Defense 101
Defensive Unit: Positions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, & 6
Realistically, the defensive unit consists of 6 players on the field. I know, that sounds confusing after what we've been working on. But, in the defensive zone, all of these players play a key role. I'm not going to focus on all of that information initially, but you will need to understand that in the future that this will come into play. For now, we'll focus on the back 4. Be sure to check your exact position links for further information.
The backline defense consist of 4 players. The key thing to remember is that we need to keep a "U" shape so that the central defenders, positions 4 & 5, hold the line. 2 & 3 should not be behind them. Central must always know where the offside line is as they typically have the opponents strikers nearby. If the ball is in front of them and the striker is behind them, they should not have to worry about them. If an outside player is keeping the striker onside by being behind the 4 & 5 then trouble starts. 4 & 5 must be vocal to ensure they can see everyone is connected and where they should be. The goalie should understand this and be talking as well.
We've talked about "Nike", but the most important thing that needs to be remembered is that one of the central players is always behind the ball. It's a failsafe to ensure that you have each other's back in case of a turnover. It also allows the other central defender to see all of the field and help direct their teammate while they have the ball. When you are the last line of defense an extra set of eyes to help you should be encouraged and appreciated. Knowing whether you have time to make a play or get rid of the ball is crucial.
Imagine your team has the ball in the offensive zone or the goalie is punting. There is a big clear of the ball or a punt occurs. Your one central defender says "I got it!!!" only for you to see that it takes a horrible bounce and the other team is running towards your goal and you are trying to play catch up. 2 things to remember. 1. If everyone is onside when the ball is kicked, the offense can run past you and they'll be onside. 2. Don't assume they will be able to receive the ball. You have to RETREAT IMMEDIATELY to get behind them so that you don't end up chasing the ball. COMMUNICATE who is getting the ball and who is dropping back.
There are 2 simple situations when playing defense. The first is what to do when you are beaten to the outside. As you can see, the opposing #7 has gotten past our 3 and is heading down the sideline. The 4 should start heading outside to keep them on the perimeter. The 3 should shift towards the middle to cover that gap. If the 6 (defensive mid) filled that gap for you until you arrived, communicate you have it covered so they can shift back into their position.
As you can see, the 4 shifted outside and the 3 filled the gap. The ball carrier is kept outside. Make sure everyone is communicating so that we fill the gaps. Sometimes the 5 has to shift over further untel the 3 arrives or, as I stated above, the 6 fills a spot. It doesn't matter who does it, just as long as the job gets done.
The second situation is when the opposing team is attacking through the middle forcing a central defender to defend. In this case, the 4 is stepping up to defend. The 5 is still holding the line, but the 3 drops behind the 4, but not beyond the 5. The 2 also drops behind the 4, but is scanning for where the ball could go, especially if there is an opposing striker in the area.
Rules for Defending
RULE #1: THEY DO NOT SCORE!!!!
How do we keep them from scoring?
Keep numbers behind the ball
We defend the goal, not the sidelines
Stay connected so they cannot penetrate between defenders
Hunt the ball in packs (This is where the 6 and sometimes 8 comes in)
Understand when an opposing player is in shooting range
It is HER job to beat you, it's not YOUR job to take the ball from her
You do not tackle unless you know you will win the ball.
Either the ball gets by you or the player, NEVER both
Delay them as much as possible so more numbers can come help.
Steer the ball carrier where you want them to go
You win when they go sideways, backwards, or turn the ball over due to your pressure.