down the sideline

Right foot will be closer to the attacker and on the defender’s left side

This puts the ball on the attacker’s strong foot, but keeps the defender between the ball and goal.

Now you know where the attacker s going to go, that helps.
Work with your teammates and direct them where you want support.

Be patient and watch the ball.

Depending on skill level you can watch the attacker’s hips, where the hips go so does the rest of the body

However, a skilled player will be deceptive, don’t fall for any feints.

If you have been patient and set up a double team then you can win the ball. Not necessarily both defenders right on the ball. One behind ready to pick up the passed ball

To get by a player needs to change pace, change direction or both.
The attacker will typically push the ball farther ahead to change pace.
Then your teammate scoops up the ball.